Top Activities For Dogs In Finland

Introduction

Unlike many European countries, Finland is not overly dog-friendly. You should make reservations so that you are sure to secure lodging with your four-legged companion. Once in the country, remember that dogs are not allowed in museums, and very few indoor restaurants welcome pooches. Malls and most shops decline canines, but you can often bring your pooch into local pet stores. Public outdoor locations are very dog-friendly, and Finland residents usually welcome the sight of a dog. Canines are allowed on the public transport systems with a valid pass. However, if one of the bus occupants has a canine allergy, then the bus driver can deny you and your pooch admittance to the vehicle.

Camping Cabin-Style

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Normal

24 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Collar

Bowls

Dog Food

Life Vest

Activity description

Huhtiniemi Camping is conveniently located only 1.2 miles from the beach. You and your pooch can easily walk the distance to the seashore. The campground also sits on the shore of lovely Lake Saimaa. Campers stay in a simple cottage with their dog. There are also larger apartments if you will be spending time camping with a large group. There is an on-site cafe with a TV lounge. You can play a round of mini golf or rent a boat to head out on the lake. The lake is brimming with fish, and angling is allowed. There are also numerous trails around the campground and even bike rentals. All guests are provided with access to barbecue equipment and on outdoor kitchen facility. WiFi is available in all of the campground's public areas.

Step

1

Head to the beach

Walk the 1.2 miles to the beach where you can look for shells with your pooch, play in the sand, or just sit and enjoy the unparalleled ocean views. Be aware of other beachgoers; don't allow your pet to intrude on the space of others and always clean up after your dog immediately.

Step

2

Rent a boat

If your dog doesn't mind boats, then why not rent a boat from the campground and sail out onto the lake? You will want to strap a life vest on your pooch. Some dogs may balk at getting onto the boat but just offer ample praise and maybe a treat or two to relax your dog. You can even try your hand at a bit of fishing with your canine buddy.

Step

3

Go for a hike

The trails around the campground are extensive and take you deep into lovely, tree-covered forestland. Your pooch will undoubtedly love going for a long hike with you. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash so he doesn't run off if he sees a squirrel. You might also want to pack water and a dog bowl to provide a hydrating drink.

Pub Dining

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Normal

1 - 2 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Collar

Activity description

It is often hard to find dining options in Helsinki with your dog. Although outdoor cafes frequently welcome pooches, indoor ones tend to ban canines. However, the restaurant Hilpea Hauki is well-known for its dog-friendly rules. You can dine inside the restaurant with your canine companion. The menu at the pub is rather small but, according to visitors and locals, the food is delicious. If you are seeking a quiet indoor retreat where you can casually dine with your pooch, then this is probably a fantastic choice. However, you might want to call ahead of time to make reservations.

Step

1

Keep your dog leashed

When entering the restaurant, it is advised that you keep your dog leashed for your entire stay. Also, avoid letting your dog sniff other diners or go near their tables. Keep your dog beside you and offer the pooch encouragement so the animal pays attention to you and not to the surrounding patrons.

Step

2

Ask for dog treats

The staff at the restaurant will happily bring your dog a bevy of treats that are sure to please the animal's palate. There is also a pub-style water bowl where your pooch can grab a drink. Ideally, just have your dog lay beside your so he is out of the way of other patrons while you dine.

Step

3

Relaxing together

During your time at the restaurant, you should encourage your canine companion to sit or lay quietly beside you. Remember, not everyone who dines at the pub will enjoy the companionship of dogs so it is always good to maintain a low profile.

Visit Suomenlinna

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Easy

4 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Collar

Bottled water

Water bowl

Activity description

Suomenlinna is a 260-year-old maritime fortress that welcomes dogs. The Helsinki City Transport ferry is pet-friendly and runs year round. You can ride the boat from Helsinki to the ancient site; it is only about a fifteen-minute trip. There is no admittance to the fortress, but the museums do charge a fee. You must keep your dog on a leash at all times. Canines are not allowed on the beach or in the children's playground section of the park. While visiting, do not let your dog disturb the landscaping or the wildlife. You should also promptly clean up any waste your pet may produce.

Step

1

Follow the blue route

The Blue Route is the one mile trail that runs through the fortress. You can pick up a map of the route. The pathway starts at the quay and runs to the Kings Gate. Make certain that you are prepared with a backpack containing water to drink for both you and your pup, waste pick-up bags, and a jacket in case the weather takes a turn toward rain.

Step

2

Stop at the sites

Along the way, you will encounter several points of interest such as the Russian merchant's’quarter, Church Park, Great Courtyard, Piper’s Park and the fortifications of Kustaanmiekka. Be sure to stop and read the plaques at each site. You might also want to have someone take a photo of you and your dog together at each stop.

Step

3

Stay hydrated

You and your pooch will be doing a lot of walking so be sure to stay hydrated. Stop frequently so your dog can have a drink and rest. You should carry a small bowl and bottled water to provide drinks to your dog along the way. Be aware of other patrons of the site, respecting their enjoyment of the day also.

More Fun Ideas...

Head for a Dog Park

Helsinki is home to many dog parks where you and your pooch can stretch your legs while enjoying the company of other pet owners. Rajasaaren koirapuisto borders the water and is incredibly picturesque. Tervasaaren koirapuisto is a fenced in dog park where your pooch can freely run. You can play a game of ball together or sit and relax while your dog enjoys the freedom to explore. Tokoinrannan koirapuisto is another fenced-in dog park located in the Helsinki area that is extremely popular with the locals. Remember when visiting any of the local parks always to remove your animal's waste and be courteous to the park's other visitors.

Swim in the Sea

Most beaches in Finland are not dog-friendly. However, there is one island near Helsinki, Rajasaari, where dogs are welcome. You can even swim in the sea with your canine buddy at this location. The region of Herttoniemen Ranta also provides places where both humans and dogs can swim in the sea and enjoy the beach together. Remember to always to keep your pooch on a leash when visiting any beach area that welcomes pets. Only take your dog off the leash if the rules clearly state that dogs off-leash are allowed. Otherwise, it is best to be cautious and leave your four-legged buddy leashed.

Conclusion

Although Finland is not as dog-friendly as many other European countries, you can still find ample places to stay and things to do with your four-legged buddy. When planning your trip, remember that winters can get extremely cold so you might want to schedule a visit during a warmer time of year if your pooch doesn't enjoy the cold weather. Since dogs are welcome on public transportation, you can explore all of Finland that way, or you might want to rent a vehicle to travel around the country. Overall, Finland is a comfortable country to visit that welcomes tourists. You should have no trouble navigating the countryside and communicating with the locals.