As summer temperatures rise, many pet owners are looking to enjoy the sea with their four-legged companions. Under legislation introduced in 2020, dogs are allowed to swim at designated dog beaches in Cyprus during the summer months.
However, the rules prohibit dogs from entering beaches within the Natura 2000 protected network and organised beaches covered by municipal beach management plans, as set out in a decree by the Ministry of Transport.
The ban in Natura 2000 areas applies throughout the year, while restrictions also remain in designated bathing areas.
Designated dog-friendly beaches
Every municipality provides specific beaches where dogs are permitted. These are:
- Steratzia, Kato Pyrgos, Nicosia District
- Kassianes, Larnaca District
- Glyky Nero, Paralimni
- Acheleia, Paphos District (northwest of Paphos Airport)
- Pitili, Neo Chorio, Paphos District
- Beach 6, Karavopetra, Limassol
- Prolimnos, Limassol (west of Pissouri)
Responsibilities for dog owners
Owners visiting dog beaches must comply with the Dogs Law.
They are required to:
- Use only the designated, fenced and signposted dog beach areas.
- Carry their dog’s licence and health booklet at all times.
- Keep their dog on a leash whenever it is outside the water to minimise risks to other dogs and beachgoers.
The regulations are intended to allow pet owners and other visitors to enjoy the coastline safely while protecting environmentally sensitive areas.
Also read: How to protect pets during heatwave
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