Think you know all the dog-friendly options in Ireland? Think again.

From cruises and campervan hire to restaurants, hotels and even shopping, there are plenty of unexpected ways to enjoy Ireland with your four-legged companion and some of these surprised me in the best way possible.

I am on a mission to make it easier for dog owners to travel with their dogs in Ireland, and enjoy every day experiences like grabbing a coffee, a pint or a meal "indoors", enjoying a scenic boat trip or cosying up in a beautiful hotel with their pooch. 

Gone are the days when dogs needed to be sent to boarding kennels or left behind - no thanks! A quick note to say that I only include places i genuinely believe are dog "friendly" and not just dog tolerant, and this is a non exhaustive list of some great dog friendly finds around the country that truly welcome dogs. 

Here are 20 dog-friendly discoveries you NEED to SAVE for your next adventure 

​1. Dublin Bay Cruises – Howth, Dublin
Take your dog out on the water with Dublin Bay Cruises. Dogs are welcome aboard, so you can enjoy the spectacular coastline around Howth, Ireland's Eye and Dublin Bay together.
2. Osprey Viking Cruises – Waterford
Explore Waterford from the River Suir with your dog by your side. Osprey Viking Cruises is a surprisingly fun option for dog owners looking for something a little different from the usual walk.
3. The Range – Various Locations Nationwide 
Need to pick up some homeware or gardening supplies? Your dog can come shopping with you at The Range. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in its stores, making this an unexpectedly useful dog-friendly discovery.
4. Bunk Campers – Ireland
Planning a road trip with your dog? Bunk Campers offers dog-friendly campervan hire, meaning you can bring your best friend along for the adventure rather than worrying about finding pet-friendly accommodation every night. This is a great option too if you are considering getting your own camper and want to test out the lifestyle with your dog. 
5. Strokestown Park – County Roscommon
Explore the grounds of this beautiful historic estate with your dog. Strokestown Park welcomes dogs in the grounds and Woodland Café, although they aren't permitted inside the historic house and museum.

​6. Bellinter House – Navan, County Meath
Luxury country house and dogs don't always go hand in hand, but Bellinter House welcomes dogs in the designated Stables bedrooms and as well as other areas including The Bar, The Library, The Stables and The Bellinter Spa Café (outside area only). It's a lovely option for a more luxurious getaway with your four-legged friend in the heart of the Royal County (which happens to be our native county).
Note: There is an additional fee of €20 for the first night and €10 for each subsequent night per dog and a refundable deposit applies. 
7. Rye River Café – Kilcock, County Kildare
Rye River Café is a great find for dog owners who want to eat somewhere that welcomes their pup inside, rather than restricting dogs to an outdoor terrace. It's perfect for a coffee, breakfast or lunch stop with your dog.
8. ​Killaloe River Cruise – County Clare/Tipperary
Take your dog on a proper cruise along the River Shannon and Lough Derg. Killaloe River Cruises explicitly says dogs are welcome on board, and there's even a fully enclosed lower deck for rainy days. The one-hour cruise includes views, wildlife, history and local legends.
9. Skellig Michael Eco Tours – County Kerry
​You can actually take your dog out to see the Skellig Islands — from the water. Dogs are welcome on certain non-landing Skellig Michael eco tours, giving you incredible views of the islands together. Just remember that dogs cannot land on Skellig Michael itself.
10. Original Irish Hotels – Various Locations
Dog-friendly doesn't have to mean basic. Original Irish Hotels has a selection of around 15 pet-friendly hotels around Ireland, including options such as Connemara Sands, Mount Falcon Estate, Parknasilla and Lough Inagh Lodge. So your dog can join you for a proper Irish hotel escape.
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​Check out the full list here

