I recently decided to pack my bags and head to Denmark with my four-legged best friend. I have traveled to many places, but I must say that this Scandinavian gem is truly a dog-friendly paradise. If you love culture and nature, you will find that this country offers a perfect mix of both for you and your pet.
I realized quickly that Danes see dogs as a natural part of city life. You will not feel like a nuisance here. Dog Friendly Denmark is not a myth; it is a reality I experienced every single day. I explored everything from the busy streets of Copenhagen to the quiet beaches of North Jutland.
First of all, I want to mention something for those who might be confused. You might be looking for dog friendly denmark wa or pet friendly denmark wa. You might even search for dog friendly Albany or ask Is Lights Beach dog friendly because of the town in Western Australia. I have to tell you that my journey was in the European country of Denmark. I did not visit Prawn Rock dog Beach on this trip, but I can tell you all about the white flag beaches in the North of Europe.
A trip like this takes a lot of planning. You cannot just show up at the border and hope for the best. First of all, you must know the rules.
The Essential Legal Stuff You Must Know
I spent a lot of time reading the Danish Dog Law before I left. It is very strict, but it keeps everyone safe. You must ensure your dog has a microchip. You also need an EU pet passport. This document is your golden ticket into the country. It must show a valid rabies vaccination. You must get this shot at least 21 days before you travel.
On top of that, some breeds are actually banned in Denmark. I saw a list of 13 prohibited breeds, and it is no joke. The list includes the Pitbull Terrier, Tosa Inu, and the American Staffordshire Terrier. Also, the American Bulldog and Kangal are on that list. If you have a cross-breed of these dogs, you cannot bring them into the country. The police take this very seriously, and they can even euthanize dogs that violate these rules.
I also learned about mandatory liability insurance. In Denmark, every dog owner must have this to cover any damage the dog might cause. It is a legal requirement. Additionally, if you stay for more than four weeks, you must register your dog in the Danish Dog Register. The fee for this is about DKK 145.
Getting There and Moving Around
I chose to drive because it gave me more freedom. If you come from Germany, you can take the ferry. I used Scandlines, and it was a great experience. They allow pets in all non-carpeted areas. I saw many dogs on the deck enjoying the breeze. However, you must keep your dog on a leash or in a cage at all times during the crossing.
I was happy to find that I could borrow a water bowl from the food express area on the ship. Plus, if you want, your dog can stay in the car during the trip. But you cannot visit the car deck while the ship is at sea for safety reasons.
Later, when I arrived in the city, I checked the public transport rules. You can take dogs on trains and buses, but they usually need to be on a leash. Similarly, you must make sure the dog does not interfere
FAQ
Is Denmark a dog friendly country?
Yes, Denmark is a dog-friendly country. You will find that four-legged friends are a natural part of city life here. Many families believe the best holiday is one where the dog is present. Additionally, the local people are very interested in dogs and often enjoy a chat with owners.
Are dogs allowed in shops in Denmark?
Many boutique shops and design stores welcome dogs if they are calm and do not cause a disturbance. You should always look for a sign at the entrance. Plus, a quick and friendly inquiry with the staff is a good way to be sure.
Is it expensive to own a dog in Denmark?
Veterinary care in the country is often costly. The average visit to a vet costs about €133. On top of that, lifetime veterinary expenses for a dog can reach €2,800 over ten years. Monthly health insurance costs around DKK 300 for dogs.
Is Copenhagen dog friendly?
Copenhagen is one of the most dog-friendly cities in Scandinavia. It is an ideal spot for a stylish city break with your pet. The city offers many green spaces, coastal paths, and dog-friendly cafes. Gradually, you will see that dogs are welcome in many parts of urban life.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Denmark?
It is up to the restaurant owner to decide if dogs are allowed inside. The law says that dogs must not go near the kitchen or food preparation areas. Therefore, some places allow dogs indoors if there is enough space. Many dog friendly denmark restaurants also offer outside seating with heat lamps.
Do they speak English well in Copenhagen?
Many businesses and insurance companies offer support in English. Plus, most Danes are very friendly and happy to speak with you. You will find it easy to navigate the city and ask for help.
Concluding Words
A trip with your pet to Denmark is a wonderful experience. You must follow the laws about rabies vaccinations and EU pet passports to ensure a smooth entry. Remember to find pet friendly denmark accommodation that suits your style, like a fancy hotel in Copenhagen or a summer house in North Jutland.
Always keep your dog on a leash in public areas unless you are in a designated dog forest. Respect the rules at the beach and keep the environment clean for everyone. Finally, enjoy the Hygge lifestyle with your best friend by your side in this beautiful Nordic country.
