Planning a visit?

What are you looking for?

Living & Working

expand

Visit the Dales

expand

Dogs and the Dales

Every year millions of dogs – local and visitors - enjoy the National Park with owner in tow and who can blame them for taking the lead. There's such great exploring to be done and many dog-friendly establishments.

Tips on walking with your dog

  • Many ground nesting birds are easily disturbed by inquisitive dogs and fly away leaving the nest vulnerable. From March to July use a short lead.

  • Stiles provide a barrier to animals. Dogs might have to learn how to use them or be lifted over – they can fall and hurt themselves. You could always try a Miles Without Stiles route.

  • Poo – bag it and bin it! Toxocariasis can be passed via waste to other dogs and people, and even into the soil.

  • Not everyone likes dogs. Please be considerate and keep your dog on a lead when passing others.

  • Dogs must be kept under control at heel or better still on a lead around livestock – after all, your dog could be shot for disturbing or chasing farm animals.

  • If you are chased by livestock when walking your dog, it is safer to drop a dog's lead and get out of the field.

  • The spectacular limestone scenery includes hazards a dog could fall into such as caves, limestone pavement and sink holes. Please stick to the paths.

More details

Watch out for instructional signage on gates and posts, call into a National Park Centre for more advice (dogs welcome).

Coming on holiday

You may be happy to organise a holiday for you and your dog yourself, but if you would prefer someone else to have found suitable accommodation and walks then you can have a look at the breaks offered by Dog Walking Holidays as a possibility.

What to do...

Our best ideas for different seasons, rainy days, happy kids and more

Walking

Get inspiration whether you want family-friendly ambles or long-distance challenge >

Nature in the Dales

Our Nature in the Dales website contains information about over 150 species and 14 priority habitats found in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Meet the Rangers

Find out about our team of Rangers, what they do and how to get in touch with them.

Loading...