Kobe is my Labrador and my best adventure companion.
We’ve explored forests, beaches, villages, lakes, castles, and anywhere that looks interesting.
I know there are several other dog-friendly sites and apps but I don’t think they can give you the personal touch of knowing that the places you visit are really welcoming to your best friend and places to walk that are safe for them to be the excited goofballs that they are.
If you’ve ever tried to plan a day out, weekend away, or holiday with your dog, you’ll know the familiar questions:
“Are dogs actually allowed inside?”
“Is this walk safe off-lead?”
“Will they have water bowls, shade, or just a bench in the rain?”
I wanted somewhere that didn’t just list places that technically allow dogs, but places that actually welcome them.
I created The Ruff Guide because I wanted to share what I found with my extensive research and experiences.
This is a space for people who travel with their dogs not around them.
For the dogs who get muddy, flop in streams, nose the chips, and fall asleep under the pub table.
For the dogs who make every day better. 🐾
What You’ll Find Here
- Walks that are actually nice, not just muddy footpaths or fields full of sheep
- Dog-friendly cafés, pubs & restaurants that don’t make you feel like an inconvenience
- Stays & weekend escapes that feel like a treat for you and your dog
- Practical tips from real experience, not just tourism brochures
Everything here is researched, visited, walked, and Kobe-approved.
If it’s on this site, that means it was:
✅ Welcoming
✅ Enjoyable
✅ Safe for dogs
✅ Worth your time
Life’s too short for “dogs allowed but don’t touch anything” energy.
My Philosophy
Dogs are family.
Not an afterthought.
Not a side note.
Not a restriction.
So the places on this site are not just dog-tolerant they are dog-friendly.
There’s a big difference.
Come Explore With Us
Whether you’re planning:
- A Sunday pub walk
- A road trip to somewhere new
- A cosy weekend away
- Or just looking for a new park to try
I hope you find something here that makes you think:
“Yes. That’s exactly what we’ve been looking for.”
Thanks for being here.
Give your dog a head scratch from me and a good sniff of something interesting from Kobe. 💛🐾
Heather & Kobe
The Ruff Guide
The Ruff Guide 