Once the ancient capital of Scotland, Perth is now a doggy haven. Sniff out Perth’s dog parks, restaurants, cafes and walking trails in our guide to dog-friendly Perth. Plus, learn about pet sitters in Perth and the benefits of house sitting to ensure your furry friend is happy and safe when you travel.
Dog-friendly walks in Perth
One of the best dog-friendly things to do in Perth is to experience the natural, beautiful landscapes this area of Scotland has to offer. There are many opportunities for scenic dog-friendly walks in Perthshire, from riverside paths to woodland trails that will keep your pooch’s tail a-wagging.
Kinnoull Hill
Kinnoull Hill is a majestic woodland park just a 10-minute drive outside Perth City Centre, offering a network of walking trails through ancient forest. If you’re looking for dog-friendly hikes in Perth, venture up to the folly where you’ll find stunning panoramic views over Perth and the River Tay. Visitors are asked to keep their dogs under control to protect local wildlife.
Location: Kinnoull Hill, Perth, PH2 7LN. The main car park is located via Jubilee Car Park, turning off at Kinfauns Junction.
The Hermitage
Located just outside Perth, near the historic town of Dunkeld, the Hermitage is a magical woodland known for its high-reaching Douglas firs and impressive waterfalls. It’s a heaven for puppy-senses, where your dog can sniff away at different plants on well-maintained dog-friendly trails. Make sure to keep your dog on a lead near wildlife areas and note that dogs aren’t allowed within Ossian’s Hall.
Location: Old Military Rd, Dunkeld PH8 0JR
Branklyn Garden
Branklyn Garden is one of the top places for dog walks in Perth, known for its beautiful and diverse plant collections. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead to protect the plants. Dogs are also welcome inside the tearoom, and water bowls are provided at various spots in the garden.
Cost: £9
Date and time: Often open daily from 10am - 4pm, but make sure to check their website for seasonal opening hours.
Location: 116 Dundee Rd, Perth PH2 7BB
Perth’s Riverside Path
If you’re looking for easy, dog-friendly walks in Perth, Perth’s Riverside Path is a flat walk along the river from the city centre and is perfect for all abilities. If you fancy a longer walk, the path goes all the way to Luncarty, where you’ll pass viewpoints, woodlands, parks and golf courses, before getting the bus back to Perth.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Open 24/7
Location: Perth-side starting point: South Inch Car park, Shore Rd, Perth PH2 8H
Birnam Walks
Made famous by Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Birnam is just a short drive from Perth. For a lighter walk, meander along the Birnam Riverside Path with your pooch and explore the forest paths. Make sure to spot the Birnam Oak and Birnam Sycamore, which are believed to be the last remaining trees of the ancient Birnam Wood that inspired the celebrated Scottish play. For a more brisk hike, try the Birnam Hill Path, which takes you to King's Seat at a summit at 1,200 ft with breathtaking views of the Perth and Kinross landscape.
Locations:
- Birnam Riverside Path start point: Tay Terrace car park in Dunkeld
- Birnam Hill Path start point: Birnam Quarry layby off B867
Scone Palace
Traditionally a crowning place for Scottish Kings, Scone Palace (pronounced “Skoon”) is now a favourite spot for history buffs and their canine companions.
Just a 10-minute drive outside the city, it’s one of the most dog-friendly places near Perth. Dogs on leads are welcome in the Old Kitchen, the shop, and through the gardens and grounds, apart from the maze.
Make sure to take your pup to Paws at the Palace, Scone Palace’s annual summer dog event (check their website for more information).
Cost:
- Palace & gardens: £19.75
- Gardens only: £14.00
- Paws at the Palace: £15
Date and time: Often open daily from 10am - 5:30pm, but make sure to check the Scone Palace website for seasonal opening hours.
Location: Scone Palace, Perth, PH2 6BD
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Kinnoull Hill, Perth
Dog parks in Perth
When it comes to dog-friendly activities in Perth, what’s better than letting your dog run free in a local park? There are a couple of fantastic Perth dog parks where your furry friend can run, play, and socialise safely.
Perth Dog Park
Perth Dog Park is a secure off-lead area offering a spacious, fenced environment where dogs of all sizes can exercise freely. Open year-round, the park features agility equipment and shaded areas.
Location: Old Gallows Rd, Perth PH1 1QF
Perth Run Free Dog Fields
The Run Free Dog Fields offer a large, fully enclosed off-lead exercise area. The site provides a natural, spacious environment with secure fencing, an ideal spot for your paw-fect friend to burn off some energy.
