dog wearing sunglasses relaxing on a pontoon boat while vacationing at one of the Kawarthas cottage resorts that allows dogs

Woof! 15 Kawarthas cottage resorts that allow dogs

Bringing your dog on vacation: the dilemma

For many dog owners, summer vacations at a cottage resort come with a difficult decision: should you bring your furry companion or leave them behind? Finding reliable pet care can be expensive and stressful, and separation anxiety affects both you and your dog. Fortunately, several cottage resorts in the Kawartha Lakes region welcome dogs, allowing you to enjoy a dog-friendly getaway without worry.

The benefits of bringing your dog on a cottage resort vacation

Taking your dog along on vacation has multiple benefits:

Avoiding the stress and expense of pet care: Boarding or hiring a pet sitter can be costly and worrisome. Bringing your dog eliminates these concerns.
Reducing separation anxiety: Both dogs and owners feel more at ease when they stay together.
Enjoying pet-friendly activities: Many dog-friendly cottage resorts offer walking trails, swimming areas, and open spaces where dogs can explore and play.

General rules at cottage resorts that allow dogs

dog on a leash walking on the grounds at a cottage resort that allows dogs in the Kawarthas — Photo Credit: Artem Beliaikin

Before booking a dog-friendly vacation, be aware of these common rules:

1 – Dogs are not allowed in on-site restaurants (per Ontario health regulations).

2- Keep your dog leashed in public areas unless in a designated off-leash zone.

3- Always clean up after your dog.

4 – You are responsible for any damage to the cottage resort that your dog causes.

Top choices for dog-friendly Kawarthas cottage resorts

dog on a canoe ride at a cottage resort that allows dogs in the Kawarthas — Photo Credit: Ralph Katieb

Viamede Resort
Viamede Resort is a standout among Kawartha Lakes cottage resorts. Dogs can roam on leash across the resort’s entire grounds, and there’s no extra fee for their stay. The resort boasts 9 km of walking trails and a shaded off-leash dog park. Plus, if you forget to pack any essentials like treats or a leash, the resort has some on hand.

Lake Edge Cottages
One of the most accommodating cottage resorts that allow dogs, Lake Edge Cottages welcomes pets in all its cottages. Most feature dog-gated decks, and the resort provides access to 450 feet of dog-accessible shoreline and 12.5 acres of trails for those daily walks with Fido. They even offer an on-site dog sitter if you need a break.

Cottage resorts in the Kawarthas that don’t charge a pet fee

Some cottage resorts in the Kawarthas don’t charge extra for pets, they are:

Among these, Viamede Resort is the top pick due to its dedicated dog-friendly amenities, including an off-leash park and walking trails.

Which dog-friendly cottage resorts have the best dog amenities?

two black lab dogs swimming at a dog friendly cottage resort in the Kawartha Lakes — Photo Credit: Jeremy Perkins

Vacations with dogs are much easier when the cottage resort you’re staying at has amenities that specifically cater to your pet. With this in mind, here are our top three suggestions and why:

Viamede Resort: Off-leash park, walking trails, and complimentary dog supplies.
Lake Edge Cottages: Dog-gated decks, lakeside swimming access, and an on-site dog sitter.
Bailey’s Bay Cottage and RV Resort: Features a designated dog park.

For the best amenities, Viamede Resort is the top choice, thanks to its off-leash park and extensive trails.

Questions to ask before booking a dog-friendly cottage resort

woman talking on the phone to a dog-friendly cottage resort in the Kawarthas — Photo Credit: Brian Wangenheim

Before finalizing your dog-friendly getaway, ask the cottage resort operator about:

Pet fees, deposits, and restrictions on breed or size.
Whether dogs are allowed inside cottages or only in certain areas.
Availability of fenced areas, pet-friendly trails, and dog swimming access.
Resort leash policies and rules about leaving dogs unattended.
Nearby veterinary clinics, pet-friendly restaurants, and supply stores.