11. Roches (The Sinking Pub), Donadea, County Kildare
One of Ireland's quirkiest pubs, Roches is famous for its wonderfully wonky, sinking structure and its long history. It's also right beside Donadea Forest Park, making it a brilliant place to stop for a drink or some food indoors or outdoors, after a walk with your dog.
12. Dursey Island Cable Car, County Cork
How many people realise you can take your dog on Ireland's only cable car? Dogs are allowed on the cable car and on Dursey Island's public road, although they must be kept on a lead and aren't permitted on the Beara Way.
​13. Cycle the Waterford Greenway with your Dog 
Fancy cycling the Waterford Greenway but don't want your dog left behind? You don't have to! Some local bike hire companies offer dog trailers that attach to the back of the bike, allowing your four-legged companion to come along for the ride. One Dungarvan bike hire company even has a trailer specifically reserved for customers wanting to bring their dogs.
14. The Fat Fox, Greystones, County Wicklow
This cosy Greystones café is another great find for dog owners. Dogs are welcome inside, so you can grab your coffee and breakfast without having to leave your four-legged friend outside.
15. Bewley's Grafton Street, Dublin
One of Dublin's most famous cafés is surprisingly dog-friendly. Bewley's historic Grafton Street café is currently listed as welcoming dogs, meaning you can enjoy its beautiful surroundings and famous coffee with your pup.

16. Marina Market – Cork City
A huge indoor food market where dogs are welcome throughout the market is a much more unexpected option. Marina Market has dozens of food vendors under one roof, and dogs can accompany you while you browse and eat. This would make a particularly good addition to your article because it's neither a traditional café nor a pub
17. Guys Seafood Bar – Clifden, County Galway
This famous Clifden seafood bar is another great find for dog owners. Guys Bar has a designated dog-friendly area where you can enjoy a meal with your pup – particularly handy when the Irish weather isn't cooperating and sitting outside isn't an option.
18. Castlemartyr Resort – County Cork
Fancy a five-star getaway without leaving your dog behind? Castlemartyr Resort has dedicated pet-friendly Garden Deluxe Rooms and Orchard Residences, with private gardens, dog beds and even a pet concierge service. The resort's 220 acres also give you plenty of space to explore together.
19. Lough Ree Viking Cruise – Athlone, County Westmeath
How often do you get to sail around Ireland on a replica Viking ship with your dog? Viking Tours in Athlone welcomes well-behaved dogs on its Lough Ree Cruise, provided they're kept on a lead. It's a seriously unusual way to explore the Midlands together – and definitely one many dog owners wouldn't think to look for.
20. Nutbutter – Various Locations Co. Dublin
Nutbutter is another unexpected dog-friendly dining option. This vibey spot, themed around California's restaurant culture welcomes dogs and serves up unreal healthy food, meaning you can enjoy a bite to eat without having to leave your four-legged companion behind. Located in Dundrum Town Centre, Grand Canal Dock & Smithfield Market. 

If you’re exploring Connemara with your dog and looking for unique, dog-friendly experiences along the Wild Atlantic Way, a cruise on Killary Fjord should be at the top of your list. Not only is it Ireland’s only fjord, offering breathtaking scenery, but it’s also one of my favorite activities to enjoy in the country.
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During my recent Wild Atlantic Way road trip with my black Labrador, Gimli - where we seek out the most dog-friendly spots and experiences, we had the chance to board a sightseeing cruise with Killary Fjord Boat Tours. We were blown away by both the scenery and the warm welcome we received. Not only are dogs allowed on board, but the crew went out of their way to make Gimli feel like a VIP guest.

A Warm Welcome for Dogs
Finding truly dog‑friendly attractions in Ireland can be tricky, which made our visit to Killary Fjord all the more special. Dogs are welcome aboard the 90‑minute sightseeing cruise as long as they stay on the outside deck—which, in a place this stunning, is exactly where you’ll want to be. From the moment we arrived, the staff greeted Gimli with smiles, pats, and plenty of fuss.

​They brought him fresh water during the trip, and one crew member even surprised him with treats, which he gladly devoured—he is a perpetually hungry Labrador, after all. It was clear that dogs aren’t just tolerated here—they’re genuinely embraced, and that’s what made the experience so memorable for us.

