I remember the first time I planned a trip to Europe with my dog. It felt like a massive task. However, dog friendly Belgium surprised me in the best way possible. This country is a paradise for people who do not want to leave their furry friends at home. Statistics show that Belgians love their pets.
38 percent of households in Belgium own at least one dog. There is an average of three pets per household across the country. It is no wonder that traveling in Belgium with a dog is such a breeze. The streets are full of pups. The parks are wide and green. The people are incredibly welcoming.
You should know that Belgium is one of the most pet-friendly countries in all of Europe. Big cities are packed with hotels and shops that allow four-legged guests. The smaller regions offer unique experiences that you can not find anywhere else. I have explored everything from the busy streets of Brussels to the quiet forests of the Ardennes. Every single stop offered something special for my pup. This guide will share my personal experiences and the best spots to visit.
Important Information About Visiting Belgium With a Dog
You must follow specific rules to enter the country. These rules protect the health of people and animals. Your dog needs a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip. This chip must be implanted before the rabies shot. An authorized vet must give the rabies vaccine when your dog is at least 12 weeks old. You must wait exactly 21 days after the first shot before you can cross the border. This means a puppy can travel at 15 weeks of age at the earliest.
A European pet passport is necessary if you live in the EU. Travelers from outside the EU need a specific health certificate. I always carry my dog’s documents in a waterproof folder. It saves a lot of stress at the airport or train station. You will find that customs can check these papers at any time.
Belgium does not have a list of banned breeds. You are simply responsible for the behavior of your pet. Potential harmful dogs must wear a muzzle on public transport. Most locals are relaxed, but they expect your dog to be well-behaved. I noticed that thoroughbred dogs are popular here, often costing around 500€. Whether your dog is a fancy breed or a rescue, they will fit right in.
Dog-Friendly Cities in Belgium
1. Brussels: The Capital of Pups
Brussels is a fantastic place for a city break. The city is very pet-friendly. I spent hours walking through the Grand Place. This square is a UNESCO World Heritage site and looks like an open-air museum. My dog loved the sights and sounds. We also spent time in the local parks. Most parks allow pets as long as you follow the rules. A new law in Brussels even says landlords can not easily refuse tenants with pets. This shows how much the city values our furry family members!
2. Bruges: A Fairytale for Four Legs
Bruges is often called a medieval dream. It is a compact city with limited car access, which makes it perfect for walking with a dog. I recommend staying for at least a few days to enjoy the quiet mornings. The canals are beautiful. We wandered through the narrow streets and looked at the chocolate shops. Do not miss the Beguinage at the southern end of the city. It is a pocket of calm in a busy world. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas.
3. Antwerp: The Fashion Capital
Antwerp is full of trendy boutiques and cool restaurants. Many of these shops allow dogs inside while you browse for clothes. The transportation system here, called De Lijn, even lets dogs ride for free. It is a great place for a stylish weekend getaway. We enjoyed the vibe of the old town and the grand train station.
4. Dinant: Beauty by the River
Dinant is a picturesque city squeezed between towering cliffs and the River Meuse. It is a perfect base for exploring the Ardennes. I took my dog up to the Citadel on the cliffs. Dogs are allowed inside as long as they stay on a lead. You can even take the cable car up with your pet. The views from the top are breath-taking.
5. Crupet: A Hidden Gem
Crupet is officially one of the most beautiful villages in Wallonia. It feels like stepping into a storybook. I hiked past stone cottages and lush green hills here. There is a medieval moated castle that looks like a movie set. We walked the trail that loops around it for some magical views. The Grotto of St. Anthony of Padua is another quirky stop where my dog could chill while I explored.
Dog-Friendly Accommodations in Belgium
You have so many choices for where to stay. Belgium offers everything from luxury hotels to cozy cottages.
Hotels and Luxury Stays
In Brussels, I stayed at the pentahotel Brussels City Centre. It is a 4-star spot that allows both dogs and cats on request. They charge about €20 per night plus a deposit. The best part was the large lounge area downstairs where we could relax together. In Antwerp, the Hilton Antwerp Old Town is a luxury choice. They allow small pets up to 11kg for an additional fee.
Bed and Breakfasts
The Doghouse B&B in Bruges is a must-visit. It is the only luxury dog-friendly B&B in the city. They provide a doggy room tray and a woollen blanket for your pup. You can even buy Belgian dog beer there! It is located in an elegant house by the canal.
