Nova Scotia is for the dogs.

Nova Scotia, famous for its landscapes, friendly locals, and rich maritime history. Sure, all true, but we all knew that already. So here’s something you may not have known - it is quickly becoming known as a travel and experience paradise for us four-legged folk.

Over the past few years, Nova Scotia has rightfully earned a reputation for being incredibly dog-friendly. There aren’t many places that we can’t go these days. Outdoors or indoors we seem to have a pretty good gig going on out here. Here are a few of the reasons why.

1. The forested outdoors:
   Endless and always accessible. That’s the best way I can describe the forested areas here. You are never far from a trail head or a random path into the trees. and there always seems to be a series of lakes and streams for a fresh water swim or drink along the way. We prefer to stay far away from the more popular trails and there are loads of off-leash trails throughout the province, even in and around the Halifax Region (HRM).
   
   Please be very aware that you might be sharing the trail with atv’s and cyclists, especially on the weekends. Nova Scotians get outdoors in a variety of ways, so stay alert even well off the beaten path.
   
   One seriously great spot is Sandy Lake off of Hammonds Plains Road. Always a light crowd on the trails, a couple hundred acres of designated off-leash exploration area and usually some fun friends to play with along the way - see it on AllTrails
   

2. The coastal beaches:
   Of course, a free-spirited canine fave and usually the highlight of everyone’s day. Memories will be made, but let’s make sure they are for all the right reasons. The first rule is - you have to follow all of the rules.
   
   Most of the easily accessible areas of Nova Scotia’s beaches are protected. Nesting birds, like those cute little plovers, are threatened by the intrusion of dogs and beaches will often be off-limits to the pups from late spring to early fall. Please watch for signs or ask us first before assuming all beaches are dog-friendly all year round, because they are not. Any provincial or National Parks are a 100% no-go during these times. You will get fined and nobody needs those avoidable headaches or issues on vacation.

   
   But c’mon, you need a summer cool down and frisbee session in the late afternoon, we get it. There are many quieter, private coves to explore that see plenty of off-leash activity. Always recommended to bring freshwater to drink and always stay mindful of others enjoying their time. Not everyone loves sharing the beach with dogs having the time of their lives. We sure do, but not everyone does.
   
   The further you get from any town, the quieter things get. I would put some of our faves here, but then the internet would know. Just ask us … shhhhhh!
   

3. Pet-friendly Accommodations:
   Nova Scotia is loaded with a complete range of pet-friendly accommodations. And we aren’t just talking about vacation rentals as many of the hotels and small inns warmly welcome pets. We are an outdoors-oriented province and dogs are just part of our families. In the South Shore of Nova Scotia, a little over a third of the many vacation rentals allow pets to stay. With an ever-increasing demand from incoming road visitors (see our article on the East Coast road trip), these places usually book up pretty quickly in the busiest months.
   
   Shameless plug, but we even provide local all-natural treats for our four-legged guests. After all, the whole family is on vacation.
   

4. Dog-Friendly Dining:
   It is an absolute pleasure to see how many pet-friendly restaurants and cafes we have in every little community across the province. Many establishments offer outdoor seating areas where well-behaved and leashed pups are more than welcome. Most even provide water bowls and treats, making dining experiences enjoyable for everyone in your party. Don’t be shy when you are headed out for the day, bring your dog along and just ask if dogs are welcome on the patio when it’s time to sit down and enjoy some East Coast fare. The answer is usually ‘yes’.
   

5. Pet-Friendly Attractions:
   From historic sites to cultural attractions, Nova Scotia does an incredible job ensuring that your dog can also be part of the adventure. While some museums and historical sites definitely have restrictions, many outdoor attractions and festivals are very pet-friendly. Check in advance online or just check in wiht us and we will gladly provide any personal insight.

So there you have it, Nova Scotia's province-wide commitment to being a dog-friendly destination makes us a very unique place for full-family travel experiences. If you have any concerns or logisitical questions, please reach out. We have helped many travel with their pups, we are happy to share any insight to make it happen.