I spent many months planning my trip to the heart of Europe. I wanted to find a place where my four-legged best friend could join every single part of the journey. You might ask yourself a common question. Is Slovenia dog friendly? I discovered that this small country is one of the most welcoming spots for pets in the world. I looked at a slovenia map and saw a land filled with green forests, clear blue lakes, and high mountains. I found that the culture here centers on a deep respect for nature and animals. I did not want to leave my pup behind. Therefore, I chose to explore slovenia with dog by my side.
Getting Ready: Slovenia Pet Import Rules
I had to learn the rules before I could cross the border. The process for slovenia pet import is very specific but fair. First of all, your pet must have a microchip. This chip must meet ISO standards. I learned that the vet must scan the chip before they give the rabies vaccine. This order is very important. If the vaccine happens before the chip, the law says it does not count.
Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old to get the rabies shot. After the shot, you must wait 21 days before you can enter the country. This wait time allows the vaccine to work. If you come from a country like the United States, you need a special EU Health Certificate. An accredited vet must sign it. Later, the USDA must endorse it within 10 days of your arrival.
I found that the rules for a non-commercial move apply if you have five or fewer pets. You must travel within five days of your dog to use these rules. If you have more than five animals, the rules change to commercial ones. Those rules are much tougher. I am glad I only have one dog.
Life in the Capital: Ljubljana with Dog
I arrived in Ljubljana and felt the friendly vibe immediately. Ljubljana with dog life is simple because the city is so green. I learned a great statistic during my stay. Over 50 percent of all hotels and apartments in the capital allow pets. This makes it one of the top pet-friendly cities in all of Europe.
I spent many hours walking along the Ljubljanica River. The river is the heart of the city. I saw many people sitting at cafes with their dogs. Most restaurants let dogs sit on the terrace. Many even let them inside. I never had to ask for water. Most waiters brought a bowl for my dog right away. On top of that, I discovered the ljubljana dog friendly zoo. I could take my dog to the zoo to see the lions and giraffes. This is a very rare thing to find in any city.
I also hiked up to the Ljubljana Castle. The walk takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The path is steep but easy for most dogs. I could not take my dog inside the museum or the cafeteria. However, we could walk all over the castle grounds. The view of the city from the top is amazing. I felt like a boss while I looked down at the orange roofs of the town.
The Fairy Tale: Is Lake Bled Dog Friendly?
I headed north to the mountains next. Everyone told me to visit Lake Bled. You might ask the same question I did. Is lake bled dog friendly? I can tell you that it is a dream for dogs. I walked the entire path around the lake. It is a flat and easy walk with many spots to stop and sniff.
I took a traditional Pletna boat to the island in the middle of the lake. Dogs can ride these wooden boats for free. The boatmen are usually very happy to have furry guests if the other passengers do not mind. I visited the island for 45 minutes. I ate gelato while my dog explored the small paths. Though dogs cannot go inside the church on the island, they can walk everywhere else.
I also wanted a better view, so I hiked to Mala Osojnica. This trail is on the western edge of the lake. I must warn you that it is very steep. It ends with a very long and scary metal staircase. I saw many people struggling. My friend had to carry their dog Shampoo up the stairs because they were too steep for paws. Finally, we reached the top and saw the most famous view in Slovenia. It was phenomenal.
Pure Nature: Lake Bohinj and Triglav National Park
I drove thirty minutes further to Lake Bohinj. I liked this lake even more than Bled. It feels more wild and less like a tourist trap. Slovenia with dog adventures are best here because dogs can swim in many parts of the lake. I saw dogs splashing in the water at Ukanc and Fužine Bay.
I took the Vogel Cable Car up the mountain. This lift takes you to 1,535 meters. Dogs can ride it, but they must wear a muzzle. I bought a muzzle at a local shop before we went. The view of the Alps from the top is breathtaking. Additionally, I visited the Savica Waterfall. The hike is short but has over 500 stone stairs. It is a good workout for both of us.
