I have spent many years exploring the world with my four-legged best friend by my side. It is a wonderful way to see new places. You share the joy and the effort of every mile. Together, we have conquered peaks and relaxed in small cafes.
Traveling to dog-friendly countries in Europe is much easier than you might think. Most countries in the European Union have a shared set of rules. This makes the move from one border to another very smooth. However, you must plan for the unexpected. You need to know which countries will welcome your dog and which ones will make life a bit harder.
The pet travel industry is growing fast. It grows about 9.5 percent every year. Recent data shows that 78 percent of pet owners now travel with their furry friends. Dogs are the stars of the show. They make up 58 percent of all pets that travel. Are you ready for an adventure? I am here to guide you through the process. We will look at the most dog-friendly countries in Europe and the ones you might want to skip.
First Steps: The Paperwork and Rules
First of all, you must get your documents in order. This process can take several months. You do not want to arrive at the border and face a four-month quarantine for your pet. To enter the European Union or the United Kingdom, your dog needs a microchip. This chip must meet international standards. Your vet should scan it before they give any shots.
Next is the rabies vaccination. This is a big one. You must wait at least 21 days after the shot before you can travel. Most vaccines from the United Kingdom last for three years. Additionally, you need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) if you are coming from the UK. This document replaced the old pet passports after Brexit. It is a long document of 10 to 12 pages. An Official Veterinarian must issue it within 10 days of your trip.
The cost of these documents varies. Some vets charge over £200 for one certificate. Plus, you might need tapeworm treatment. This is a must for entry into Ireland, Norway, Finland, or Malta. A vet must give this treatment one to five days before you arrive.
The Most Dog-Friendly Countries in Europe
Europe has some of the most welcoming spots for dogs in the entire world. Dog-friendly countries to visit are everywhere on the continent. I have ranked these based on my own trips and the experiences of other travelers.
1. Germany: The Gold Standard
Germany is a dream for pet parents. It gets a perfect 10 out of 10 for friendliness. You can bring your friend into restaurants, shopping malls, and parks. At many restaurants, staff treat dogs like VIP guests. They often bring a water bowl and treats right to the table. Public transport is also great.
Many cities offer free rides for pets on buses and metros. In Berlin, you will see dogs on the U-Bahn all the time. You can walk through the Tiergarten or play at the Tempelhofer Feld.
2. Italy: For the Kings and Queens
In Italy, people treat dogs like royalty. They love to stop you on the street to say how wonderful your dog is. I have found that hotels often do not even charge an extra fee for pets. You can take your dog into shops and even some supermarkets. The Northern Lakes region is beautiful for walks. Lake Como and Lake Garda have paths right by the water.
3. Switzerland: Outdoor Heaven
Switzerland is perfect if you love the outdoors. You can bring your dog almost everywhere. They are welcome on cable cars and funiculars. I recommend the Five Lakes Tour in Zermatt. It is an easy walk with stunning views of the Matterhorn. Dogs travel for free on the Sunnega cable car. The country is clean and very safe for pets.
4. The Netherlands: A Warm Welcome
The Netherlands treats dogs like children. Amsterdam is a very welcoming capital. You can even take your dog on some canal boat tours. I stayed at a hotel there that offered room service for dogs. That was a first for me. Most restaurants allow dogs inside. Vondelpark has great off-leash areas for a morning run.
5. Austria: Alpine Adventures
Austria is another high-ranking spot. It is very pet-friendly in the mountains and the cities. I found it easy to find a room in Salzburg and Innsbruck. Trains are very welcoming to pets. However, be careful in Vienna. Some of the famous parks do not allow dogs. Additionally, the Gaistal valley offers a long high alpine trail that is 24km of pure beauty.
The 10 Most Dog-Loving Countries
If you want a list of the 10 most dog-loving countries in Europe, here they are:
- Germany – Total freedom in public spaces.
- Italy – High social acceptance and free stays.
- Netherlands – Special dog services and canal rides.
- Switzerland – Easy access to mountains and public transit.
- Latvia – Beaches and hotels are very open to pets.
- Slovenia – Often called the most dog-friendly place by frequent travelers.
- Austria – Great alpine trails and transport.
- France – Very relaxed rules in restaurants and markets.
- Estonia – Almost every hotel and shop is open to dogs.
- Lithuania – Lots of green space and friendly locals.