​For anyone travelling with a canine companion, that extra level of friendliness makes all the difference.

​Exploring Ireland's Only Glacial Fjord
Killary Fjord stretches for around 16 kilometres between County Galway and County Mayo and is the only fjord in Ireland. Carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age, the dramatic inlet is surrounded by rugged mountains, rolling hills, and untouched landscapes that make Connemara one of Ireland's most spectacular regions. It’s one of my all-time favorite spots in Ireland, so sharing it with Gimli is incredible. 

As we cruised through the calm waters, it was easy to see why Killary Fjord is considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions along the Wild Atlantic Way. Believe it or not, this part of Ireland is said to be the rainiest in the country due to its mountainous landscape, so we felt extra lucky to be witnessing the breathtaking fjord with clear blue skies and warm temperatures. 

The towering slopes of Mweelrea Mountain—the tallest in Connacht—loomed above the shoreline, with sheep scattered across the hillsides and the occasional seabird soaring overhead. The calm conditions made the water’s surface almost mirror-like, while the onboard commentary shared the region’s history, always a highlight for me.

Plenty of Space to Enjoy the Views
One of the things I loved most about the cruise was how spacious the vessel felt.
There was plenty of room for passengers to move around and take in the scenery from different vantage points. Gimli was allowed to relax on the outer deck, which quickly became his favourite shady spot. With the fresh sea air, panoramic views, and endless interesting smells, he was completely content watching the world drift by.

The outdoor areas provide excellent opportunities for photography, and I found myself constantly reaching for my camera as each bend in the fjord revealed another stunning view. We were incredibly lucky with the weather during our visit, so i grabbed as much footage as I could. The sun was shining, the skies were clear, and the fjord looked absolutely spectacular under the summer light. The mountains appeared even more dramatic against the blue sky, while the sparkling water created postcard-perfect scenes in every direction.
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Although the scenery would undoubtedly be impressive in any weather, experiencing Killary Fjord on such a beautiful day made the cruise feel extra special.

​Learning About the History of Killary Fjord
Throughout the journey, the onboard commentary provided fascinating insights into the area's history, geology, and local life. We learned how the fjord was formed by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago and heard stories about the communities that have lived along its shores for generations.

​The guide also pointed out local landmarks, fish farms, and historical sites that can easily be missed from land. The commentary added depth to the experience and helped bring the landscape to life. 

Is the Killary Fjord Cruise Dog Friendly?
Absolutely!

​Dogs are welcome on board and can join their owners on the outer deck, making this one of the most enjoyable dog-friendly attractions I've experienced in Connemara. Combined with the friendly crew, fresh water, treats, and stunning scenery, it offers a fantastic day out for both humans and their four-legged companions.

If you're planning a dog-friendly Wild Atlantic Way adventure and looking for something beyond beaches and hiking trails, a Killary Fjord cruise is a wonderful way to experience one of Ireland's most remarkable landscapes together.

​Gimli certainly gave it his paw of approval.

Check prices and sailing times here
Book your ticket here

Top Tips 

• Grab some delicious food or coffee from The Purple Door café, a dog-friendly eatery in Leenaun and check out some other dog-friendly eateries in the area. 
• There is free parking on site at Nancys Point where the boat departs, but it gets busy fast so arrive early.
• Leenaun is a dog-friendly town where the local hotels, cafes and pubs happily welcome dogs and their owners, so it is worth sticking around for a few days to enjoy this beautiful location.
• Leenaun makes a great base for exploring Connemara, Doolough Valley and Aasleagh Falls and there are plenty of dog-friendly hikes to enjoy. ​

Located in the heart of Connemara National Park, Diamond Hill is one of the most rewarding hikes on the Wild Atlantic Way. With panoramic views over the Twelve Bens, Kylemore Abbey, Atlantic coastline, and surrounding countryside, it is a must-visit for outdoor lovers exploring Galway with their dog.