I entered the Triglav National Park, which is the only national park in the country. I had to follow the Code of Conduct very closely. The rules are clear. First of all, you must keep your dog on a leash at all times. This is not just a suggestion. It is a law to protect the wild animals and the cows in the pastures. Similarly, dogs are not allowed to swim in high mountain lakes or streams. These waters are very sensitive. On top of that, you must pick up all waste and take it out of the park. I saw that dog waste can disturb the smell of the wild animals.
The Emerald Beauty: Soča Valley
I followed the Soča River next. The water is a bright turquoise color that looks like a painting. I hiked the Soča Trail, which is a long and beautiful path. I saw many suspension bridges made of wood and wire. My dog was a bit nervous on the bridges at first. Gradually, he got used to the swaying.
I stayed in the town of Bovec. This is a great base for active families. We visited the Great Soča Gorge. I stood on the edge and looked down at the rushing water. I had to hold the leash very tight because there are no railings in some spots. Later, we walked through the Zadnjica Valley. The forests there are covered in green moss. It felt like a fairy tale world.
I also drove over the Vršič Pass. It is the highest mountain pass in the country. It has exactly 50 hairpin turns. I saw snow at the top even in the spring. My dog Shampoo loved playing in the white powder. We stopped at the Russian Chapel on the way down. It is a quiet and peaceful spot in the woods.
Sun and Salt: Monty’s Dog Beach Slovenia
I finished my trip on the short but beautiful coast. The Slovenian coast is only about 47 kilometers long. However, they have some of the best dog beaches I have ever seen. I went to Portorož to find Monty’s dog beach slovenia. It is the first real dog beach in the country.
I was so impressed by this place. It is a “pawradise” for dogs. The beach has a playground with nine different obstacles for agility. It has shaded areas so the pups do not get too hot. On top of that, it has a bar that serves snacks for humans and special treats for dogs. Entry to the beach is free. I also saw a shower that is made for both small and large dogs. It was the perfect place to relax after a long week of hiking.
I also checked out the dog beach in Izola. It is located near an old factory. It is an official dog beach where pups can swim without any worry. I noticed that dogs are generally not allowed on the main public beaches like the one in Piran. Therefore, you should always look for the signs. You might wonder, is croatia dog-friendly like this? I found that Croatia has many dog beaches too. However, the Monty’s beach in Slovenia felt more modern and fun.
Moving Around: Trains and Buses
I did not always want to drive my car. I learned how to use public transport with a dog. First of all, the trains are great. Small dogs can ride for free if they fit in a bag or on your lap. Larger dogs must pay half the price of a second-class ticket. They must wear a muzzle and stay on a short leash. I also learned that big dogs cannot go on the fast ICS trains.
I had a harder time with the buses. Intercity buses like Nomago or Arriva are more strict. They often only allow small dogs in carriers. Drivers can say no if the bus is too full. In Ljubljana, you can take a dog on the city bus. However, you cannot do this during rush hours. You must avoid the times between 6:30 AM and 9:30 AM and between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Your dog must be clean and wear a muzzle.
I also tried the car train from Bohinjska Bistrica to Most na Soči. This was a very cool experience. You drive your car onto a flat train car. You sit in your car while the train goes through long tunnels. It saves a lot of time if you want to get to the Soča Valley from the lakes. My dog just napped in the back seat the whole time.
Eating and Sleeping: Dog Friendly Hospitality
I never felt hungry on this trip. Most restaurants in Slovenia are very kind to dogs. I ate a lot of Carniolan sausage, which they call Kranjska klobasa. It is succulent and flavorful. My dog sat by my chair and begged for a bite. I also tried potato goulash. I found that most places will bring you a bowl of water before you even ask.
I stayed in some wonderful places. In Bled, I stayed at Vila Ana. The host was so nice. She even helped us catch a big spider in our room! In Ljubljana, I stayed at the Four Points by Sheraton. They charged a small fee for the dog, but it was worth it. I saw that some guest houses like Rudi Hiti’s in Bled do not charge any pet fee at all. You should always check the rules before you book.
