I love to travel across the world with my furry best friend by my side. It is a dream to explore new cultures while Barnaby, my loyal companion, trots along with me. Germany stands out as one of the most dog-friendly countries in Europe. It is a place where dogs are not just tolerated but are a normal part of daily life. You will see them in offices, on trains, and even in some surprising cultural spots. However, taking a dog friendly Germany trip requires some homework. You can not just show up and expect every door to swing open. Dog friendly holidays German style means you have to know the rules, the etiquette, and the best Dog Friendly Museums in Germany.
Preparation for Your German Adventure
First of all, we must talk about the legal stuff. You can not enter the country without the right paperwork. Your dog must be microchipped with a 15-digit chip that follows ISO standards. Plus, you need a valid rabies vaccine that was given at least 21 days before you cross the border. Though it sounds like a lot, a good vet can help you with an EU Pet Passport or a specific health certificate.
You should also be aware of the banned dog breeds in Germany. The country does not allow the import of breeds it labels as dangerous. These include the Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the Bull Terrier. I do not make the rules. I just follow them to make sure Barnaby and I do not get into trouble at the border.
Later, you will need to think about how you will move around. Public transport is a dream here. I cannot think of a single form of transport where dogs are not allowed. Small dogs in a carrier usually travel for free on the Deutsche Bahn. For a bigger dog, you usually have to buy a child’s fare ticket. Additionally, larger dogs must wear a leash and a muzzle on the train. I always keep a muzzle in my bag. Even if I do not use it, it is better to have it.
Transitioning from travel to culture, let us look at the museums.
The Legend of the Dachshund
If you have a soft spot for small dogs with big personalities, you must visit Passau. The Dackelmuseum, or the dachshund museum germany, is a place of pure joy. It is located in the Kleine Residenz and it is a total celebration of this specific breed. Founders Seppi Kublbeck and Oliver Storz spent 25 years collecting treasures. There are more than 4,500 items related to dachshunds inside. You will see art, memorabilia, and collectibles.
Barnaby is not a dachshund. However, we both felt very welcome there. At that time, I learned that this breed is a true icon of German culture. The museum shares a huge collection of history with the world. It is a small space. Therefore, you should check the crowd levels before you go. It is a must-visit for any dog person looking for a little more culture.
Moving on to another unique spot, we find ourselves near the city of Mettmann.
Step Back in Time at the Neanderthal Museum
The Neanderthal Museum in Mettmann is a place where history comes to life. Usually, dogs are a bit of a problem at history museums. But this place is different. They have a special event called “Doggy Day“. It happens on the first Friday of every month from 14:00 to 18:00. It is a time when well-behaved dogs on a leash can explore the main exhibition with their owners.
The cost for a dog ticket is only €2. I think that is a bargain. Plus, you do not need to book a spot in advance; you can just buy your tickets at the desk. They even have a special “Doggy Tour” with an archaeologist named Wolfgang Heuschen. He is a dog owner himself and he shows you the shared history of humans and dogs.
On top of that, the area around the museum is perfect for a stroll. The Neandertal nature reserve is right there. You can see wild cattle and bison. It is one of the best ways to combine a museum visit with some hiking with dogs germany style. Barnaby loved the Erlebnisturm Höhlenblick tower. It gave us a great view of the spot where the Neanderthal was first found.
Similarly, other cities have their own special rules for canine visitors.
Exploring the Capital: Berlin with a Dog
Berlin is a massive city with a lot of history. If you are looking for a museum with dog berlin experience, you have to be selective. Many of the huge buildings on Museum Island do not allow pets. However, you can explore the street art of the city with no issues. The East Side Gallery is a 1.3km stretch of the old Berlin Wall that acts as an open-air gallery. Barnaby and I spent a whole afternoon there just taking in the murals.
Additionally, the courtyard at the Anne Frank Zentrum is a great spot to visit. Their official rules say that leashed dogs can be taken into the exhibition in individual cases if you ask the staff. It is always better to be polite and ask first. The center is a place for learning and discussion. Therefore, you must make sure your dog is quiet and does not disturb the other guests.
Berlin also has a great transport perk. If you buy a day ticket for yourself, you can often bring your dog along for free. I love sitting on the tram in Berlin with Barnaby on my lap. He loves the breeze. Plus, the city has a lot of green space like the Grunewald forest where your dog can run.
Transitioning from the city to the countryside, we find some of the best dog-friendly spots in the south.
Open-Air History in the South
Bavaria and the surrounding regions are full of open-air museums. These are usually much better for dog owners because most of the action is outside. First of all, let us talk about the Pfahlbauten Unteruhldingen on Lake Constance. It is the oldest archaeological open-air museum in the country. You can see wooden houses built on stilts over the water just like they were 6,000 years ago.
Dogs are allowed on the open-air grounds as long as they are on a leash. However, they are not allowed inside the new museum hall or the ARCHAEORAMA 360-degree cinema. I did not mind this. Barnaby was happy to stay outside and look at the lake. There are 23 reconstructed houses to see. It is a beautiful walk on wooden paths. Plus, the museum is very proud of its “Inklusion-plus-award” for being accessible.
