The first time I decided to cross the Channel with my furry best friend, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and pure dread. Planning Dog Friendly Holidays in France seemed like a mountain too high to climb. Would the border officers turn us away? Would the French trains reject my 25-kilogram Golden Retriever? I had so many questions. France, as it turns out, is a paradise for pets if you know the secret handshakes. I have traveled back and forth many times now. Every trip teaches me something new. A hassle? Perhaps. A joy? Absolutely. My dog, Ella, has seen more of the French countryside than many humans.
First of all, you must realize that a stress-free trip starts months before you even see the Eiffel Tower. The days of simple pet passports for those of us Planning dog friendly holidays in france from uk are gone. You now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This document is your golden ticket. I learned the hard way that you must get this from an “Official Veterinarian” within 10 days of your departure date. It is not a suggestion. It is a strict requirement. Your dog also needs a microchip and a valid rabies vaccination. Additionally, you must wait at least 21 days after the rabies shot before that certificate can even be issued. Do not leave this to the last minute. I once saw a family at the port turned away because their paperwork was 48 hours early. Heartbreaking.
The journey across is the next big hurdle. Most travelers I meet prefer the Eurotunnel or a ferry. The Eurotunnel LeShuttle is a dream for anxious dogs. It takes only 35 minutes. You stay in your car with your pet. No separation. No stress. However, some of my friends love the ferry. Brittany Ferries offers pet-friendly cabins on certain routes. These cabins are a life-changer. You get two to four berths, a window with a view, and a private bathroom. Ella usually just sleeps the whole voyage away on the floor. On top of that, the ferry staff often give out “puppy packs” with water bowls. If your dog stays in the car during a ferry crossing, make sure the windows are slightly open for a cool breeze. Plus, you can often go down to the car deck halfway through to refill water and offer a quick pat.
Once you land in Calais, the real adventure begins. Best places to visit in France with a dog often include the northern coasts or the lush river valleys. I often head straight to Brittany. This region is famously welcoming. Dog friendly accommodation Brittany, France is everywhere, from rustic stone houses to luxury villas. I once stayed at an ancient 14th-century Priory with a completely secure garden. A fenced yard is vital. It allows you to relax while your dog explores new smells. Similarly, the Dordogne offers Pet-friendly accommodation with fenced garden in France that overlooks winding rivers. I highly recommend looking for Dog friendly villas in France with private pool if you travel in the summer. The heat in the south can be intense. Statistical data for January 2026 suggests temperatures will range from 4°C to 12°C in the north, but the summer is a different beast entirely.
Dogs in France rules are generally more relaxed than in the UK, but there are lines you must not cross. First of all, public transport has very specific tiers. Small dogs weighing less than 6kg can usually travel in a bag or basket for a flat fee of €7 on SNCF trains. Gradually, I realized that large dogs are also welcome, but they have a tougher time. My large dog needs a ticket that costs 50% of a second-class fare. She must wear a muzzle and stay at my feet the whole time. Therefore, you should practice muzzle training at home before you leave. Also, category 1 “attack dogs” like Pit Bulls or Mastiffs are strictly forbidden on all public transport. This is a non-negotiable law in France.
Paris is a city of contrasts for dog owners. I love walking Ella along the Canal Saint Martin. It is a local favorite. However, you must keep a close eye on the rules for parks. Many city parks in Paris do not allow dogs on the grass. Some do not allow them at all. Dog friendly Hotels France Map searches will show you that staying near the Bois de Vincennes is a smart move. This massive wood has lakes and paths where your dog can finally stretch those legs. Additionally, if you visit between April 15 and June 30, your dog must stay on a leash in all woods and forests. This rule protects nesting birds. A fine of up to €750 awaits anyone who lets their dog go “off-road” during these months. Later, once July hits, the rules relax, but you must still keep your pet within 100 meters of you.
A trip to France is not complete without a visit to a vineyard. Saint-Émilion is one of the Best places to visit in France with a dog for wine lovers. Many châteaux are incredibly welcoming. Château Cantenac is a family-run estate where dogs are treated like royalty. I took a private “Prestige tour” there, and Ella sat right by my side during the wine tasting. Similarly, Couvent des Jacobins is located right inside the medieval walls of the village. They even have a tuk-tuk that accepts dogs to whisk you off to the vines. On the contrary, do not expect to bring your pet on a large group tour. Most tour companies prefer private visits if a dog is involved.
