Happy International Dog Day! This is literally the dog day of August. And a fine occasion to share a bit more dog golfing heritage with an excerpt from a fine article “Are Dogs Allowed On Golf Courses: A Complete Guide”

History of Dogs on Golf Courses

Dogs have been used on golf courses for centuries. In the early days of golf, dogs were often used to help retrieve balls that had been hit into the rough. As golf courses became more manicured and formal, dogs were increasingly prohibited from entering. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards allowing dogs on golf courses.

One of the earliest references to dogs being used on golf courses comes from the 15th century. In his book “The Boke of St. Albans,” Dame Juliana Berners describes how dogs were used to retrieve balls that had been hit into the rough. Berners also notes that dogs were used to help keep rabbits and other pests away from golf courses.

In the 17th century, dogs continued to be used on golf courses. In his book “The Whole Art of Golf,” Robert Brown describes how dogs were used to help golfers find their balls and to retrieve balls that had been hit into the water. Brown also notes that dogs were used to help keep golfers warm during cold weather.

In the 18th century, dogs continued to be used on golf courses. However, as golf courses became more manicured and formal, dogs were increasingly prohibited from entering. This was due to a number of factors, including the fact that dogs could damage the grass on golf courses and that they could be a distraction to other golfers.

In the 19th century, the trend towards prohibiting dogs from entering golf courses continued. However, there were a few exceptions. For example, dogs were allowed on golf courses in Scotland, where they were used to help retrieve balls that had been hit into the heather.

In the 20th century, the trend towards prohibiting dogs from entering golf courses continued. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards allowing dogs on golf courses. This trend is due to a number of factors, including the fact that dogs are increasingly seen as being family members, and that many people want to be able to bring their dogs with them when they go golfing.