Vivid green forests. Breathtaking views of majestic mountains. The captivating Bay of Kotor. Curvy roads and pristine nature. Traveling through Montenegro with a dog feels like finding a wild paradise. I have spent a long time exploring this Eastern European hidden gem with my furry companions.
It is a country that translates to Black Mountain, and it attracts nature lovers from all over the world. You might wonder, is Dog Friendly Montenegro a reality or a dream? I have lived a fabulous life here as a dog traveler, and I want to share every detail with you.
The landscape is small enough that you can drive across it in one afternoon. However, you should not just skim through it. You must absorb the essence of the place. From the Adriatic Sea to the deep river gorges, the variety is stunning.
I have made my mark in medieval towns like Budva and Kotor. I have also trekked through the snowy peaks of Durmitor National Park. This guide will help you navigate the rules, find the best spots, and enjoy a stress-free trip with your best friend.
The Essential Paperwork and Rules for Your Entry
First of all, you must understand that pet friendly montenegro requires careful planning. It is not as simple as a quick trip within the EU. Montenegro is considered a high-rabies-risk country by many other nations.
Therefore, the paperwork is a bit of a hassle. You must plan far in advance. The whole process can take at least 4 months, and sometimes up to 7 months if you have a young puppy.
You need a few specific things to enter the country legally. A microchip is the first requirement. You must get the microchip implanted before or on the same day as the rabies vaccination. If you do it after, the vaccine does not count for travel.
Your pet must be at least 3 months old to get the rabies shot. Additionally, a veterinary certificate from your country of origin is mandatory. This certificate must not be older than 3 months.
The biggest hurdle is the rabies titer test. You must have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies shot. This sample goes to an EU-approved lab. The result must show an antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/ml. After the blood draw, you must wait 3 months before you can travel into the UK or other EU countries from Montenegro.
Similarly, many travelers ask about other destinations. Is Montreal dog friendly? Yes, but the urban rules there differ greatly from the rugged Balkan paths. Can I take my dog to Morocco or is morocco dog friendly? Those are common questions, but the entry requirements for Morocco also involve strict health certificates and titer tests. Dog Friendly Montenegro is a unique adventure compared to those spots. Always keep your pet passport and vaccination records handy.
Statistical Data and Costs for Pet Travel
Budgeting is important for any traveler. I have tracked the costs to help you plan.
- Microchip: 5 to 10 Euros.
- Vaccines: Approximately 30 Euros.
- Titer Test: Between 120 and 150 Euros, depending on the vet and courier.
- Veterinary Inspector Certificate: A maximum of 30 Euros.
- Worming Tablets: 5 to 10 Euros.
- Boarding: Daily rates can be 15 to 20 Euros, while monthly foster care might cost 80 to 150 Euros.
The law is also very strict about your responsibilities. The Animal Welfare Law of 2008 and 2015 regulates how you treat your animals. You must provide enough feed, water, and space. If you do not deal with your dog with due diligence, you can face a fine.
These fines range from 800 Euros to 25,000 Euros for legal entities. For individuals, the fine is between 60 Euros and 3,000 Euros. Therefore, follow the rules closely to stay safe.
Getting Around: Ferries, Buses, and Cars
The montenegro travel with dog experience involves many types of transport. I found that the best way to move between major cities like Dubrovnik and Budva is by ferry. Seasonal high-speed catamarans run from June to September. The trip from Dubrovnik to Budva takes about 2 hours. If you go to Kotor, it takes 3 hours.
You can travel with your pet on these ferries for an extra fee of 10 Euros per pet. However, there are rules to follow. Cats must stay in carriers. Dogs must be on a leash and wear a muzzle at all times. Additionally, dogs cannot exceed 60 cm in length or 50 cm in height. Note that these ferries do not have car decks.
Buses are a popular way for locals and tourists to get around. They are usually punctual and cover major hotspots. Whether dogs are allowed is often up to the driver. Small dogs in carriers are usually fine. However, some drivers might be unhappy or refuse large dogs.
Taxis are another option. Most reputable companies are okay with small dogs if you call ahead. A taxi from Podgorica Airport to Kotor costs around 60 to 80 Euros.
If you prefer the train, small dogs usually travel for free. Larger dogs are often allowed if they are leashed and muzzled. The train system offers scenic views of the mountains and valleys. On the contrary, trains are notorious for delays and lack of punctuality. Therefore, bring snacks and water for your pup in case of a long wait.
