I love the snow and I love my dog. Why should I ever have to choose between them? I have spent years traveling across the mountains of Europe with my furry best friend. I have learned that you do not need to leave your pet at home when you want to hit the slopes. Many people ask me, “Can I bring my dog to a ski resort?” The answer is a loud yes!
Europe is full of amazing spots that welcome pets with open paws. I have seen everything from doggy spas to high-end hotels that give out doggy treats at the door. If you are a mature traveler who loves a bit of luxury and adventure, this guide is for you. I will share my personal experiences and the very st dog friendly ski resorts europe has to offer.
What You Must Know Before You Go
First of all, you need to handle the paperwork. I always make sure my dog is microchipped before we even pack a bag. You must have a valid EU Pet Passport if you live in the region. If you are coming from the United States, you will need an official health certificate from a vet.
Do not forget the rabies shot! Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old for the first shot. After the shot, you must wait 21 days before you can travel. I always check these dates twice. For trips to places like Norway, Finland, or Ireland, you also need to treat your dog for tapeworms between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive.
Safety is the most important thing. I never let my dog drink from puddles on the road because salt and antifreeze are toxic. Additionally, I always have a Pack-a-Paw Rescue Harness in my bag. If my dog gets hurt on a trail, I can carry her out safely.
1. Andorra: A Tiny Paradise in the Pyrenees
I once visited Andorra on a whim and fell in love. It is the 16th smallest country in the world by landmass. Only about 85,000 people live there. It feels like Switzerland, but the prices do not make your eyes bulge.
Andorra is incredibly pet-friendly. I took my dog, Laila, to a place called GosSwim. This is a hydrotherapy spa just for dogs. The pool is heated to 88 degrees. Laila was a bit confused at first, but the warm water helped her muscles relax after a day in the snow.
For a place to stay, I recommend Cal Batlle. It is a 500-year-old stone home that is now a B&B. The owner, Olga, has a sweet dog named Bola. One thing to note is that this place is for adults only. No children are allowed, but dogs are welcome! There are even walking trails right outside the door.
Later, we went to Sorteny Valley. I tried backcountry skiing there. This is a great way to go taking dog to ski resort activities because dogs are usually not allowed on the main downhill slopes. Laila loved running in the deep powder.
2. St. Moritz, Switzerland: The Peak of Luxury
If you want Luxury dog friendly ski resorts europe, you cannot beat St. Moritz. It is famous for its beauty and its world-class slopes. I found that the town is very welcoming to pets.
I stayed at the Kulm Hotel, which is very famous. They really treat dogs like royalty. Other great options include the Grand Hotel Kronenhof and Hotel Waldhaus. In these places, your dog might even get their own bowl and a cozy basket to sleep in.
St. Moritz is in the Graubünden region. The air is crisp and the views are perfect. Though it is a fancy place, people there love animals. You will see dogs in many restaurants and shops. Just look for a sign on the door. If there is no “no dogs” sign, you are usually good to go.
3. Val Thorens, France: High Altitude Fun
Val Thorens is the highest ski town in Europe at 2300 meters. It is part of the Les Trois Vallées area, which has over 600 km of slopes. This is one of the best dog-friendly ski resorts france has to offer.
I stayed at the Résidence Le Hameau du Kashmir. The apartments are modern and very cozy. They allow pets for a fee, which was around EUR 154. It is a bit pricey, but the location on the slopes is unbeatable.
I love that this resort is mostly ski-in/ski-out. This makes it easy to go back and check on your dog during the day. If you want a cheaper option, the Les Balcons de Val Thorens is also a good choice.
4. Nassfeld, Austria: A Dog-Owner’s Dream
Nassfeld is one of the top ten resorts in Austria. It sits right on the border with Italy. What makes it special is how much they care about dogs. There are more than 100 places to stay that specialize in dog needs.
When I checked into a hotel here, they gave me a water bowl, a dog blanket, and even waste bags. On top of that, there are vets and dog groomers nearby if you need them. I suggest looking at Hotel Wulfenia or the Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Carinzia.
