I love the feeling of the North Sea wind on my face. The salty air. The wide, open dunes. There is nothing quite like a holiday in West Jutland. My dog feels the same way. He wags his tail the moment we cross the border into Denmark. Hvide Sande is a small harbor town on a narrow strip of land. It sits right between the sea and the Ringkøbing Fjord. This makes it a perfect spot for anyone who loves water. You get the best of both worlds here. The wild waves of the North Sea. The calm waters of the fjord. In this guide, I will share my personal experience to help you plan your own trip in 2026.
Pet Travel Local Laws and Etiquette in Hvide Sande
You must know the rules before you pack the car. Denmark is very welcoming to dogs, but they have strict laws to keep everyone safe. Your dog needs a microchip for identification. This chip must be ISO-compliant. You also need an EU pet passport issued by a vet. This passport proves your dog has a rabies vaccination. The first shot must be given at least 21 days before you travel.
The local etiquette is simple but important. You must keep your dog on a leash in most places. This includes forests all year round. Do not forget that 13 specific dog breeds are prohibited in Denmark if you got them after March 2010. These include the Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and American Bulldog. If you stay longer than four weeks, you must register your dog in the Danish Dog Register. Always pick up after your pet. It is your duty to keep the environment clean.
Where to Stay with Your Dog in Hvide Sande
I found some amazing places to sleep. One great option is a modern holiday apartment at Langsand 184. It was finished in 2021 and sits right by the fjord. It is perfect for two people and their dogs. The upper floor has a covered and enclosed balcony. My dog loved lying there and watching the world through the glass. Be careful with the stairs, though. The steel staircase has small holes that might be scary for some dogs.
If you prefer the outdoors, try Hvide Sande Camping. It is a family-friendly spot nestled in the middle of the dunes. You can stay in a tent, a motorhome, or a cozy cabin. One guest, Johanne Katrine, highly recommends it for dog owners. Another option is Bjerregaard Camping. It is just a 10-minute walk from the North Sea. They welcome all dogs, even large ones. They charge a small fee of DKK 15 per dog.
Where to Eat with Your Dog in Hvide Sande
You will not go hungry here. Many cafes and restaurants have outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. Twenty Twenty Coffee is a lovely spot in the city center. It has a minimalist interior and a “hidden garden” that is perfect for summer. They allow dogs in the garden area. Their matcha latte and banana bread are a must-try.
For a real taste of the sea, visit Hvide Sande Røgeri. It is a famous fish boutique and restaurant. They serve some of the best fish in Denmark. Another good choice is Café Gaflen, also known as Steff’s Place. It offers a great view of the harbor. You can sit in their sheltered outdoor area with your dog. Their Fish and Chips are some of the best in town.
Where to visit in Hvide Sande
The town is full of history. You must visit Lyngvig Lighthouse, or Lyngvig Fyr. It is the tallest lighthouse in Denmark. It was built in 1906 to help ships avoid the “Iron Coast”. You can climb 228 steps to the top for a 360-degree view. It costs 50 DKK for adults, but the grounds are free to explore. There is a nature playground for kids and plenty of space for dogs on leashes.
Another cultural gem is Abelines Gaard. This is an old farmstead museum from the late 1800s. It is very dog-friendly, and you can even take your pet inside. It tells the story of the coast guard and life on the dunes. Do not miss the Fiskeriets Hus museum either. It has a small aquarium and a touching pool. It is open every day from Palm Sunday to October 31.
Top Activities and Sightseeing With Dog
Hvide Sande is a paradise for water sports. You can watch people kitesurfing or windsurfing on the fjord. There is even a water skiing facility called KABELPARK. If you want to be active, rent a bicycle. The area has many bike paths along the sea and fjord.
You can also explore the World War II bunkers in the dunes. Many are found on the beach near Søndervig. In the city center, you can go to the top of the Troldbjerg dune. There is a former German observation bunker you can enter. It feels small and cramped inside, so bring a flashlight. It is a unique way to see history up close.
Best Dog Parks and Outings
Sometimes a dog just needs to run free. Denmark has 86 designated “dog forests” where dogs can be off-leash. The Nørre Nebel Dog Forest is a cozy spot of about 1.4 hectares. It is fully fenced, which gives me peace of mind. The Ringkøbing Dog Forest in Femhøjsande Plantation is much larger at 20 acres.
The Oksbøl Dog Forest is another massive area, covering 19 hectares. It has several path systems for long walks. If you are near Videbæk, the dog forest there is smaller but very cozy. Remember that even in these areas, you must keep your dog under control. These spots are great for socializing with other pets.
Best Dog Friendly Beaches
The beaches here are endless. The North Sea coast has long, wide stretches of sand. You can walk for hours without meeting anyone. Look for beaches with a white flag. These allow dogs and have great water quality. Avoid “blue flag” beaches if you want to settle down, as dogs are usually not allowed to stay there.
The beach at Hvide Sande Camping is just a few minutes away. It is a wide stretch of sand where dogs can run during the off-season. One traveler, Allan Hansen, loved that he could let his dogs run there. The nature trail between Hvide Sande and Nymindegab is also a beautiful route for a beach outing.
Best Times to Visit in Hvide Sande
Timing is everything. From April 1 to September 30, you must keep your dog on a leash on all beaches. This is to protect breeding birds and other wildlife. If you break this rule, you could face a fine of 2,000 kroner.
The winter months from October to March are different. During this time, dogs can be off-leash on the beaches. They must still be under your full control. I find the autumn and winter seasons very atmospheric. The crowd is smaller, and the landscape is quiet.
Transportation Tips
You do not always need a car. Small pets in a carrier or cage can travel for free on DSB trains. The carrier cannot be larger than 100 x 60 x 30 cm. Large dogs need a child ticket. They must stay on the floor and be on a leash.
