Check the pet policy before you book

Not every Yorkshire Dales cottage that advertises itself as dog-friendly means quite the same thing. Some welcome one small dog, others happily take three Labradors, and a few will only allow dogs in certain rooms. Before you book, ask the owner directly: how many dogs, any size or breed restrictions, and whether dogs can be left in the cottage unattended. A short email now saves an awkward conversation on the doorstep. It is also worth asking about the garden. A fully enclosed, gated space is worth its weight in gold when you need to let the dog out first thing, particularly in a village with a busy lane outside. Hard floors and a boot room are practical bonuses; if the cottage has pale carpets, ask whether throws are provided or bring your own. Finally, confirm the practical details: any extra cleaning charge, whether dogs are allowed on furniture or beds, and whether stair gates are available if you need them.

Pack familiar bedding and the right kit

A dog's first night in a strange cottage can be unsettled, and the smell of home does more to calm nerves than any number of new toys. Bring the bed your dog sleeps in at home, or at least a familiar blanket, and put it down in the room where you will spend the evening. Beyond that, a few items make the week run more smoothly:

• A spare lead and a long line for open ground, plus a harness if your dog pulls on stiles
• Plenty of poo bags, as supplies in remote dale villages can be limited
• Old towels for muddy paws, wet coats and the inevitable dip in a stream
• Food in sealed containers, familiar bowls and any medication
• A basic dog first aid kit, including tick tweezers — ticks are common in long grass and bracken
• The number of a local vet, worth saving to your phone before you set off

If your dog is used to a crate, bring it. It gives them a safe corner to retreat to when the cottage is busy and the weather keeps everyone indoors.

Settle your dog into the cottage on day one

Arrive in daylight if you can, so your dog can explore the garden and the immediate surroundings before dark. Do a quick sweep of the ground floor together: low windows that open wide, an unguarded staircase, a bin within reach, trailing cables, or a wood-burning stove still warm from the last guests. Decide straight away where the dog will sleep and where they will be fed, and stick to those spots for the whole stay — routine is reassuring in an unfamiliar place.

Try not to leave your dog alone on the first day. If you plan to eat out or visit somewhere dogs cannot go, build up to it: a short trip to the shop, then a longer one, with the radio on low and a long-lasting chew to occupy them. Owners who allow dogs to be left usually ask that they are crated or confined to one room, so check what is expected and follow it.

Plan walks that welcome dogs

The Dales are gloriously walkable, but a little planning keeps everyone on the right side of farmers and wildlife. From 1 March to 31 July, dogs must be kept on a short lead on open access land to protect ground-nesting birds such as curlew and lapwing. All year round, put the lead on around livestock — sheep in particular can be spooked by a dog, and a chasing incident can have serious consequences for the farmer and for you. Close every gate behind you, even if you found it open, and pick up after your dog even in the middle of a field.

Choose routes with your dog's abilities in mind. Low-level valley walks along the Wharfe, the Ure or the Swale suit most dogs, while high fell routes involve steep ground, loose stone and weather that turns quickly. Stiles come in all shapes and sizes; a narrow squeeze stile can be a real obstacle for a large or older dog, so check the map and look for gate-and-bridge routes instead. Avoid still, stagnant water in hot weather, as blue-green algae can be harmful, and carry water for your dog on longer summer walks.

Many dales pubs welcome well-behaved dogs in the bar, often with flagstone floors and a water bowl by the door. It is polite to ring ahead in high season, and to keep your dog on a lead and away from other diners.

Leave the cottage ready for the next guests

Before you go, shake out and bag up bedding, rinse bowls, and give hard floors a sweep. If your dog has had an accident or left muddy marks, tell the owner rather than hoping it goes unnoticed — most would far rather know so they can clean properly. A short note about anything you noticed, from a broken gate latch to a used-up log supply, is always appreciated and makes a repeat booking for next season much easier. Leave the cottage as you would want to find it, and you will be welcomed back to the dales with your dog time and again.