Another great spot is the Black Forest Open Air Museum Vogtsbauernhof. It is located right on the B33 road. They welcome dogs for a tiny fee of just €0.50. You must keep your dog on a leash, of course. It is a wonderful place to see how people in the Black Forest lived in the old days. They even have an adventure playground for kids.
Similarly, the Freilichtmuseum Roscheider Hof in Konz allows dogs in the outdoor areas. But they are not allowed inside the exhibition buildings or the historic houses. Therefore, you should plan your visit for a day with good weather.
Gradually, you will notice a pattern. Open-air is usually king for dog travel.
The Charm of Bad Tölz
I recently spent some time in Bad Tölz, and I must say, it is a hidden gem for dog lovers. The Stadtmuseum there is very welcoming to our furry friends. They just ask that you use a short leash. The museum is inside the old town hall on Marktstraße. It has 38 exhibition areas across three floors. You can see golden carriages and learn about local history.
Bad Tölz is also a great base for hiking with dogs germany. You can take the Blomberg chairlift up the mountain. There is a high-altitude art path called “Sinneswandel” that was started in 2008. It has dozens of sculptures and art pieces in the forest. At that time, I saw a wooden crocodile that looked very real! The path is about 1.5 kilometers long.
Additionally, you can walk through the “Gries” quarter, which is the oldest part of the city. It is full of colorful houses and narrow alleys. I learned that the name “Gries” comes from an old word for gravel. People like fishermen and craftsmen used to live there. It is very idyllic and quiet.
On top of that, there is a great local restaurant called the Jägerwirt. It has been run by the same family since 1820. They serve a famous dish called Kaspressknödel which is a cheese dumpling. Plus, they have a cozy beer garden with a huge ash tree. Barnaby loved resting under the table while I enjoyed my meal.
Later, we should discuss some of the larger historic sites.
Castles and Monasteries
Germany has a lot of castles. However, most of them do not allow dogs inside for tours. Neuschwanstein Castle is the most famous one. You can walk up to the exterior with your dog and enjoy the view from the Marienbrücke bridge. If you are traveling with someone else, you can take turns going inside for the guided tour. The tours are very prompt, so you will not have to wait long.
Similarly, the Würzburg Residence palace has strict rules. Dogs are not allowed inside at all. But the gardens are free and beautiful in the summer. You can walk your dog there on a leash. There is even a garden cafe that allows dogs.
Lorsch Abbey is another interesting spot. It is a UNESCO site between Frankfurt and Heidelberg. I was happy to find out that the guide was fine with me carrying Barnaby inside the Kings Hall. The museum next door also allowed me to carry him. It is an unusual building from the Carolingian era.
Finally, do not forget Wartburg Castle near Eisenach. It looks just like a classic castle from a fairy tale. Dogs can go into the interior courtyards and on the trails around the hill. But they are not allowed on the guided tours inside. It is best to visit in the summer when you can enjoy the outdoor parts.
Transitioning from history to the present day, we need to talk about dining and shopping.
Eating and Shopping with Your Dog
One of the best things about dog friendly germany is that you can take your dog to most restaurants and cafes. Traditional brauhaus spots and small cafes are usually very happy to see a dog. I have often seen waiters bring a bowl of water for Barnaby before they even take my drink order.
However, there are a few exceptions. Many kebab shops do not allow dogs inside. Also, I was surprised to find that some burger restaurants in Trier said no to Barnaby. The biggest heartbreak is the German bakeries. They are everywhere and have amazing food. But dogs are almost never allowed inside. Look for a sign on the door that says “I must remain outside“. The only exception is in train stations where the bakery is just a counter with no walls.
Similarly, most grocery stores do not allow dogs. On the contrary, shopping malls and many other types of shops are usually fine. I have taken Barnaby into several clothing stores with no issues. Just keep an eye out for a “no dogs” sign at the entrance.
Additionally, you must be careful at Christmas markets. Germany is famous for them, and they are generally dog-friendly. But they can get very crowded in cities like Cologne or Munich. It is hard for a dog to enjoy themselves when they are being stepped on. I prefer the smaller, quieter markets in towns like Ulm or Quedlinburg.
Moving on, let us talk about finding a place to sleep.
Dog-Friendly Accommodations
Finding a place to stay is generally easy. Research shows that 71% of hotels in Munich and 64% in Berlin allow pets. You will usually have to pay a small fee, often starting around €10 per night. I have stayed in some great spots. The Vienna House Easy by Wyndham in Munich was modern and very welcoming. Plus, it has a sauna for the humans.
In Berlin, the 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin is very hip and loves canine guests. If you want something more historic, try the Hotel Theophano in Quedlinburg. It is in a half-timbered building right on the main square. Barnaby loved the spacious rooms there.
