I have visited Italy on three separate occasions with my pup, and I can tell you that it is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in all of Europe. While some people think German-speaking countries are the top spot for pets, Italy offers even more places to explore with a dog. Rules here are often quite relaxed. A dream come true? Absolutely. I want to share my journey and the deep details of Dog Friendly Flights to Italy – Airlines, Rules, and Tips so that you can plan your own adventure without the stress.
Why You Should Choose Italy for Your Dog
You will find that Italy is incredibly welcoming to our four-legged friends. I have taken my Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, across the country, and the experience was hands-down amazing. Unlike some other parts of Europe, you can often take your dog into clothing stores, malls, and even some grocery stores. In the city of Turin, I even saw dogs inside the local market, though they had to stay on the floor.
Italy dog friendly? It is more than just a phrase; it is a way of life there. I even saw an elderly man in Florence feeding his dog expensive steak at his feet in a market hall!. You will find that most restaurants and cafes allow dogs inside, though you should always check with the waiter first. If the weather is nice, sitting outside is a great option, and the owners usually appreciate it. Italy is the perfect place for a mature traveler who does not want to leave their best friend behind.
Can I Fly to Italy with My Dog? The Big Question
You might wonder, can I fly to Italy with my dog? The answer is a big yes. However, the process requires careful planning. You must follow the same basic rules that apply to other EU countries. If you are coming from the USA, you will need to handle a good amount of paperwork.
Can I travel to Italy with my dog without a plan? No. You need to start the process at least two to four weeks before your flight. This time allows for crate training, vaccinations, and getting all your documents in order. Can I take my dog with me to Italy on any airline? Not quite. Some airlines are much more pet-friendly than others.
The Best Dog Friendly Airlines to Italy
When I look for dog friendly airlines to italy, a few names always come up. ITA Airways, the flagship carrier of Italy, is a top choice. They are very pet-friendly and offer options for your dog to travel in the cabin, in the hold, or via cargo.
ITA Airways Rules for 2026
ITA Airways has some of the most generous weight limits in Europe.
- In-Cabin: Your dog can fly with you if the total weight (including the carrier and food) is up to 12 kg on domestic flights or 10 kg on international flights.
- In-Hold: For bigger dogs, they can travel as checked baggage in the hold if the total weight is up to 75 kg.
- New Rule for Large Dogs: In May 2025, a new rule allowed medium and large dogs up to 25 kg to fly in the cabin on domestic Italy flights. On a special flight from Milan to Rome, a Labrador named Moka actually sat in business class on a mat!.
Other Reliable Airlines
I often hear good things about Lufthansa, KLM, and Swiss Air. Lufthansa is a common recommendation for flights to Italy from the USA. KLM and Air France also have solid reputations, though they only accept pets at least 15 weeks old as of 2022. One traveler on Reddit mentioned that La Compagnie (a business-class-only airline) sometimes lets dogs sit on your lap, which sounds like a luxury!. Dog friendly flights to italy are becoming more common, but you must book early because space is limited.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Dog to Italy?
The cost is a major factor. You should expect to spend between $1,500 and $5,000 for an international trip with your dog. A cheap trip? Not exactly. Here is a breakdown of what you might pay:
- Airline Fees: Most big airlines charge $125 to $200 for each leg of the trip for a small dog in the cabin. Round trips can cost $250 to $400.
- Cargo Costs: If your dog is large, cargo flights can run between $1,000 and $3,000.
- Veterinary Bills: Health certificates and shots can add another $200 to $600 to your total.
- Equipment: A good IATA-approved crate for the hold can cost $350 to $495, while soft carriers for the cabin are around $50 to $90.
For a budget trip with a small dog to an easy destination, you might get away with spending around $650 to $990. However, a typical trip for a medium dog usually lands between $1,900 and $3,300.
The Nitty-Gritty Rules and Paperwork
To make your trip a success, you must follow the rules perfectly. Can I bring my dog to Italy without a microchip? No. The microchip is the first step. It must be ISO-compliant and must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is given.
Vaccination Requirements
The rabies vaccine is the big one.