What to pack for a vacation with your dog

dog looking up at owner with his favourite toy in his mouth — Photo Credit: Jesper Brouwers

Bringing your dog along to a Kawarthas cottage resort requires some preparation. Here’s a checklist to ensure your pup has everything they need so you can have an enjoyable holiday together:

Collar with ID tag and leash
Harness (if needed for control on hikes or walks)
Dog food and treats
Food and water bowls
Fresh drinking water (if water quality at the resort is uncertain)
Dog bed or blanket for comfort
Crate (if required by the resort or for safe transport)
Towels for drying off after swimming
Poop bags for waste disposal
Favorite toys for entertainment
Flea, tick and heartworm prevention
Tick remover tool
First aid kit for minor injuries
Pet-safe sunscreen (if your dog has a short coat or light-colored skin)
Dog life jacket
Brush or comb (to remove dirt after outdoor adventures)
Copy of vaccination records (some resorts require proof)

Snapshot summaries of 15 cottage resorts that allow dogs in the Kawarthas

The following is an alphabetical list:

Bailey’s Bay Cottage and RV Resort
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: Only two dogs are permitted per cottage. Dog owners are responsible for any damages caused by their pet.
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.
Special Amenities: Dog park.

Bay View Resort
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: Only one dog per cottage. No pit bull dogs allowed. Proof of current vaccinations is required. You must keep your dog off all bedding and furniture. The resort asks that you bring your own pet blanket. Do not leave your dog unattended unless in a cage or crate. Repetitive barking will not be tolerated.
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.

Bellmere Winds Golf Resort
Accommodations: Select resort cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: There is a maximum of two pets per accommodation. Dogs are not allowed on the beach.
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.

Birch Bend Cottage Resort
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: Dogs are not allowed on any furniture or beds. Dogs are never to be left alone in the cottage (unless crated) or outside. After your stay if extra cleaning is required due to your dog, a minimum $100 cleaning fee will be applied.
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.
Special Amenities: Dog swimming and walking areas located throughout the resort property.

Blue Pigeon Resort
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: Maximum of two dogs in one cottage.
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.

Buckhorn Narrows Resort
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: Only two dogs are permitted per cottage. Dogs are not allowed at beach or pool area.
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.

Eganridge Resort, Golf Club & Spa
Accommodations: Select resort cottages and Lower Floor Terrace Room are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: Contact the resort to confirm.
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.
Special Amenities: No.

Elmhirst’s Resort
Accommodations: Cottages 28-53 are available for guests travelling with pets.
Additional Restrictions: Yes. Only two pets are allowed in any cottage at any time. Your dog is required to stay in the pet area of the property at all times.
Fees: Yes. Daily fee or you can save with a 7-day stay fee. Contact the resort to confirm amount.
Special Amenities: No.

Lake Edge Cottages
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: No
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.
Special Amenities: Most of the resort’s cottages have dog-gated decks. Access to 450-feet of shoreline swimming. 12.5 acres of trails.
Bonus: On-site dog sitter. For a fee they will dog sit and/or take your dog for a walk.

Sunrise Resort
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: All dogs must be approved before booking. Dogs are not allowed in bedrooms or on beds. Dogs are never to be left alone in the cottage unattended.
Fees: Refundable deposit. Contact the resort to confirm amount and terms.

Three Castles Resort
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: Only one dog per cottage. Dogs are not permitted in the Royal Suites of Caboose.
Fees: No extra fees for bringing your dog.

Viamede Resort
Accommodations: Dogs are allowed to stay in the resort’s cottages but not the main building (except for service dogs).
Additional Restrictions: No. Your allowed to take your dog on a leash around the grounds of the entire property.
Fees: No extra fees for bringing your dog.
Special Amenities: Yes. A natural, shaded, off-leash dog park on-site! 9 km of walking trails.
Bonus: If you forget your treats, doggy bags, leash, or food dish, they will provide you with them.

Westwind Inn
Accommodations: Select rooms are dog-friendly. Suitable for small dogs only. You must ask ahead of time to book.
Additional Restrictions: Yes. Not allowed in public areas such as beach, pool, hot tub, picnic areas. They may not be left in a room unattended or must be crated while alone. If they bark or create a disturbance you will be asked to leave without refund. Must have proof of vaccinations and flea control. If they have an “accident” you will be charged for carpet shampoo clean up of room. You must keep your dog off furniture. Bring a dog bed and blanket.
Fees: Yes. Contact the resort to confirm amount.
Special Amenities: No.

Wildwood Cottages
Accommodations: All of the resort’s cottages are dog-friendly.
Additional Restrictions: Do not leave your dog unattended in your cottage. Dog must be kept quiet.
Fees: No extra fees for bringing your dog. But there is a charge for additional pets. Contact the resort to confirm amount.

Conclusion

Bringing your dog along on a dog-friendly vacation in the Kawarthas can make your trip even more enjoyable. With several cottage resorts that allow dogs, you can find the perfect spot that fits your needs and your dog’s. But remember to contact the resort before booking to confirm their pet policies, fees, and any restrictions. Happy travels with your furry friend!