I love the mountains. I love the crisp air of the Pyrenees. Most of all, I love sharing these moments with my dog. I recently spent a lot of time exploring the small country of Andorra. It is a tiny place tucked between Spain and France.
Many people ask me, is andorra in the eu? No, it is not part of the European Union, but it does use the Euro as its money. This land-locked country is only 468 square kilometers in size. It is a paradise for people who love the outdoors. I found it to be a very welcoming place for pets.
I often think about my other travels too. I remember traveling to Albania with a dog last year. I found that albania pet friendly spots were quite common in the larger cities. However, you must always be careful.
You should know What to Do If Your Pet Gets Lost in Albania before you go. If you are ever lost in albania, you should contact local animal groups immediately. It is vital to know what to do if your pet goes missing no matter where you are.
I always keep a plan for what to do if your pet is lost. You might even need to know what to do if you find a lost pet owned by someone else. But today, I want to give you A guide to dogs in Andorra.
Essential Rules for Taking Dogs to Andorra
You can bring your dog into Andorra quite easily if you follow the rules. First of all, your pet must have a microchip. This chip must follow specific ISO standards. I made sure my dog had his chip before we left home.
Additionally, a valid rabies vaccine is mandatory. You must get this vaccine at least 21 days before you arrive. Taking dogs to andorra requires the right paperwork. If you live in the European Union, you need a pet passport. For those from other countries, an official health certificate from a government vet is necessary.
I noticed that age matters here. Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old to get their rabies shot. Therefore, the youngest a puppy can enter the country is about 15 weeks old. You can bring up to five dogs with you for a personal trip. If you have more than five, you might face different rules for commercial transport.
How to Get There
Andorra does not have its own airport. You must travel by road. I usually drive from Barcelona or Toulouse. Both cities are about three hours away by bus or car. If you use a bus, you must check the rules.
For example, the Andbus service allows small dogs in carriers. These carriers must be no larger than 45 by 35 by 25 centimeters. Plus, the animal must weigh less than 10 kilograms to travel in the luggage area. I prefer driving my own car. It gives me more freedom to stop for potty breaks.
Local Laws and Responsibilities
You must be a responsible owner in Andorra. Dogs should stay on a leash in public spaces. I always carry extra bags to clean up after my dog. In some areas, you even need to dilute dog urine with water. This helps keep the streets clean and smelling fresh.
I learned about the strict rules for noise too. You can get a fine if your dog barks too much at night. Fines can be €200 for noise during the late evening. The penalty goes up to €300 if the barking happens between midnight and 6 AM. It is important to respect the peace of the neighbors.
Dangerous Dog Breeds
The government has a list of specific andorra dog breeds that it considers potentially dangerous. This list includes 15 breeds.
- American Akita
- Doberman
- Rottweiler
- Argentine Dogo
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Tosa-inu
If you own one of these breeds, you must follow extra rules. These dogs must always wear a muzzle in public. You must also use a short, non-extensible leash of no more than 1.5 meters.
On top of that, owners of these breeds must be adults and have no criminal record related to dogs. You also need special insurance and documents showing you finished a training course.
The Best Hiking Trails for You and Your Dog
Andorra is famous for its trails. I spent weeks walking through the valleys. The mountains offer views that are simply stunning.
Easy Routes for All Dogs
The Camí de l’Obac in the Incles Valley is a favorite of mine. It is 2.94 kilometers long. The path is almost flat with only 53 meters of elevation gain.
It follows a river through woods and meadows. Another great choice is the circular route in Sorteny Natural Park. This one is 2.3 kilometers long and very flat. It is perfect for observing butterflies and rare plants.
I also took a walk in the Menairons forest. This trail is near the village of Pal. It is very easy and well-marked. Children love it because they can look for clues about forest spirits. After the walk, I visited the village of Pal itself.
It has beautiful stone houses and traditional wood architecture. It is a very quiet place for a stroll with a pet.
Moderate and Challenging Hikes
If your dog has more energy, try the Tristaina Lakes route. It is about 5 kilometers long. It connects three glacial lakes. The views are breathtaking.
For a longer day, the Engolasters Lake path is 13 kilometers long. It passes through a botanical garden and old charcoal kilns.
The most difficult trail I found was the Canillo Circular Route. It is 24 kilometers long. You should only try this if you and your dog are in great shape.
I also enjoyed the hike to Estanyó Lake. This starts in the Sorteny nature park. It takes about four hours for the round trip. The path climbs 200 meters through a forest.
Tips for Mountain Safety
I always pack a few items before hitting the trail. Hydration is key. I carry plenty of water for myself and my dog. I avoid the hottest hours of the day during the summer. The sun can be very strong in the mountains.
You should check the terrain too. Sharp rocks or hot pavement can hurt a dog’s paws. I sometimes use special wax or boots to protect my dog’s pads.
Additionally, I keep him on a leash when we are near cows or sheep. I do not want him to bother the farm animals. Similarly, I stay away from working shepherd dogs. These dogs are there to do a job. They may not want to play with your pet.
Dog-Friendly Places in the City
The capital, Andorra la Vella, is very walkable. I spent many afternoons wandering the streets. I visited the Noblesse du Temps sculpture by Salvador Dali. The Plaça del Poble is the main square. It has many outdoor cafes where dogs can sit with you.