- Primary Vaccination: If it is the first shot after the microchip, you must wait at least 21 days before you can travel.
- Booster Vaccination: If your dog gets a booster while the old shot is still valid, there is no waiting period.
- Validity: In the USA, a primary shot is only valid for 1 year according to EU rules, even if the label says 3 years.
The EU Health Certificate
If you are traveling from the USA, you need an EU Health Certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian. There are two types:
- Non-Commercial: Use this if you are traveling within 5 days of your pet and have 5 or fewer animals. This is valid for 30 days after your vet signs it, but it must be endorsed by the USDA within 10 days of your arrival in Italy.
- Commercial: This is for when you are not traveling with your pet or have more than 5 animals. It must be issued and endorsed within 48 hours of departure.
The USDA must ink-sign and emboss the certificate. A lot of paper? Yes. But it is the only way to ensure your dog is not refused entry or quarantined at your expense.
Preparing Your Dog for the Flight
Flying is a big deal for a dog. They do not understand turbulence or boarding. You must be their guide. First of all, start crate training early. Place the carrier in a common room with the door open and put treats inside so they explore it by choice.
Feeding and Hydration
What your dog eats before a flight matters. Stick to their regular food to avoid stomach issues like vomiting or diarrhea.
- Timing: Stop feeding most healthy adult dogs 4 to 6 hours before check-in.
- Hydration: Give them normal access to water until one to two hours before you leave for the airport. Small sips are fine after that.
- Hand Luggage: Pack measured portions of their food and a collapsible water bowl in your bag.
Handling Anxiety
I strongly recommend that you avoid sedatives or tranquilizers. They can interfere with how your dog regulates their body temperature and blood pressure during the flight. Instead, use a familiar-smelling t-shirt or a pheromone spray to help them stay calm.
Specialized Tips for Different Breeds
Not all dogs are the same when it comes to flying. If you have a snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breed like a Pug, Bulldog, or Boxer, you must be extra careful. These dogs have shorter airways and can struggle to breathe when they are stressed or hot.
ITA Airways actually suspended the transport of these breeds in the hold as of October 2025 to protect their health. If you have one of these breeds, it is much safer to fly them in the cabin if they are small enough. Senior dogs and puppies also have higher risks and might need more frequent meals or checks.
Arriving in Italy: What to Expect
When you finally land in Italy, the adventure begins! At Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), you will find several pet relief areas near the baggage claim carousels. There is even a luxurious dog hotel called Dog Relais on the airport grounds if you need a place for your pet to stay.
Getting Your Dog After the Flight
If your dog traveled in the cargo hold, you will collect them at a specific pet retrieval area. On one trip to Rome, it took about an hour to get my luggage and my dog. My dog was overjoyed to see me!. I suggest heading straight outside to the grassy spaces near Terminal 1 so they can finally have a potty break.
Getting Around: Public Transport in Italy
Once you are out of the airport, you will need to get around. Dogs are welcome on most public transport in Italy.
Trains
I frequently used Trenitalia to travel between cities.
- Small Dogs: If your dog is in a carrier no larger than 70 x 30 x 50 cm, they can travel for free in all classes.
- Larger Dogs: They must be on a leash and muzzled. You will need to buy a special dog ticket, which is usually 50% of the fare.
- High-Speed Trains: Be sure to book your dog’s spot in advance for services like the Frecciarossa.
Local Transport
In Rome, small and medium dogs can ride the metro, buses, and trams for the price of an ordinary fare. In Venice, dogs are allowed on the vaporettos (water boats) for free. Just be careful, as these boats can get very crowded, which might stress your pup.
Top Dog Friendly Sightseeing Spots
You will be delighted to know that many of Italy’s top sights are open to dogs. A vacation without seeing the ruins? No way.
- Pompeii: Small dogs (under 10 kg) are allowed on a leash. You must carry them inside the buildings.
- Ostia Antica: This ancient harbour city near Rome is very dog-friendly.
- Venice: Wandering the backstreets and canals is the perfect way to spend a day with your dog.
