Dogs Welcome!

Dogs Welcome at Ross Bay Retreat!

Dogs are welcomed (and loved) down here at dog friendly Ross Bay, and we even leave a welcome pack for each of them for when they arrive.

Doggy Welcome Packs

There is a ball to exercise those excited legs after a drive to get here.
A couple of natural munch sticks, a super treat whilst promoting healthy teeth and gums.
A couple of bio-degradable doggy dirt bags, keeping the countryside clean yet being eco-friendly and green.
We have books with great walks, maps and plenty of advice and information on where to take your dog for the most fun and memory making experiences whilst on holiday!

Dumfries & Galloway is well known for its outstanding beauty, stunning scenery, and coastlines. Bringing your dog on holiday is like bringing another member of the family, and here at Ross Bay Retreat we want our four legged friends to enjoy their stay. From Ross Bay there are many walks along the coastline, hills, lanes, countryside, forestry and farmland, with many other exciting places just a short drive away.

Dogs and their owners can enjoy exploring, and here in the Stewartry there are an abundance of places to explore. In the cottages we have a variety of books, and maps etc for your information. Also have a look at Scottish access rights which will help you to be aware and keep safe whilst out on an adventure.

Check out our holiday cottages at Ross Bay Retreat to find the best property for you and dogs.

For inspirations and dog friendly ideas read our Dog Friendly Holidays in South West Scotland blog and feature.

Dog Walks on Ross Bay Peninsular

Great Dog Friendly Locations

Walking the trail between Kippford and Rockcliffe is perfect with the chance of a lovely pub meal at either The Anchor Inn or The Mariners in Kippford, both of which are dog friendly, and right on the estuary where you can hear the tinkling of the bells on the boats. (A favourite place of ours!)

Galloway Forest Park is great for dog walking.
Cream O’ Galloway, has designated field as a dog-walking area and a trail around their loch. The cafe serves lunches, coffees and ice cream of course and has a lovely seating area outside for dogs and their owners.
Drumlanrig Castle is approximately 1.5 hours drive away, but well worth the visit. Lots of trails to explore the extensive estate grounds.
Threave Gardens and Estate near Castle Douglas approximately 1/2 hour drive away. It has dog friendly walks but dogs are not allowed in the main gardens or in the house.
Caerlaverock Castle welcomes dogs on a lead to explore the grounds and castle.

Dog Friendly Pubs and Cafes.

The Selkirk Arms – Kirkcudbright – Dogs are welcome in the Sports bar and the garden area, food is a high standard and friendly staff.
Masonic Arms – Gatehouse of Fleet dog friendly, lovely bar meals and a Sunday Carvery.
The Borgue Hotel, lovely bar food only 3 miles from Ross Bay.
The Kirkcudbright Bay Hotel, Kirkcudbright, dogs are welcome in the small bar area.

Please let us know of any places or eateries which are dog friendly and we should include on our page for other guests and their dogs to enjoy.

Best Dog Friendly Beaches

Our local sandy beaches are a heaven for dogs at any time of year.

Brighouse Bay – just over the hill from Ross Bay, or a short drive around, a lovely sandy bay with rock pools and walks around the coast line.
Carrick Bay – a quiet and peaceful hidden gem of a sandy bay with stunning sea views.
The Dhoon – (Kirkcudbright – Borgue road) Large area of sand and green parking area with picnic benches.
Mossyard at Gatehouse of Fleet, great sandy beach.
Rockcliffe – Sandy beach with a walking trails to Kippford. Usually has an ice cream van present in summer.

Local Vets (24 hours)

Galloway Vets Kirkcudbright: 01557 330 632

Local Pet Shops

Kirkcudbright – Supersave has a selection of dog supplies, blankets, treats, balls and chews.
Tarff Valley, Ringford or Castle Douglas – pet foods
WCF in Castle Douglas has a range of food, treats, dog beds etc, as has
Wilkinsons in Castle Douglas