I recently spent a magical summer exploring the winding roads and deep forests of the north. My trip taught me that a journey is always better when your best friend has four legs. If you want to experience a place that truly respects animals, you must look at Dog Friendly Sweden.
This country is a paradise for people like us who believe our pets are family members. I found that Swedes do not just like dogs; they treat them as equal citizens with their own set of rights.
The Swedish lifestyle, often called lagom or “just the right amount,” extends to how they care for their pets. You will see it in the way dogs sit calmly under cafe tables or ride the sleek trains in Stockholm.
I learned that about 95% of dogs in Sweden have health insurance, which shows how much people here value their well-being. It is a land of endless forests, clear blue lakes, and cities that feel like giant parks. Peace. Quiet. Perfect.
Traveling in Sweden with a Dog
You must prepare well before you set foot on Swedish soil. It is not just about packing a leash. Sweden is one of the few countries that does not have rabies, so they are very strict about who enters. My dog needed a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and a pet passport. I also had to report my dog to Swedish Customs, known as Tullverket.
I discovered you can do this online if you come from another EU country. Then you just walk through the green “nothing to declare” channel at the airport. If you come from outside the EU, you must go through the red channel and speak to an officer. On my flight into Stockholm Arlanda Airport, I found the process very smooth. They even have an animal room in Terminal 5 for pets who only need to wait a few hours.
A very important rule to remember is the Right of Public Access, or Allemansrätten. This unique law gives everyone the right to roam freely in nature. You can walk through forests and fields, as long as you do not disturb or destroy the environment. However, this freedom comes with responsibility. From March 1 to August 20, you must keep your dog on a leash in most natural areas. This protection helps wild animals during their birthing and hatching season. Respect for nature. It is the Swedish way.
Dog-Friendly Cities in Sweden
Stockholm is a dream for city lovers. I spent hours walking through Djurgården, a massive green oasis right in the capital. It has beautiful views of the waterways and plenty of dog-friendly cafes. I also loved Gamla Stan, the Old Town. The historic buildings and cobblestone streets are perfect for a slow walk with your pup. Read more, Dog Friendly Sweden.
I then headed to Gothenburg, the second-largest city. People say it is friendlier and more laid-back than Stockholm, and I agree. It has the largest tram network in Northern Europe, and dogs ride for free!. I visited the Haga district, where the streets are lined with boutiques and the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls fills the air. My dog felt like a VIP at the local cafes.
Visby on the island of Gotland is another must-see destination. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient city walls and medieval charm. I walked the narrow streets and enjoyed the sea breeze along the coastline. History. Beauty. Soul.
Malmö in the south is fantastic for beach lovers. It has a spacious off-leash area called Ribersborgs Hundrastplats. My dog loved the small beach and the chance to splash in the water. We also explored the rolling hills of the Skåne countryside. The Kullaberg Nature Reserve offered dramatic cliffs and views that took my breath away.
Dog-friendly Accommodations in Sweden
I found that finding a place to stay was quite easy. About 53% of hotels in Stockholm were dog-friendly when I checked in 2025. However, you should book ahead because many hotels only have a few rooms set aside for pets.
Hotel Pigalle in Gothenburg treats dogs like royalty. They provided organic dog food and a fancy bed made from oak. The receptionist even offered me a designer leash for our morning walk. Other great options include Clarion Hotel Post and Scandic Rubinen, which both welcome furry guests with open arms.
If you prefer a more rustic experience, look for cottages or country houses in the Skåne region. Many farms there are pet-friendly and allow your dog to experience the true Swedish countryside. I found that Airbnbs can be a bit expensive and limited, but the hosts are usually very friendly once you find a spot that accepts pets.
Camping is perhaps the most popular way to see Sweden with a dog. Many travelers drive their own campervans or rent them for the summer. Most campsites permit dogs for free and even offer “dog bars” and treats at the front desk. I stayed at a campground in Rättvik that had a dedicated dog beach just a few steps away.
Dog-friendly Dining in Sweden
Dining can be a bit tricky because dogs are often not allowed inside restaurants. This is usually out of courtesy to people with allergies. However, I never had a problem finding a seat at an outdoor table during the summer. Staff members were always understanding and often brought out a bowl of water without me even asking.
In Stockholm, some places go the extra mile. Artilleriet has a separate menu just for dogs!. They can enjoy a treat while you have a Scandinavian lunch inside the Army Museum. Brostugan on the way to Drottningholm also offers meatballs and sausages for four-legged guests.
Gothenburg has some gems too. Brewdog serves a special non-alcoholic dog beer called the Subwoofer. At Flickorna på Färjenäs, dogs are treated as VIP guests and get homemade dog food upon arrival. If you are looking for a quick lunch, the PicaDeli salad bars at supermarkets are perfect for a picnic in the park.
Dog-friendly Things to Do in Sweden
Nature is the biggest attraction here. I took a boat trip to Drottningholm Palace on the outskirts of Stockholm. While dogs cannot go inside the palace, they are allowed on the beautiful grounds for free. There is even an off-leash dog island where my pup ran until he was tired.
For winter lovers, Abisko National Park in Lapland is a paradise. You can hike the Kungsleden trail or enjoy the absolute silence of the Arctic wilderness. If you are lucky, you might spot the Northern Lights with your dog by your side. Just remember that the rules for dogs in national parks can change depending on the time of year.
