Dog-friendly guide to Poole: things to do in Poole with a dog

Welcome to Poole, a seaside town where your four-legged best friend is just as welcome as you are! Whether you're a resident seeking new adventures or visiting for a dog-friendly getaway, Poole has an abundance of parks, beaches, cafes, and fun activities to explore.

This dog-friendly guide to Poole will help you uncover the best places—from sandy beaches to charming eateries and beautiful trails. Plus, if you're looking for house sitting opportunities in Poole or need a reliable Poole pet sitter, read on to find out more!

Best dog parks in Poole

Poole is packed with incredible spots where your pawed pal can run free, sniff around, and make new friends. Here are some top picks:

Upton Country Park

A dog’s dream playground! With 140 acres of woodland, open fields, and well-kept gardens, there’s no shortage of space for zoomies. Plus, the off-leash area is perfect for a high-energy play session. 

Location: Poole Rd, Upton

Poole Park

A peaceful retreat in the heart of town, Poole Park offers wide open spaces and picturesque lakeside views.

Location: Parkstone Rd

Dog-friendly restaurants in Poole

Got a hungry belly after exploring the city? Check out these dog-friendly places in Poole where you can enjoy a meal together.

South Deep

Tucked away in a stunning marina setting, South Deep offers fresh seafood and a fantastic outdoor terrace where dogs are more than welcome. Their seafood menu is inspired by the day’s catch, and they also offer a selection of vegetarian and meat dishes for a well-rounded dining experience. 

Location: Turks Ln

Dancing Moose Ashley Cross

A lively, laid-back eatery with a great selection of food and drinks, plus a welcoming attitude toward animals. Dogs can relax inside or in the outdoor seating area. There’s always a buzz in the air, thanks to the friendly atmosphere and live music on select evenings. The staff also provide water bowls and are known for their hospitality, making it a fantastic choice for those who want a fun dining experience with their furry friend.

Location: Station Rd

Fun dog-friendly activities in Poole

Looking for fun things to do with your furry friend? Poole offers many exciting activities that you both will love!

Take a dog-friendly boat tour

Set sail on a boat tour along Poole Harbour and the stunning Jurassic Coast. Many local operators welcome well-behaved dogs on board, making it a fantastic way to enjoy breathtaking sea views together. The gentle ride is perfect for dogs who love the feeling of the sea breeze on their fur. 

Cost: Varies by operator
Date and time: Available daily, check with boat providers for schedules
Location: Poole Harbour

Visit Poole Quay

A bustling waterfront location where you can enjoy a wonderful stroll, listen to live music, and relax at one of Poole’s many dog-friendly pubs along the way. It’s a great place to experience Poole’s lively atmosphere and admire the boats in the harbor.

Cost: Free
Date and time: Open year-round
Location: Poole Quay

Enjoy a doggy ice cream at Sandbanks Beach

One of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, Sandbanks welcomes dogs during off-peak months. Let your pooch run freely on the golden sands and splash in the sea. Don’t forget to grab a special doggy ice cream from a nearby café to keep them cool and happy.

Cost: Free
Date and time: Open year-round, dogs allowed on the beach from October to April
Location: Sandbanks Beach

Best dog-friendly walking trails in Poole

Looking for an adventure? These dog-friendly walks in Poole provide the ideal mix of coastal beauty and countryside charm:

Canford Heath Nature Reserve

Location: Canford Heath
Length: Various routes available

A rugged and peaceful heathland walk, ideal for those who love exploring nature. This area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and rare birds, and offers numerous trails winding through open heath and woodland. It's awesome for adventurous dogs who enjoy sniffing out exciting new scents.

Whitecliff Park to Baiter Park Walk

Location: Whitecliff Park to Baiter Park
Length: 2.5 miles

An easy and beautiful harborside walk with views of Brownsea Island and Poole Harbour. This flat route is gentle, even for smaller breeds, and Whitecliff Park also features an open field where dogs can enjoy off-leash play before continuing the walk along the waterfront.

The best dog-friendly cafes in Poole

Here’s a fantastic selection of dog-friendly cafes in Poole where you can both relax and enjoy a treat. Grab a coffee with your furry companion at these wonderful cafes:

Coffee Saloon

A relaxed café known for its friendly staff and quiet location. It offers outdoor seating at the back, making it a comfortable hangout for guests with dogs. The generous portions—especially the bacon sandwiches and toast—are a highlight for many visitors.

Location: Haven Rd

Coffee#1 Poole

Coffee#1 Poole offers a warm atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of coffee blends, juices, and snacks. It's an ideal venue to relax with your furry friend.

