You love your dog. Your dog loves you. Why would you leave your best friend at home when you explore the world? I have traveled across the ocean and through the mountains with my four-legged companion. Europe is truly a paradise for pets and their owners. It is arguably the most pet-friendly continent on the planet. I am here to share my personal journey and show you the Best Places To Travel With a Dog in Europe.
The bond between a traveler and their pet is deep. Dogs are not accessories. They are family members. Their safety and comfort matter. Can I travel to Europe with my dog? Yes, you can. I have done it many times. It requires a bit of planning and some paperwork, but the reward is a wagging tail in a Parisian cafe or a happy bark in the Swiss Alps. This guide will walk you through everything I have learned.
The First Steps: Logistics and Paperwork
How do I travel with my dog to Europe? First of all, you must understand the rules. These rules changed after Brexit, especially for those coming from the United Kingdom. I had to learn the difference between an EU Pet Passport and an Animal Health Certificate (AHC).
If you live in the European Union, the EU Pet Passport is your golden ticket. It is a blue booklet issued by a vet. It lists microchip numbers and rabies shots. It stays valid for the life of your dog as long as the rabies booster is up to date. On the contrary, if you travel from the United States or the UK, you need an AHC. This document is long. It is often 10 to 12 pages. You must get it from an official vet within 10 days of your flight. It is only good for one entry.
Vital Health Requirements
Microchipping is the most important step. The chip must meet ISO standards. You must chip the dog before the rabies shot is given. I learned that a rabies vaccine is not valid for travel until 21 days have passed. Additionally, some countries like Ireland, Finland, Norway, and Malta require a tapeworm treatment. A vet must give this pill between one and five days before you arrive. Therefore, you must watch the clock closely.
High-Altitude Air Travel: The Airline Maze
How to travel to Europe with a dog by plane? Most major European airlines are very helpful. I usually fly with Air France, Lufthansa, or KLM. They have a specific rule often called the 8-kilogram barrier. If your dog and their carrier weigh less than 8 kg (about 17.6 lbs), they can sit under the seat in front of you.
- Air France: They only allow soft-sided bags in the cabin. The bag must be no bigger than 46 x 28 x 24 cm. The fee is usually between €70 and €200.
- Lufthansa: They also have an 8 kg limit. You must call them 48 hours before you fly to reserve a spot.
- ITA Airways: This is a great choice if you are in Italy. They allow up to 10 kg for the dog alone on domestic flights.
However, some breeds cannot fly in the hold. These are snub-nosed dogs like Pugs or Bulldogs. They have trouble breathing at high altitudes. On top of that, budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet do not allow pets at all. Always book your pet’s seat early. There are usually only two or three spots per flight.
Land and Sea: Trains and Ferries
I find that the European rail network is much better than flying. It is more humane. It is also more flexible. In France, the SNCF allows big dogs on trains for a fee. They must wear a muzzle and stay on a short lead. Small dogs in carriers usually pay a very small flat fee.
Switzerland and the Netherlands are the kings of train travel. In the Netherlands, you can buy a dog day ticket for about €3.30. Switzerland offers a Dog Pass. You can even get a half-fare ticket for larger pups.
Crossing the English Channel
The Eurostar does not allow dogs. This is a big problem for car-free travelers. I suggest the Hull to Rotterdam ferry. They offer pet-friendly cabins. My dog, Nora, stayed in a private room with a bed and a shower. It is much better than a kennel. Stena Line also has great pet cabins on routes to the Netherlands.
Best Dog Friendly Country: Germany
If I had to pick the best dog friendly country, it would be Germany. At that time, I was shocked to see how well dogs are treated there. They are legally recognized as sentient beings. They have rights. You see dogs in high-end stores like KaDeWe and almost every cafe.
Berlin is a dream for city lovers. The Tiergarten is a massive park with over 500 acres. There are designated areas where dogs can run without a leash. Additionally, German cities are very walkable. You can take your dog on almost any bus or tram. I never felt like a second-class citizen when I had my dog with me in Munich or Berlin.
Alpine Adventures: Switzerland and Italy
Switzerland is a top pick for dog friendly countries to travel. I visited the Jungfrau region, and it was perfect. Dogs travel for free on nine major mountain routes there. You can take the cable car up to Grindelwald First or the train to Lauterbrunnen at no extra cost.
The Italian Dolomites
The Dolomites are perhaps the most beautiful place in Europe. I hiked near Lago di Braies. The water is crystal clear. The trails are easy for social dogs. Many mountain huts, or refugios, allow dogs to stay overnight. Imagine sleeping in a wooden cabin high in the peaks with your dog. It is an experience you will never forget. Later, I took a cable car to Seceda Ridge. My dog sat right next to me and looked out at the jagged limestone cliffs.
Coastal Fun: Spain and Croatia
Spain has changed a lot lately. They now have over 100 officially recognized dog beaches, called Playas Caninas.
