Holiday with your best friend at your side in dog-friendly accommodation in the Algarve
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Don't forget Fido when you take dog-friendly accommodation in the Algarve
If you're the proud parent of a furbaby, holidays can be tricky. After all, you wouldn't leave your human kids at home while you go off for fun in the sun - so why leave your beloved pooch to mope about in kennels? A dog-friendly accommodation in Portugal's sunny Algarve lets the entire family have a much-needed break. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your dog-friendly trip.
Start your searchPopular Pet-friendly holidays in Algarve
Star Host
Star hosts are experienced and highly rated hosts with a commitment to provide reliably great stays.
Tavira, Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
9.4
Villa for 4 people, with garden, with pets
Free cancellation
from £53 per night
Odeleite, Algarve
10.0
Villa for 2 people, with garden
Free cancellation
from £78 per night
Praia das Cabanas, Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
8.7
Villa for 4 people, with garden
Free cancellation
from £67 per night
Star Host
Star hosts are experienced and highly rated hosts with a commitment to provide reliably great stays.
Benafim, Algarve
10.0
Holiday home for 2 people, with garden
from £84 per night
FAQs: Pet-friendly holidays in Algarve
What's the best time of year to take my dog to the Algarve?
The Algarve is known as a summer hotspot, but that's not the best time of year for a holiday with a dog in the Algarve. In July, the daily average of 24°C may be uncomfortable for many canines. Plus, the crowds are likely to stress your pooch out! Try the shoulder season instead. From late April to June, the daily average is around 18°C. October sees an average of 19°C most days, which is far more suitable for dogs.
Where are the best dog beaches around the Algarve?
If you want a beach holiday, then look for villas in the Algarve near dog-friendly beaches. In general, most beaches in Portugal are fully dog-friendly in the winter months but do not allow dogs in summer. The dates may vary, but this restricted period is usually from May to mid-September. At all times of the year, you will find some dog beaches in the Algarve, though. Praia de São Rafael, Praia das Furnas and Praia da Figueira all welcome dogs - but be warned, these are nudist beaches, so ensure your pooch is well-behaved and not in the habit of jumping up at strangers! If you want to avoid the local naturists, Praia de São Rafael is probably the best of the three; it is the largest, and only one part of the beach is for nudists.
Can I take my dog on public transport and into restaurants in the Algarve?
Yes. Portugal's dog-friendly laws mean that you can take dogs on buses and trains. Your dog must be clean and under your control, so ensure you have a leash or a pet carrier. Most restaurants and cafés in the Algarve have terraces with outdoor seating, and dogs are almost always welcome. You may not be able to bring your pooch into the dining room, though. If you want a specifically dog-friendly restaurant, try NOA in Loulé. This welcoming bistro will even provide snacks for your pup.
What should I be aware of before taking my dog to the Algarve?
Your dog will need to have his own pet passport before you can travel. He must also be microchipped and have up-to-date vaccinations. Dog rabies has been eradicated in Portugal, but some species of wildlife may still have this disease, especially bats; as such, only dogs that have been vaccinated against rabies can enter the country. Before travelling, check Portugal's list of dangerous dogs. Some breeds are not allowed to enter the country at all, while others must be muzzled while in public.
Are there any laws about dogs in public in the Algarve?
Nobody wants to tread in dog poo, and the Portuguese government takes this matter quite seriously. Fines for owners who don't scoop poop start at €25, but can reach a staggering €7,000. In general, you should keep your dog on a lead in public. There are some areas where dogs can roam free but always check in advance. This is particularly true in the Algarve, where many outdoor areas are protected zones for wildlife. Do not let your dogs chase after birds. If you're travelling between September and November, be particularly mindful of this. The autumn months see massive bird migrations in the Algarve.
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