Where to Stay: Dog Friendly Accommodations
Finding a place to rest your head is easy in resort towns. Dog Friendly Kotor and pet friendly montenegro stays are quite common because these areas depend on tourism. I have stayed in luxurious apartments and cozy cottages alike.
In Kotor, Hotel Casa del Mare – Amfora allows dogs of any size for no extra fee. I also recommend Apartment House 91, which provides food and water bowls for your furry friend. If you are in Budva, the Dukley Hotel & Resort is exceptional. It has a beachfront location and a high review rating of 9.2. They even have a designated dog exercise area.
Other great options in Budva include:
- Hotel Majestic: Offers an outstanding breakfast and a great location.
- Hotel Opera Jaz: A pet-friendly choice near the beach.
- Hotel Oaza: Provides bowls and a welcoming environment for pets.
Additionally, Airbnb hosts are often very open to dog travelers. I found that about 90% of hosts said yes to my small dog. On the top of that, many places do not even charge an extra pet fee. Always check the filters on booking sites to find the “Pet Friendly” section.
Dining Out with Your Dog
Dog Friendly Montenegro is surprisingly welcoming when it comes to food and drink. Almost all cafes and restaurants have “dog friendly” signs. I have walked into many joints and sat my dog right on a human chair. It is much cheaper than Western Europe, too.
In the capital city, Podgorica, you must visit Coffee Base. It is a hidden gem that welcomes pets and laptops. They have a huge garden that is perfect for relaxing in nature. You should try their famous Portuguese pastel de nata. The staff is very friendly and will guide you through the specialty coffee menu with a smile.
However, the law states that dogs are generally not allowed indoors at eateries. Patios and outdoor terraces are the best bet. Luckily, the warm climate makes dining outside a pleasure. You might even see a group of friendly cats waiting at the tables to get to know you. On the contrary, entering grocery stores with a dog is strictly prohibited. Most supermarkets now have a special place outside where you can leave your dog.
Exploring the Sun and Sand: Dog Friendly Beaches
One of the best parts of a montenegro with dog trip is the beach life. There are seven official pet-friendly beaches on the coast. They offer swimming, lounging, and even stand-up paddling.
Here are the locations you should visit:
- Herceg Novi: Beach 13C is on the “Pet Danica” promenade below the Military Hospital.
- Kotor: The Benovo beach (11B) welcomes dogs.
- Tivat: Visit the Kukoljina beach (8A1) near the airport.
- Budva: There are two spots. One is in the center of Slovenska beach (8F). The other is at the eastern end of Buljarica beach (27L).
- Bar: The Topolica beach (8A) near the railway bridge is the place to go.
- Ulcinj: The Mojito beach (10J) is in the center of the famous Long Beach.
Plus, there is a free location for dogs in Budva on the coast between Hotel Avala and Mogren Beach. Always clean up after your pet on the beach. Swimming on public beaches that are not marked for pets is strictly forbidden. You can be fined up to 500 Euros for violating these rules.
Hiking in the Great National Parks
Montenegro has five incredible national parks that are perfect for montenegro travel with dog. I found the nature here to be truly untouched. Biogradska Gora is one of the last large virgin rainforests in Europe. Some trees there are 500 years old. We walked to the Bendovac viewpoint and saw the glacial Biogradsko Lake twinkling like a gem below us.
Durmitor National Park is another must-see. The Black Lake (Crno Jezero) is stunning. You can take a path that loops around the entire lake. The water is an incredible blue. Foxy, one of my dogs, loved swimming while her sister Amy watched from the shore. Note that these mountains can get very cold even in August, so pack warm clothes.
Other highlights include:
- Lovćen National Park: Home to the Njegoš Mausoleum on a high peak. The 360-degree views are breathtaking.
- Prokletije National Park: Features steep cliffs and the stunning Morača River Canyon. You can camp almost anywhere if you buy a ticket.
- Skadar Lake: Perfect for boat tours or wine tasting in the nearby village of Virpazar.
Though the parks are beautiful, you must be careful. Wildlife includes wolves, bears, and many snakes. I once ran into a snake in a field of nettles that would not go away. Therefore, keep your dog close on the trails. Additionally, do not drink or feed your dog tap water. It is often not safe, especially after it rains. Always use bottled water or canisters.
