There’s something deeply comforting about travelling with your dog. They don't mind your early morning hair, they’re always thrilled by new scents, and they rarely complain about the weather — unless it's really wet — except pets that would rather be swimming of course!
At Briar Cottages, we’ve welcomed countless guests with four-legged companions, and it’s a joy every time.
Lochside Wanders with a View?
One of our favourite local walks starts right at the cottage
— an off road old railway walk from the garden stile, birdsong, the dawn chorus and views of morning mist over the loch garden, an acre grassy paddock to the rear for hillside games of fetch and sniff (or chase the pesky rabbits in some cases!!)
Guests often tell us it’s their dogs' favourite too: open grassy stretches, fresh air, and a few ducks to "admire" (from a polite distance).
The old Lochearnhead to Comrie railway line walk is a local gem: flat, accessible, and perfect for older dogs who prefer a steady pace. A second line is accessed from the village up the Craggan road. It is marked by the steel sculpture of a West Highland Terrier called Ewen. The sculptor is by Kev Paxton of ArtFe Blacksmiths - the same talent behind our giant thistle sculpture in the loch garden. Both sculptures are part of an award winning art installation trail known as The BLiSS Trail.
Dog owners love The Golden Larches cafe This season we've found a few favourites to share:
- Two quiet picnic spots tucked beside Loch Lubnaig where dogs can paddle while humans sip tea. The Cabin is on site at one of the spots serving hot and cold food to carry out.
- A friendly stop at The Golden Larches Café, where dogs are greeted like VIPs and humans are rewarded with excellent coffee. On the A84 and off the NR7 old railway walk.
- And if your pup enjoys the company of others, Balquhidder Glen offers open trails where you're likely to cross paths with fellow explorers (both two- and four-legged).
Discover our on line list of dog-friendly cafes, pubs and restaurants around Loch Earn. Even the golf course! Give us a shout any time if we can help with vet locations or other helpful contacts or directions that will make your pets holiday more comfortable.
Pet food or water bowls After a full day of sniffing out adventures, there’s nothing lovelier than returning to a warm cottage where everything is set up for comfort.
We provide dog bowls, a water hose, some balls to play with and chew, or they can find their favourite corner to curl up in if paws are too tired to explore the garden, whether outdoors on the secure fenced patio or in the cottage. The patio can be lit at night time for alfresco dining.
There is a partial awning at the patio if pets prefer partial cover from sun, rain or snow in other seasons.
Paddleboarding with pet, Little Briar Loch Earn Does your dog SUP? We have welcomed a few that enjoy jumping on their owners paddleboard launching from the slipway in the loch garden. If your dog would rather swim to fetch balls and sticks from the water then this is an ideal holiday location for them and the fresh water will soften their coat.
Whether it’s slow mornings watching the loch shimmer or energetic leaps across the paddock, we know that holidaying with your dog is about making shared memories — the mucky, magical kind.
Here at Little Briar Cottage on Loch Earn, your dog is more than welcome. They’re part of the story, just like you.
So, if you're dreaming of scenic trails, wagging tails, and a place that truly understands the joy of pet-friendly travel, we’d be delighted to welcome you both in any season.
Kitchen at Little Briar Cottage Loch Earn Book our award winning dog friendly cottage now for Autumn, winter, Christmas, New Year and your favourite or special occasion dates for 2026. Do contact us with any queries and check out our website at www.stayatbriar.co.uk
Fraser and Kim Proven are members of The Association of Self Caterers Scotland and The Federation of Small Businesses. Little Briar has a short term let license number ST00073F epcD, issued by Stirling Council. Little Briar sleeps 1-3 guests and 2 pets max.



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