Dog-friendly beaches in France are another highlight. There are 267 dog-friendly beaches across the country. In the Alpes-Maritimes, you will find 37 spots. Menton has two great beaches, including one near the Italian border. However, summer access is often restricted. Many public beaches only allow dogs before 8 am or after 8 pm during July and August. I found Wissant, just 25 minutes from Calais, to be perfect because its three beaches stay open to dogs all year. Plus, if you head to the French Riviera, look for Plage Ange Gardien in Villefranche-sur-Mer. It is a pebbly paradise where your pooch can frolic without fear of retribution.
Doggy dining is where France truly shines. Unlike the UK, many French bistros and cafes welcome dogs inside. I have sat in many a Parisian bakery with Ella tucked under the table. A user named malv3rn_s4mway once said, “Paris loves dogs, you will be accepted everywhere”. Though this is mostly true, you should always ask “Bonjour, est-ce que le chien est permis?” before entering. First of all, keep your dog under the table and out of the way of waiters. I once saw a waiter in a busy restaurant turn away a couple because there simply was no physical space for the dog. Therefore, a small dog that can sit on your lap has a much easier time. Also, avoid Michelin-starred spots. Stick to the local brasseries. If you are in Brittany, visit Crêperie du Temps Passé for amazing pancakes in a dog-friendly setting.
A few more practical tips will make your trip seamless. First of all, check the rules on dog food. Since Brexit, you generally cannot bring meat-based dog food or treats from the UK into the EU. I usually stop at a supermarket near the port in Calais to buy Ella’s dinner for the week. Additionally, you must visit a French vet between 24 and 120 hours before your return to the UK. They must administer a tapeworm treatment and sign your AHC. If you miss this window, you will not be allowed back on the train or ferry.
FAQ
Where to go on holiday in France with a dog?
A trip to Paris, Lyon, or Brittany is a top choice for pet owners. Normandy is also great because it has many pebbly beaches and lush forests. The Dordogne offers quiet spots where a dog can take in all the new smells. Similarly, the Alpes-Maritimes and Var regions have dozens of beaches that welcome pets during the summer.
Is France very dog-friendly?
Yes. France is famous for a relaxed approach to pets in public. Most trains, buses, and eateries allow dogs to join their owners. In many cities, people treat dogs like royalty. Therefore, a pet will feel right at home in a French bistro or on a city walk.
Can I take my dog to France on the Eurotunnel?
Yes. This is a very popular way for those Planning dog friendly holidays in france from uk. The journey takes only 35 minutes. You stay in your car with your pet for the whole trip. It is a fast and easy choice for an anxious animal.
Can dogs stay in hotels in France?
Yes. Many well-known hotels are dog-friendly. You can even find QUALIDOG-certified spots that give a “Wow” welcome to pets. Some hotels offer views of the sea and lead straight to a beach. On top of that, some places provide special equipment like dog bowls.
Can dogs ride Paris metro?
Yes. Small dogs in a bag or basket travel for free. Since November 2019, even large dogs travel for free on the metro and RER. They must stay on a leash and wear a muzzle at all times. However, large dogs are not allowed on buses.
Can dogs go in restaurants in France?
Yes. Local bistros, brasseries, and bakeries are usually happy to see a pet. A small dog can sit on your lap so they stay out of the way. Larger dogs are often welcome if the place has an outside seating area. A user named WitnessTheBadger said, “Most restaurants accept well behaved dogs”.
Can I take my dog on a ferry?
Yes. Companies like Brittany Ferries offer several options. You can book a pet-friendly cabin or a kennel. Some routes require your dog to stay in the car. Plus, some cabins even have a view of the sea.
Can I fly to Paris with my dog?
A flight to France with a pet is very complex. Most people prefer to use a car and a ferry or the tunnel. If you choose to fly, you must check the specific rules of your airline. Additionally, your dog must enter through a designated point of entry.
Can dogs go up the Eiffel Tower?
They do note that the top of the tower will be closed for repairs from January 5 to February 6, 2026. A visit to the very top is not possible for anyone at that time.
What are the new rules for taking a dog to France?
A dog now needs an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead of a UK pet passport. The animal must have a microchip and a rabies vaccination. You must wait at least 21 days after the rabies shot before you can travel. Finally, a vet in France must give a tapeworm treatment 1 to 5 days before you return to the UK.
Concluding words
Planning Dog Friendly Holidays in France is a great way to bond with your pet. A successful trip requires a valid Animal Health Certificate, a microchip, and a rabies shot. You can choose to cross the sea by Eurotunnel or a pet-friendly ferry.
France welcomes dogs in many hotels, restaurants, and even on public transport in Paris. Preparation is the secret to a stress-free and happy holiday for everyone.
