Steep cliffs and a lead go together at Cheddar Gorge. The National Trust says dogs must be kept on a lead in the gorge landscape, with a short lead around sheep. Cattle are different: if they approach, its advice is to let your dog off the lead and call it back once it’s safe. The Gorge Walk is long and hilly, so it may not suit smaller or older dogs.
Somerset has county pages for trainers, vets and swimming spots, and rescue is covered by the South West round-up. Sitters, groomers and pet transport link to the UK-wide guides.
What’s covered in Somerset
- Dog trainers: Dog trainers in Somerset
- Vets: Best vets in Somerset
- Dog swimming spots: Best dog swimming spots in Somerset
- Dog sitters: no Somerset town has its own sitters page yet, so please use our UK dog sitters directory.
- Dog groomers: likewise, no local page yet. The UK dog groomers guide is the place to look.
- Adoption and rescue: Dog adoption centres in the South West of England, which covers the region rather than Somerset alone.
- Pet transport: no Somerset city page, so see our UK pet transport guide.
Day trips and travel time
Many Somerset walks involve a drive first. Plan breaks for water and a stretch, never leave a dog in a parked car, and check the place you’re heading to is open to dogs on the day. Narrow lanes and busy car parks can add to the stress for an anxious passenger, so give yourselves extra time rather than rushing.
Car journeys
If travel unsettles your dog, Calmdogs Calming Bites at Calmshops are one option to look at. If anxiety is a real concern, speak to your vet before trying anything new.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs go to Cheddar Gorge?
The National Trust says dogs must be kept on a lead in the gorge landscape because of the steep cliffs. A short lead is essential around sheep.
Does AboutDogs have Somerset dog sitter and groomer pages?
Not yet. For those we link to our UK-wide sitters directory and groomers guide rather than imply local coverage we don’t have.
Where can I find dog rescue centres in Somerset?
Our South West of England round-up covers dog adoption centres across the region, Somerset included. It’s linked above.
Written by Georgiana & Figo.