The trails here are beautiful. I found many safe walking paths where I could explore the snowy landscape with my dog. Austria is very relaxed about dogs in public spaces. Most cafes and bars will let your well-behaved pet join you for a drink.
5. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy: The Pearl of the Dolomites
Many people say Cortina is the best Italian resort. It has breathtaking peaks and a very chic vibe. It was even a location for a James Bond movie!
I stayed at the 5-star Hotel Fanes. The rooms have amazing views of the Dolomites. My dog loved the large terrace. If you want to stay in the center of town, HOTEL de LEN is another fantastic spot.
Italy is one of the most dog-friendly countries in the world. I saw dogs in restaurants, cafes, and even some grocery stores. Waiters often brought a bowl of water for my dog without me even asking.
6. Zermatt, Switzerland: Car-Free and Carefree
Zermatt is famous because of the Matterhorn. The most unique thing about this town is that it is car-free. Only small electric vehicles can drive there. This makes the streets very quiet and safe for walking your dog.
I stayed at the Mont Cervin Palace, which opened way back in 1851. It is a very high-end hotel. They gave my dog her own bowl and a lovely basket.
There are many dog friendly ski holidays packages here. I found that the town has many “après-ski” spots that welcome pets. You can sit outside and look at the mountain while your dog rests at your feet.
7. Kranjska Gora, Slovenia: A Hidden Gem
Slovenia is perhaps the most dog-friendly country I have ever visited. Kranjska Gora is a beautiful resort surrounded by the Julian Alps. It is famous for World Cup ski races, but it is also great for pet owners.
I found that pets are welcome almost everywhere here. If you want comfort, the Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel is about an hour away and it is wonderful.
The locals are very friendly. Many of them are excellent skiers and they often bring their dogs along for winter walks. I found the atmosphere to be very warm and welcoming for both people and animals.
8. Chamonix, France: Adventure and Views
Chamonix is a classic choice. It sits right under Mont Blanc. It is a paradise for people who love the outdoors. I found many luxury chalets here that have hot tubs and log fires.
The hiking trails around Chamonix are perfect for a winter stroll. I took the shuttle bus from Geneva, and it only took about an hour. The transfer company, Alps2Alps, has pet-friendly vehicles. This made the trip very easy for me and my dog.
Chamonix has many dog-friendly shops too. I spent an afternoon just browsing with my dog by my side. Most places are happy to have a quiet pet inside.
9. Courchevel, France: Gourmet Fun
If you love fine food, Courchevel is for you. It is a very luxury-focused resort. Some of the high-end hotels even have gourmet pet menus. My dog has never eaten so well!
There are many dog-friendly hiking trails here. I also found that some of the mountain huts are happy to host pets. However, I always check ahead of time.
The resort is very wide and open. There is plenty of room for your dog to run and play in the snow. Just remember to keep them on a lead in busy areas.
10. Avoriaz, France: A Winter Wonderland
Avoriaz is a very special place. It is 100% pedestrian. People move around Dog Friendly ski resorts Europe on skis, on foot, or in horse-drawn sleighs. This creates a magical feeling that you do not find anywhere else.
I stayed in a chalet near the Prodains Cable Car. The architecture in Avoriaz is very unique and blends into the cliffs. There are many winter walks that start right from the resort.
I watched a prologue of the Grand Odyssée sled dog race here. It was so exciting! Because there are many working sled dogs and horses around, you must keep your own dog on a tight lead. There are even special dog waste bag dispensers called Toutounet around the resort to keep things clean.
Fun Activities for You and Your Dog
When you are not on the downhill slopes, what can you do? I love skijoring. This is a Norwegian word that means “ski driving.” You wear skis and your dog pulls you with a harness.
You do not need a team of huskies for this. I have seen Border Collies, Golden Retrievers, and even Dalmatians do it. It is best if your dog is over 35 pounds for safety. You can buy a good pulling harness for less than $75.
