I love to travel across the beautiful country of France with my four-legged best friend. France is a true heaven for all canines because of its massive coastline. You will find hundreds of miles of beaches that provide plenty of chance for sandy paws and soggy coats. Pure bliss for us both.
However, I learned the hard way that not every beach is open to pets. France has about 10 million dogs in its population. A study even shows that 40 percent of French owners think their pets are the most important thing in their lives. Therefore, it is no surprise that there are over 250 dog friendly beaches in France to choose from.
Traveling in France with a dog
The journey to France is an adventure in itself. First of all, you must plan ahead and check the local rules. If you travel from the United Kingdom, you can use LeShuttle. The crossing only takes 35 minutes. Plus, you and your dog stay together in the car the whole time. I find this method very stress-free.
At that time, I realized how much my dog Chloe enjoyed staying with me instead of being in a kennel. The staff even provide special pet exercise areas at the terminals. These spots are great for a bathroom break before you board the train.
Additionally, you need the right paperwork to cross the border. You must have a microchip, a rabies jab, and an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or a valid pet passport. The microchip must be ISO-compliant and have 15 digits. You must get the rabies shot at least 21 days before you travel.
Later, you must visit your vet to get the AHC within 10 days of your departure date. On top of that, your dog must be at least 12 weeks old before they get the rabies vaccine. Similarly, you will need a tapeworm treatment for your dog between 1 and 5 days before you return to the United Kingdom.
Important information about visiting France with a dog
France is very welcoming, but it has strict laws for certain breeds. The law divides potentially dangerous dogs into 2 categories. Category 1 includes attack dogs like Pitbulls and Mastiffs that do not have a pedigree. You cannot buy, sell, or even bring these dogs into France. Category 2 includes guard and defense dogs like Rottweilers and Tosas with a pedigree. However, these dogs must be muzzled and on a leash in public at all times. Therefore, you should check your dog’s breed before you book your trip.
Similarly, you must be careful about waste. If you do not pick up after your dog, you can face a fine of up to 400 euros. Also, some beaches have a fine of 150 euros if you break the access rules. Most public places require your dog to be on a leash. Plus, dogs are generally forbidden in food shops like bakeries and grocery stores.
Dog-Friendly Cities in France
Paris is a dream for dog lovers. I spent years in the city and I learned many lessons. Canine culture is everywhere. Most cafes allow you to walk straight in with your dog. You do not even have to ask. My dog often sits at my feet while I enjoy a glass of wine.
However, the city parks used to be very strict. Gradually, the rules changed to allow dogs on leashes in many green spaces. You can even find maps that show where your dog can roam free. The Bois de Vincennes and Bois de Boulogne are wonderful leash-free playgrounds on the weekends.
Additionally, look for the “Toutourisme” label in different towns. This program helps pet owners find the best spots. Over 60 destinations have this label now. The tourist offices in these towns give out “Toutoupacks” with treats and waste bags. Berck-sur-Mer is one of these cities, and they really love their doggy guests. Similarly, the city of Bandol in the south has a dedicated beach just for dogs.
Dog-friendly accommodations in France
You have so many choices for places to stay. Many hotels, vacation rentals, resorts, and country houses happily welcome pets. You should look for the “Qualidog” label when you book your room. This label uses a rating from 1 to 4 “truffles”. A 4-truffle rating is the best because it means the hotel offers dog-sitting or welcome kits.
I stayed at the Le Meurice Hotel in Paris once. It is a very posh spot. They welcomed my dog with a personal bowl of water. On the contrary, some rentals might have limits on the size of your dog. Therefore, you should always ask about the pet policy before you arrive. Some hotels even have an Animal Care Centre if you visit a place like Disneyland Paris where dogs are not allowed inside the park.
Dog-friendly dining in France
Dining with your dog in France is a royal experience. It is a different story than in the United Kingdom. Most restaurants and cafes allow dogs inside. I even took my dog to Le Grand Vefour, which is a Michelin-starred restaurant. The famous chef Guy Martin greeted my dog and offered a special dog-friendly meal. Similarly, Atelier de Joël Robuchon is another fine-dining spot that loves dogs.
If you want something more casual, try Brasserie Lipp. You cannot put your dog on the seats there, but the food is great. Café de l’Industrie in Paris is a top choice for an al fresco breakfast. You can sit outside and enjoy a croissant while your dog watches the world go by.
Also, Crêperie du Temps Passé in Brittany serves delicious thin pancakes and welcomes pups. If you visit the Aubrac region, go to Auberge du Moulin for classic beef and mashed potatoes. Plus, you can always have a picnic along the River Seine. Just pick up some fresh bread and cheese from the local shops.
Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in France
Nature lovers will enjoy the many campsites across the country. These spots often have the Qualidog label as well. You can find places that offer plenty of shade and space for your dog to run. I suggest checking for campgrounds near the forest or the coast.
For example, the Plage de la Tamarissière in Agde is next to a forest that provides nice shade for hot days. Similarly, the Plage de la Coubre is next to a forest and has massive dunes. Always bring a bowl of fresh water to the campsite to keep your dog safe in the heat.
Dog-friendly beaches/lakes in France
The beaches are the highlight of any trip. There are so many dog friendly beaches france has to offer. I have a personal list of the top spots you should visit.
- Le Touquet-Paris-Plage (Baie de Canche): This chic town is a short drive from Calais. The beach has dunes and a huge stretch of sand. You must keep your dog on a lead near the nautical base.
- Berck-sur-Mer (Plage des Sternes): This vast beach has fine sand. Every April, they hold an International Kite Festival. You might even see a colony of seals here.
- Escalles Beach (Cran d’Escalles): This beach is large and flat. It is perfect for active dogs who need to burn off energy. The views of the Cap Blanc-Nez cliffs are breathtaking.
