Dog Friendly Nova Scotia: The Ultimate Guide By a Local
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Is Clare, Nova Scotia a Good Place to Visit with My Dog?
Visit Canada’s Ocean Playground! Dog-friendly Nova Scotia is a hidden gem of maritime charm and cultural heritage. This province boasts a scenic landscape that seamlessly blends natural beauty with a welcoming community spirit where you don’t have to fight your way through the crowds to enjoy your vacation.
In the south-western tip of Nova Scotia lies Clare, which is locally celebrated as “Baie Sainte-Marie” or the “French Shore”. This region is brimming with quaint villages like Meteghan, Church Point, and Mavillette. It’s the proud home of the largest Acadian community in Nova Scotia. Here, the vibrant tapestry of French and English cultures intertwines, offering a unique experience for travelers and their pups.
Pets Around the World connected with Sophie Perreault-Comeau, a French Canadian who married into an Acadian family with a 200 year history on this coastline. Her deep roots in this enchanting area bring you an insider’s view of the best that Nova Scotia has to offer. From oceanfront trails to dog-friendly patios, Sophie’s insights will guide you to some fantastic spots in this charming province.
Sophie and Rafale
Sophie and her Bernese Mountain Dog, Rafale, love visiting the stunning sandy beaches where she can explore.
They know a lot about Nova Scotia, so you are getting the inside scoop!
Interested in the most dog-friendly rental in Nova Scotia?
Check out La Bluefin where Sophie is the host
Where is Clare in Nova Scotia?
Clare is in the Southwestern tip of the Nova Scotia province. It is reachable by ferry from both Maine in the US and New-Brunswick in Canada. It’s a very accessible destination, but once you are there, you are really a world away.
As an added bonus for US travelers the ferry to Nova Scotia leaves from Bar Harbor which is one of our favorite dog friendly getaways in New England!
Top Activities for Dogs and Their Owners in Nova Scotia
Exploring Historic Lighthouses
Cape Forchu Lighthouse: Located near Yarmouth, this lighthouse is known for its unique apple core shape. Not only is it a hit with photographers but also a great place for you and your dog to explore. There’s a park with walking trails around it, offering breathtaking ocean views. And if you’re up for a little adventure, they offer a ‘climb the light experience’ – a guided tour inside the lighthouse. While your pup won’t be able to join you inside, the surrounding areas are all theirs to explore.
Cape St. Mary’s Lighthouse: Another noteworthy lighthouse is found in Clare, the park around the lighthouse offers views of the Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine. It’s a good spot for picnics and bird-watching. The foghorn still sounds on misty days, making it a maritime experience for all the senses. Dogs can visit the grounds outside. Parking is free.
Corberrie Cider Company
Corberrie Cider Company is a small, local cidery that sees the cider-making process through from blossom to bottle. They offer cider tastings and site visits by appointment during the warmer months. It’s a relaxing spot where you can sip on various ciders while your dog enjoys the natural surroundings of the orchard.
Whale Watching
Freeport Whale and Seabird Tours: The Bay of Fundy is known as one of the best places in the world to go whale-watching. The whale-watching season is June to October. There are several operators sailing off the Digby Neck islands. Luckily for your furry friend, Freeport Whale and Seabird Tours is one of the only boat tours that welcomes pets.
Stargazing in Acadian Skies and Mi’kmaq Lands
Nova Scotia’s night sky is awe inspiring, and Clare is at the heart of it. The region is part of the Acadian Skies and Mi’kmaq Lands, recognized for its exceptional starry skies. The area has earned designations by the Starlight Foundation, supported by UNESCO.
For an immersive experience, head to the Deep Sky Eye Observatory. They offer a Nocturnal Sky Theatre Experience where you can gaze at stars and galaxies, and the best part – it’s a dog-friendly activity. This spot is perfect for stargazing and astrophotography enthusiasts and anyone who loves a good night under the stars.
Exploring the Great Outdoors with Your Dog in Southwest Nova Scotia
The Stunning Beaches: Mavillette and Bartlett’s
Nova Scotia is called “Canada’s Ocean Playground” for good reason. The beaches in Clare also gets the Fundy tides (biggest tides in the world) so the difference between high and low tide is impressive.