I also liked Parc Central and Parc Gran del Colat. These parks have green spaces where dogs can relax. I saw many happy dogs at the local food markets. If you want a great view, go to the Mirador Roc del Quer.
It is a walkway that hangs out over the mountains. It has a glass floor that makes you feel like you are floating. It is 100% dog-friendly.
Where to Eat and Sleep
Finding a hotel in Andorra is not hard. Many places allow pets. I recommend checking Airbnb or booking.com to filter for pet-friendly spots.
Some places, like Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, are designed for families with dogs. They are located right at the foot of the mountains. I paid a small extra fee of €10 per night for my dog there.
The Roc Blanc Hotel is another luxury option. They charge €19 per night and even provide a water bowl and a bed. However, they do not want you to leave your pet alone in the room. The Grand Plaza Hotel also welcomes dogs, but they do not allow dangerous breeds.
When I am hungry, I look for “Bordas.” These are traditional mountain houses turned into restaurants. Some good ones that allow dogs include:
- Borda Eulari in Anyós
- La Borda del Tremat in Encamp
- Borda D’Erts in Erts
- L’Ovella Negra on the Vall d’Incles road
Luxury and Special Services
Andorra offers some unique experiences for dogs. I was surprised to find a dog spa called GosSwim. They have a heated pool for hydrotherapy.
Another place, Spa Caní d’Andorra, offers mud masks and thermal water treatments. I think my dog enjoyed his “blueberry facial” at Peluquería Canina Luxe.
If you love shopping, visit ByMascota. They sell designer collars and warm winter gear. For snacks, I went to Barkery Andorra.
They make biscuits with local honey. You can even go on a truffle hunting tour with trained dogs. In the winter, some ski resorts like Grandvalira have paw waxing stations to protect against the snow.
Health and Emergencies
It is good to know where the vets are. Centre Veterinari d’Andorra offers care 24 hours a day. I also visited Vets Fontblanca in La Massana. They have modern equipment for x-rays and surgery. They even offer physical therapy for dogs. You can call them at +376 840 810.
If you want to adopt a dog while you are there, look into GosSOS or Laika. These groups rescue abandoned animals. They make sure every dog is healthy and ready for a new home.
Living the Life
Some people love Andorra so much they decide to stay. I met a man named Jase who moved there years ago. He said the cost of living is quite fair. A coffee costs about €1.40 and a beer is €1.50. The internet is very fast too. He enjoys hiking every day right from his front door.
The residency process can be a bit long. It might take six months to get everything done. You usually need to show you have enough money and a clean criminal record. But for many, the safety and beauty of the country are worth the effort.
Andorra is truly a special place. A dream for hikers. A haven for dogs. I hope this guide helps you plan your next trip. Pack your bags. Grab the leash. The mountains are waiting.
FAQ
Is Andorra dog friendly?
Yes, it is a wonderful place for dogs. Many people consider it a paradise for nature lovers. You will find that most hotels and many restaurants allow pets to join you. Additionally, the country offers plenty of outdoor spaces and trails for exercise.
Is Andorra a strict country?
It can be quite strict about certain rules. For example, you can face a €300 fine if your dog barks too much between midnight and 6 AM. There are also very specific laws for dangerous breeds, such as the American Akita or Rottweiler. These dogs must always wear a muzzle and a short leash.
What is Andorra most famous for?
This country is famous for the Pyrenees mountains and its beautiful scenery. People also visit for duty-free shopping and excellent ski resorts. On top of that, it is known as a safe place with a very high number of police officers per person.
Can I speak English in Andorra?
Yes, you can use English in many situations. While Catalan is the official language, many people also speak Spanish and French. I found that most workers in tourism are happy to speak English to help visitors.
What are the disadvantages of living in Andorra?
One big downside is that it is hard to get items shipped there. You may have to pay high custom fees even if there is no tax. Also, it is a three-hour drive to the nearest major airports in Spain or France. Plus, the government rules are not always clearly documented in a way that is easy to find.
What is the prettiest place in Andorra?
The village of Pal is widely considered one of the most beautiful spots. I also think the Vall d’Incles is stunning because of its picturesque meadows and mountain lakes. For a great view, the Mirador Roc del Quer offers an unbelievable look at the valleys.
What is the main food in Andorra?
The main food is traditional mountain cuisine. You should eat at a Borda, which is a rustic restaurant inside an old stone house. They serve local dishes that are perfect after a long hike.
How many days in Andorra is enough?
A day trip is enough if you just want to see the capital city. However, some travelers stay for four weeks to enjoy the life there. Most visitors find that three to five days is a good amount of time to see the main trails and villages.
Concluding Words
Andorra is a top-tier choice for any pet owner who loves the mountains. You must ensure your dog has a microchip and a valid rabies vaccine before you cross the border. There are beautiful trails in the Vall d’Incles and the Sorteny Natural Park that are perfect for dogs of all sizes.
Respect the local laws about leashes and noise to avoid expensive fines. Stay in a pet-friendly apartment like Els Llacs to make your trip comfortable. This small country offers a mix of adventure and luxury for you and your best friend.
