The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in the Southern Uplands Mountains

There are over 10 dedicated dog-friendly hiking trails in the Southern Uplands Mountains, ranging from easy forest walks to more challenging hill climbs. These routes are carefully selected to ensure a great experience for both you and your canine companion.

The Southern Uplands offer a diverse range of terrain suitable for dogs. You'll find expansive rolling hills, open moorland, and peaceful forests. Many trails feature grass-covered paths, while higher areas might have heather moorland. The region is also sculpted by numerous lochs and rivers, providing varied landscapes for exploration.

Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly walks. For a gentle forest experience, consider the Cademuir Forest – Jubilee Woods Forest Path loop from Peebles, which offers a pleasant, relatively flat path through woodlands. These easier routes are perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog.

Absolutely. Many of the dog-friendly routes in the Southern Uplands are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A great example is the St Mary's Loch loop, which offers beautiful lakeside views and a complete circuit for you and your dog.

The Southern Uplands are rich in natural beauty. While hiking with your dog, you might encounter stunning lochs like St. Mary's Loch and Loch of the Lowes. The region is also home to significant peaks such as The Merrick Summit, offering panoramic views. Keep an eye out for the dramatic Grey Mare's Tail waterfall, one of the highest in the UK, located within a nature reserve known for its wildlife.

Yes, the Southern Uplands are dotted with numerous lochs and rivers, providing excellent opportunities for walks alongside water. The area around St. Mary's Loch and Loch of the Lowes is particularly scenic, with routes like the St Mary's Loch – Loch of the Lowes loop offering picturesque lakeside paths.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for dog-friendly hikes in the Southern Uplands. The weather is often milder, and the landscapes are vibrant with new growth or autumnal colours. Summers can be pleasant, but be mindful of warmer temperatures and ensure your dog has access to water. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potentially challenging conditions.

The dog-friendly trails in the Southern Uplands Mountains are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 940 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's remote and unspoiled character, the sense of solitude, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks with their dogs.

When hiking with your dog in the Southern Uplands, it's important to be aware of livestock, especially sheep, which are common in the rolling hills and moorland. Always keep your dog under close control, preferably on a lead, particularly in lambing season or near farm animals. Be mindful of ground-nesting birds during spring and summer. Also, ensure you carry enough water for both yourself and your dog, as natural water sources may not always be accessible or safe to drink from.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, the Southern Uplands offer more demanding routes. While not as high as the Highlands, the region has over 100 rounded summits, including Merrick, the highest peak in the south of Scotland. These longer routes often involve more significant elevation gain and can provide a rewarding experience for well-prepared hikers and their fit dogs.