I remember the first time I looked at my dog and thought about the cobblestone streets of Europe. I wanted to see the world, but I did not want to leave my best friend behind. You might wonder, is Belgium dog friendly? I can tell you from my own travels that it is a true paradise for pets. Belgium may be a small country, but it offers a huge range of experiences for people who love to explore with their dogs. Whether you want to walk on the beach, hike in the woods, or sit at a cafe, this country welcomes you with open arms.
People in Belgium truly love animals. Statistics show that there is an average of 3 pets per Belgian household. Additionally, about 38% of households own at least one dog. This high number means that the local culture is built around living with furry friends. If you are asking is belgium pet friendly, the answer is a big yes. You will see dogs in shops, on trains, and even in some restaurants.
First of all, you must plan how to get there. I had to learn the rules for bringing a pet across the border. Can i take my dog to belgium? You certainly can, but you must follow some specific health steps first. Your pet must have a 15-digit microchip that meets ISO standards. On top of that, your dog needs a rabies vaccination. This shot must happen after the microchip is put in. You also have to wait at least 21 days after the first shot before you travel.
Navigating the Border Rules
I found that the paperwork depends on where you live. If you come from a country outside the European Union, your pet needs an EU Health Certificate. However, if you live in the EU, a European Pet Passport is all you need. This passport is a very important document that keeps all the medical info in one place.
Gradually, I realized that some countries have extra rules. For example, pets from “unlisted” countries where rabies is more common need a titer test. This is a blood test to check for antibodies. You must have this done at least 3 calendar months before you arrive. It sounds like a lot of work. But it is worth it to have your buddy with you.
Also, keep in mind that Belgium does not allow very young puppies to enter. They must be at least 12 weeks old to get their rabies shot. Therefore, the youngest a puppy can usually travel to Belgium is 15 weeks old because of the 21-day wait. Plus, if you are moving there, you must register your dog in the DogID database within eight days of arriving.
Moving Around the Country
Once we arrived, I had to figure out the best way to travel between cities. Public transport in Belgium is very kind to dogs. On the Belgian Rail, small pets can travel for free if they are in a basket or a box. Similarly, the Eurostar Continental Route lets small pets under 6 kilograms travel for free in a container. For larger dogs on the Eurostar, you just buy a ticket at the “Dog” rate, which is usually 30 euros.
I also used the coastal tram quite often. This tram is great because it allows dogs on board and makes it easy to visit different seaside towns in one day. On local trams and buses, small dogs often ride for free if they stay on your lap. However, larger dogs might need a lead and a muzzle, and you might have to pay a small fee.
“The city welcomes dogs with open arms, and so do numerous establishments,” is a phrase I heard often while in Ghent. I felt that same energy in every city I visited.
The Beautiful Belgian Coast
If your dog loves the water, you must head to the coast. The beaches are wide and beautiful. Is belgian dog friendly at the beach? It depends on the time of year. During the quiet months, dogs are allowed almost everywhere. But when it gets warm, the rules change to keep the beaches clean for swimmers.
In Nieuwpoort, dogs can go on the beach from mid-September to mid-June. During the summer, there is a massive dog meadow near Prince Mauritspark that is 2,500 square meters. This is a place where dogs are truly the boss. They can run and sniff while you sit on a cozy bench.
Ostend is another favorite of mine. It has two special dog zones. At Strandhoofd 5, your dog does not even need a leash. Between October and March, they are welcome all day. Additionally, Ostend has a dog forest where you can walk freely along a marked path.
Gradually, I explored De Haan and Blankenberge too. In De Haan, there are two zones open all year. In Blankenberge, there is a section towards Wenduine where dogs are always welcome without a leash. Knokke-Heist even has a huge dog beach that goes all the way to the Dutch border. On top of that, many shops on the famous Lippenslaan street welcome dogs inside while you shop.
The Magic of the Ardennes
The Belgian Ardennes is a true paradise for dog lovers. It is a region of rolling hills and very thick forests. I stayed at a holiday park called Vallée les Etoiles, which was perfect. They have Norwegian-style wooden chalets where up to two dogs can stay with you.