The good news for dog owners is that dogs are welcome on the Diamond Hill trails, making it one of the best dog-friendly hikes in Connemara. However, dogs must be kept on a lead at all times due to the protected landscape, livestock, and other visitors using the trails.

Is Diamond Hill Dog Friendly?
Yes, Diamond Hill is dog friendly, and many visitors enjoy exploring the trails with their four-legged companions. The paths are well-marked and offer a mixture of boardwalks, gravel tracks, rocky sections, and mountain terrain.

Before setting out, keep in mind:

• Dogs must be kept on a lead throughout the walk.
• Bring water for both you and your dog, especially on warmer days.
• The upper sections are exposed, so check weather conditions before hiking.
• Always clean up after your dog and respect the natural environment.

​Diamond Hill Walking Routes
One of the best things about Diamond Hill is that there are different routes to suit different fitness levels. Whether you want a gentle stroll with your dog or a more challenging mountain hike, there is an option for you.

Our top pick:
1. Lower Diamond Hill Walk – 3km (approximately 1 hour)The easiest option, this shorter loop is ideal for dogs who may not be used to longer hikes or for visitors looking for a scenic walk rather than a mountain climb.

Highlights include:

• Views across Connemara National Park
• Woodland and bogland scenery
• A peaceful introduction to the landscape

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2. Upper Diamond Hill Trail – 7km (approximately 2.5–3 hours)
This is the most popular route and takes you higher up Diamond Hill towards the summit. The trail becomes more challenging, with rocky sections and steeper climbs, but the views from the top make it worthwhile.

On a clear day, you can see:

• The Twelve Bens mountain range
• Kylemore Abbey and Pollacapall Lough
• The Atlantic coastline
• Islands scattered along Galway Bay

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3. Ellis Wood Nature Trail – 2km (approximately 45 minutes)
For a gentler walk with your dog, the Ellis Wood Nature Trail is a peaceful woodland route located within Connemara National Park. This easy trail is ideal if you want to experience the beauty of the area without tackling a steep mountain climb.

Highlights include:

• Native woodland and peaceful forest paths
• Views towards the surrounding Connemara mountains
• A relaxed option for dogs, families, and walkers looking for an easier route
• A quieter alternative to the more popular Diamond Hill summit trail

This is a great choice for dogs who enjoy exploring new scents and natural surroundings but may not be suited to a longer or more challenging hike.

4. Scruffaunboy Trail – 5.5km (approximately 1.5–2 hours)
The Scruffaunboy Trail offers a more adventurous walk through the rugged landscapes of Connemara National Park. This route takes you through open countryside and provides beautiful views across the mountains, making it a rewarding option for active dogs and owners.

Highlights include:

• Panoramic views of the Twelve Bens mountain range
• A quieter trail away from the busier Diamond Hill routes
• Suitable for dogs who enjoy longer countryside walks
• A varied landscape of woodland, bogland, and open terrain

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While less challenging than reaching the Diamond Hill summit, the Scruffaunboy Trail still offers a wonderful taste of Connemara’s wild landscape and is a great addition to a dog-friendly itinerary.

​Tips for Hiking Diamond Hill With Your Dog
Diamond Hill is a beautiful but exposed mountain walk, so preparation is key.
✔ Bring plenty of water
✔ Use a secure lead or harness
✔ Check the forecast before leaving
✔ Allow extra time for your dog to rest and explore
✔ Avoid busy periods if your dog is nervous around crowds

The visitor centre at Connemara National Park is also a useful stop before or after your walk, with information about the trails and the surrounding area. Few places showcase the beauty of Connemara quite like Diamond Hill. The combination of mountain views, coastal scenery, and accessible trail options makes it a fantastic choice for a day out with your dog.
Whether you complete the shorter loop or take on the summit trail, Diamond Hill offers an unforgettable Wild Atlantic Way experience where both you and your four-legged companion can enjoy the incredible landscapes of Galway.

West Cork is one of Ireland’s most breathtaking destinations, known for its crystal-clear coves, strikingly blue lakes, charming villages and towns, and a variety of unique islands scattered along its beautiful coastline. As if that weren’t enough, it’s also home to Ireland’s only cable car, which whisks visitors to Dursey Island—and it’s even dog-friendly.

