Sand, sea and a very happy dog.

Are dogs allowed on Portobello beach?

We haven’t found any City of Edinburgh Council rule that bans dogs from Portobello beach, in summer or at any other time. Rules can change, though, and the council can mark areas as dog-free, so the signs on the beach and promenade are what count. Check them when you arrive, especially in summer.

Picking up, on the sand too

The Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003 applies to any public place, the beach and promenade included: not picking up can get you an £80 fixed penalty. Bagged waste can go in any litter bin, or your own non-recyclable bin at home. Mess on the sand is easy to lose sight of while your dog races about, so keep an eye on them.

Nesting birds and the shoreline

The Scottish Outdoor Access Code asks dog walkers to keep dogs on a short lead or close at heel on sea shores during the bird breeding season, usually April to July. Outside that season, don’t let your dog chase the birds feeding along the waterline: they need that time to feed and rest.

Busy days

• On sunny days the beach and promenade are packed with families, picnics, pushchairs, bikes and scooters. The Access Code asks you to keep your dog close at heel or on a short lead in busy public places, so other people aren’t worried by them.
• Early mornings and evenings are usually calmer, and much better for nervous or reactive dogs.
• Not everyone likes dogs, and some people are frightened of them. Call your dog back before they reach picnics, children or other dogs on a lead.
• Only let your dog off the lead if their recall is reliable around all of that. A long line is a good halfway step.

The sea, the sand and the tideline

• Bring fresh water and a bowl. Dogs that gulp seawater while playing can get an upset stomach; if your dog is unwell afterwards, call your vet.
• The sea here is cold all year. Let your dog choose whether to swim, keep an eye on them in waves, and don’t throw toys out too far.
• Don’t let your dog eat things washed up on the tideline. If they’ve eaten something that worries you, call your vet straight away.
• Dry sand gets hot in summer sun, and there’s little shade. Go at cooler times of day, and give your dog a rinse and a check of their paws and ears afterwards.

Need a hand?

If your days are busy, our walks and home visits keep your dog’s routine going. And if your dog finds busy places hard, our private and support walks give them space and calm.