Traveling to Dog Friendly Countries in Europe from UK
Traveling to dog friendly countries in europe from uk is a bit different now. The United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU. This means you need more than just a passport. You must use an approved route for your trip. Most people choose the Eurotunnel or a ferry.
The Eurotunnel is a fast way to cross. You stay in your car with your pet for the 35-minute trip. It is very low stress for the dog. Similarly, some ferries allow dogs. You must check the rules for each company. Some make the dog stay in the car. Others have pet-friendly cabins. On top of that, remember to get your tapeworm treatment before you return home. A vet in Europe must give this and record it in your AHC.
The Challenges: Least Dog-Friendly Countries in Europe
Not every country is a paradise for pets. You might run into trouble in the least dog-friendly countries in Europe. Some have cultural barriers. Others have tough transport rules.
1. Bosnia & Herzegovina
This was a tough trip. I felt unwelcome in many places. While some people love dogs, many others do not. People would actually kick or stomp their feet to scare my dog. It was very scary. Transit is also a mess. No one seems to know the rules for dogs on buses. Vets are nice but they lack some medicines for emergencies.
2. Spain
Spain is a mixed bag. Barcelona is great and full of dogs. However, many other cities are not. I was rejected from many restaurants and shops. In some cities, you must carry a water bottle to clean up pee on the street. You can even get stopped by the police if you do not do this. Many beaches do not allow dogs at any time of the year.
3. Romania
Romanians love dogs, but travel is hard. It was very difficult to find a hotel that takes pets. Most restaurants in cities like Brasov do not allow dogs inside. You will have to eat on the patio or leave your friend behind.
Top 10 Least Dog-Friendly Countries in Europe
Based on reports from fellow travelers, here is a list of the more challenging spots:
- Bosnia & Herzegovina – Hostile reactions from some locals.
- Greece – Often described as having many strays and limited access.
- Spain – Many “No Dog” signs and strict beach rules.
- Romania – Hard to find hotels and indoor dining.
- Croatia – Bus drivers often refuse dogs.
- Czechia – Some vets refuse to treat pets if you do not speak the local language.
- Hungary – Confusing rules for trains and some “No Dog” signs in markets.
- Montenegro – Large, aggressive guard dogs can be a worry.
- Portugal – Often bans dogs from indoor dining and has tricky bus rules.
- United Kingdom – Higher costs for hotels and dogs are banned from indoor dining in most spots.
Taking the Train: A Scenic Choice
Train travel is a great alternative to flying. It is smooth and gives your big dog more room to relax. There is no turbulence to worry about. Many major train lines in Europe are very welcoming.
- Trenitalia (Italy): Large dogs can board if they are leashed and muzzled. A pet ticket costs only €5 most days and €1 on Saturdays.
- Deutsche Bahn (Germany): Big pups are welcome for a half-price ticket. They must wear a muzzle and stay on a lead.
- SNCF (France): Small pets in a carrier pay €7. Larger dogs pay a half-price fare.
- Renfe (Spain): You can bring dogs up to 40 kg on some main routes. You must check in 40 minutes before you leave.
Gradually, your dog will get used to the sounds of the train. It is a good idea to take a long walk before you board. This helps them stay calm and avoids the need for bathroom breaks on the move.
Finding a Place to Stay
When you look for a room, clarity is key. Many hotels say they are “pet friendly,” but that does not always mean they are good for dogs. Some limit pets to certain rooms. Others charge a high fee but offer nothing extra.
I always look for hotels that provide beds and bowls. It shows they understand pet travel. Request a ground floor room near the exit. This makes late-night toilet breaks much easier. Check Google Street View before you book. You want to see if there is a park or grass nearby for walks.
Also, ask about the “unattended pet clause”. Some hotels do not let you leave your dog alone in the room. This can be a problem if you want to visit a museum. If your dog is calm and crate-trained, some places might be flexible. Finally, read the reviews from other dog owners. They will tell you if the staff is truly kind to pets.
Dining Out with Your Dog
Eating out with a pup is part of the fun in Europe. France and Switzerland are the best for this. You will often see large dogs napping under tables in Paris. However, you must follow some table manners.
- Keep them on a short leash. You do not want them to trip the server.
- Only bring well-behaved dogs. If your dog barks or growls, it is best to leave them at home.
- Choose a quiet table. Stay away from high-traffic areas so people do not step on paws.
- Bring a water bowl. Many cafes have one, but it is good to have your own.
- Keep them busy. A chew toy or some treats can help them sit still for an hour.
