Lunchtime Live
Lunchtime Live
Newstalk
Should dogs be banned from beaches?
15 minutes Posted Aug 7, 2026 at 11:33 am.
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With the good weather drawing crowds to beaches across the country, the debate over dogs on our beaches is back.

For some, dogs running around can spoil a day at the seaside, especially when beaches are busy with families and swimmers. Others believe beaches are the perfect place for dogs to get some exercise and that responsible owners should be free to bring them along.

So, where do you stand? Are you fed up with seeing dogs on the beach when you're heading for a swim, or do you think they're welcome as long as owners clean up after them and keep them under control?

Joining Andrea to discuss is Freelance Journalist and dog owner Andrea Smith, Dog trainer and behaviorist Samantha Rawson, Fine Fáil Cllr Sligo Donal Gilroy and more.