Location: High Street

Annual dog events in Poole

Poole hosts several exciting events throughout the year, pawfect for social pups and their owners. Here’s one you can’t miss if you’re in the city.

Poole Dog Show & Festival

Location: Upton Country Park
Date: August

A fun-filled day featuring agility competitions, best-dressed dog contests, and local pet stalls. This event is a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow dog enthusiasts and celebrate our fuzzy friends with exciting activities and giveaways.

The best dog-friendly pubs in Poole

If you're looking for a spot to enjoy a drink while your barking bestie rests beside you, here are a couple of pubs in Poole that welcome four-legged patrons.

Rope & Anchor

A traditional waterside pub with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, Rope & Anchor is a fantastic place to enjoy a refreshing cider. Dogs are welcome in the bar area and outdoor seating space, where they can enjoy fresh water bowls while you take in the spectacular view over Poole Harbour.

Location: Sarum St

Jolly Sailor

Located right on Poole Quay, this historic pub features a terrace with incredible views of the harbor. It provides water bowls, and its lively yet relaxed atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for enjoying a drink after a memorable walk along the quay.

Location: The Quay

Dog-friendly wineries in Poole

Fancy a glass? This beautiful place welcomes both wine lovers and their four-legged companions.

English Oak Vineyard

This picturesque vineyard, just a short drive from Poole, produces award-winning English sparkling wines. Dogs are welcome to accompany their owners for outdoor tastings and guided vineyard tours.

Location: Flowers Drove, Lytchett Matravers

Dog-friendly beaches in Poole

Poole is home to some of the most stunning coastlines in the UK, and many of its beaches welcome dogs. Here’s one of the many dog-friendly beaches in Poole where your barking buddy can enjoy the sand and sea:

Branksome Dene Beach

A quieter, more relaxed option for dog walkers, Branksome Dene Beach allows dogs year-round, making it a great location for off-leash fun. The soft sand and gentle waves are excellent for playful pups who love to splash in the sea. The beach is also close to some great walking trails, making it an ideal starting point for a longer coastal adventure.

Location: Branksome Dene

Tips for pet parents in Poole

Whether you're exploring Poole with your dog or have arranged a pet sitter while you're away, ensuring your pup’s comfort and safety is key. Here are some useful tips to help things go smoothly:

Tip 1: Keep routines as normal as possible

New environments can be exciting but also overwhelming for dogs. Whether you're traveling with them or leaving them in a sitter’s care, try to stick to their usual schedule, such as regular feeding and walking times and familiar bedtime habits. Bringing their favorite blanket, toy, or bed can provide an extra touch of comfort.

Tip 2: Enjoy the fresh sea air!

Poole has beautiful sandy beaches where dogs are welcome in certain areas and during specific times of the year. If your dog loves to swim, be mindful of tides and currents when at the beach or near Poole Harbour. 

Tip 3: Be prepared for emergencies

It’s always best to have a plan. Note down the contact details for local vets, 24-hour emergency pet clinics, and pet-friendly taxis in case of any urgent situations. If your pup has any medical needs, provide clear instructions to avoid confusion in critical moments.

Tip 4: Find dog-friendly accommodation in Poole

There are numerous options for dog-friendly accommodation in Poole, from pet-friendly cottages to beautiful B&Bs your pet companion will love.

But what about when the time comes for you to go on vacation without your furry friend? Pets are happiest at home, and vets agree–so why not consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to keep your home and pets safe while you're away? To find out more, click below:

Tips for pet sitters in Poole

Poole is a fantastic place for pet sitters, offering beautiful parks, beaches, and cafes to explore while caring for a furry friend. To make the most of your experience as a pet sitter, keep these tips in mind:

Tip 1: Follow leash and safety rules

Every dog is different when it comes to being off-leash. Before heading out, ask the pet owner about their dog’s recall skills and any specific safety concerns. In areas like Poole Park or Upton Country Park, check if off-leash play is permitted and always follow local leash laws. Stay alert for any potential hazards, from busy roads to wildlife distractions.

Tip 2: Ask about training and commands

Dogs are happiest with routine, so consistency is key. Ask the owner about their pup’s usual training methods, including commands, recall words, and preferred walking routes. Whether it’s reinforcing "sit" at a dog-friendly café or practicing polite leash walking along Sandbanks Beach, sticking to familiar cues builds trust and keeps the dog comfortable.

Tip 3: Keep a log of care

Taking notes on feeding times, walk durations, bathroom breaks, and any unusual behaviors can be very reassuring for pet owners. A simple log and a quick message update give the pet parents clarity and peace of mind while they’re away.

Useful resources

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