In Hamburg, the Mövenpick Hotel is located right in the middle of Schanzenpark. This is a dream for dog owners because it is so easy to go for a morning walk. The park is popular with local dogs, so your buddy might even make some new friends.
Airbnbs can be a bit harder to find in the big cities due to local laws. But if you look for shared rooms or look outside the main city centers, you will find more options. Many hotels will provide a “dog in the room” door hanger so you can go for a quick meal without worrying about the staff entering.
Transitioning from sleep to transit, let us look at the trains again.
The Etiquette of German Dogs
In Germany, dogs in german society are expected to be very well-behaved. It is common for people to take their dogs to behavior classes. If your dog barks a lot or causes a fuss, people will notice. A Reddit user named average_joetron mentioned that Germans might even give you “unwanted advice” if your dog is misbehaving. Dog advice is free in this country!
Also, you must pick up your dog’s waste. You can be fined if you do not. Many parks have dispensers with poop bags, but I always carry my own to be safe. It is just common sense.
Additionally, some cities have their own specific rules. In Munich, a muzzle is not always the default on public transport, but a leash is a must. In Berlin, a muzzle is officially required for bigger dogs on the train. Though some people do not enforce it, it is a risk to go without one. I have found that if my dog is calm and sitting quietly, most people are very friendly.
Gradually, you will find that a well-mannered dog is the key to a stress-free trip.
A Few More Gems for the List
If you are still looking for more ideas, here are a few more Dog Friendly Museums in Germany:
- Bremer Geschichtenhaus in Bremen: Dogs are expressly welcome here. They receive treats, water, and can even have their own guided tour.
- Kreidemuseum Gummanz on Rügen Island: You can learn about “white gold” and walk the nature trail with your dog.
- Spielzeugmuseum Seiffen: This toy museum in the Ore Mountains also allows four-legged visitors.
- Müritzeum in Waren: This nature discovery center allows dogs for a €2 entry fee.
- Keltenmuseum Heuneburg: Dogs on a short leash are generally allowed. However, if it is very crowded, the staff might ask you not to bring them in for safety reasons.
Therefore, you have plenty of choices for a culture-filled trip.
FAQ
Are dogs allowed in museums in Germany?
Most museums do not allow dogs inside their buildings. However, I found that some small museums make exceptions for pets you can carry in your arms. Plus, special spots like the Dackelmuseum in Passau or the Neanderthal Museum on its monthly Doggy Day welcome your furry friends.
Where to go in Germany with dogs?
I suggest you visit Bad Tölz for mountain art paths or Passau to see the dachshund museum. Open-air sites like the Pfahlbauten Unteruhldingen or the Black Forest Open Air Museum are also great because dogs can join you outside. Additionally, the forests like the Grunewald are perfect for a stroll.
Is Germany a dog-friendly country?
Germany is absolutely one of the most dog-friendly countries in europe. Dogs are a normal part of daily life and owners even take them along to work.
What country is most dog friendly?
Germany is frequently named as a top leader in Europe for pet lovers. Similarly, Italy is mentioned as a welcoming place where some grocery stores even allow dogs.
What is the most dog friendly city in Europe?
Munich and Berlin are top choices for any traveler. Research shows that 71% of hotels in Munich allow pets. Also, 64% of hotels in Berlin are pet-friendly.
Are trains in Germany dog friendly?
Yes, you can take your dog on any train operated by Deutsche Bahn. Though small dogs in bags travel for free, larger dogs need a child fare ticket plus a leash and a muzzle.
Are dogs allowed in Bauhaus?
Dogs can not go inside the historic buildings in Dessau. However, they can join you to see the architecture from the outside and visit the cafe at the Bauhaus Building.
Are dogs allowed in stores in Germany?
You can usually take dogs into shopping malls and many retail shops. On the contrary, grocery stores and bakeries almost always forbid them for hygiene reasons.
How do I travel with my dog to Germany?
First of all, you must get your pet microchipped with an ISO-compliant chip. Additionally, you need a rabies vaccine given at least 21 days before your trip and an official health certificate.
Why are dogs in Germany so well behaved?
German culture places a lot of importance on pet training from a young age. Therefore, many people take their dogs to school to ensure they act well in public places like cafes.
What is the most dog-friendly city in Germany?
Munich is a fantastic leader for pet owners. It has a higher percentage of pet-friendly hotels than Berlin. Plus, it has many local parks for play.
How hard is it to take your dog to Europe?
It takes some work but is not too hard if you plan ahead. You need about 4 to 6 weeks to prepare the paperwork if you come from a low-rabies risk country.
Can you take dogs on the bus in Germany?
Yes, dogs are fine on buses just like they are on trains. Gradually, you will see that public transport reaches almost everywhere in the country and is very welcoming to pets.
Concluding words
Germany is a top choice for pet owners who love culture. You can find many spots like the dachshund museum in Germany or special events at the Neanderthal Museum where dogs are the stars. However, make sure you follow the rules for trains and shops to keep the trip smooth. Pack your leash and head to this pet-loving land today!