Another great activity is cross-country skiing. In places like Tyrol, Austria, there are special dog trails. For example, there is a 2 km loop in Pertisau that is perfect for a quick run. I also found a 15 km trail in Davos, Switzerland.
If you prefer walking, try snowshoeing. I did this in the Sorteny Valley in Andorra. It was a relatively easy hike along a river. Laila loved chasing the snowballs that formed on the rocks.
My Gear List for a Snowy Trip
I have learned that the right gear makes a huge difference. Cold feet? Not a chance if you prepare well. Here is what I always pack:
- Paw Balm: I use Musher’s Secret. It protects my dog’s pads from salt and ice.
- Boots: I like the Ruffwear GripTrex or PolarTrex. They keep the snow from balling up between the toes.
- A Warm Coat: I use the Hurtta Rain Blocker or Extreme Warmer. This is great for short-haired dogs who get chilly.
- Goggles: I use RexSpecs when it is very windy. They protect my dog’s eyes from the sun and the biting wind.
- A Long Lead: I prefer an elasticated lead for skijoring.
Tips for a Stress-Free Stay
I always look for ki resorts pet friendly labels when I book. I find that vegan restaurants are often the most welcoming to dogs. Similarly, if I need a break from the dog, I look for dog-sitting services in the resort.
Therefore, I always check the local rules. In some places, like Italy or France, your dog must wear a muzzle on public transport or in cable cars. I always have one in my pocket just in case.
Plus, do not leave your dog alone in a car! It can be very dangerous in the cold. I always make sure my dog has a cozy bed and plenty of water indoors. Central heating can be very drying for pets.
FAQ
Can you go skiing with a dog?
Yes, you can participate in cross-country skiing with your dog on designated trails. You can also try backcountry skiing or ski touring, as these activities often take place away from the main downhill slopes where dogs are typically prohibited.
Where to travel in Europe with your dog?
Many European countries are highly dog-friendly, including Andorra, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and Slovenia. These nations generally allow dogs in most restaurants, public spaces, and even some stores.
Can I bring my dog to Europe on vacation?
Yes, provided you follow entry requirements. Dogs must be microchipped, have a valid rabies vaccination, and possess an EU Pet Passport or a recognized official health certificate.
Are the Alps dog friendly?
Yes, the Alps are considered a paradise for dog owners. Many resorts in the French, Swiss, Italian, and Austrian Alps provide dog-friendly accommodations, hiking trails, and cable car access.
What is skiing with a dog called?
Skiing with a dog on a special harness is called skijoring, a term derived from the Norwegian word for “ski driving”.
How do I ski with my dog?
To ski with your dog, you should use designated dog trails to avoid conflicts with other skiers. For skijoring, you will need a pair of skis, a pulling harness for the dog, and an elasticated lead attached to your waist belt.
Can dogs safely walk on snow?
Yes, but owners must take precautions. Hard or icy snow can be difficult, and road salt or antifreeze found in snowy areas are toxic to dogs. It is recommended to use paw balm or booties to protect their pads from the cold and chemicals.
Can I take my dog up a mountain?
Yes, dogs are welcome on many mountain hiking trails. Additionally, certain resorts allow dogs on gondolas and cable cars, though they may be required to wear a muzzle or stay in a carrier.
Are dogs allowed in the snow?
Absolutely! Many dogs love romping and playing in the snow, though you should monitor them to ensure they do not become too cold.
Where to go in Europe with a dog?
destinations for a winter holiday include St. Moritz and Zermatt in Switzerland, Val Thorens and Chamonix in France, Nassfeld and St. Anton in Austria, Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy, and the country of Andorra.
Concluding Words
Europe offers a wealth of dog-friendly ski resorts that cater to both humans and their pets with specialized services like dog-sitting, heated pools, and designated cross-country trails. From the luxury of St. Moritz and the car-free charm of Zermatt to the expansive terrains of Val Thorens and Chamonix, these destinations provide diverse activities such as skijoring, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. While dogs are generally barred from downhill slopes for safety, the availability of pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, and mountain transport ensures that your furry companion remains a central part of your alpine adventure.
