Do dogs have to be on a lead on golf courses?

Many golf courses require dogs to stay on a lead throughout the visit. Some allow dogs under close control, but this depends on the club, local hazards, livestock, wildlife and event restrictions.

Are dogs allowed in golf clubhouses?

Clubhouse rules are separate from course rules. A course may allow dogs during a round but restrict access to the clubhouse, restaurant, bar, pro shop or changing areas.

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Can you take dogs on golf courses?

Q: Can you take dogs on golf courses?

Yes, you can take dogs on some golf courses, but only where the individual club allows it. There is no single UK-wide rule, so check the course dog policy, lead rules and clubhouse restrictions before travelling.

Quick answer: yes, you can take dogs on some UK golf courses, but only where the individual club allows it. There is no single national rule for dogs on golf courses.

Dog Friendly Golf tracks courses that welcome dogs, including courses where dogs must stay on a lead, courses where dogs may be allowed under close control, and listings that still need a fresh check before you travel.

Start with the club policy, not a guess

Golf course dog access can change by club, season, competition day, livestock, wildlife, insurance rules and clubhouse layout. Treat every listing as a planning guide, then confirm directly with the club if bringing your dog is essential.

Dogs under control: 167
Lead required: 389
Club-confirmed: 56

What to check before taking your dog

Are dogs allowed on the course with golfers, or only around public paths and outdoor areas?
Does the club require dogs to stay on a lead for the whole round?
Are dogs allowed for visitors as well as members?
Are dogs allowed in the clubhouse, bar, restaurant, terrace or pro shop?
Are there restrictions during competitions, busy visitor times, nesting seasons or livestock movements?
Does the policy still apply if you are booking a golf break, hotel stay or society day?

Lead required vs dogs under control

If a course says lead required, assume your dog should stay on a lead throughout the visit unless the club tells you otherwise. If a course says dogs under control, dogs may be allowed without a lead in some areas, but they still need to be calm, responsive and safely away from play, greens, bunkers, wildlife and other golfers.

For a special journey, the safer choice is a club-confirmed listing or a quick call to the pro shop before you set off.

Find dog-friendly golf courses

Club-confirmed examples to start with

These listings have stronger trust signals because the club has confirmed policy details.

Good dog etiquette on the course

Bring a lead even if the course sometimes allows dogs off lead.
Keep your dog away from greens, tees, bunkers and other players.
Carry water, a bowl, waste bags and a towel for muddy or wet days.
Pick up immediately and use bins only where the club allows it.
Leave the round if your dog becomes unsettled or disruptive.

Planning more than a round?

Know a course that welcomes dogs?

Send us the dog policy, lead rules and source if you know a course that should be added or corrected.

Submit a Course Update