- Playa de la Rubina: This was the first dog beach in Spain. It has open sand and no strict time rules.
- Llevant Beach: This is a fenced section right in Barcelona. It is perfect for city travelers who need a quick swim.
Croatia’s Hidden Gems
Crikvenica is the home of Monty’s Dog Beach & Bar. This is a full-service beach just for dogs. They even serve dog beer made from chicken and vegetables. They also have dog ice cream. It is the ultimate luxury for a pet. Similarly, the city of Split has the Kašjuni Dog Zone with natural shade and clear water.
City Breaks: Paris and Amsterdam
Paris is a city of layers. Though some small parks are off-limits, the Bois de Vincennes and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont are huge green spaces for exercise. I took my dog on a Batobus boat tour along the River Seine. He had to wear a muzzle, but he loved the breeze. Most Parisian bistros will welcome a well-behaved dog.
Amsterdam is famously laid-back. Vondelpark is the main social hub for pets. You can also take your dog on many canal tours. I found that most restaurants in the De Pijp district are happy to have four-legged guests.
Specialized Activities
What if you want more than a walk?
- Dog Sledding: If you are looking for the best place to go dog sledding in Europe, head to the Swiss Alps or the Harz Mountains in Germany. I saw amazing sled dog teams in Switzerland.
- Hiking: The Schynige Platte to First hike in Switzerland is a 16 km walk with stunning lake views.
- Dining: In Madrid, there is a cafe called El Perro y La Galleta. It is dedicated to dogs and serves great desserts for humans.
Essential Gear and Safety
I always pack a small “pet bag”. It is a life-saver.
- Water: An insulated bottle keeps water cold.
- Harness: A no-pull harness is great for steep mountain paths.
- Cooling Gear: Cooling mats or bandanas are vital in the summer.
- First Aid: Always carry antihistamines for bee stings or mosquito bites.
On top of that, I follow the five-second rule for pavement. If the ground is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Gradually, I learned to schedule my walks for the early morning or late evening during heatwaves.
Dealing with Restrictions
You must be aware of Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL).
- France: They have Category 1 and Category 2 dogs. Category 1 “attack dogs” like non-pedigree Pit Bulls are strictly banned from entering the country.
- Germany: They also ban Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers from being imported.
- Muzzles: Many countries require a muzzle on public transport or in crowded areas. I always carry one just in case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where in Europe is most dog friendly?
Germany and the Netherlands are top choices for pet owners. Switzerland also offers incredible freedom for pets on mountain routes. These places treat dogs as real family members. Germany stands out because animals have legal rights as sentient beings there.
Can you travel around Europe with your dog?
You can travel with ease across the continent. You use trains, ferries, and planes to move across borders. Most EU countries allow entry without quarantine if you meet all health requirements. Plus, the Schengen Area allows for travel without friction once you are inside the zone.
What is the easiest country to travel with a dog?
Germany is the simplest country for many travelers. You find that almost every cafe, pub, and shop welcomes your pet there. Public transport in German cities is very open to dogs. Additionally, the veterinary infrastructure is very reliable across the country.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
The Alpine regions are perfect for active pups. You should visit the Italian Dolomites or the Swiss Jungfrau area. Coastal Spain and Croatia also have fantastic dog beaches. These spots offer specialized amenities like doggy bars and swimming pools.
Which country loves dogs most?
France and Germany have deep cultural loves for dogs. You see dogs in fine restaurants and high-end shops regularly in these nations. On top of that, French culture treats dogs with a level of respect that is almost regal.
Which country is the safest for dogs?
Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and the Netherlands provide the most safety. Their animal welfare laws are very strong. These laws protect your pet from abuse or neglect long-term. Similarly, these nations provide excellent access to emergency veterinary care.
Can dogs fly on planes internationally?
Yes, they can fly across the world. Small dogs stay in the cabin with their owners. However, larger dogs must go in the hold or travel as manifest cargo. You must check the specific rules for your destination and airline first.
Can I buy my dog a seat on a plane?
You can buy a seat on some airlines like Aeroflot, S7 Airlines, or Belavia. This allows your dog to stay in a rigid carrier on the seat next to you. The weight limit for this option is often higher, such as 15 kg or 23 kg.
Can dogs fly in cabin in Europe?
Most major European airlines allow this for small pets. The weight limit is usually 8 kg including the carrier bag. You must use a soft-sided bag that fits under the seat in front of you.
Does Eurostar allow dogs?
No, the Eurostar does not permit pets. They only allow certified assistance dogs on their routes. First of all, you should look for ferries or the Eurotunnel as an alternative for crossing the Channel.
Concluding words
Europe is a paradise for you and your dog. You can visit the Dolomites for hiking or the beaches of Spain for a swim. First of all, you must prepare the right paperwork like an EU Pet Passport. Germany and Switzerland are the most welcoming countries. However, you should always check airline rules for weight limits. Your bond will grow stronger during these travels. A happy dog. A happy owner. Pure joy.