Stunning Mavillette Beach is a sandy beach that becomes 3,5 km long and over 300 m wide at low tide. It is all sand, few rocks and algae which makes it great for swimming. At low tide some tidal pools form that kids (and dogs) enjoy playing in. At low tide you can walk to the Cape St Mary wharf and breakwater. Even in the summer, it’s so large that you can always find a spot to walk with no one around.
Another of Sophie and Rafale’s favorites is Bartlett’s Beach. It is less known, more secluded, but also a beautiful sandy beach that is mostly empty year round.
Meteghan Centre Beach is a mix of sand and rocks, but it can be a great beach to find seaglass.
Insider’s Tip: Just across the border, Maine is a popular and dog-friendly destination for Americans, but beach access is severely restricted in the summer. Why not just hop over on the ferry during the summer where dogs are allowed all year round?
Le Petit Bois Trails
For a tranquil walk through nature, check out Le Petit Bois behind the Université Sainte-Anne campus in Church Point. This 5 km network of trails takes you through the forest and along the coast, with dirt and gravel paths.
Along the way, you’ll find birdhouses, painted rocks left as memorials, and a secluded gazebo perfect for picnics. The trail also leads to the Church Point lighthouse, a great spot for bird and sea mammal watching.
Parking is available and access is free.
Best Restaurants in Nova Scotia That Welcome Dogs on Their Patios
Visiting Nova Scotia means eating well. Seafood especially lobster is a highlight. However, local comfort food may be less familiar, but it will be a real treat to try Acadian food and experience the live music culture.
Beaux Vendredis Seafood Suppers
During the summer, on Fridays, Beaux Vendredis seafood suppers are held outdoors in the oceanfront Belliveau Cove municipal park with live entertaining from local musicians.
La Vieille École
For guests visiting during other months of the year, next door restaurant, La Vieille école is a seafood and Acadian cuisine restaurant in a renovated century-old school.
Dogs are allowed for outdoor dining (they have picnic tables outside with ocean and lighthouse views).
La Cuisine Robicheau
For a taste of Acadian cuisine and hospitality, head to La Cuisine Robicheau in Saulnierville, Clare. The ambiance has been described as warm and cozy as stepping into grandma’s house. They offer the Acadian typical meals that are rappie pie and fricot, and of course seafood. They are known for their generous dessert portions.
They host East Coast Kitchen Parties during the summer with live entertainment. They also have an outdoor patio where dogs are welcome.
P’tit Robicheau
For take-out or eating onsite at picnic tables, P’tit Robicheau is Clare’s only food truck where you can find specialty burgers and a variety of delicious poutines. Who can resist trying all the different styles of potatoes, cheese and gravy!
Dogs are welcome.
Best Dog Friendly Places to Stay in Nova Scotia
🛌 La Bluefin in Meteghan, Baie Sainte-Marie (Vacation Rental)
This charming 2 bedroom oceanfront cottage sits on a cliff overlooking St. Mary’s Bay, offering breathtaking sunset views of the water.
The bedrooms are at opposite ends of the house for privacy, and both offering stunning ocean views. It’s a single-story property, which means no stairs to navigate – great for dogs and anyone with mobility issues.
La Bluefin is dog-friendly. There are NO size restrictions or pet fees, and they’ve thought of everything your furry friend might need: dog bowls, poop bags, a tie-out in the yard, a long line for beach adventures, and even a first aid kit. After a day exploring, there’s a robot vacuum cleaner to tidy up and an outdoor shower to rinse off sandy paws.
🛌 Rodd Grand Yarmouth
For those who prefer the convenience of a hotel, the Rodd Grand Yarmouth is an excellent choice. Located in the bustling town of Yarmouth, just a stone’s throw from the CAT ferry terminal, this 3-star hotel offers charming views of the Yarmouth Waterfront. It’s not just about the location; the hotel also features a fitness center and an indoor pool, ensuring a relaxing stay.
The Rodd Grand Yarmouth is pet-friendly, welcoming up to two pets per room for a low pet fee. Note that pets can’t be left unattended in the rooms.
🛌 Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa
Established in 1929, this luxury destination resort offers a range of accommodations including rooms, suites, and cottages, all conveniently located near the Digby ferry terminal.
It features a splendid 18-hole golf course, spa, seasonal pool, scenic views and two onsite restaurants.
