Cork
In canine-friendly County Cork, you and your pooch can stay in the lap of luxury at Castlemartyr Resort, where dogs are allowed in the hotel’s private garden suites or self-catering lodges. Head down the road to beautiful Ballymaloe House and ask about their Ballymaloe Farm Cottages. Take note of the walled gardens for secure scampering.
Visit Cork City and stroll around tranquil Fitzgerald Park to work up a thirst and then make your way to quirky Alchemy Coffee and Books where you can enjoy a sweet treat while your furry friend relaxes with you. If you'd like something a bit stronger and don't mind a longer walk, St. Luke's Wine Tavern hosts both you and your faithful companion and serves soup, sandwiches, teas/coffees, tapas and (of course) wine.
For more animal-themed enjoyment, take a trip north of the city to The Donkey Sanctuary in Mallow – which welcomes dogs on leads. Wander through the countryside and find a pretty spot for a picnic, making friends with affectionate donkeys along the way. Or travel south to the coast with your playful pal, take on the Ballycotton Cliff Walk and soak up the stunning scenery.
Waterford
Visit County Waterford and you'll find plenty of dog-friendly spots in the Déise. In Ardmore, book into a dog-friendly room at the Cliff House Hotel or use the kennel service. Togetherness at mealtimes is even on the menu, as doggy can dine with you on the outdoor terrace or in your room.
Dog-friendly Loko Restaurant on Dunmore Road in Waterford City makes fresh, locally-sourced dishes for lunch and dinner, and they even host birthday celebrations for partying pooches (and their owners). Along the coast in Dungarvan, 360 Cookhouse welcomes four-legged guests, providing treats from their Canine Menu and bowls of cool water.
Embrace the beautiful landscapes with a stroll along the prom on Tramore Beach; where you can watch the waves (and kite surfers) rolling in. Or take to the wonderful Waterford Greenway and wander the car-free walking routes with your furry friend.
Kildare
Ireland’s equestrian county, Kildare, isn't just for horses. If you and your little buddy need a place to stay for the night, The Cliff at Lyons love their doggy visitors. Dogs are allowed in bedrooms and if your pet gets peckish, pick up some doggie treats.
Bring your dog for a walk around the gorgeous grounds of The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens. Enjoy the serene experience, devised by the Stud's founder Colonel William Walker and as a bonus, there's a lovely café with outdoor seating when it's time for some refreshments.
Heading north, explore the woodland trails of Donadea Forest Park, with lovely forest treks including the 5km Aylmer Loop and the lake walk. If you want to check out the shops at Kildare Village, park your pooch in a comfortable kennel on-site and browse to your heart's content.
Wicklow
Unsurprisingly, the Garden County is a paradise for your pup. Picturesque BrookLodge doesn’t just welcome dogs, it employs them – friendly in-house retrievers Oscar and George greet you on arrival and believe it or not, they’re on the payroll. For an adventure, head to Bray Harbour, a brilliant place for a refreshing walk along the seafront.
When it's time to eat, the outdoor area at Dockyard No. 8 has dog bowls and a tap to keep them filled with fresh water. It’s so dog-accessible that there’s astroturf under the tables so your best friend can lounge in comfort. Afterwards, make your way to Brittas Bay and drop into The Bay Café for breakfast or lunch, and enjoy a snack with your pet outside.
When it comes to epic strolls, The Wicklow Way – Ireland’s oldest marked hiking route – is hard to beat. Enjoy the amazing landscapes and endless walking opportunities with your four-legged friend.
There are so many treats for dogs and their owners, it really is a dog's life in Ireland's Ancient East. Head over to our Ireland's Ancient East page for even more exciting things to do on your next visit.