Walking out of my chalet and straight into the forest was a dream. There are so many trails to choose from. First of all, you should try the Ninglinspo Trail. It follows a beautiful stream through the greenery. Another great spot is the High Fens Nature Reserve. It has unique landscapes and wooden boardwalks that are very fun to walk on.
If you like history, you can visit castles. Many of them are dog friendly. The Bouillon Castle is a medieval fortress that allows dogs on its grounds. You get amazing views of the Semois River while your dog enjoys the fresh air. Similarly, the La Roche-en-Ardenne Castle lets you wander through ruins with your furry companion.
I even took my dog kayaking! Lesse Kayaks allows smaller dogs to join you for free on the River Lesse. We passed by old castles and stopped at small beaches along the river. It was an adventure I will never forget.
Exploring the Cities
You might think big cities are hard for dogs, but Belgian cities are different. Bruges is often called the Venice of the North. I loved walking along the canals and through the quiet parks like Minnewater Park. You can even take a boat tour with Bruges by boot, and they will let your dog come along. I suggest bringing a small mat so your dog does not slip on the plastic floor of the boat.
Ghent is perhaps the most welcoming city of all. It has a huge list of dog-friendly places. I visited a wine bar called Bar Terroir and a cute cafe called ‘t Floere foefke. Most places in Ghent are happy to see a well-behaved dog.
Brussels is also a great place for a city break with a pet. There are many green spaces like the Sonian Forest and Bois de la Cambre. I learned that the city is divided into different areas, and each one has its own parks. For example, Uccle has over 10,000 dogs and several off-leash zones like Parc de Wolvendael.
Eating and Drinking with Your Dog
I never felt left out when it was time to eat. In Belgium, you should look for the word “brasserie”. Brasseries are casual restaurants that serve traditional food and are usually very dog friendly. They often have a great price for the quality of food you get.
Many cafes will even bring a bowl of water for your dog without you asking. I visited Cafe Leffe in Dinant, which is right by the river. It was so relaxing to have a meal with my dog resting at my feet. Another legendary spot is Chez Bouboule, known for its mussels. They have been serving food for over 50 years and are very welcoming.
If you are a beer lover, you can go to the Bruges Beer Experience. It is a museum where dogs are actually invited to walk through with you. Just remember to keep them on a leash!
When people ask me, are belgian malinois dog friendly, I tell them about the local dogs I met. Belgian breeds are often very smart and active. You will see many of them out with their owners in the parks. Whether you have a Malinois or a small Schnauzer, you will fit right in.
Finding a Place to Stay
Finding a hotel or a rental was easier than I expected. Many hotels display signs to show they accept pets. If you are looking for a longer stay, there is interesting news from Brussels. A new law started in late 2024 that says landlords cannot easily refuse tenants just because they have a pet. This is because the law now recognizes that pets are members of the family.
In other parts of the country like Flanders and Wallonia, the rules are also quite flexible. As long as your dog does not cause a nuisance or damage the property, you are usually allowed to have them with you. Therefore, you have many options for a cozy home away from home.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
I learned a few lessons the hard way, so I want to share some tips with you. First of all, always bring a leash. Even in off-leash areas, you might need it to get from the car to the park. Also, keep your pet’s identification papers with you at all times.
If you are traveling from the United States, your vet must sign a certificate within 10 days of your arrival in the EU. This certificate then needs a special stamp from the government. On top of that, I recommend packing a travel bowl and plenty of snacks for long train rides.
Finally, be sure to check the specific rules for any museum or castle you want to visit. While many are friendly, some places like the Choco-story museum in Bruges or the Frietmuseum do not allow dogs inside.
A Paradise for Pets
I can honestly say that Belgium is one of the best places I have ever visited with my dog. It is a country that understands the bond between a human and an animal. From the sandy beaches of the north to the deep green forests of the south, there is something for every kind of adventurer.
Is Belgium dog friendly? Yes, it absolutely is. The people are kind, the transport is easy, and the nature is endless. I hope my experience helps you plan a wonderful trip. Grab the leash, pack the treats, and get ready for a vacation your dog will love as much as you do.
