Golf has traditionally been one of the least dog-friendly pastimes in Britain – but attitudes are shifting. A combination of changing club cultures, the post-pandemic surge in dog ownership and the popularity of golf walking have convinced many clubs to open their courses to well-behaved dogs.
The picture varies significantly across the UK. Scotland, where golf has always felt closer to a public amenity than an exclusive privilege, tends to be more dog-friendly than its southern neighbours. Municipal and pay-and-play courses are generally more permissive than traditional private clubs.
Always confirm directly with the course before visiting – even where dogs are permitted, the conditions (leads required at all times, restricted to certain areas, specific tee-time slots) can vary significantly.
Typical Dog Rules at Golf Courses
Where clubs do allow dogs, the conditions they impose vary. These are the most common rules you'll encounter:
- ✓Dogs must be on a lead at all timesVery common
- ✓Dogs must not go on or near the greensVery common
- ✓Only permitted at certain times (often early morning or after peak hours)Very common
- ✓Dogs must be kept away from bunkersVery common
- ✓Owners must clear up after their dogVery common
- ~Dogs restricted to certain designated holes or loopsSome venues
- ~Dogs permitted off lead in rough areas onlySome venues
- ~Prior booking required for dog-friendly tee timesSome venues
Dog-Friendly Golf by Country
Scotland
Scotland has the most dog-friendly golf culture in the UK. Many public links courses – particularly those managed by local councils and trusts – permit dogs as a matter of course, reflecting their heritage as public land. The St Andrews Links Trust allows dogs on several of its courses (not the Old Course during peak season). Municipal courses in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee routinely welcome dogs.
Known dog-friendly venues
- 🐕 Braid Hills (Edinburgh) – dogs welcome
- 🐕 Duddingston (Edinburgh) – dogs on leads
- 🐕 Hazlehead (Aberdeen) – dogs welcome on public courses
- 🐕 Brora Golf Club (Sutherland) – dogs welcome on leads (cattle also share the course)
- 🐕 Golspie Golf Club (Highland) – dogs welcome
England
English golf clubs are increasingly opening up to dogs, particularly pay-and-play and municipal venues. Private members' clubs remain more variable – some have embraced dog walkers enthusiastically, others maintain a strict no-dogs policy. The best approach in England is always to phone ahead.
Known dog-friendly venues
- 🐕 Richmond Park Golf Courses (London) – dogs on leads welcome
- 🐕 Penrith Golf Club (Cumbria) – dogs welcome on leads
- 🐕 Todmorden Golf Club (Yorkshire) – dogs permitted
- 🐕 Wharton Park Golf & Country Club (Worcestershire) – dog-friendly
- 🐕 Fynn Valley Golf (Suffolk) – dogs welcome at this pay-and-play complex
Wales
Wales's generally relaxed club culture means many courses are willing to accommodate dogs, particularly at quieter times. Rural Welsh clubs are often the most accommodating – a quick phone call to the secretary is almost always met with a helpful response.
Known dog-friendly venues
- 🐕 Borth and Ynyslas Golf Club – dogs welcome on leads
- 🐕 Cardigan Golf Club – dogs permitted
- 🐕 Penrhos Golf Club (Llanrhystud) – dogs welcome
- 🐕 Newport Golf Club (Pembrokeshire) – dogs on leads allowed
Dog Etiquette on the Golf Course
Even where dogs are permitted, owners have a responsibility to ensure their dog doesn't disrupt other golfers or damage the course. Following these guidelines will help keep golf clubs welcoming to dog owners.
- 1Keep your dog on a lead unless specifically told otherwise. Even well-behaved dogs can be startled by a wayward drive.
- 2Never allow your dog near the greens or in bunkers. Both are sensitive, maintained surfaces that can be damaged by paws and claws.
- 3Carry and use dog waste bags. Most clubs will have dog waste bins at intervals around the course.
- 4Keep your dog quiet when other golfers are addressing the ball. Move to one side and wait for them to play.
- 5Keep the dog away from other golfers' bags and equipment.
- 6Always inform the pro shop that you have a dog before you tee off.
- 7Be prepared to accept that some holes may have restrictions – follow any local rules posted on the course.
Find courses near you
Browse and filter golf courses by region, course type and facilities. Always confirm dog policy directly with the club.
Open Course Map