Vacation Rentals and Resorts
The Ardennes region has great holiday parks. Vallée les Etoiles is one of the best. They have Norwegian-style wooden chalets that fit two to eight people. These chalets have cozy fireplaces for the winter. You can bring up to two dogs per bungalow. The staff even reserves specific pet-friendly homes for you.
Country Houses and Cottages
You can find many stone cottages in villages like Crupet. These spots often have gardens where your dog can stretch their legs. Many rentals in the countryside are listed on sites like Airbnb. I have stayed in several that were very welcoming to my large dog.
Dog-Friendly Dining in Belgium
I love eating out in Belgium because I do not have to leave my dog behind. Many restaurants allow well-behaved dogs inside.
Restaurants and Cafes
Outdoor terraces are everywhere, especially in the summer. The main square of Bruges is lined with them. When the weather is bad, I look for EXKi. This is a healthy fast-food chain with many locations. They usually let dogs sit on the floor while you eat. There is also a pet-friendly restaurant called La Bonne Heure at the Vallée les Etoiles resort.
Local Brews and Treats
You can not visit Belgium without trying the beer. It is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with your dog at your feet. I often order some Belgian fries with mayonnaise to go with my drink. For the dog, some places even sell special treats. Just remember that the beer is strong, so walk back to your hotel afterward! If you use a search engine like resto.be, you can find tables at over 16,000 restaurants.
Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Belgium
Sightseeing and Culture
Walking through the historic centers of Bruges or Brussels is the best way to see the sights. Your Dog Friendly Belgium is welcome in these “open-air museums”. You can also visit the Cave of Han. This is one of the most beautiful caves in Europe. Dogs are allowed on a lead, even in the museum. A century-old tram takes you to the entrance.
Hiking in Winter and Summer
The Ardennes is the place to go for hiking. The forests are full of walking paths of all lengths. I love the forest of Blaimont for its fairy-tale feel. Even in the winter, the trails are open, though the weather can be wet and cold. Always keep your dog on a leash to protect the wildlife. Wallonia is perfect for nature days.
Swimming and Water Sports
The River Lesse is great for kayaking. Lesse Kayaks allows smaller dogs to join you for free. Larger dogs that take up a seat will cost a small fee. I suggest bringing a life jacket for your dog. The tour runs from April to October. You will pass medieval castles and small beaches along the way.
Adventure Parks and History
Dinant Adventure Park allows dogs on site. While they can not do the rope bridges, they can walk the trails with you for free while you watch your friends. For history buffs, Malagne is a Gallo-Roman park where dogs are welcome on a leash. You can explore ancient excavations and reconstructed mills.
Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in Belgium
Camping is a popular way to see the country. You will find many campsites that welcome pets.
Forest Campsites
The Ardennes has many spots where you can pitch a tent. There are dedicated bivouac areas for people who want to stay the night in the forest. These areas are for rest, not parties, so they are very quiet.
Holiday Parks with Camping
Parks like Vallée les Etoiles offer a mix of chalets and resort facilities. They have swimming pools, saunas, and tennis courts. While it is more of a resort, it gives you that outdoor camping feel with more comfort.
Dog-Friendly Beaches and Lakes in Belgium
Belgium has a short but beautiful coastline.
The Coast
I took my dog to Nieuwpoort and Oostduinkerke. Running on the beach in the winter is one of her favorite things to do. Most beaches are very chilled about dogs during the off-season.
Lakes and Rivers
There is a beautiful lake at the southern end of Bruges. It has a cafe right on the water which is a great spot for a drink with your pup. You can also find small beaches along the River Lesse while kayaking.
Dog-Friendly Public Transport in Belgium
It is very easy to move around without a car.
Trains
The SNCB-NMBS train system is excellent. Small pets in a carrier no larger than 30x55x30cm travel for free. Larger dogs on a lead need a Pet Supplement. This costs €3 per single trip. You can buy this ticket on the app or website. Dogs can not use the seats or tables.
Trams, Buses, and Metro
In Brussels, the STIB system allows dogs of all sizes to ride for free. Larger dogs must wear a muzzle. In the Flemish part, De Lijn operates the buses and trams. Dogs ride for free here as well. Drivers can refuse a pet if the bus is too full, so try to travel during quiet hours.
Practical Tips for Dog Friendly Travel in Belgium
- Carry Water: Always have a bottle for your pup, especially during long hikes in the Ardennes.
- Pick Up After Your Pet: This is common sense but very important in historic cities like Bruges.
- Learn the Language: A few words in French or Dutch go a long way with the locals.
- Check the Weather: Winters are wet and gloomy, so bring a coat for your dog.