Location: Off A93, Opposite Balboughty Farm, Old Scone, Perth, PH2 6AA
Top tip for visiting dog parks in Perth
There are also plenty of braw, dog-friendly parks in Perth, like North Inch Park, South Inch Park and Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park. However, a lot of them ask dogs to be on a lead, so make sure to check local signage.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Perth
There are many dog-friendly restaurants in Perth, from Scottish fine-dining to authentic international delights. You and your furry laddie or lassie can enjoy delicious meals together by browsing through our list below. And naturally, always call ahead to check dogs are still allowed.
Enzo
Step back in time with ancient stone walls and arches, giving the restaurant a cosy yet classy feel. This whisky warehouse turned Italian-Scottish fusion restaurant allows dogs inside (but they ask you to let them know in advance).
Location: 1 Speygate, Perth PH2 8PJ
MEZE Turkish Restaurant
Traditional Turkish food made with fresh ingredients - yes, please! This family-run restaurant serves up yummy food and a welcoming atmosphere, and they allow you to bring your dog inside.
Location: 75 Princes St, Perth PH2 8LJ
Cafe 80
Lunch, coffee and cocktails - whatever ye fancy, you’ll find it at Cafe 80. Plus, they are, of course, dog-friendly.
Location: 80 George St, Perth PH1 5LB
Cardo
Dishing out contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, Cardo is a favourite amongst locals and their dogs. Family-owned and dishes bursting with flavour and regional ingredients, it’s a must-visit in Perth.
Location: 38 South St, Perth PH2 8PG
The Bulldog Frog
Brunch, comfort food and coffee - make sure to bring your pup to The Bulldog Frog for a hearty meal and a hipster atmosphere.
Location: 1 S Methven St, Perth PH1 5PE
Maltings
For an easy-going pub-come-restaurant, head to Maltings on Dunkeld Road, where dogs and families are welcome.
Location: 198 Dunkeld Rd, Perth PH1 3GD
Brown & Blacks
For a hearty meal that celebrates the best of British food, check out Brown & Blacks next time you’re feeling peckish with your furry friend.
Location: 8 Angus Rd, Scone, Perth PH2 6QU
Dog-friendly cafes in Perth
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to charming dog-friendly cafes in Perth! These cosy corners are the best dog-friendly places in Perth where you can relax with your pup and enjoy quality coffee and treats.
Blend Coffee Lounge
This cafe in the heart of Perth encourages you to bring your dog! With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, Blend Coffee Lounge will be your pup’s new go-to favourite spot.
Location: 274 High St, Perth, PH1 5QJ
Artisan Espresso & Wine Bar
This home-from-home is located in the centre of Perth and is perfect for sipping in-house roasted coffee with your pup, or a glass of wine with friends.
Location: 33 St John St, Perth PH1 5SH
Giraffe Cafe
This much-loved dog-friendly cafe in Perth is a social enterprise that gives back to the local community by distributing meals to people in need. This friendly space provides tasty food, and they also love to welcome dogs.
Location: 51-53, 51-53 South St, Perth, PH2 8PD
Casella & Polegato
Casella Polegato is a family-run artisan bakery located in Perth, known for its traditional Italian baking heritage and local Scottish influences. Grab a coffee and a pastry to-go and take a walk along the River Tay with your pooch.
Location: 40 George St, Perth, PH1 5JL
Effies of Perth
This traditional British tearoom offers over 30 different blends of tea on their menu. Plus, did someone say afternoon tea? Indulge in homemade scones with clotted cream and jam and other delights. Dogs are welcome, but best to phone ahead to reserve a dog-friendly table.
Location: 33 St John St, Perth, PH1 5SH
Tickled Trout Cafe
A 20-minute drive outside of Perth City Centre sits this delightful locally-owned cafe. Enjoy some home-cooked delights after a tranquil riverside walk around Almondbank with your pooch.
Location: College Mill Trout Farm, Almondbank, Perth, PH1 3JY
The Earn Coffee Shop
A short drive from Perth City Centre, this dog-friendly café is located on the picturesque River Earn. It provides a warm atmosphere, delicious food, cakes, and art by local artists. When bringing your dog, they advise booking in advance.
Location: Gateside Home Farm, Bridge of Earn, Perth PH2 8QR
Gloagburn Farm Shop
Drive 20 minutes outside of Perth to this beloved spot, owned and run by local farmers. Gloagburn Farm Shop is a cafe and farm shop with a gift shop and butchery; perfect for an authentic, lay-of-the-land experience. Dogs aren’t allowed in the indoor restaurant, but are welcome in the outside heated huts.
Location: Tibbermore, Perth PH1 1QL
Dog-friendly pubs in Perth
Nothing’s more Scottish than a local pub. Here are several welcoming dog-friendly pubs in Perth where you can unwind with a drink alongside your tail-wagging bestie.
The Glover Arms
The Glover Arms is a local favourite that welcomes dogs in one part of their restaurant. This charming, relaxed establishment serves up beautifully presented pub classics for you to enjoy while your pooch people-watches.
