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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Rebecca Astill

Where you should go on holiday in Wales based on the breed of your dog

A dog psychologist has named the best places you should go on holiday this year in Wales, depending on which breed of dog you own.

George Barrett, of Dalesman Dog Psychology, has helped Dog Friendly Cottages to determine the best staycation destinations for dog owners, taking into account each specific type's needs and likes.

It could mean your pet prefers a stay nearer the seaside or a city break.

Cocker and Springer Spaniels, Vizslas, Staffordshire Bull and Border Terriers and Beagles were all deemed to best suit locations in Wales

Read more: Vote for Britain’s favourite dog breed as WalesOnline pick ranks in top five

Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel and Vizsla

Top location: Llandudno

Due to the excitable and sociable nature of these dogs, they are well suited to busy seaside towns with plenty of space to let loose.

Dog psychologist George said, “These breeds are very energetic and love exercise and racing around outdoors. They are good natured with other dogs and happy in busy places, but need to be well exercised.”

Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Border Terrier

Top location: Aberystwyth

These strong dogs are physical and sociable but are better suited to the outdoors. Aberystwyth is a good bet, with its variety of dog friendly activities including walking along the mile and a half long promenade, visiting Borth Wild Animal Kingdom or the Silver Mountain experience in the Cambrian mountains.

Staffies like to be on the go, which they can be in Aberystwyth (Getty Images via Edgar Olvera)

According to George, “These are very active outdoor breeds and they are extremely tough. They can interact nicely with well behaved dogs but will not tolerate being challenged so would prefer being outside than relaxing in a dog-friendly pub.”

Beagle

Top location: Aberystwyth

Beagles also need wide open spaces so are a good fit for Aberystwyth with its long seafront. Their friendly nature means you can take them along for a pint and a pub lunch as well - although make sure they stay off the alcohol!

George said, “Beagles will walk more than the average person might usually enjoy, and would rather be running around and barking in wide open spaces.

Full map of destinations and best breed suited (Dog Friendly Cottages)

“They can easily cover five miles without breaking a sweat. They’re great with other dogs and not bothered by busy places, so will enjoy a good dog-friendly pub or two.”

The research is based on whether your breed prefers longer or shorter walks, playing in water and socialising with other dogs and the locations were determined by dog friendly facilities within a four mile radius.

The search is on to find the UK's favourite dog breed - click here to vote for your favourite

Matt Fox, CEO and Founder of Dog Friendly Cottages said, "We've seen a huge 415% increase in bookings this spring compared to the same period in 2019, so it's clear that we're truly obsessed with bringing our pooches on holiday this year."

Of course, it is crucial to remember this is based on breed stereotypes and all dogs vary in temperament and requirements.

The full table of dog breeds and their ideal locations

Dog breeds

Top locations

Labrador and Golden Retriever

Padstow, St Ives, Newquay

French Bulldog, Dachshund and Pug

Cromer, Ilfracombe, and Brixham

German Shepherd and Rottweiler

Seahouses, Staithes and Filey

Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel and Vizsla

Bideford, Perranporth and Llandudno

Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Border Terrier

Staithes, Seahouses and Aberystwyth

Boxer and German Shorthaired Pointer

Rye, Perranporth, Whitstable

Beagle

Aberystwyth, Bridport, Beadnell

Shih Tzu and King Charles Cavalier

Bude, Newquay, Looe

Whippet and any running dog

Whitstable, Cromer, St Ives

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