I have traveled through more than 20 countries with my furry best friend by my side. It is the most rewarding way to see the world. You do not just see the sights. You experience the soul of a place through the eyes of your pet. People often ask me what the 20 most dog friendly countries in europe are because they want to take their own adventures. I am here to tell you that Europe is a paradise for paws.
Every city tells a different story. In some places, your dog is treated like a tiny furry king. In others, you might face strict rules about muzzles or bus drivers who say no. I have walked down the cobblestones of Prague and sat on the sunny terraces of Lisbon. I have even lost a dog boot in the snows of Switzerland. Gradually, I learned which borders are easy to cross and which cafes offer the best treats.
You might wonder, are dogs allowed in restaurants in europe? The answer is mostly yes, but it depends on where you stand. I want to guide you through the most dog friendly countries in europe so you can plan the perfect trip. I will share the statistics, the costs, and the little moments that made my heart melt. This is not just a list. This is a map to a life of adventure with your dog.
The Golden Rules of Dog Travel in Europe
First of all, you must prepare the paperwork. This is the part that causes the most stress. If you live in the European Union, you need an EU Pet Passport. This document is like a golden ticket. It holds all the medical records and the microchip number of your pet. If you come from a place like the United States or Canada, you will need an Animal Health Certificate. It must be signed by an official vet within 10 days of your arrival.
Rabies is a major concern for border officials. Your dog must be vaccinated at least 21 days before you travel. Additionally, some countries are very strict about parasites. If you head to Finland, Ireland, Malta, or Norway, your dog needs a tapeworm treatment. A vet must give this pill between one and five days before you cross the border.
On top of that, I recommend that you always carry a muzzle. You might never use it. However, many train systems in countries like Austria and Italy require it for larger dogs. It is better to have it and not need it than to be stranded on a train platform.
The 10 Most Dog-Loving Countries
I look at ownership rates to see how a country feels about pets. Romania ranks #1 in Europe for pet ownership. About 45% of households there own a dog. People there see pets as a lifeline to joy.
Here are the 10 most dog-loving countries based on how they treat their pets as family:
- Romania: They have high adoption rates and active rescue groups.
- Poland: You will see paws everywhere, and “Dog Day” is a massive event every July.
- Czech Republic: There are more dogs here than children under age ten!
- Hungary: Owners here say pets reduce loneliness and improve their social lives.
- France: About 78% of owners say their pets are vital to their happiness.
- Germany: This was the first country to put animal rights in its constitution.
- Sweden: Over 90% of pets are insured here.
- Italy: Almost 80% of owners consider their dogs to be family members.
- Netherlands: They officially declared there are no more stray dogs in their country.
- United Kingdom: They founded the first animal protection charity in 1824.
These nations set the bar for the most dog-friendly countries in the world. They do not just allow dogs. They welcome them into the heart of society.
Ranking the Top 20 Most Dog Friendly Countries in Europe
I have spent months testing different cities. I created a scoring system to find the ultimate champion. I looked at hotels, cafes, parks, and public transport. This is my definitive list of the 20 most dog friendly countries in europe.
Switzerland: The Ultimate Champion
Switzerland is dog-perfect. I visited Zurich and was blown away. It earned a score of 9.5 out of 10 in my rankings. The nature and city balance is unmatched. You can swim in Lake Zurich with your dog right next to you. The Swiss Alps are only 30 minutes away by train.
Plus, the public transport is the best I have ever used. Dogs ride on all trains, buses, and even boats. A day pass for a dog is only 3.40 CHF. The streets are immaculate because Swiss people actually pick up after their pets. It is the easiest european country to bring a dog if you want zero stress.
France: The City of Dog Love
Paris is where dogs live their best lives. I sat at Café de Flore with my dog, and the waiter brought water before I even asked. Shopkeepers offer treats, and people stop to coo at your pet. Paris has over 688 dog-friendly restaurants.
Though the Metro can be a bit crowded during rush hour, it is still very accessible. You must check the park rules, as some small parks with playgrounds do not allow dogs. Overall, France is a dream for any dog owner. It is definitely one of the most dog friendly countries in europe.
Italy: La Dolce Vita with Paws
Italians are obsessed with dogs. In Rome, my dog was stopped every 100 meters for scratches and photos. I ate pasta in a small restaurant in Trastevere, and the owner said, “She is family!”. They even brought her a plate of prosciutto.
Italy has dog-friendly grocery stores where your pet can sit in a special shopping cart. You can find gelato for dogs in many shops. Northern Italy is especially welcoming. Italy is a top contender for the most dog-friendly countries in the world.
Germany: Organized Affection
Germany is a top choice because dogs are so well-behaved there. They often do not even need leashes because they go through professional training. In Munich, the Englischer Garten is 900 acres of heaven. My dog swam in the river and then sat with me at a beer garden.