In the summer, swimming is the main event. Sweden has thousands of lakes and a massive coastline. Many beaches have sections reserved for dogs. I loved the sandy dog beach at Skanör on the southern tip of the country. The water was clear and refreshing. Joy. Splashes. Freedom.
I also visited the ancient rock carvings in Tanum. Dog Friendly Sweden are welcome to join you as you walk between the sites dating back to the Bronze Age. It was a wonderful way to combine a bit of history with our daily exercise.
Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in Sweden
Camping in a tent was one of my favorite experiences. It allowed me to see a different side of my dog’s personality. Most Swedish campgrounds are very enthusiastic about pets. They often have great facilities like agility parks and nearby trails.
I recommend bringing a 3-meter lead for the campsite. This gives your dog space to move without getting too close to neighbors. A special worm-shaped peg is also useful for securing the leash in open fields. Choose a tent with a large covered area at the front so your dog can stay cool and protected from the weather.
We stayed at a site near Lake Siljan in central Sweden. The atmosphere was so relaxed. I saw many other families with their dogs, all enjoying the long summer evenings. It felt like a true community of nature lovers.
Dog-friendly Beaches and Lakes in Sweden
Sweden is famous for its “Fish Church” or Feskekörka in Gothenburg, but the real treasures are the lakes. I found that most lakes have segmented signs showing where dogs can swim. Lake Siljan was a highlight of my trip. The water was calm and perfect for a dog who is just learning to paddle.
On the coast, the Stockholm Archipelago offers endless opportunities. I took a Stromma excursion boat out to the islands. Dogs are allowed on the outside decks for free. We explored small islands and found quiet spots where my dog could jump into the Baltic Sea.
Dog-friendly Public Transport in Sweden
Public transport in Sweden is some of the best I have ever used. Dogs are allowed on almost everything!. In Stockholm and Gothenburg, pets of all sizes travel for free on the metro, buses, and trams. You just need to keep them on a leash or in a carrier.
I learned to look for the dog symbols on the outside of the trains. Usually, every second carriage on the Stockholm metro allows pets. On buses and trams, you should generally sit at the rear of the vehicle to help people with allergies.
If you take a long-distance train with SJ, you must reserve a seat in the “Animals Permitted” section. I once sat in a section with six dogs and two cats! Everyone was so well-behaved. It was a long journey, but the pets just ignored each other and slept the whole way.
Practical Tips for Dog-Friendly Travel in Sweden
You must know the local laws to be a responsible traveler. One of the most famous rules is that you should walk your dog every 6 hours during the day. If you work or go to a museum, you might need a pet sitter or a daycare center. Swedes believe a dog needs social contact and regular exercise to be happy.
Strict liability applies here too. This means you are always responsible for any damage your dog causes, no matter what happened. Make sure your home insurance covers this before you leave. Also, your dog must be ID-tagged with a microchip and registered.
I suggest avoiding leaving your dog alone outside shops. It is not a common practice here, and your dog could be stolen or feel threatened by strangers. Instead, plan your day so your dog can always be with you or safe at your accommodation.
Lastly, bring waste bags everywhere you go. It is essential to clean up after your Dog Friendly Sweden to respect the environment and your fellow travelers. Swedes take great pride in their clean cities and parks, and we should too.
Sweden is more than just a place to visit. It is a journey into a culture that truly loves its four-legged friends. From the pine forests of the north to the busy streets of Stockholm, you will find a warm welcome. Pack your bags. Grab the leash. Your adventure is waiting.
FAQ
Are dogs allowed in shops in Sweden?
Many shops and cafes in Sweden are very welcoming to pets. You should still check for signs at the entrance of specific places like pharmacies or food stores where dogs might be restricted.
Can I take a dog to Sweden?
You can bring your dog to Sweden if you follow the correct steps for movement. Your pet needs a microchip, a rabies vaccine, and a valid pet passport. You must also report your animal to Swedish Customs upon arrival.
How are dogs treated in Sweden?
Swedes treat their dogs as equal family members. The culture is very inclusive and pets are given a lot of affection.
How pet friendly is Sweden?
Sweden is a true haven for dog owners seeking adventure. For example, about 53% of hotels in Stockholm were found to be pet-friendly in a 2025 survey.
Are swedes ok for dogs?
Swedes love their pets and often incorporate them into their daily adventures. This love is shown by the fact that 95% of dogs in Sweden have health insurance.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Sweden?
Dogs are generally not allowed inside rooms where food is prepared or handled. However, many restaurant owners allow pets in the service areas or at outdoor tables. Some places even offer a special dog menu.
Is it illegal to leave a dog alone for 6 hours in Sweden?
Swedish law states that you must take your dog for a walk at least every six hours during the day. You must ensure your dog has social contact with people for a few hours each day.
Which country is safe for dogs?
Sweden is an ideal and safe choice for owners because of its respect for animals. The country has strict rules to protect pets from suffering and disease.
Concluding Words
Sweden is a paradise for dogs and their owners. You can enjoy public transport, luxury hotels, and the beautiful countryside together with your pet.
You must follow local laws, such as the six-hour walking rule and leash requirements in nature. Respect for animals and nature makes every trip here a joy for the whole family.