​But let’s not give everything just yet; instead, let’s dive into the best dog-friendly experiences in West Cork that I would highly recommend. 

Lough Hyne is one of West Cork’s most unique and magical natural attractions, often described as Ireland’s first marine nature reserve. Just a short drive from Skibbereen, it offers a peaceful escape surrounded by wooded hills, saltwater lake views, and quiet walking trails.

​One of the best dog-friendly experiences here is the walk up through Knockomagh Wood, where you’ll find a scenic forest trail leading to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the entire lough, but a lovely lakeside walk to the small harbour is also well worth it for an easier option.

​Dogs are welcome on leads, making it a great spot for a calm, shaded hike away from busier coastal areas. The looped walk is relatively short but steep in parts, so it’s ideal for active dogs and owners.

Located in Bantry Bay, Garnish Island is one of West Cork's most beautiful attractions and a fantastic place to visit with your dog. Known for its stunning Italian gardens, colourful planting schemes, and scenic walking paths, the island offers a peaceful escape surrounded by spectacular coastal views. Dogs are welcome on the ferry and on the island itself, making it a great dog-friendly day out for those exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.
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To reach Garinish Island, we took the short ferry crossing from Glengarriff Harbour with Harbour Queen Ferries. The journey takes just a few minutes and often includes a close-up view of the resident seal colony on the small islands nearby. Once on Garinish Island, you can wander through beautifully maintained gardens, enjoy views across Bantry Bay, and explore the island's unique mix of horticulture and history. It's an easy, relaxing excursion that both you and your four-legged companion can enjoy.

Mizen Head, perched at the southernmost tip of mainland Ireland, is a must-see spot on any Wild Atlantic Way adventure. Just minutes from Barleycove Beach—one of the country’s most stunning stretches of coastline—it offers breathtaking views and rich history. What’s even better is that the Mizen Head Signal Station & Visitors Centre is dog friendly.

You can bring your furry pal inside the visitors centre and along all the outdoor paths, including the spectacular coastal trails. The only no-go zone for dogs is the café, which happens to serve incredible seafood chowder, but the rest is yours to explore together. I would highly recommend visiting here on a clear sunny day since the area is exposed to high winds, plus the scenery is outstanding when the sun comes out. 

There are plenty of nearby accommodation options, and if you don’t have your own vehicle, taking a tour is well worth it, as Mizen Head is quite remote and not easily accessible by public transport.

West Cork and its hidden gems are best explored by car—or in my case, a campervan. I would highly recommend renting a car to enjoy the freedom to discover the region at your own pace. In terms of booking hotels nearby, the most popular areas to stay include Glengarriff, Bantry, Clonakilty and Skibereen - but one of my favourites is the quaint seaside town of Baltimore. 

The Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands make for the perfect day trip along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Traveling with a pet? You’re in luck—dogs are welcome on the ferry to any of the Aran Islands (Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, or Inis Oírr), and you can even enjoy a Cliffs of Moher cruise on your return journey with your furry companion by your side.

​It’s the ultimate combination, in my opinion. I’ll share all the details in this article so you can plan a trip like mine—and trust me, you won’t want to miss it.

The Doolin Ferry Company is your go to operator for booking your dog-friendly day trip and they offer combination tickets to any of the three Aran Islands, depending on which kind of experience you're seeking.

This was not my first time sailing with The Doolin Ferry Company, in fact I took my first ever trip to Inishmore many years ago with my mum, and embarked on the Cliffs of Moher cruise a few years back too. This time round I was eager to find a dog-friendly way of exploring Inisheer - an island I had not yet explored and the cliffs by boat, and this seemed like a fantastic choice.  

