International Dogs Day: Pawesome Vacations for Pets and Parents

Every year, August 26 is marked as 'International Dogs Day', and what better way to celebrate than with a holiday that welcomes both you and your four-legged companion. With one in five Indian travellers now factoring pet-friendly policies into their accommodation choices in 2025, it is clear that pets are firmly part of holiday planning. Whether it is scenic trails in India, riverside strolls in Europe, or café-hopping in Asia, Booking.com showcases destinations that offer the perfect mix of comfort, discovery, and warm welcomes for pets and their owners alike.

Coorg’s green trails

Known as the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg in Karnataka is blessed with lush coffee plantations, misty hills and cool breezes. For pet parents, this tranquil escape offers abundant space for furry friends to roam, from forest trails to quiet village paths. Many homestays and private villas in Coorg now embrace pet-friendly hospitality, combining thoughtful touches like open gardens and secure play areas with indulgent features such as infinity pools and private waterfalls. Together, the natural charm and accommodation choices make Coorg a retreat where both pets and people can unwind.

Ho Chi Minh’s vibrant side

Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh, balances its energetic street culture with an openness to pet-friendly travel. While the bustling markets and French colonial architecture draw visitors, the city also invites four-legged companions along for the ride. Riverside walks, leafy parks and quirky pet cafés make it an engaging stop for those travelling with dogs. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels to homestays, ensuring comfort and convenience. With its mix of tradition and modern flair, Ho Chi Minh offers an immersive cultural getaway that keeps pets firmly in the picture.

Budapest by the Danube

Few European capitals lend themselves to walking holidays as well as Budapest. For dog owners, this is a city where strolls by the River Danube feel endlessly rewarding. A walk across the Chain Bridge opens up views of Parliament, Buda Castle and the historic Basilica, creating a backdrop of grandeur for even the most leisurely outing. Many serviced apartments welcome pets free of charge, often situated near green playgrounds and heritage landmarks. It is a destination where the city’s architectural elegance blends seamlessly with dog-friendly hospitality.

Tokyo’s pet pampering

Tokyo goes a step further in celebrating pets, especially pampered pooches. From luxury boutiques stocking canine fashion accessories to gourmet cafés offering menus for both humans and dogs, the Japanese capital takes pet indulgence seriously. Travellers can even explore guided tours of nearby Yokohama, ensuring sightseeing remains a shared experience. Many city hotels now feature pet-friendly rooms, private dog parks and pet-sitting services, offering both convenience and comfort. With Tokyo’s mix of culture, cuisine and curated canine experiences, this is a destination where pets are treated as honoured guests.

Soldiers Point by the sea

For those seeking open horizons, Soldiers Point in New South Wales is a coastal gem. Framed by calm waters and golden beaches, it is a place where dogs can run free, particularly along Bagnalls Beach. Caravan parks and seaside resorts cater to pets, while cafés serve hearty meals for both owners and companions. Accommodation ranges from ocean-view hotels with dog-friendly suites to relaxed holiday parks with space to explore. With boating, fishing and plenty of outdoor leisure, Soldiers Point ensures that pets are not just included but celebrated in every aspect of the holiday.

Celebrating companionship

International Dog Day is a reminder of the joy that pets bring to everyday life, and these destinations show how holidays, too, can be shaped around them. Whether it is sipping coffee at a pet café in Ho Chi Minh, strolling past castles in Budapest, or unwinding at a private villa in Coorg, each trip becomes richer when shared with a loyal companion. With the travel world increasingly embracing pet-friendly hospitality, the future looks set for many more paw-prints on beaches, trails and city streets around the globe.