Pets are allowed in the cottages with a limit of two pets. There is a moderate pet fee per stay. Although pets aren’t allowed on the furniture or in dining and pool areas, they’re welcome to enjoy the rest of the resort on a leash. They can be left unattended with a contact number.
Worth Leaving Fido Behind
Lobster Tours
Fundy Scenic Lobster Tours: they showcase some of the areas landmarks from the water, all while explaining and demonstrating how lobster fishing works.
Your doggo might be able to join you, but it depends! They are dog-friendly on a case per case basis.
When is the Best Time to Visit Nova Scotia
When you’re planning a trip with your pup to Nova Scotia, timing is key! Let’s break it down by seasons, so you know exactly when to pack your bags (and doggy treats!).
Summer: The main tourist season runs from June to October. While popular spots like Peggy’s Cove and the Cabot Trail can get crowded, Clare remains a less-traveled hidden gem. You might even find you have the beach all to yourselves! Summers here are pleasantly moderate, with temperatures in the low 70s F along the coast, making it comfy even for heat-sensitive dog breeds. Do note, though, that summers can be foggy, especially closer to the water.
Winter/Spring: Southwest Nova Scotia is known as the ‘less cold’ part of Canada during winter. Temperatures hover around freezing, but the winds can make it feel much colder. Despite this, the region offers serene beauty and fewer crowds. Many attractions and eateries take a break from New Year’s until around April or May, so plan accordingly.
However, in Southwest Nova Scotia, it’s lobster fishing season from the last Monday in November to May 31, meaning winter and early spring are prime times for fresh lobster and boat action to watch!
Fall: This season is a real treat with comfortable temperatures, less fog, and gorgeous scenery. However, it’s also the peak of hurricane season in the North Atlantic (June to November), with the most activity from mid-August to mid-October. The good news is that Clare, being on the Fundy side, often escapes the brunt of these storms.
Each season in Nova Scotia brings its own charm and experiences, so pick what makes the most sense for your family.
Special Events
- Canada Day (July 1st) – There could be fireworks
- National Acadian Day (August 15) – the annual Tintamarre (French word meaning “loud noise”) which consists of a parade of cars honking and people making loud noises, but is a fun event with shows and special activities organized on that day.
- Acadian festival (one week long event at the beginning of August) – Clare has the oldest Acadian festival in the world.
Getting to Nova Scotia With a Dog and How to Get Around
The journey is part of the fun in getting to this area, but it may require a bit of planning to figure out the best option.
Driving to Nova Scotia: Nova Scotia is pretty much surrounded by water, but it’s connected to New Brunswick, so you can easily drive in that way. If Clare in the southwest is your destination, you might want to consider taking the ferry to cut down on driving time and enjoy the maritime experience along the way.
Taking the Ferry: If you’re coming from the direction of Maine, consider hopping on the CAT ferry. It’s a seasonal service running from mid-May to mid-October, going from Bar Harbor, Maine, to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.
Another option is the Fundy Rose, which crosses the Bay of Fundy from Saint John, New Brunswick, to Digby, Nova Scotia, and it runs all year.
Both ferries are managed by Bay Ferries. The best part? Your dog can come along for free, but they’ll need to stay in the car on the vehicle deck.
This post describes the experience of taking a dog between the US and Canada on a ferry. It’s a different route, but the experience will be similar
Getting Around in Nova Scotia Once you’re in Nova Scotia, having a car is pretty important, especially if you want to explore Nova Scotia outside of Halifax.
Final Thoughts: Is Clare, Nova Scotia a Good Place to Take a Dog?
Nova Scotia, with its rich maritime history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming communities, provides a unique and unforgettable experience for both you and your four-legged family. From the historical lighthouses like Cape Forchu to the serene beaches of Clare, there’s something to captivate every kind of explorer.
Sophie’s insider tips have given us a deeper glimpse into this beautiful province, showing us why it’s such a fantastic destination for those traveling with pets.
So, why wait? Pack up your dog’s favorite toys, grab the leash, and head out for an adventure in Nova Scotia, one of Canada’s most dog-friendly destinations!
And if you’re curious about exploring more dog-friendly locations on the other side of the border, Midcoast Maine offers another special pet-friendly adventure.
If you are looking for more great recommendations or have some tips of your own, come join the community of our lively Facebook group. We would love to see you there!