Footprint, Weymouth

Footprint is a self-catering house in the Brewers Quay quarter of Weymouth, a few minutes on foot from Hope Square and the harbour, and it suits dog owners who want a base in the town rather than a drive from it. The house sits in a gated mews with covered parking opposite, and that is the detail owners with dogs keep returning to: gates at either end mean a dog can come out of the front door without immediately meeting traffic.

The listing welcomes one well behaved dog. No pet charge is published, so ask when you book. Guests travelling with dogs describe an easy, unfussy stay - laminate downstairs and carpet in the bedrooms, plenty of room for two people and a dog, and an owner who is around and helpful when something needs sorting.

Location is the strong suit. Walks go in both directions: Nothe Gardens for a gentle loop, and a safe clifftop open space above Newton's Cove, less than half a mile along Newton's Road, for a proper run. The section of Weymouth beach by the Pavilion is dog friendly all year round, which is worth knowing if you are visiting in summer, and pubs, restaurants and takeaways are all within a short walk.

Two caveats matter. The house has no private garden - only a small front patio and a shared courtyard - so this is not the place for a dog that needs letting out unsupervised, and owners have said so plainly. Cleanliness has drawn occasional criticism too, including dog hair left on the carpets from a previous stay, so it is worth a look round on arrival. The second bedroom is compact, and four adults would be a squeeze.

Best suited to a couple or small family with one dog who want to walk into Weymouth, and who are content to walk their dog rather than open a back door. It earns a 4.7/5 paw rating.