Location: Crieff Rd, Huntingtower Park, Perth, PH1 3JJ
Cherrybank Inn
Self-proclaimed “the most welcoming pub in town for dogs”, the Cherrybank Inn offers a wide range of food and drinks and has a fantastic outdoor space for the summer months. Sitting inside or out, the bar staff are known for giving dogs belly-rubs and a wee treat or two.
Location: 210 Glasgow Rd, Perthshire, Perth PH2 0NA
The Pitcairngreen Inn
On the outskirts of Perth, this traditional Scottish pub welcomes well-behaved dogs in the bar and beer garden. Enjoy a pint or some whisky by the fire before taking a stroll in the bonnie village of Pitcairngreen with your pooch.
Location: Pitcairngreen, Perth PH1 3LP
BrewDog
Born in Scotland, this internationally-known pub chain offers craft beer, pub grub and a lively atmosphere. Plus, they love dogs!
Location: 62-64 George St, Perth PH1 5JL
Cullach Brewing
This independent taproom is the go-to place in Perth for local craft beer. Enjoy the neighbourhood vibe and some sourdough pizza with your pup by your side.
Location: 50 Princes St, Perth PH2 8LJ
Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Perth
- Attend dog-friendly events. Pet-friendly Perth regularly offers dog events such as Paws at the Palace and Scrufts Dog Show, where your pup can meet new furry pals, and you can have a wee blether with fellow dog-lovers.
- Know leash laws and dog control rules. Make sure your playful pooch is kept on a lead in busy public areas, parks with playgrounds, and near wildlife. Off-lead walking is sometimes allowed, but your dog must always be under control, and make sure to look out for signage with specific regulations.
- Take public transport with your dog. Avoid pesky parking costs and plan a day out with your furry adventure buddy via local public transport or trains. Dogs are generally allowed on buses and trains in Scotland, but should be kept on leads and under control.
- Plan ahead for your holiday. Vets agree that pets are happiest when cared for in their familiar home environment. When planning a holiday, consider welcoming a pet sitter who’ll provide loving care, reduce stress for your dog and give you peace of mind.
Connecting with pet sitters in Perth
Tips for pet sitters
- Get to know a bit o’ Scottish history. Known as the “ancient Capital of Scotland”, Perth is one of the top places to discover Scottish history. Visit the Perth Museum and brush up on Mary Queen of Scots and the Jacobites (dogs are only allowed in the museum cafe). Or, take a trip to The Black Watch Castle and Museum to learn about the Scottish Regiment (dogs are only allowed in the castle grounds).
- Take in Perth’s natural beauty. Just a short walk or drive away from the city centre, you and your new pup pal can experience the scenic beauty of Perthshire, with ancient woodlands and rolling hills. Or keep it local and enjoy the historic architecture of the City of Perth.
- Local vets and emergency care. Make sure to check with the pet parent about local veterinary clinics or any other health needs of the dog during your stay.
- Find a place to stay in exchange for pet sitting. Discover the city like a local by pet sitting in Perth. It’s a great way to spend time in the area and explore iconic Scottish locations with a furry friend by your side.
House sitting in Perth
More dog-friendly travel guides near Perth
Thinking about house sitting near Perth, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.
Dog-friendly Perth: FAQs
Are dogs allowed on public transport in and around Perth, Scotland?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on public transport free of charge around Perth and the rest of Scotland, including buses and trains. Dogs usually must be on a lead or in a carrier, and it’s often at the driver’s discretion if they’re allowed on.
Can dogs visit nearby castles, historic sites, or National Trust properties around Perth?
Many castles and historic sites around Perth welcome dogs, especially if they have outdoor grounds or gardens. However, access inside buildings or certain areas is often restricted.
What should dog owners know about wildlife and livestock when walking dogs near Perth?
Perthshire’s countryside is rich with wildlife and farming activity. Dog owners should keep dogs on a lead or under close control, especially near livestock such as sheep and cattle, to prevent stress or injury. Always clean up after your dog to maintain the natural environment and respect local farmers and landowners.
What are the best dog walks in Perth, Scotland?
Kinnoull Hill’s woodland trails and panoramic views over Perth and the River Tay making it a popular dog walking spot. Perth's Riverside Path is a flat, easy walk from the city centre. The Hermitage near Dunkeld features magical woodland with Douglas firs and waterfalls, and Birnam offers both riverside paths and hill walks with breathtaking views.
Are dogs allowed at Scone Palace?
Yes, dogs on leads are welcome in the Old Kitchen, shop, gardens, and grounds at Scone Palace, except in the maze. Scone Palace also hosts an annual summer dog event called Paws at the Palace.
