Swimming is increasingly being recognised as an excellent exercise option for dogs, helping them to expand more energy than running while also being great for their joints and general wellbeing, particularly if you have a dog that is getting older, overweight or has an injury.
Swimming helps them to use muscles in different ways, takes weight off of their joints and is generally a new and exciting way for them to exercise.
Swim Dog Newquay
We’re incredibly lucky that SwimDog has opened in the last year near Newquay. The whole environment is setup to provide the safest and most dog friendly experience, with fenced viewing areas, showers, ramps and buoyancy aids. The 32 foot outdoor pool can be booked for a solo session or as a group with others for plenty of doggy fun.
It’s ideal for those where sea swimming isn’t an option, but also for everyone else as a clean and safe way for their dog to get some exercise. Families are also allowed to get into the pool with their dogs and there are plenty of toys to play with.
Many of our guests have begun to use the pool and say it’s an excellent way to tire out their dogs and is the highlight of the dog’s holiday. Book online on their website.
Jubilee Pool Dog’s Day
Dogs are given the run of the main pool on the last day of the season at the stunning 1930s art deco Jubilee Pool on Penzance’s waterfront. This usually happens around the end of October and while it’s only once a year it’s worth a trip down while the weather is still relatively warm and the crowds have died down a bit. It’s quite a sight seeing so many dogs splashing and playing in such an unusual settings. Find out more and the details for this year by visiting their website.
Tidal Pools
Cornwall’s coast is dotted with both natural and man-made tidal pools which are perfect as safer options for dogs nervous about the sea, giving the feel of natural water but in more gentle conditions. And they can be a great option for your dog to let off some energy when the weather makes a sea swim too tricky or dangerous.
We’re lucky to have two excellent, dog friendly tidal pools, close to us here at the Woodland Collection.
Mousehole Rock Pool
If clambering over rocks or climbing down hundreds of steps aren’t for you then Mousehole Rock Pool is for you, it’s all of 20 meters from the nearest pay and display car park or a five-minute walk from the centre of the quaint fishing village of Mousehole.
The pool is large and well-used by locals and holidaymakers, both human and canine.
Priest’s Cove Tidal Pool
Nearly at the end of Cornwall, this picturesque pool provides save swimming for children, adults and dogs, out of the sea in this exposed position. Fairly easy to reach with a National Trust car park, our dogs love going for a dip in this pool.
Other sea pools at beaches like Perranporth, Porthreath and Godrevy are other options, but make sure to fully research access and tide times before planning a visit.
Dog Friendly Beaches
We have three all year round dog friendly beaches within a fifteen-minute drive of the Woodland Collection. Long Rock Beach is the closest and due to the shelter provided by Mounts Bay, the sea can often be a lot calmer than other parts of Cornwall.
Porth Kidney beach is another great option with its golden sand, which is often deserted even on busy days. The area around the mouth of the river can contain dangerous currents, so wherever you are, it’s always important to do your research and make sure your dog can swim in a safe environment.
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We hope this has helped give you ideas for your Cornish holiday. With bespoke dog swimming pools, tidal pools, tidal rivers like the Fal and Helford and over 400 miles of coast, there are so many options when it comes to finding a place for your dog to let loose and get wild in the water.