Buses and the metro have similar rules. A large dog usually requires a child ticket. In Greater Copenhagen, large dogs are not allowed on buses during peak hours on weekdays. Always look for the pictograms on trains and stations. They show you where pets are welcome.
Veterinary Services and Emergencies
Accidents can happen. If your pet gets sick, go to Dyrlæge Center Vest in Ringkøbing. It is a local veterinary hospital that offers round-the-clock service. They handle vaccinations, care, and emergencies. You can call them at +45 70224242 for help.
One danger to watch out for is the Danish adder. This snake lives in the dunes and heather. It usually only bites if it is disturbed. If your dog gets bitten, see a vet immediately for an antidote. Also, keep an eye out for ticks in the grass.
Packing List for Dogs
Preparation is key to a happy holiday. I always bring these items:
- EU Pet Passport and vaccination records.
- A sturdy leash and a muzzle just in case.
- Dog waste bags to keep the dunes clean.
- A first aid kit for dogs.
- Enough food and water for the journey.
- A car crate or safety harness for safe travel.
- A familiar dog bed or blanket to help them feel at home.
Maps and Itineraries (3 days)
Here is a plan for a short break.
- Day 1: The High View. Start your morning at Lyngvig Lighthouse. Climb the stairs and enjoy the view. In the afternoon, head to the beach for a long walk. End the day with a coffee at Twenty Twenty Coffee.
- Day 2: Culture and History. Visit Abelines Gaard in the morning. Take your dog inside and learn about the old days. Later, explore the Troldbjerg bunkers in the city. Grab some fresh fish at Hvide Sande Røgeri for dinner.
- Day 3: Nature Trails. Spend your morning in a dog forest like the one in Ringkøbing. Let your dog run off some energy. In the afternoon, take a bike ride along the fjord. Finish your trip with a sunset view from the harbor.
Budgeting and Cost-Saving Tips
You can save money by planning ahead. Many attractions, like the beach and the dunes, are free. The grounds of the lighthouse and the playgrounds do not cost a thing.
Booking a holiday home through Esmark can save you money because they often do not charge extra for dogs. If you stay at a campsite, the fees are usually low, like the DKK 15 per dog at Bjerregaard. Bring your own dog food from home to avoid high local prices.
Day Trips from Hvide Sande with Dog
There is more to see nearby. Søndervig is a popular tourist spot just a short drive away. It has great cafes and bunkers on the beach. You can also visit Ringkøbing, one of the oldest towns in Denmark. Its harbor and red brick houses are very charming.
Another interesting spot is the Stauning Whisky Distillery. You can take a tour of the facilities. However, dogs are not allowed inside the distillery. You would need to have someone wait outside with the pet or leave them at your accommodation if they are calm.
Pet Health and Wellness Tips
The fresh sea air is great for dogs. Ensure they do not drink too much seawater, as it can make them sick. Watch out for seal pups on the beach. Keep your dog away from them to avoid stress for the wildlife.
Keep your pet cool during the summer. Never leave them alone in a parked car, as it gets hot very quickly. If you stay in a holiday home, do not leave your dog alone in the house. The new environment can be confusing for them.
Sustainability Tips for Eco-Conscious Pet Travelers
We should all help protect this beautiful coast. Visit the cafe omhu: in Hvide Sande. They focus on cleaning up the beaches and recycling trash into new things. You can help by picking up any plastic you see during your walks.
Stay at a place like Hvide Sande Camping, which focuses on sustainability. Use public transport like the train when you can to reduce your carbon footprint. Always stick to the paths in the dunes to protect the fragile plants.
Seasonal Events and Festivals for pet in Hvide Sande
There is always something happening. You can watch rescue mission demonstrations at the lifeboat station near Abelines Gaard. Check the museum’s website for the timetable.
If you visit during New Year, the Clarion Copenhagen Airport offers a “Happy Dog” package with soundproof windows to avoid firework stress. While this is further away, it is a good tip if you are flying in. In Hvide Sande, the changing seasons bring different moods to the harbor and the sea.
A trip to Hvide Sande is a memory you will keep forever. The bond with your dog grows stronger when you explore new places together. The North Sea is waiting for you. Safe travels!
FAQ
Which dog breeds are prohibited in Denmark?
Denmark prohibits the keeping, breeding, and importation of 13 specific dog breeds and their crossbreeds if acquired after March 17, 2010, including Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and American Bulldogs.
When must dogs be on a leash at the beach?
Dogs must be kept on a leash on all Danish beaches from April 1st to September 30th to protect breeding birds and other beachgoers.
Can dogs travel on Danish trains and buses?
Yes, small dogs in a carrier or cage travel for free, while larger dogs require a child’s ticket and must remain on the floor on a leash.
Where is the nearest emergency veterinary help?
Dyrlæge Center Vest in Ringkøbing provides 24-hour emergency medical services for pets experiencing illness or accidents while on vacation.
Do holiday homes charge extra for dogs?
Policies vary; some agencies like Esmark often allow dogs without extra charges, while others, such as Bjerregaard Camping, may charge a small daily fee per dog.
Concluding words
Hvide Sande is a premier destination for a dog-friendly getaway in 2026, uniquely positioned on a narrow strip of land between the North Sea and Ringkøbing Fjord. The area provides a wealth of experiences, from long walks on wide sandy beaches to social play in dedicated, fenced dog forests like those in Hvide Sande and Søndervig. Travelers can choose from various pet-welcoming accommodations, including modern apartments with fjord views and nature-focused campsites.
While visitors must follow specific national regulations regarding leash laws and prohibited breeds, the local infrastructure of dog-friendly cafes, museums, and nearby veterinary services ensures a safe and relaxing holiday for both owners and their pets.
