Lorraine Williamson
More and more holidaymakers are refusing to leave their pets behind—and Spain is catching on fast. From boutique hotels to dog-designated beaches, pet-friendly holidays in Spain are now easier and more welcoming than ever.
According to Booking.com, around one in three accommodations across the country now advertises as pet-friendly. It’s a sign of the times: dogs are no longer left behind in kennels or with neighbours. They’re hopping in the car, boarding flights, and checking into hotels alongside their humans. The travel industry is adjusting to meet this demand, with a growing number of hotels, holiday homes, and campsites offering pet-specific perks and facilities that go far beyond simply allowing them through the door.
From “pets allowed” to proper hospitality
The shift is evident in the kind of services now on offer. In many rural hotels and boutique stays, dogs are welcomed with their own beds, treats, and even designated walking areas. In some cases, hotel owners have partnered with local vets, ensuring that support is on hand should any issues arise during your stay. Meanwhile, websites like hotelesmascotas.com have emerged to guide pet-owning travellers, offering searchable listings of dog-friendly properties and destinations.
This isn’t just about convenience. It’s part of a wider cultural shift in how we view animals—not as an afterthought, but as part of the family unit. And that change is reshaping how holidays are planned.
Good for pets, too
Veterinarian Ana Ramírez highlights the overlooked benefits of travel for pets themselves. A new environment, unfamiliar scents, the chance to run freely in open spaces—all contribute to a pet’s mental stimulation and overall wellbeing. “Dogs, like humans, need rest and distraction,” she explains. “Exploring new surroundings reduces stress and keeps their senses sharp.”
For many pets, a holiday means more quality time with their owner, more stimulation, and less time home alone. With careful planning, it can be just as enriching for them as it is for you.
Spain’s dog-friendly beaches
There are now over 100 dog-friendly beaches in Spain, each with its own vibe and regulations. From the wide, open sands of La Rubina in Girona to the designated dog zones of Camposoto in Cádiz, these beaches provide secure, welcoming spaces where dogs can roam, swim and play freely.
Access rules differ by region—some beaches only allow dogs during the low season or early mornings, while others maintain dedicated year-round zones. For clear, updated guidance, redcanina.es provides a full list of dog-friendly beaches, while playaparaperros.com offers real-time updates on local rules and newly added dog zones, including seasonal access times by autonomous region.
How to prepare for a smooth journey
Travelling with pets does require a little extra planning. Make sure you carry your pet’s passport and up-to-date vaccination certificate. Bringing a few familiar items—such as their favourite toy, a blanket, or a cooling mat in summer—can help ease the transition into a new environment. A travel-safe water bowl and basic pet first-aid kit are also smart additions, particularly if you’re heading to remote or hot areas.
It’s worth checking whether your accommodation or destination requires pets to be microchipped or wear an ID tag—this is often mandatory in natural parks and some rural regions.
Spain is ready—is your pet?
With more choice than ever, pet owners no longer need to compromise when planning their holiday. Spain has embraced the trend, not just by opening doors to pets but by making them feel genuinely welcome. For travellers looking to share new adventures with their furry companions—whether it’s mountain hikes, beach runs or quiet afternoons in a country inn—Spain is fast becoming one of the most pet-positive destinations in Europe.
Because holidays are better when the whole family comes along—tail and all.
Source: Europa Press