Walking a golf course with a well-behaved dog at your side is a pleasure, and in some places it's a long tradition. Some clubs welcome dogs; many don't. If you'd like to golf with your dog, it's important to find a dog-friendly course, follow its rules and make sure your dog is safe, calm and doesn't disturb other golfers. Here's what to know.
Which courses allow dogs?
- Some members' clubs, particularly in parts of the UK and Ireland, allow members' dogs under certain conditions.
- Some public courses have dog-friendly times.
- Many courses don't allow dogs, especially those with carts and busy tee sheets.
Check the course's policy before going. Read how golf clubs are run.
Typical rules
- Dogs on leads at all times, or under close control.
- Off greens, tees and bunkers.
- One dog per golfer.
- Clean up after your dog.
- No dogs in certain areas, such as the clubhouse or during competitions.
Is your dog ready?
- Calm and quiet: no barking during swings.
- Ignores golf balls: doesn't chase or pick them up.
- Good on a lead: walks beside you or your trolley.
- Comfortable for several hours outdoors.
Practise on walks and at quiet times first.
Keeping your dog safe and comfortable
- Water and a bowl.
- Shade in hot weather. Read hot weather golf.
- Keep away from flying balls: position your dog behind you and other golfers. Read golf course safety.
- Watch for wildlife, chemicals and water hazards. Read golf courses and wildlife.
- Short rounds at first, such as nine holes. Read nine-hole golf.
Etiquette
- Ask playing partners if they're happy to play with a dog.
- Keep your dog still and quiet while others play.
- Don't let your dog onto greens.
- Keep up the pace. Read pace of play.
- Clean up and dispose of waste properly.
Read golf etiquette 101.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my dog on a golf course?
Only where the course allows it, usually with conditions such as keeping it on a lead.
Are dogs allowed on greens?
Generally no. Keep dogs off greens, tees and bunkers.
What if my dog chases golf balls?
Train them to ignore balls before bringing them on the course.
Can dogs ride in golf carts?
It depends on the course's policy; many don't allow it.
The bottom line
Golfing with your dog can be a joy where it's allowed. Check the policy, keep your dog on a lead and off the greens, make sure they're calm and safe, clean up, and respect other golfers. For more on the pleasures of walking golf, read walking vs riding a golf cart.