Perhaps your first thought wouldn’t be to take your dog with you, but your dog can enjoy a Caribbean vacation just as much as you do. The Caribbean has plenty of pet-friendly resorts where your pooch can stay, not to mention private getaways where you and man’s best friend can have the entire beach to yourself.

Save your dog some anxiety from being left in a kennel, and take a dog-friendly Caribbean vacation!

Read on to find out why the Caribbean is the perfect place to take your dog.

Dog-Friendly Caribbean Activities

1. The Beach

If there’s anything a dog loves, it’s the beach– and the Caribbean has plenty of them. So pack your sunscreen, pack your sandals, and pack your pooch, too! Your canine friend will love the sand and water, not to mention the wide open space for running and playing. It’s a good idea to bring some clean, fresh water for both of you, in case you get thirsty from all that exercise.

Chase some Caribbean creatures

Another reason why beaches are so attractive to dogs is because of the animals that live there. If you go at sunset, you may find crabs peeking out of tiny holes and scurrying along the sand. Your dog will love to search for them too! He may also be excited to see different varieties of seagulls, pelicans, and other birds that are common to Caribbean beaches.

Get some exercise

The beach is also a great place to get some exercise and have some fun. Bring along a ball or frisbee and play some energetic games of “fetch” with your pet. He’ll get a workout, and so will you!

Precautions to take

If you do decide to bring your dog to the beach, remember that there are certain precautions you’ll need to take. Caribbean beaches are often crowded, especially during Spring Break. It’s best to avoid that time of year, or book a place at a private resort to avoid your pooch getting overwhelmed by the crowds.

Remember, some beaches require dogs to be on a leash, so be sure to bring one along. Also, it’s best to bring your own clean-up bags for cleaning up your dog’s waste, should he leave any.

2. Hiking

The Caribbean affords plenty of hiking opportunities, which is another reason why it’s the perfect place for a pet-friendly vacation. All dog owners know that dogs love to be outdoors, where they can explore and sniff new smells that they may never have encountered before.

Breathtaking views

The best part about hiking in the Caribbean is the incredible views you can feast your eyes on once you reach the peak of a hill or mountain. These views make the mountains well worth the climb! Take Paradise Peak in St. Martin for example. You can drive most of the way up, and stop for a 20-minute hike to the top. The panoramic 360 degree view of the ocean is simply incredible.

Paradise Peak, St. Martin

Precautions to take

If you own a large dog, he’ll most likely be able to handle strenuous hikes with you, depending on his breed. However, you will want to take a few precautions. Don’t let your dog wander off, as Caribbean jungles can be very dense and he may have a hard time finding his way back to you.

Be careful about the plants and creatures you encounter along the way, and protect your dog from insect bites and ticks. Use flea and tick repellent, and don’t let your dog drink from rivers or streams that could contain parasites.

3. Boating

Boating is a popular Caribbean pastime that you and your furry best friend can enjoy together. Caribbean ports have plenty of places to rent speed boats, sailboats, and yachts.

What makes boating in the Caribbean so pet-friendly is the fact that there are hundreds of islands scattered around, making island-hopping possible. That means you can take Fido cruising and make many stops along the way.

Just like dogs love to stick their heads out of car windows and feel the breeze, they’ll love to let their tongues hang out as you speed through the ocean. Be sure to bring plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

4. Fishing

Perhaps this isn’t the first activity that crosses your mind to enjoy with your dog, but it can be tons of fun! Many dogs love boat rides, so they’ll be happy to accompany you on a sea fishing trip. He’ll also be the first to congratulate you when you catch “a big one”.

If the sun gets too toasty, your dog can jump in for a swim. Some breeds are excellent swimmers, and will be ecstatic at the chance to get wet. The Portuguese Water Dog has even been known to herd fish.

The Caribbean also has plenty of streams and rivers to fish in. Your dog will love to wade in the cool waters and help you find your next catch!

Dog-friendly Caribbean restaurants:

Here’s a list of several dog-friendly Caribbean restaurants. They’ll allow you to get a bite to eat without having to leave Fido at the hotel. Some will even provide food for your dog, too!

La Tartaruga (Tobago)

This Italian eatery in Buccoo, Tobago is pet-friendly. However, you will need to call in advance so that they can prepare food for your pet. Visit their website here.

Cracker P’s Bar and Grill (Bahamas)

Located in Lubbers Quarters on Great Abaco Island in the Bahamas, Cracker P’s is the best place to satisfy your hankering for comfort food and get out of the heat for a bit with your pooch. It’s well-known in town for its amazing views and casual atmosphere. Check out their website here.

Green Turtle Club (Bahamas)

Dogs are welcome to stay in the special open patio area outside this friendly restaurant. You can find it in Green Turtle Cay, White Sound, Abaco, in the Bahamas.