- Wissant (Plage Dune d’Aval): This town is only 25 minutes from Calais. The scenery with the cliffs is spectacular.
- Omaha Beach (Vierville-sur-mer): This is a famous D-Day beach in Normandy. It is a stunning 2.5 km stretch of white sand.
- Quiberville-sur-Mer: This beach has massive cliffs and clean water. You can buy fresh fish or oysters from the huts on the promenade.
- Gouville-sur-Mer: This is an unspoilt spot where you see fishermen on the shore. The dunes are a fun place to explore.
- Plage d’Antifer (Le Tilleul): This is one of the most gorgeous beaches in Normandy. You must walk on foot to reach it.
- Santec (Dossen Beach): All beaches in this region of Brittany are dog-friendly.
- Laber Beach (Roscoff): This beach has crystal-clear blue water and golden sand.
- Hirel Beach: This beach is near the castle of Mont Saint-Michel. You can let your dog off the leash at low tide.
- La Tranche-sur-Mer (Plage de la Terrière): This is a wild and natural spot.
- Belle Henriette Beach: This beach is 3 kilometers long and open all year.
- South Beach (Fouras): This area is very pretty for a family holiday near La Rochelle.
- Mimizan (Plage de la Garluche): This town has wide sandy beaches. Later, you can take the Promenade Fleurie to see 400 species of flowers.
- Bandol Dog Beach: This is a dedicated pebble beach for dogs with transparent water.
- La Grande Motte (Plage du Grand Travers): This beach is perfect for watching the sunset. The water is shallow and safe.
- Agde (Plage de la Tamarissière): This is the only official dog beach in the area.
- Santa Giulia (Porto-Vecchio): This Corsica beach is a true paradise with clear water.
- Palombaggia: This is the top-rated beach in Corsica with red rocks and turquoise water.
Dog-friendly public transport in France
Public transport rules depend on the size of your dog. Paris is quite flexible. Small dogs travel free of charge if they are in a bag or basket. This rule applies to the metro, bus, and tramway. Medium and large dogs are only allowed on the metro and RER. However, they must be muzzled and on a leash. Since November 2019, all dogs travel free on Paris metros and RERs. On the contrary, large dogs are not allowed on buses.
If you take the SNCF trains, the rules are slightly different. Dogs under 6 kg travel in a bag for free. Dogs over 6 kg need a 7 euro ticket. You must keep the dog muzzled and at your feet during the whole journey. Guide and assistance dogs always travel for free and do not need a muzzle. Check the conditions for your specific trip.
Practical tips for dog friendly travel in France
Safety is very important during your trip. The summer heat can be dangerous. Sand temperatures can reach 50 degrees Celsius. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for their paws. Do not take your dog to the beach during the hottest hours from 10 am to 4 pm. Additionally, salt water is not good for their skin. You should rinse them with fresh water after they swim.
Always carry plenty of fresh water and find some shade. You can apply special sunscreen to your dog’s nose or ears. Plus, make sure your dog is secure and comfortable in the car. Consider using calming sprays for the journey. Finally, look for English-speaking veterinarians if you need help in Paris. Dr. Eric McCarthy in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood is a great choice. VetoAdom also provides 24-hour emergency service at your rental.
I had a wonderful time sharing my experiences at these 20 dog friendly beaches france has to offer. From the massive cliffs of Normandy to the clear blue water of Corsica, your pet can find a perfect place to run. This trip will be a memory that you and your best friend will keep forever. Grab your leash and start your French coastal adventure today!
FAQ
Where in France is dog friendly?
Corsica is the absolute top spot for pet owners because the local people are very relaxed about pets. The island actually has over 73 dog-friendly beaches for you to visit. Similarly, the Pas-de-Calais region in the north is very welcoming and uses special programs to help pet owners.
Are dogs allowed everywhere in France?
No. You generally cannot take dogs into grocery stores, bakeries, or other food shops. Most museums like the Louvre are not pet-friendly. Additionally, dogs are forbidden at the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland Paris, though Disney offers an onsite Animal Care Centre.
Are trains in France dog friendly?
Yes, they are. SNCF trains allow pets, but you must follow specific rules. Small dogs under 6 kg travel for free in a bag, while larger dogs need a 7 euro ticket and a muzzle. Guide and assistance dogs always travel for free and do not need a ticket or a muzzle.
Is Paris dog-friendly?
Paris is very dog-friendly. You can walk straight into most cafes with your dog without even asking. Dogs travel for free on the metro and RER, and many city parks now allow leashed dogs in certain areas.
Is Monaco dog-friendly?
Monaco is listed as a territory where a rabies antibody titration blood test is not required for animals entering the EU. This suggests that travel with your pet is possible under standard EU rules.
Do restaurants in France allow dogs?
Most restaurants do. It is common to see dogs at their owners’ feet in bistros and brasseries. Some Michelin-starred restaurants even welcome pups with water bowls or special meals.
Can dogs go on beaches in France?
Yes, on more than 250 beaches. You should look for signs that say plages autorisées to ensure you do not get a 150 euro fine. Some beaches allow dogs all year, while others have seasonal rules during the summer.
Are dogs allowed in supermarkets in France?
No, they are forbidden. Hygiene laws in France generally keep pets out of food stores and supermarkets.
Concluding Words
A trip through France with your dog is a joyful adventure if you prepare properly. You can find hundreds of miles of stunning dog-friendly beaches and welcoming Michelin-starred restaurants across the country. Paris and Corsica stand out as top spots for pet lovers. You must follow rules for microchips and rabies shots to cross the border safely. Always pack plenty of water and keep an eye on the sand temperature to protect your friend. France truly treats our furry family members like royalty.
