Should I allow pets in my holiday home?

For many holiday home owners, deciding whether to allow pets can feel like a difficult decision. While welcoming dogs can open your property to a much wider audience, it is natural to consider the extra cleaning, maintenance and practical considerations involved.

However, with Cornwall’s miles of coastline, countryside walks and dog-friendly attractions, the county is one of the UK’s most popular destinations for guests travelling with four-legged companions. Creating a well-managed dog-friendly holiday home could help increase bookings, attract repeat guests and make your property stand out from the competition.

The key is finding the right balance between welcoming pets and protecting your investment.

Why Consider Making Your Holiday Home Dog Friendly?

Allowing dogs can significantly broaden the appeal of your holiday home by welcoming a large group of guests who may otherwise struggle to find suitable accommodation. Many dog owners prefer to travel with their pets rather than arrange care at home, meaning dog-friendly properties can benefit from increased visibility and demand.

Cornwall is particularly well suited to dog-friendly holidays, with miles of coastal paths, countryside trails and beaches to explore. A property that welcomes dogs can appeal to visitors looking for outdoor adventures, relaxed coastal breaks and year-round escapes.

The Benefits of Allowing Dogs in Your Holiday Let

Reach a wider audience

By welcoming dogs, you immediately appeal to a larger pool of potential guests, including families, couples and outdoor enthusiasts who want their pets to be part of their holiday experience.

Increase off-season bookings

Dog owners often travel outside peak summer months, making pet-friendly properties particularly appealing during quieter seasons when guests are looking for peaceful coastal walks and countryside escapes.

Encourage repeat stays

Guests who find a holiday home that works well for both themselves and their dog are more likely to return, especially if the property provides thoughtful touches that make their stay easier.

What Are the Challenges of Allowing Pets?

While there are clear benefits to welcoming dogs, it is important to consider the practical side. Pets can mean additional cleaning requirements and increased wear and tear if clear expectations are not established.

However, many concerns can be managed with the right preparation. Durable flooring, washable fabrics, clear house rules and allowing enough time between stays for thorough cleaning can help protect your property while still providing a welcoming experience for guests.

How to Make Your Holiday Home Dog Friendly

Provide practical facilities

Small touches can make a huge difference to dog owners. Consider providing outdoor areas where dogs can dry off after muddy walks, secure gardens where possible, bowls, towels and information about nearby dog-friendly beaches and walking routes.

Choose practical furnishings

A dog-friendly holiday home does not need to compromise on style. Hard-wearing flooring, easy-clean fabrics and carefully chosen furniture can help your property remain beautiful while being practical for guests with pets.

Set clear expectations

Clear house rules help protect both owners and guests. Let visitors know where dogs are allowed, whether furniture is off limits and any requirements for cleaning up after their pet. Setting expectations before arrival helps ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Creating a Dog-Friendly Holiday Home Without Losing the Luxury Feel

Being dog friendly does not mean your holiday home needs to feel less luxurious. Some of the most successful pet-friendly properties combine beautiful interiors with practical features that make stays easier for both guests and their dogs.

Think thoughtful details such as stylish washable throws, outdoor showers, enclosed gardens, boot rooms and cosy spaces where guests can relax after a day exploring Cornwall’s coastline.

At Cornish Secrets we charge a nominal fee per dog, per week, and properties tend to accept one or two dogs. This way it covers any associated costs and keeps all parties happy. We do recommend stipulating a few ‘house rules’ to avoid any damage.

Cornish Secrets Pet Code

• We only accept well-behaved dogs. Pets should always be under the owner’s control.
• Under no circumstance, can pets be left alone in the property.
• No pets in the bedrooms or on the furniture.
• Always clean up after your pet, this includes any outside areas and gardens.

Want to know more about how we can help you make the most of your property? Call us on 01288 362 172 or email us at info@cornishsecrets.co.uk and we will be happy to help you.