- Cinque Terre: The hiking trails between these five coastal villages are amazing in the winter when it is not too crowded.
- Alberobello: Exploring the unique trulli huts with your dog is a must-do in the south.
However, remember that pet dogs are not allowed inside the Colosseum in Rome or the Boboli Gardens in Florence. Always check the rules for each specific site before you go.
Dining Out with Your Furry Friend
Eating is the best part of any trip to Italy. Most restaurants and cafes will welcome your dog inside. I have seen dogs sitting calmly under tables in Rome, Milan, and Sicily. If you want variety, head to a Mercato Centrale (large market hall) in Rome, Florence, Milan, or Turin. These are like food courts where dogs are allowed. I even saw someone feeding their dog expensive steak there!.
Finding Dog-Friendly Accommodation
Finding a place to stay is usually easy. Both Florence and Rome have a high percentage of hotels that allow dogs. I often stay in Airbnbs or agroturismos (farm stays) because they give my dog more space to run on the grass. Expect a small fee? Yes. Most hotels charge a little extra for pets. If your dog is sensitive to noise, be careful with city center apartments, as Italian streets can be quite loud.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Muzzles: By law, you should carry a muzzle for your dog on public transport. While it is not always enforced for small dogs, it is better to have one just in case.
- Dog Parks: Look for “area cani” on Google Maps to find local fenced-in dog runs.
- Beach Days: Many beaches are off-limits in summer, but look for specific “Doggy Beaches” like the one in Lignano Sabbiadoro.
- Food: You can find familiar brands like Royal Canin in most Italian pet stores if you run out of food.
FAQ
Which Italian airlines allow dogs?
ITA Airways is the flagship carrier of Italy and they are extremely welcoming to pets. They offer options for your dog to travel in the cabin, the hold, or through cargo. A top choice for travelers? Definitely.
Can I travel to Italy with a dog?
You can certainly do that. Italy is one of the most dog-friendly spots in all of Europe. Most restaurants, cafes, and stores will let your furry friend come inside.
Which airlines accept dogs?
Several major airlines are known for being pet-friendly. You should look at Lufthansa, KLM, United, and British Airways. Swiss Air and Air France are also very reliable choices.
How much does it cost to bring a dog to Italy?
The price depends on the size of your dog and your destination. A budget trip for a small dog might cost $650 to $990. However, a typical trip for a medium-sized dog usually falls between $1,900 and $3,300.
What airline is pet friendly to Italy?
ITA Airways is often cited as a leader in pet-friendly travel to the region. On top of that, many travelers prefer Lufthansa because they use temperature-controlled environments for animals.
Is Milan dog friendly?
Yes. Milan is a great city for pets. Small and medium dogs are welcome on the metro, buses, and trams. Similarly, many hotels in Milan are happy to host your pup.
Can I bring my dog to live with me in Italy?
You certainly can. Many people make a permanent move to Italy with their pets every year. You will need the right health papers and a European pet passport once you settle in.
Can I fly internationally with a dog?
Yes. Recent numbers show that 78% of American pet owners travel with their pets each year. Plus, international pet travel is a growing industry.
Can I buy my dog a seat on an airplane?
You can. New rules allow large dogs to travel in certified carriers that are secured to purchased seats. More space for your pup? Yes, please.
Which airline is best for pets? Lufthansa is a common recommendation for international moves. They have knowledgeable staff and ensure dogs are loaded last and kept in safe conditions.
Which European airlines are dog friendly?
ITA Airways, KLM, Swiss Air, and Air France are all great options for dog friendly flights to italy. Each airline has specific weight limits, so you should check those before you book.
Concluding words
Italy is a paradise for mature travelers who want to bring their dogs along. ITA Airways and Lufthansa lead the way for Dog Friendly Flights to Italy – Airlines, Rules, and Tips. You must plan for microchips, rabies shots, and EU health papers at least two to four weeks before you leave. Therefore, the trip requires careful work but the reward is huge. Finally, your pup will love the cafes and ancient ruins just as much as you do. A dream vacation? Absolutely.
