I have traveled the world with my furry friends for many years. Cyprus is one of those places that stays in your heart forever. The sun shines almost every day. The sea is a bright blue. The people are warm and kind. However, you need to know the rules to have a good time with your pet. I want to share my journey and the best Dog Friendly places in Cyprus so you can plan the perfect trip.
The Legal Adventure: Getting Your Dog to the Island
First of all, you must understand that the island has two different parts. The Republic of Cyprus is in the south and is part of the European Union. The northern part is different. Therefore, the rules for your dog depend on where you land.
I always start with the microchip. This is a tiny device. It must meet the ISO 11784/11785 standard. You must do this before the rabies vaccine. If you do not follow this order, the vaccine does not count.
The rabies vaccine is next. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old for this shot. Later, you must wait 21 days before you can travel. Plus, you need an EU pet passport or a health certificate. If you come from a country like the United States, you need a USDA-accredited vet to sign the papers.
Additionally, some countries require a blood test for rabies antibodies. This test checks if the vaccine worked. You must wait three months after the test to enter the south if you come from a “high-risk” country.
On the contrary, the north has its own rules. You need an import permit from their veterinary office. They also want a rabies antibody test from every country. Plus, they require shots for things like parvovirus and hepatitis.
I always notify the vet service at the airport 48 hours before I arrive. This helps avoid stress. Safe travels. Happy dogs. A smooth start is everything.
Living by the Law: Registration and Fees
Once you land, the work is not done. You must register your dog with the local authorities. First, I visit a local vet to check the microchip. Then, I go to the State Veterinary Service. Finally, I visit the local municipality for a license.
You have to pay a small fee for this license. For most breeds, it is about €20.50 per year. However, dangerous breeds are much more expensive. The fee for those is around €170.
Cyprus has a list of prohibited breeds. You cannot bring Pit Bull Terriers or Japanese Tosas to the south. The Argentine Dogo and Brazilian Fila are also on that list. If you own a “dangerous” breed that is already on the island, you must follow strict rules. These dogs must wear a muzzle and stay on a leash in public.
Additionally, you must place a “CAUTION DOG” sign at your home. This sign should have a picture of a dog. It is about safety for everyone. Rules matter. Fines are high.
If you do not have a license, you might pay a €200 fine. A dog off a leash in public can cost you €300. Also, you must clean up after your pet. If you leave a mess, the fine is €300. Therefore, I always carry plenty of waste bags.
Eating Out: Finding a Pet Friendly Cafe Nicosia and Beyond
I love a good meal. I love it even more when my dog can sit with me. Luckily, many private places are very welcoming. Nicosia is the capital city. It has some great spots.
You should check out Moondog’s Bar and Grill in Nicosia. It is a fun place with a rock attitude. They have burgers and beers. However, you should book a table in the outdoor area in advance. Also, watch out for the local cats. Some dogs do not like them.
If you want a pet friendly cafe nicosia, I recommend the Coffee House in Egkomi. It is near the student housing. They welcome dogs both inside and outside. They even give them water and treats. This makes me so happy. Friendly service. Happy pets.
Additionally, you can find many other pet friendly restaurants nicosia options. The Workshop and Brasserie Au Bon Plaisir are wonderful. Golden Tiger and Get Fresh also allow pets. If you like meat, Texas Smokehouse Food Bar allows small dogs inside. Plaka Tavern and Box-T are great if you want to sit outdoors.
On top of that, I have found great dog-friendly restaurants larnaca too. Capodecina Pasta Bar is a favorite of mine. Vibes Cafe Bar and Tamala Kitchen Bar are also good choices. If you want a treat, go to Refuel. They even have special ice cream for dogs.
Gradually, I explored Limassol and Paphos. Shakespeare Gastropub in Limassol is very nice. In Paphos, I love Oniro by the Sea. It has amazing views of a shipwreck. They even bring water for your dog! Malu Bistro and Meraki Market Café are also fantastic Dog Friendly places in Cyprus located in the Paphos area.
The Great Outdoors: Parks and Hiking
I enjoy the fresh air. Cyprus has some beautiful green spaces for dogs. If you need a dog park cyprus, you are in luck.
Rosewood Dog Park in Nicosia is a must-visit. It is a secure area with fences. It covers 6,000 square meters. Your dog can use tunnels, steps, and even a paddling pool. Plus, there is a clubhouse with snacks for humans. You must book your visit in advance. Rosewood kennels cyprus is a name you might hear when people talk about this area, as it is a well-known spot for pet lovers.
Additionally, Athalassa National Forest Park in Nicosia has over 20km of trails. There is a special off-leash section. However, you must bring your own water and bags because there are no bins or fountains in that part.
Similarly, other cities have parks. Limassol has Germasogeia on the river embankment. Zakaki is another option near the salt lake. In Nicosia, I also like Agios Dimitrios Park and Akadimias Park. Acropolis Park is only for small breeds.
If you love the mountains, head to the Troodos Mountains. The air is cool and smells like pine trees. The hiking trails are well-marked. I recommend Casale Panayiotis in the mountains. They have pet-friendly rooms. They even donate part of the pet fee to help stray animals. At that time, I felt good knowing my stay helped others. Beautiful trails. Fresh air. Pure joy.
