Dog-friendly holiday homes in Belgium

The Ardennes are the classic choice for a dog-friendly holiday. Endless forest tracks through beech and pine, rivers where your dog can splash about, and walking routes that last for hours. Around Durbuy, La Roche and the High Fens you will find plenty of chalets and woodland cottages with large gardens, ideal for an active dog that needs space to roam.

Prefer flatter terrain? The Campine has kilometres of heathland, ponds and quiet cycle paths, with farm holiday homes and bungalows often set on large, enclosed grounds. The Flemish Ardennes offer rolling country lanes and renovated farmhouses for anyone who does not want to travel far. Along the Belgian coast your dog can run freely on the beach outside the summer months, a wonderful treat for those who love sea air and dunes.

Along the Belgian coast, seasonal rules apply for dogs on the beach. From roughly October to April, dogs are permitted on most beaches, often off the lead provided they respond to commands. This makes a coastal stay in the off-season ideal for dog owners: empty beaches, fresh sea air and plenty of room to run.

During the summer months, roughly July and August, dogs are usually restricted or banned from the busy swimming beaches during the day. Almost every resort keeps a dedicated dog beach or free zone open, however. Ask the owner of your holiday home for the nearest dog-friendly stretch of sand and the relevant hours, as these vary by municipality and can change from year to year.

A fully enclosed garden is the single most important factor for many dog owners. But enclosed does not always mean the same thing. Ask the owner about the height of the fencing (a lively dog can clear a metre and a half without much effort), whether the gates close securely and whether there are any weak points a small dog could squeeze through.

Also consider what surrounds the garden. A garden that borders a busy road calls for extra vigilance, while a property next to fields or woodland is a delight. Filter by enclosed garden when you have an active or young dog, so that you can let him wander freely while you relax on the terrace.

A relaxed holiday starts with a calm journey. Give your dog a good run before you set off, make sure there is water in the car and plan a stop on a longer trip to let him stretch his legs and have a sniff around. A familiar blanket or toy in the car helps an anxious dog stay settled.

On arrival, a dog settles more quickly with familiar things from home: his own bed, his food bowl and a toy with a recognisable scent. Give him time to explore the house and garden quietly before you unpack the bags yourself. Many owners already provide a bed or water bowl by the door, but your own things remain the best way to make your four-legged companion feel at home straight away.