Common Questions About Belgian Pet Travel
I know you might have more questions. Here are some of the things I wondered about before my trip.
Is Belgian nursery dog friendly? If you are visiting a garden center or a nursery, many of them in Belgium are quite open to pets. However, it is always a good idea to check for a sign at the door. Some may require the dog to be carried or kept on a short lead.
Is new belgium dog friendly? While “New Belgium” is a famous name in the beer world, if you are looking for a new belgium brewery dog friendly experience in the actual country of Belgium, you have hundreds of choices! Almost every local brewery with a terrace or a casual taproom will welcome your dog.
Are there any banned breeds? Belgium does not have a national list of banned breeds. However, you are responsible for your dog’s behavior. Some cities might have local rules for muzzles on certain breeds, so stay alert.
Finally, I want to remind you that rules can change. Always look for local signs when you arrive at a park or a beach. Belgians are very proud of their clean public spaces. Therefore, always clean up after your pet to keep the country welcoming for the next traveler.
I hope you have a fantastic time exploring this beautiful country. It truly is a pet paradise in the heart of Europe. Safe travels to you and your furry best friend!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brussels a dog-friendly city?
Yes, Brussels is a very good place for your pets. The city is ideal for dog lovers because it has so many green parks and open spaces for long walks. You will find that many cafes and public transport lines also allow your furry friends to join you.
Is Brussels ok for dogs?
Brussels is more than just okay; it is a wonderful destination for dogs. The capital city is full of options like the Bois de la Cambre and the Forêt de Soignes where you can enjoy nature together. Additionally, new laws in Brussels protect your right to keep a pet in your home, which shows how much the city cares.
Which country loves dogs most?
Belgium shows a massive love for dogs through its high ownership rates and pet-friendly laws. The general attitude toward dogs in cities like Brussels is very positive. Ghent even welcomes dogs with open arms in many shops and restaurants.
Where to go with a dog in Europe?
You should definitely visit Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. These countries are all connected by Eurostar Continental routes that allow pets on board. I suggest visiting the Ardennes region for its forests or the Belgian coast for its beautiful sandy beaches.
Can I take my dog to Brussels?
You certainly can take your dog to Brussels. You must follow the health rules first. Your pet needs a microchip, a rabies shot, and a valid health certificate or EU pet passport.
Are dogs allowed to eat in Brussels?
Dogs are allowed in many eating spots. You should look for brasseries, which are casual restaurants that often serve local food and welcome pets. Many of these places will even offer your dog a bowl of water while you eat.
Can I give my dog Brussels?
I assume you mean visiting the city of Brussels. You can take your dog to many spots in the city, but some museums like the Frietmuseum or Choco-story do not allow pets inside. However, the parks and outdoor cafes are perfect for them.
Where to go in Belgium with a dog?
I recommend the Ardennes for hiking trails like the Ninglinspo Trail. Similarly, the coast offers great spots like Ostend and Nieuwpoort with special dog zones on the beach. You can also explore historical cities like Bruges and Ghent on foot.
Which city is the most dog-friendly?
Ghent is often called a very pet-friendly city because so many establishments welcome dogs. Bruges is also a top pick because it is the Venice of the North and offers many calm walks by the water.
Is France very dog-friendly?
France is very welcoming to dogs. You can easily travel between Paris and Brussels with your pet on the train. Many hotels and restaurants in France also display signs to show they accept pets.
What country is most dog friendly?
Belgium is a very strong candidate. The country has high pet ownership and many dog-friendly forests and beaches. Therefore, it is a great home base for a European vacation with your dog.
Is the Netherlands dog friendly?
The Netherlands is very dog friendly. You can travel there from Belgium using the Eurostar trains with your pet. Cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam are easy to visit with a dog.
Concluding words
Belgium is a true paradise for travelers who love to bring their dogs along. The country offers easy transport on trains, a wide range of pet-friendly hotels, and many cafes that welcome furry guests with water and kindness.
You can walk through deep forests in the Ardennes or let your dog run on the sandy beaches of the coast. You just need to follow the microchip and vaccination rules to start your adventure in this welcoming land.
