Woof it up on the beach with a Málaga holiday with a dog

Woof it up on the beach with a Málaga holiday with a dog

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Málaga with a dog: why should humans have all the fun?

The province of Málaga in the south of Spain is one of Europe's most popular holiday hotspots - and not just for humans! More and more holidaymakers are bringing their beloved canine companions with them when they jet off to the Costa del Sol, so why don't you? With its sunny beaches and hilly trails, Málaga is an excellent destination for dog lovers. It's time for you to join the dog-friendly holiday movement!

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What to know before you go for a dog-friendly holiday in Málaga

Why should you take your dog to Málaga?

Málaga is a large province, and there are dozens of towns to choose from for a holiday, from glamorous Marbella to rustic Ronda. One thing that all these towns have in common is that they are increasingly dog-friendly. It's getting easier to find holiday lettings in Málaga that welcome pets, and the province is dotted with dog-friendly restaurants, parks and even museums! Plus, there are great walks for you to enjoy. Your pal can roam free on a dog beach or enjoy a walk with the dramatic backdrop of high cliffs. This is a holiday to remember, for both humans and pets.

Where are the best places to go for a walk around Málaga?

Málaga's most famous hiking trail, the dizzying Caminito del Rey, involves walking along a narrow wooden platform jutting from the side of a sheer cliff face. It's strictly humans-only - but don't worry, there are plenty of great dog walks in Málaga for you to try. Torcal de Antequera is a dog-friendly UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its dramatic landscape of karsts. There are several trails that wind through this stunning scenery, with something to suit all levels. For a coastal walk, try heading east to Frigiliana. Here you'll find a hiking trail that runs for around 7.5 km, enough for a long, satisfying walk for active dogs. There's another great trail nearby along the Chillar River. It's 8 km in total, but you can take a shortcut if you like. One of the major benefits of this trail is the chance to cool off by taking a dip in the river as you go.

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FAQs: Pet-friendly holidays in Malaga

What's the best time of year to take my dog to Málaga?

Summer in the south of Spain is seriously hot. In July and August, you can expect temperatures of 30°C or more, which can be extremely dangerous for dogs. Luckily, the weather is mild and pleasant in spring and autumn. Even winter isn't too bad; in January, the coldest month of the year, there's an average of 13°C. Given Málaga's popularity with holidaymakers, it's best to avoid the summer for other reasons, too; it's usually very crowded, and you may struggle to find dog-friendly villas in Málaga with so many other people around.

Where are the best dog beaches around Málaga?

Most beaches in the Costa del Sol do not permit dogs in the summer months, there are some year-round dog beaches in Málaga. Torrox dog beach is a pebble beach around 300m long, while Playa de la Araña - near Málaga capital - offers 500m of open space for your pet to enjoy. Even upmarket Marbella has two designated dog beaches, Playa del Pinillo and Playa Ventura del Mar. Both are equipped with special showers that are just the right size for your dog, so you can quickly rinse him off before you get back in the car. Just make sure to bring your own towel! Best of all is the dog beach in Torre del Mar, which has dog-sized water fountains and agility equipment. In the winter months, between October and May, some other beaches in the province are also dog-friendly. Just make sure to check the specific signs on each beach, as there are a few that never permit canines. If you walk your pet on one of these beaches, you will risk a fine.

Where can I find a dog park in Málaga?

If you're in the city, one of the best dog parks in Málaga is Parque del Oeste. This has two separate zones for big and small dogs, so you won't need to worry about your Yorkshire terrier being picked on! Outside the city, try Torrox dog park. It's equipped with agility equipment so your dog can enjoy a lively obstacle course.

Can I bring my dog to a café or restaurant with me in Málaga?

Most restaurants and cafés in Spain welcome dogs, but only on their outdoor terraces. Dogs are a rare sight in dining rooms. This usually isn't a problem, particularly in a province like Málaga, which has sunshine most of the year. Some restaurants will not even allow dogs on the terrace, particularly upmarket ones. However, there are a few options if you want fine dining with a dog. Candado Golf Restaurant, in the Real Club El Candado golf course, serves high-quality food and welcomes dogs, while Ronda's Michelin-starred Tragatá is also dog-friendly.

What essentials should I know before I take my dog to Málaga?

Dogs in Spain must be kept on a lead in public, unless you're at a designated dog park, dog beach or similar spot. Some breeds are considered dangerous, and need to be muzzled at all times. You are responsible for cleaning up after your pet, and you can be fined if you fail to do so. On inland walks, watch out for procession caterpillars, which are very common in this part of Spain. They travel in a line and look like a long chain of hairy caterpillars. Don't let a curious dog sniff them, as they can be deadly to canines.

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