All beer gardens allow dogs by law in Bavaria. Therefore, you never have to worry about finding a place to eat. Germany even allows dogs in some workplaces and university classrooms. It is truly a land that respects the canine spirit.
The Netherlands: Two Wheels, Four Paws
The Dutch have a very relaxed attitude. I loved seeing dogs sitting in the front of cargo bikes in Amsterdam. I even rented a boat and took my dog through the canals. She sat at the bow like a little captain.
The Netherlands is great for those who love biking and boats. Most cafes welcome pets with open arms. Similarly, public transport is very affordable for dogs. It is a country that sees dogs as sentient beings, not property.
Slovenia: The Hidden Gem
Slovenia is the most dog-friendly place I have ever visited. I took my dog to Lake Bled, and she was welcome on the boats and in the restaurants. Even the zoo in Ljubljana allows pets to join you!
People are very welcoming and often speak great English. I found it easy to find apartments and hotels that loved having a dog guest. It is a beautiful country with mountains and lakes that your dog will adore.
United Kingdom: A Nation of Dog Lovers
Britain is famous for its love of dogs. London has world-class parks like Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath. Dogs ride for FREE on the Tube and buses in London. That is a huge win for your budget!
However, the UK is very expensive. Hotels can cost 120 to 200 Euros per night. On top of that, you cannot take your dog into many indoor restaurants. You must stick to the pubs. The pubs are great, though. Many have special dog menus and bowls of water everywhere.
Austria: Elegant and Refined
Austria is very pet-friendly but has many rules. I loved taking my dog to the traditional coffee houses in Vienna. Sitting in Café Central with a dog at my feet while a string quartet played was magical.
At that time, I realized that Austria is strict about muzzles. Dogs over 40cm must wear a muzzle on all public transport. If you can handle the rules, the hiking in the Austrian Alps is some of the best in the world.
Belgium: A Dog-Lover’s Paradise
Belgium makes travel very easy. All sizes of dogs are allowed on trains across the country. There is only a small 3 Euro charge for larger dogs. I spent months in Bruges and Antwerp, and I rarely found a place my dog could not go.
The outdoor terraces are perfect for enjoying a Belgian beer with your pup. The only places that said no were grocery stores and some Asian restaurants. Belgium is a very easy and friendly destination.
Latvia: A Pleasant Surprise
I was shocked by how dog-friendly Latvia is. I walked the coast from Riga to the Estonian border. Almost every beach allowed dogs. Restaurants in Riga would rush to bring out water bowls.
The hiking trails are beautiful and wide open. I even carried my dog into small grocery stores in the countryside, and no one cared. It is a great spot for nature lovers who want to avoid crowds.
Lithuania: Green and Welcoming
Vilnius is a very positive city for dog owners. There is a lot of green space and many parks to explore. I took my dog into several restaurants without any issues. I saw many other locals doing the same. It feels very safe and welcoming.
Estonia: Trails and Trams
Estonia is another Baltic win. Dogs are welcome almost everywhere, including hiking trails and shops. Public transport is very pet-friendly, though they might ask for a muzzle on the trams.
I found that dog-friendly hotels were very easy to find in Tallinn. The city is beautiful and has a very medieval feel that is fun to explore with a dog.
Luxembourg: Serious About Welfare
This tiny country takes animal lives very seriously. There are many ways to keep your dog entertained, from specialized dog parks to friendly dining spots. It is a very clean and organized country. You will feel very welcome here.
Denmark: The Hygge Life
Copenhagen is a happy city for dogs. I rented a Christiania bike and cycled through the city with my dog in the front box. She loved the wind in her ears! Gradually, we made our way to the beach at Amager Strandpark.
The prices are very high, though. A coffee can cost 6 Euros. If you have the budget, it is a perfect place for a dog-friendly city break.
Czech Republic: The Dog Republic
Prague is gorgeous and very cheap. Hotels can be as low as 40 Euros. Letná Park has a massive off-leash area with a stunning view of the river.
However, some restaurants in the tourist areas will say no to dogs. You must also muzzle your dog on the Metro and trams. It is a great budget option if you love parks more than cafes.
Portugal: Sun, Sand, and Hills
Lisbon is beautiful, but it is very hilly. My legs felt like jelly after walking to the castle! The Portuguese people adore dogs and will often say “Que lindo!”.
Taking the train to the beach in Cascais is a great day trip. Though indoor dining is still a bit hit or miss, the sunny weather means you can almost always sit outside.
Spain: Tapas and Terraces
Spain is a lot of fun, but it has some restrictions. In Barcelona, dogs are only allowed on city beaches from October to May. On top of that, high-speed trains often do not allow larger dogs.
However, the tapas culture is very dog-friendly. Most bars with outdoor seating will welcome your pup. Spain is getting better every year, and cities like Madrid have thousands of pet sitters available.