- Visit the Vet Before Returning Home: If you are going back to the UK, you need a tapeworm treatment. This must be done by a vet between 24 hours and five days before you travel.
- Emergency Care: If your dog gets sick, there are 24/7 emergency centers like VET&GO in Brussels and Namur.
- Respect the Forest: Follow the Forest Conduct Guide. Do not veer off the trails and keep your dog on a lead.
- Carry Personal Documents: Bring your own ID and your dog’s papers for all bureaucratic situations.
- Socialize: Join expat groups but make sure to meet the local Belgians too. They are the best source for finding hidden dog-friendly spots!
- Watch for Hunting Signs: Some forest areas close for hunting. Look for red posters and respect the barriers.
Traveling with my dog in Belgium has been an incredible experience. The combination of historic cities and wild nature is perfect. Whether we are sipping “dog beer” in Bruges or hiking the hills of Crupet, we always feel at home. Pack your bags and bring your best friend along. You will not regret it!
Analogy for Understanding: Think of traveling in Belgium with your Dog Friendly Belgium like visiting a massive, friendly neighborhood park. Just as you follow the local park rules to keep everyone happy, following Belgium’s simple pet laws ensures you and your pup are welcomed into every “backyard” from the city to the forest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog to Belgium?
You can certainly bring your furry friend along for the ride. You must follow the standard European Union rules for pet travel. This means your dog needs a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip. A vet must also give your dog a rabies vaccine. You must wait for 21 days after the first shot before you can enter the country. Do not forget your European pet passport or an official health certificate if you come from outside the EU. It is a simple process. A bit of paperwork for a lot of fun.
Is Brussels a dog-friendly city?
Brussels is a fantastic place for pups. Pets are very common and popular in the capital city. You can take your dog into most public parks and on all public transport. Trams, buses, and the metro are all open to four-legged guests. You will see many locals walking their dogs in the city center. It is a very welcoming environment for animals. Truly a top-tier city for pet owners.
Are dogs allowed in shops in Brussels?
Many shops in the city are very relaxed about dogs. You will find that some boutiques even have water bowls outside. However, the rule is usually up to the owner of the shop. Large department stores and food shops might have more strict rules for health reasons. You should always look for a sign on the door. When in doubt, just ask a staff member. Most people are very kind about it. A little politeness goes a long way.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Belgium?
Yes, they are. Many restaurants allow well-behaved dogs to sit inside with you. This is especially true for casual cafes and bistros. You will find that outdoor terraces are the most popular spots for people with pets. Some healthy fast-food chains like EXKi also allow dogs on the floor. You should always keep your dog away from the tables and chairs. Good behavior ensures that these places stay pet-friendly.
Where to go in Belgium with a dog?
You have so many great choices. Brussels and Bruges are perfect for city walks and history. Antwerp is the best spot for trendy shops and cafes. For nature, you must visit the Ardennes region. The River Lesse is great for kayaking with your pup. You can even visit the Cave of Han for an underground adventure. The options are truly endless.
What is the most dog friendly country?
Belgium is often called one of the most dog-friendly countries in all of Europe. The laws are very fair. 38 percent of households here own a dog, so the culture is very supportive. Italy is another place where dogs are loved and welcomed almost everywhere. Both countries are top picks for a pet vacation. A real paradise for pups.
Are brussels ok for dogs?
Brussels is much more than just okay. It is an excellent city for dogs. The public transport system, STIB, allows dogs of all sizes to ride for free. There are also many green spaces and parks where dogs can stretch their legs. A new law even makes it harder for landlords to say no to pets in rental homes. This city truly cares about animal welfare. A great place to live or visit.
Is Bruges dog-friendly?
Bruges is a dream for dog owners. The city is small and very easy to navigate on foot. There is limited car access, which makes the medieval streets very quiet and safe. You can visit the Beguinage or sit by the small lake for a drink. There is even a luxury B&B called The Doghouse that is made just for pet lovers. A fairytale destination.
How dog friendly is Ghent?
Ghent is very welcoming to furry travelers. The local transport system, De Lijn, allows dogs to ride for free on buses and trams. You will find many pet-friendly cafes along the canals. It is a great city for long walks and beautiful views. Just like Antwerp, it is a very easy place to visit with a pet.
Concluding Words
Belgium is a top choice for anyone who loves to travel with their dog. You will find dog-friendly cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp that offer history and style.
The Ardennes region provides amazing hiking and water sports for active pups. With simple travel rules and a welcoming culture, you do not have to leave your best friend behind. Pack your bags and start your Belgian adventure today. A trip you will never forget!