Splashing Around: Official Dog Beaches
A trip to the beach is a must. Though Cyprus has many public beaches, dogs are not allowed on most of them. This is for water purity and safety. If you take a dog to a regular beach, you might pay an €85 fine.
However, there are seven official dog beaches. You should know that these beaches are often remote and rocky. They are not as luxury as the Blue Flag beaches for humans.
Spyros Beach (also called Kassianes) in Larnaca is one of the best. The water is clean and shallow. It is near the airport. I enjoyed my time there very much.
In Limassol, you can visit Prolimnos Beach. It has lovely views but is hard to reach. The road has many potholes. Karavopetra Beach is better for cars. It has plenty of sand and calm water.
Paphos has Acheilia Beach near the airport. It is small and safe. Pitili Beach near Neo Chorio is also an option, but it is very tricky to reach.
Finally, Glyki Nero A in Paralimni is currently a good spot in the Famagusta district. The municipality has even put free sunbeds and umbrellas at Potamia Beach in the Kapparis area. I think that is very kind. Free shade. Happy dogs. A perfect day at the sea.
Resting Your Head: Hotels and Boarding
Sometimes you need a place to stay. Finding a hotel is not too hard. Many allow pets if you ask first. However, they often have weight limits. For example, some only allow dogs under 20 kg.
Thalassa Boutique Hotel & Spa in Paphos is very clear about its rules. They only allow one dog per room under 10 kg. The cost is €15 per night. They give you a dog bed, bowls, and waste bags. You can take your dog to the lobby and the beach bar, but not to the spa or gym.
If you need a dog kennel cyprus, there are several options. Artemis Veterinary Clinic in Nicosia offers boarding services. This is a good place if you want a dog hotel nicosia price list, as they are professional and speak English. The Animal Health Centre in Limassol also has a boarding facility.
If you are looking for dog boarding nicosia, you should look at the Pet Doctors Veterinary Hospital too. They are open 24/7 for emergencies. I always save their number in my phone. Better safe than sorry. Good care. Peace of mind.
Staying Healthy: The Mediterranean Climate
The weather in Cyprus is wonderful. However, it can also be dangerous for dogs. You must protect your pet from local risks.
Leishmaniasis is a big threat. It comes from sand flies. This disease is common on the island. About 14.9% of dogs have antibodies for it. I always use repellent collars and treatments from the vet.
Additionally, ticks and fleas are active all year. They can carry pathogens like Ehrlichia canis. I check my dog after every walk. Plus, I use the brown dog tick protection my vet recommends.
The heat is another challenge. In summer, the temperature can hit 40 degrees Celsius. The asphalt can burn your dog’s paws. I always test the ground with my hand. If it is too hot for me, it is too hot for them. Therefore, I walk my dog in the early morning or late evening.
Also, watch out for poison bait. Some people put it out to control stray animals. It is a sad reality. Be vigilant. Keep them safe. Never let them eat random things on the ground.
Moving Around: Transport Options
Getting around the island is easiest with a car. Intercity buses only allow small dogs under 8 kg in carriers. Only one pet is allowed per bus, and it is up to the driver.
Taxis are more flexible. You should book in advance and tell them you have a dog. Large dogs must wear a muzzle and stay on a leash. Plus, you are responsible for keeping the car clean.
Similarly, if you want to travel between the north and south, you cannot take a pet across the Green Line. This is a very important rule. Therefore, you must enter the part of the island where you want to stay.
If you are flying, small dogs can sometimes sit in the cabin. Large dogs must go in the cargo hold. I spent weeks getting my dog used to its crate. It made the flight much easier for both of us.
FAQ
Is Cyprus dog friendly?
I find that the island is slowly opening up to the idea of pet-friendly living. Private businesses like cafes and restaurants are often very welcoming. However, public beaches and buses still have many strict rules. A work in progress.
What is the most dog friendly city?
I suggest Nicosia if you want many parks and a choice of cafes. Paphos and Limassol are also great because they have wonderful coastal views and many private spots that love pets. Choice is everywhere.
Can I drive my dog to Cyprus?
You cannot take a direct car ferry from the European mainland to the southern part of the island. Therefore, you have to drive through Turkey to the north first. Later, you must cross the border into the south where EU rules apply again. A long road. Many stops.
Can I take my dog to live in Cyprus?
You can definitely move here with your pet if you follow the import rules. You must register the dog and pay a yearly fee once you arrive. Also, you need a safe place for them to stay. A new life under the sun.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
I love the Paphos area because of the stunning sea caves and the shipwreck views at Oniro by the Sea. Additionally, the Troodos Mountains offer cool air and many hiking trails. Total peace.
Concluding words
Cyprus is a beautiful place for you and your furry friend to enjoy life together. First of all, you must follow the laws about import and registration to stay out of trouble. Though some public spaces have limits, private cafes and special dog beaches offer plenty of fun.
Additionally, you should be careful with the local heat and pests to keep your pet healthy. You will need a car to get around easily because buses are quite small for large dogs. A well-prepared trip leads to a happy heart and a wagging tail.