I also saw many people traveling in camper vans. This is a very popular way to see the country. You must remember that wild camping is against the law. You must sleep in a real campsite. Many camps like Camp Šobec are very friendly to pets. They have lots of space for dogs to run.
Safety and Health: Tips for a Smooth Trip
I wanted to make sure my dog stayed healthy. I carried a first aid kit for him. It had bandages, scissors, and cream for his paws. The mountains can be hard on a dog’s feet. I checked his paws every night for cuts from the sharp rocks. I also made sure he drank plenty of water. The summer heat can be very strong in the valleys.
I found that there are many good vets in the country if you have an emergency. In Ljubljana, the Small Animal Clinic is open 24 hours a day. In the mountains, there is a clinic in Lesce near Bled. Most of the staff speak very good English. This made me feel much safer. On top of that, I could buy high-quality dog food at shops like Mr. Pet or Zootic. They are in almost every big town.
FAQ
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Slovenia?
Most restaurants and bars allow you to sit with your dog on the terrace or even inside. Additionally, I found that the staff will often bring a water bowl for your pup without you even asking. A dream for hungry dogs. You should feel welcome in almost any cafe in the capital.
Are dogs allowed in Slovenia?
Slovenia is incredibly welcoming to pets and is a leader in canine tourism. It is one of the top countries in the European Union for dog owners. Therefore, you can expect a warm greeting for your furry friend everywhere you go. Truly amazing.
What European country is the most dog friendly?
Italy is a top choice because people pamper dogs there. Similarly, Germany has a great reputation for letting dogs into most public spaces like shops and offices. A close race. I also believe Slovenia belongs on this list because of its green spaces.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Bled?
First of all, you can take your dog on the wooden Pletna boats to visit the island. Dogs are also allowed to swim in the western part of the lake away from the main beaches. Finally, the path around the water is flat and perfect for a long stroll. Pure bliss.
What to do in Ljubljana with a dog?
You can walk through the large Tivoli Park or visit the central market with your pet. Plus, the city zoo allows you to bring your dog along to see the other animals. Fun for everyone. You can also hike up the hill to see the castle grounds.
Which country is the most pet friendly?
Italy stands out because dogs can even enter some grocery stores and formal gardens there. Also, Germany welcomes pets in the majority of hotels and eateries across the country. Both countries set a high bar for hospitality.
Is it safe to go to Slovenia now?
Slovenia is a safe and peaceful country for all travelers. The local people are very friendly and the environment is quite calm. Peace of mind. You will find that the country is stable and ready for visitors.
Can I bring a dog to Croatia?
Croatia allows dogs that meet the standard rules of the European Union. You must ensure your pet has a microchip and a valid rabies shot. Simple enough. Additionally, you should check if a worming treatment is needed before you cross the border.
What is the easiest country to travel with a dog?
Germany is easy because dogs are allowed on almost all public transport. On the contrary, some find Italy easier because the culture is so relaxed about pets in shops. Both are great choices for a stress-free trip.
What is so special about Slovenia?
The country is the green heart of Europe and is very sustainable. Gradually, you will see that it offers mountains, lakes, and the sea all in one small area. A hidden gem. It is also the city of dragons.
Can dogs go in Bled Castle?
Dogs are welcome in the outdoor courtyards and terraces of the castle. However, they cannot go inside the museum or the cafeteria area. Great views. You will still enjoy the panorama from the walls.
Are dogs allowed on trains in Slovenia?
Yes, pets are welcome on most train services. Small dogs travel for free while large dogs must pay a half fare and wear a muzzle. All aboard. Later, you can even try the car train for a unique experience.
Concluding words
Slovenia is a fantastic place for anyone who loves to travel with a dog. Plus, it offers a mix of beautiful nature and cities that welcome pets with open arms. You can easily find hotels and restaurants that will treat your dog like a guest. Therefore, you should pack your bags and head to this green paradise for your next vacation. It is a choice you will not regret because the memories will last forever.