If your dog starts to get stressed, it is time to leave. Get your food in a box and find a park instead. It is the right thing to do for your friend.
The Great Outdoors: Hiking Trails
Hiking is the soul of a trip with a dog. The Alps offer some of the best views in the world. Switzerland has amazing trails like the Landslide trail (8 km) and the Isenfluh panorama trail (3 km). The Bettmerhorn in Valais is a beautiful easy hike.
In Germany, the Rathsberg forest near Erlangen is full of great smells that dogs love. The Aschau Gorge in Berchtesgaden is also a top choice. It has plenty of spots for a dog to cool off in the water. However, be careful on wooden bridges. Some dogs do not like the feeling of gratings on their paws.
In Austria, the Glacier Trail Innergschlöss takes you into the heart of a national park. It is a challenging trail. You will see a glacier at the foot of the Grossvenediger. Make sure you bring a first aid kit and tick tweezers for every hike.
Comparing Europe and Asia
While we focus on Europe, it is interesting to look at dog-friendly countries in Asia. Japan is a big name here. Tokyo has dog cafes dedicated to specific breeds like the Mame Shiba Inu.
You pay a fee to spend 30 minutes with the dogs. It is a very different vibe than the outdoor culture of Europe. Countries like Thailand are also becoming easier for pet relocation. They require an import permit, but once you have it, the process is smooth.
The True Cost of Travel
Let us talk about the money. It is not cheap to fly a dog. Most people spend between $1,500 and $5,000 for an international trip.
- Airline fees: $125 to $200 per leg for small dogs in the cabin.
- Cargo flights: $1,000 to $3,000 for large dogs.
- Health certificates: $75 to $250 plus vet visit costs.
- Rabies tests: $200 to $300.
- Equipment: A good crate can cost up to $495.
A budget trip for a small dog to an easy spot might cost around $650 to $990. A typical trip for a medium dog is more like $1,900 to $3,300. If you are going to a strict country like Australia, costs can jump to $8,500.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dog friendly country in Europe?
I believe Slovenia is the top choice because I found it more welcoming than any other place in my travels. Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands also receive a perfect score for their pet policies. These countries make it simple to bring your friend into shops and cafes.
Where to travel in Europe with your dog?
First of all, you should consider Berlin or Amsterdam if you enjoy city life. These capitals have great parks and transport systems for pets. On top of that, the Northern Lakes region in Italy offers beautiful waterfront paths where dogs can swim.
Can I travel in Europe with my dog?
You can certainly take your dog across Europe if you follow the EU Pet Travel Scheme. This system creates a shared set of rules for most member countries. You must have a microchip, a rabies vaccine, and a valid pet passport or health certificate.
Which country loves dogs most?
Poland stands out to me. People there absolutely love dogs and even offer special menus in restaurants. Similarly, Italian culture is extremely forgiving. Locals treat dogs like royalty in almost every city. What a treat for our furry friends!
Which airlines allow dogs in cabins in Europe?
KLM is one airline that allows pets to travel. However, you must check with each carrier because policies for the cabin change often. Plus, most airlines only allow small dogs in carriers that fit under the seat in front of you.
Are pets allowed on Eurostar?
Pets are not allowed on the Eurostar. This is a common mistake people make. Only service animals can travel on those specific routes to London.
Can I fly internationally with a dog?
You can fly with a dog. It is a popular choice for many owners today. Small dogs can often stay in the cabin for a fee of $125 to $200 per flight. Large dogs usually travel in cargo, which is more expensive and can cost up to $3,000.
Can I take my dog to Paris?
You can definitely take your dog to Paris. The city has a strong culture of allowing dogs in many restaurants and cafes. However, you should know that many beautiful parks in the city ban dogs to keep the areas clean.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with a dog is an adventure that changes your life. It requires a lot of work before you leave the house. You must handle the papers, the shots, and the costs. Though it is hard, the memories are worth it. I have seen my dog’s eyes light up at the top of a mountain. I have seen him relax in a cozy Italian cafe. These moments are priceless.
Plan ahead. Start your work three to six months before you want to leave. Choose the most dog-friendly countries in Europe to start. Germany and Italy will welcome you with open arms. Avoid the tough spots until you are an expert traveler. Ready to go? Pack the bags, grab the lead, and start your journey. Your best friend is waiting.
Traveling with a dog is like having a companion who only speaks in wagging tails and happy pants. It makes the world feel smaller and much more friendly.