The Stray Dog Situation and Rescue Stories
While you explore, you will notice many stray dogs. Some are very friendly, but others can be aggressive. I met a little black-and-tan stray in Biogradska Gora. She followed us on a five-hour hike. She had a sweet puppy smell and a habit of resting her paw on your arm. We named her Kira. She stole our hearts, and we almost took her home.
However, taking a stray out of Dog Friendly Montenegro is difficult. You need the rabies antibody test, and the process takes at least four months. Kira eventually decided she did not want to get into our truck. She sat like a Sphinx in the sun as we drove away. It was a sad goodbye, but she chose the life that suited her.
The country has a big problem with street animals. The law says that any person who finds a stray must inform a shelter. Shelters must receive these reports and provide veterinary protection. If a pet is not claimed within 15 days, it can be put up for adoption. If it is not adopted within 30 days, the law allows for it to be killed. This is a harsh reality that many animal lovers find difficult to see.
Health and Grooming Services
If your dog needs help, there are many private clinics. MontVet in Podgorica is the most recommended pet clinic in the country. They have professional English-speaking veterinarians and expert diagnostics. Vet Medica in Budva is another great spot. They are responsive and have high ratings.
Pricing for services is generally lower than in other European countries.
- Initial Examination: From 10 Euros.
- Sterilization: From 70 Euros.
- Rabies Vaccination: 30 Euros.
- Blood Test: 10 Euros.
Grooming is available, but be careful. I had a bad experience where a groomer accidentally punctured my dog’s butt with scissors. It was a standard cut that cost 20 USD, but my dog was terrified. Always check reviews before booking any service. On the contrary, buying pet supplies is easy. Large supermarkets have departments for food and litter. Specialty pet stores offer toys, beds, and special diets.
FAQ
Are there any dog friendly beaches in Montenegro?
Yes, I found that there are seven official pet-friendly beaches along the coast. You can find these spots in towns such as Herceg Novi, Tivat, Kotor, Budva, Bar, and Ulcinj. Additionally, there is a free location for dogs in Budva on the coast between the Hotel Avala and Mogren Beach.
Are dogs allowed on buses in Montenegro?
Small pets like cats or small dogs are usually allowed if you keep them in a carrier. However, the final choice belongs to the individual bus driver. Plus, I noticed that some drivers might be visibly unhappy about having animals on their bus.
Is Kotor dog friendly?
Yes, Kotor is very pet friendly. You can stay at places like Hotel Casa del Mare – Amfora, which allows dogs of any size for no extra fee. You can also walk your dog through the historic Old Town without any trouble.
Can I bring my dog to Montenegro?
You can certainly bring your dog, but you must have a microchip and a rabies vaccination. You also need a veterinary certificate from your home country that is not older than three months. Additionally, you will likely need a rabies titer test to return to low-rabies countries in the future.
What do I need to know before going to Montenegro?
First of all, you should know that tap water is not safe for you or your dog after it rains. You also must watch out for ticks in the grass and forests. Finally, be aware that many roads are a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, which can be very hard on dog paws.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
I found that Montenegro is a wild paradise and a great choice for people who want to travel with dogs in a van. The nature and mountains provide a perfect setting for an active trip with your pets.
Concluding Words
To make your trip perfect, remember a few more things. Ticks are a real issue in the grass and forests. I had to remove one from my dog’s belly, and it was quite scary. Use routine tick treatments to stay safe. Also, watch out for construction sites. Montenegro is developing fast, and some roads are filled with gravel that can be harsh on furry paws.
Finally, be patient with the locals. They are generally laid-back and polite. A simple “Dobar dan” (Good day) goes a long way. If you are looking for long-term housing, be honest with your real estate agent. Create a “Dog Resume” with a photo and a story about your pet’s behavior.
Offering a pet deposit can also show that you are a serious and responsible owner.
Gradually, you will find your rhythm in this beautiful country. The air is fresh. The mountains are massive. The tails are wagging. Montenegro is a place where you and your dog can create memories that last a lifetime. It is truly a hidden gem waiting for you to explore.
Imagine that traveling through Montenegro with your dog is like navigating a beautiful, wild garden that has a few hidden thorns. You must have the right tools and a map to avoid the prickles, but once you find the clear paths, the blooming flowers and tall trees make the whole journey worth the effort.