A few things to note when taking your dog on the ferry:

• Make sure your dog is comfortable around groups, especially during peak season.
• It’s helpful if your dog has been on a boat before or is used to traveling.
• Always keep your dog leashed, and for stronger dogs like mine, add a harness too.
• Trust your judgment to decide if this is the right experience for you and your dog—some pups just don’t enjoy these trips, and that’s perfectly fine.
• Remember that some passengers may have a fear of dogs so keep your dog close and under control at all times. 

So Why Visit Inis Oírr?
Inis Oírr, the smallest of the three Aran Islands in County Galway, is reached by ferry from Doolin Pier in County Clare. After some research, I chose Inis Oírr for its reputation as a dog-friendly spot, complete with a looped trail dotted with landmarks to explore. On other Irish islands I’d visited, certain trails were off-limits to dogs due to livestock, but thankfully that wasn’t the case here.

What also caught my attention was that Inis Oírr appeared in the opening credits of the beloved Irish sitcom *Father Ted* as Craggy Island, and I couldn’t pass up the chance to see it in person. Like many of Ireland’s islands, it’s a Gaeltacht region, offering a great way to connect with Irish culture and history.

​Although I grew up in Ireland, my Irish language skills are limited, so visiting places like this helps me reconnect with my heritage. All in all, it felt like the perfect place to spend a rare sunny day in the West of Ireland with my adventure-loving dog, Gimli. 

What's more, Inis Oírr is well known for its main beach Trá Inis Oírr which has been awarded both the Blue Flag and Green Coast awards - only a handful of Irish beaches have received both. Given the beaches, culture and island setting, it's no wonder Inis Oírr is a popular place for a wellness retreat. But that will have to wait until next time. 

My Experience Visiting Inis Oírr with a Dog
A quick 15-minute ferry brought us to the main pier at Inis Oírr, where I first laid eyes on Trá Inis Oírr (Inis Oírr beach) and felt as if I’d been whisked away to the Caribbean. While dogs aren’t allowed on the beach between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. (though outside those hours they’re welcome), I spotted a few locals enjoying the morning with their pups. After a quick splash for Gimli, we set off on a 7–8 km walk around the island to visit its iconic landmarks.


Not far from the main beach, a sign led us to a smaller, second beach—Poll na gCaorach—and it was pure magic. I tossed the ball for Gimli and took a dip myself; it was chilly, but not nearly as cold as I’d imagined. Refreshed, we carried on along narrow lanes bordered by intricate stone walls that seemed to shape the island’s very soul.


Every so often, a pony and trap carrying smiling tourists passed by, but it was just us and a lone donkey for company. We stopped to admire the weathered Plassy Shipwreck, grounded during a 1960s storm while hauling whiskey, stained glass, and yarn. The trail eventually brought us to the 15th-century O’Brien’s Castle, perched on a hilltop like a guardian watching over the town. After all that walking, I treated myself to some chips and a 99, sitting by the beach as the warm sun poured down.

The next part of our adventure took us back to Doolin Pier to drop off some passengers before heading out to see the Cliffs of Moher from the water. As someone who soaks up every bit of information (yes, I’m the one reading all the signs at attractions), I absolutely loved this guided cliff cruise. The friendly crew shared ancient stories, pointed out puffins, and explained the fascinating geology behind the creation of these towering cliffs. Even though I’d visited the cliffs before, this was such an incredible experience that once again reminded me how breathtaking our country truly is. In my opinion this was the best dog-friendly day trip I had done in a long time and the beautiful sunshine made it extra special. 
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​What is the Best Time to Do This Trip?
For a dog-friendly trip to Inis Oírr and the Cliffs of Moher, I'd recommend late May, June, or early September. These months give you the best balance of weather, daylight hours, and ferry availability. Ferry services are at their most frequent during the peak summer season, with multiple daily departures from Doolin to Inis Oírr. 

I went towards the end of June when Ireland was in the middle of a heatwave, and it was an amazing time to visit. The shoulder season is also perfect if you want to enjoy the sights without the crowds. As I mentioned, Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so a heatwave might happen outside the main summer months—and if it does, this is the best way to spend a sunny day along the Wild Atlantic Way.