Is Arisaig Dog-Friendly? A Guide for Dog Owners Planning a Holiday
Arisaig is a fantastic destination for lovers of the great outdoors but is it a good place to bring your dog? Is Arisaig Dog-Friendly? The short answer to that is yes! From beaches to boat trips, Mallaig and Arisaig are very dog-friendly, with plenty of places to explore, eat and stay.
There are also some important points to consider though, like the prevalence of livestock and access to veterinary care in rural areas. Read on to find out everything you need to know about bringing your furry friend to the area!
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Dog-Friendly Walks and Outdoor Spaces
Arisaig, along with Morar and Mallaig, has lots of scenic walks you can take your dog on. Whether you prefer the coast, wooded areas or hills, there’s no shortage of places for you and your dogs to explore.
All beaches in Arisaig and Morar are dog-friendly, meaning your dogs can enjoy the sand and sea along with you. Other great places for walks are woodlands, hills and lochsides so you can have a variety of landscapes to explore. Most walks are easy but there are also more challenging ones for those looking for a bit of adventure and views from higher up.
Although dogs are welcome in these areas, they must be on a lead. Arisaig is a rural area with plenty of livestock, including cows and sheep. You may also come across wild deer, rabbits and, occasionally, horses or ponies in fields and sometimes even on the road
Dog-Friendly Places to Eat in Arisaig and Mallaig
Eating out with your dog in Arisaig is easy, as most restaurants, cafés, and pubs are dog-friendly. Most places to eat around Arisaig and Mallaig allow dogs inside but some allow them in outdoor seating areas only. That’s usually not an issue as there are great views all around and sitting outside is often preferable when the weather is nice.
Many places go the extra mile by offering dog treats, and at least one restaurant, The Crofter’s Rest, even has a dedicated doggy menu with special meals and snacks for your pet.
Head over to our guide on Where to Eat in Arisaig (and Mallaig) to find which places are dog-friendly.
Dog-Friendly Accommodation
Finding dog-friendly accommodation is becoming more difficult across the country but it is still possible to find places that welcome dogs in Arisaig, Morar and Mallaig.
Keep in mind that many places may be on crofts and farms or near them, so check out the suitability for your dog. If you like camping, most campsites welcome dogs.
If the accommodation you’re looking at doesn’t have information about dogs on their website or listing, some questions you might want to ask about the accommodation are:
- How many dogs can I bring?
- Is there an extra pet fee?
- Are there any specific house rules regarding dogs?
- Is the garden enclosed? Is it secure?
- Are there other animals on the property? Are there animals on neighbouring properties or fields?
You can find more tips on finding accommodation in Arisaig and nearby areas here.
Boat Trips with Dogs in Arisaig and Mallaig
If you’re planning to go on a boat trip to explore the surrounding area, Arisaig Marine, Western Isles Cruises and Calmac all allow dogs. You can bring your dog along for free but book a place for them in advance. See boat trips you and your dog can take from Arisaig and Mallaig.
Doggy Care Services
If you’re planning a day trip that isn’t suitable for your dog, book ahead with local dog walkers to take care of your pet while you explore. KANE-9’s Dog Walking is based in Arisaig and Madra Walks is based in Mallaig. Both have lots of regulars so be sure to book in advance.
If you’re going to be in the area for an extended period, you’ll be glad to know that Arisaig has its very own dog groomer. Book a slot with Short Bark n Sides in Arisaig.
Doggy Events nearby
Regular events are held by Ewen’s Room, a local mental health charity. These include dog walks and other meet-ups and some raise money to help provide animal therapy to the community.
Veterinary Services and Emergencies
It’s important to be aware of the limited veterinary services in the area.
- There is no vet in Arisaig or Mallaig.
- The nearest vet is in Fort William.
- Crown Vets and Ben Nevis Vets both visit Arisaig and Mallaig regularly, but appointments are often booked up in advance.
- In case of an emergency, you will need to travel to Fort William for treatment.
Other Dog Services
If you run out of dog food during your stay, Arisaig Gundogs sell large bags of high-quality food. But be warned that they occasionally have puppies too and you might leave with an extra dog!
Packing List for your Dog’s Holiday at Arisaig
As you won’t be able to buy food and accessories as easily as you would in a city, it’s important to plan ahead for what your dog may need.
- Dog food and treats- if your dog likes a particular brand, bring enough with you for your visit.
- Tick collar/repellant and tick remover – Ticks are on the increase across Scotland, so these are essential. (Don’t forget to check yourself, too.) See more on ticks.
- A reflective lead or vest if you’re visiting in winter or like to walk late at night
- A spare collar and lead – in case of damage or loss
- A travel blanket for extra comfort
- A bodysuit or fast-drying towel for those fun but wet trips to the beach or muddy walks
- A stake can be useful too if you’re on a campsite or at the beach.
- Dog First Aid kit – hopefully you won’t need it, but it’s always best to be prepared
- Poo bags – keep Arisaig, Mallaig and Morar clean
- Toys!
(The links above are items that I have bought.)
Wrap-up – Is Arisaig Dog-Friendly?
Planning a dog-friendly holiday in Scotland isn’t always easy, so it’s great to know of places where you can really relax together with your pooches. Arisaig is a fabulous destination for dog owners, offering dog-friendly beaches, plenty of great walks and welcoming restaurants.
Book dog-friendly accommodation in advance and keep dogs on a lead to protect local wildlife and livestock and you’ll all have a great time!
With its stunning scenery, friendly atmosphere and dog-welcoming attitude, Arisaig is the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday with your four-legged friend!