Poland: A Rising Star
Poland is becoming a favorite for many travelers. In Warsaw, people take their dogs to restaurants, shops, and woodsy areas. I saw dogs in shopping malls without leashes! It is very affordable and has a very warm pet culture.
Romania: The Reigning Kingdom
Since Romania has such high ownership, you will see dogs everywhere. Bucharest has a growing number of pet-friendly cafes. Pets are allowed on public transport if you hold them or use a leash. It is a country that is moving quickly toward a very modern pet culture.
Hungary: Tail-Wagging Nation
Budapest has over 30 dog parks. Some cafes even have dog menus and pet bakeries. It is a very social place for dogs. Therefore, you will make many new friends while walking through the city.
Transportation: How to Get Around
Traveling between these countries is best done by train. Trains are easy to take dogs on for the most part. Most systems have pet tickets. Trenitalia in Italy allows larger dogs for only 5 Euros. On Saturdays, it is only 1 Euro!
Deutsche Bahn in Germany is also a top choice. Larger dogs need a half-price ticket, but they must be leashed and muzzled. In France, SNCF allows small pets for 7 Euros, and larger dogs for half of a second-class fare.
Finally, let us talk about flying. Some countries allow dogs without quarantine, but you must meet the rabies rules. If your dog is under 8kg, they can often fly in the cabin with you. KLM, Lufthansa, and Finnair are some of the best airlines for this. If your dog is large like mine, they might have to fly in the cargo hold. This is stressful, but my dog survived it just fine.
A Warning: The Least Dog-Friendly Spots
Not every part of Europe is a dream. I want to be honest about my bad experiences. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, some people were very aggressive toward my dog. They would stomp their feet or kick at her to scare her. It was very frightening.
Albania is also a struggle. Dogs are not really welcomed in restaurants, and they are often treated with suspicion. In Frankfurt, Germany, I had a nightmare with ride-share apps. Uber drivers insisted I put my large dog in a closed trunk. I refused because that is insane.
Plus, you should know about dog-friendly countries in asia for comparison. Singapore is very clean and has fancy poop bag stations everywhere. However, the rules there are very strict, and all dogs must stay on leashes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the best place to live in Europe with dogs?
- Zurich, Switzerland is ideal for its balance of city and nature, allowing dogs to swim in public lake areas and ride pristine public transport. Germany and Austria are also highly recommended for those with well-behaved dogs, as pets are integrated into many social spaces like restaurants and cafes.
- Which European country has the most pet dogs?
- Poland has one of the highest dog ownership rates, with 49% of households owning a dog. Romania also ranks very high for pet ownership, with 45% of households owning dogs.
- Is Germany a dog-friendly country?
- Yes, Germany is considered one of the most dog-friendly countries in the world. Dogs are welcome on trains and in most restaurants, cafes, and bars.
- What is the most dog-friendly city in Europe?
- Zurich is ranked number one based on criteria including public transport, parks, and pet culture. However, research by UbuyUK named Paris the most pet-friendly city due to its high volume of dog-friendly hotels and restaurants.
- Is Italy very dog-friendly?
- Yes, Italy is exceptionally welcoming, with dogs allowed in restaurants, cafes, bars, and even some grocery stores. Romans are described as being “obsessed” with dogs, frequently stopping owners to offer compliments and head scratches.
- Where to go in Europe with a dog?
- Popular destinations include Rome, Barcelona, Lisbon, Paris, Munich, Zurich, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Berlin. Austria and Slovenia are also top choices for their accessible hiking trails and welcoming attitudes.
- What is the 3-month rule in Europe?
- When traveling from a non-listed country, a pet must undergo a rabies titration test and the owner must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before the pet can enter the EU.
- Where is the happiest place to live in Europe?
- Copenhagen, Denmark is known as the happiest city in the world, and this extends to its dogs through bike-friendly infrastructure and “hygge” culture.
- Is Italy or Spain more dog-friendly?
- Italy is generally considered more dog-friendly, as it allows dogs in many indoor spaces where Spain often restricts them to outdoor terraces. Travelers have noted that Spain can be a “much bigger hassle” due to limited dog access on long-distance transport and in restaurants.
- Which country in Europe has the most stray dogs?
- Romania has historically faced challenges with stray populations, though it is undergoing a significant cultural shift toward adoption and rescue. Bosnia and Herzegovina is also noted for having a large number of strays.
- Which country likes dogs the most?
- Britain is famously a nation of dog lovers. Italy also shows immense affection, with many owners viewing their pets as true family members.
Concluding words
Traveling through the 20 most dog-friendly countries in Europe reveals a continent that deeply values its canine companions. From the unmatched public transport in Switzerland to the welcoming café culture of France and Italy, Europe provides an accessible environment for pet owners. While rules vary by nation, the general trend toward high animal welfare standards and social integration makes these countries ideal destinations for dogs and their families.
