Get woofing with dog-friendly accommodation in Madeira!
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Bring your best friend with you in dog-friendly accommodation in Madeira
Sometimes Fido deserves a break too! The beautiful Portuguese island of Madeira is so much more exciting when you're exploring it with a dog. Grab your leash and hit some hiking trails or make your way to Madeira's wonderful dog-friendly beach to splash around in the water. You'll find that your four-legged friend is welcome to chill out on the terrace of most cafés and restaurants, too - what a great destination to book dog-friendly accommodation!
Start your searchPopular Pet-friendly holidays in Madeira
Fajã da Ovelha, Madeira
9.0
Holiday home for 2 people, with garden
Free cancellation
from £67 per night
Fajã da Ovelha, Madeira
9.1
Holiday home for 2 people, with terrace and garden as well as view
Free cancellation
from £80 per night
Star Host
Star hosts are experienced and highly rated hosts with a commitment to provide reliably great stays.
São Roque (Madeira), Madeira
9.3
Holiday home for 2 people, with balcony, with pets
Free cancellation
from £76 per night
Caniço, Madeira
4.3
Bungalow for 2 people, with garden, with pets
from £61 per night
FAQs: Pet-friendly holidays in Madeira
What's the best time of year to take my dog to Madeira?
The Garden Island does not have incredibly hot summers, but daily averages of 25°C between June and September may make you think twice before planning a holiday with your dog in Madeira. It's better to go at other times of the year. Temperatures tend to hover around 20°C from November to April, which is better news for your canine companion. Plus, visiting Madeira outside the summer months brings the added bonus of all beaches welcoming dogs. Watch out for rain - Madeira is near the tropics, so rainstorms tend to be short but fierce.
Where are the best dog beaches around Madeira?
Most beaches in Madeira, just like in mainland Portugal, are off-limits for dogs in the summer season. The exact dates that this period starts can vary; generally, it tends to last from around Easter time until October. You'll find a large sign posted at each beach confirming this year's dates. The good news is that there is one year-round dog beach in Madeira. Praia de São Tiago is conveniently located close to the Zona Velha of Funchal, so it's close to many of the best villas in Madeira. This is a small pebble beach, which means your dog is less likely to come home with bucketloads of sand in his fur. Praia de São Tiago does not have a lifeguard on duty, so take care if you fancy a swim. The sea is generally pretty calm, and if you go early in the morning or late in the evening you'll see small, traditional fishing boats docked nearby - perfect for those holiday snaps!
Can I take my dog on public transport and into restaurants in Madeira?
Legally, bus drivers must welcome dogs onto their vehicles - as long as your pet is clean, free of diseases and under your control. That means you'll need to either have your dog on a leash or in a carrier. Sorry to any pampered pooches out there: dogs are not allowed on the seats of buses. If you fancy eating out, there's no reason to leave Fido at home. You'll generally find that dogs are allowed on the terraces of restaurants and cafés, although they aren't usually welcome inside the dining room. As most restaurants and cafés in Madeira have a terrace, that gives you plenty of options for dining out with a dog in tow.
What should I be aware of before taking my dog to Madeira?
Some dog breeds are not allowed to enter Portugal; these include pit bulls, rottweilers and Staffordshire bull terriers. Your dog will need to have a microchip and a pet passport and be up to date with vaccinations. As an island, Madeira is free from rabies, but it does have a large number of ticks, which may carry diseases. Check your dog carefully for these blood-suckers, particularly after going for a walk.
Are there any laws about dogs in public in Madeira?
Don't forget your pooper scooper! If your dog makes a mess and you don't clean it up, you're likely to face a fine. These start at €25 but can go as high as €7,000, depending on the circumstances. Luckily, it's easy enough to avoid paying such a hefty sum - just clean up after your dog! Make sure to keep your dog on a lead unless you're in a designated area like a dog-friendly beach. If you're walking your dog in a rural zone, you can let him run free sometimes - but not if there are any sheep or goats around.
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