I always wondered is europe dog friendly for a traveler like me. My dog, a lively companion, deserves to see the world beyond our backyard. There are roughly 90 million dogs across the European continent. This is a massive number of furry friends. Additionally, about 26 percent of all households in Europe own at least one dog. Therefore, the culture is built around our four-legged family members. First of all, you must understand the rules of the road. You cannot just hop on a plane and go. Proper planning is the difference between a dream trip and a nightmare at the border.
The Paperwork Path to Europe
You need specific documents before you set foot on European soil. Every pet must have a microchip. This chip must follow ISO standards. You also need to ensure the chip is in place before the rabies vaccine is given. If the order is wrong, the vaccine is not valid. A valid rabies vaccination is mandatory. You must wait at least 21 days after the first shot before you travel. This allows the dog to build immunity.
Later, you must obtain an EU Pet Passport if you live in Europe. If you come from the United States or the United Kingdom, you need an Animal Health Certificate. This certificate is only good for ten days for entry. However, it lasts for four months of travel within the European Union. On top of that, some countries require a tapeworm treatment. Finland, Ireland, Malta, and Norway are very strict about this. A vet must give this treatment between one and five days before you arrive.
Taking Dogs Abroad by Plane
I know many of you worry about taking dogs abroad by plane. You have two main choices for air travel. The first choice is flying dog to Europe in cabin. This is for small dogs only. Most airlines have a strict 8-kilogram weight limit. This weight includes the dog and the carrier. Your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
Airlines like Lufthansa and KLM are famous for being pet-friendly. Lufthansa charges between 55 and 100 Euros for a cabin pet. KLM has fees from 70 to 500 Euros depending on your route. You should always book your dog at the same time as your own ticket. Spaces are very limited on every flight. Similarly, Air France allows cabin pets for around 200 Euros on international flights. However, low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air do not allow pets at all. On the contrary, the Spanish airline Vueling is a budget option that welcomes small dogs.
How to Get a Dog to Europe Without Flying
I know that how to get a dog to Europe without flying is a common question. Flying in the cargo hold is scary for many owners. You can take a ferry instead. Most ferry lines require you to have a car. Stena Line is a great choice for foot passengers. They offer an integrated “Rail & Sail” service from London to the Netherlands. You can book a pet-friendly cabin. Your dog stays with you in the cabin for the whole night. There is even a “poop deck” for them to do their business.
Another option is the DFDS ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe. They allow foot passengers with small or medium dogs. You can book a kennel or a pet-friendly cabin. Additionally, some people use a taxi service through the Eurotunnel. Pet Travel Abroad is a taxi company that takes you from Folkestone to Calais. You and your dog stay together in the car for the whole trip. It is not cheap, but it is very comfortable.
Are European Trains Dog Friendly?
You will find that are european trains dog friendly depends on the country. Generally, the answer is a big yes. In Germany, dogs often travel for the price of a child ticket. Small dogs in carriers usually go for free. I used the Rail Europe networks many times. SNCF in France allows all dogs. Small dogs pay a low flat fee of around 7 Euros. Large dogs pay half of a second-class fare.
However, some countries have strict rules. In the Czech Republic and Austria, large dogs must wear a muzzle. I saw many dogs muzzled on the Prague Metro. Plus, dogs in Spain are not always welcome on high-speed trains. Renfe allows dogs under 10 kilograms in carriers. Only recently did they start allowing dogs up to 40 kilograms on specific routes like Madrid to Barcelona. Eurostar is the biggest disappointment. They do not carry any pets between London and Paris. You must find another way to cross the English Channel.
15 Best Dog-Friendly Cities in Europe
I have explored many corners of the continent with my dog. Based on my travels and common ratings on Is europe dog friendly reddit, here are the top 15 cities.
1. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is the ultimate winner for dog owners. It has the perfect mix of nature and city life. My dog loved Strandbad Mythenquai. This is a public swimming area where dogs can swim in the lake with humans. Public transport is amazing here. You can buy a day pass for your dog for only 3.40 Swiss Francs. The streets are clean, and people are very respectful.
2. Paris, France
Paris is a dream for cafe culture. My dog was treated like royalty at Café de Flore. Waiters always brought a bowl of water without me asking. Most restaurants allow dogs inside. However, the parks can be tricky. Many beautiful parks in Paris do not allow dogs at all. You must check the signs before you enter.
3. Munich, Germany
Munich is the best for beer lovers. Every single biergarten in Bavaria allows dogs by law. My dog even got a piece of a pretzel from a waiter. The Englischer Garten is massive. It is one of the largest urban parks in the world. Your dog can run free and even swim in the river.
4. London, United Kingdom
London surprised me with its green spaces. Hyde Park and Regent’s Park are world-class. Dogs of all sizes ride the Underground for free. Many pubs are very welcoming and offer dog treats. On top of that, you can even visit Tower Bridge with a leashed dog.
5. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is incredibly easy for dog owners. You can bring a dog of any size on public transport for free with a day ticket. Tiergarten is a huge forest in the middle of the city. Dogs are allowed in almost every restaurant, even inside the building. It is a very budget-friendly city for pet owners.
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a city of bikes and boats. I rented a cargo bike and my dog sat in the front box. We cycled along the canals for hours. Some canal boat tours even allow dogs onboard. The Dutch people are very relaxed about pets in cafes. Just be careful near the water. The canals do not have fences.
7. Rome, Italy
Romans are obsessed with dogs. My dog received so many compliments and head scratches. I ate at a trattoria in Trastevere, and the owner gave my dog prosciutto. History is everywhere. You can walk around the exterior of the Colosseum together. However, avoid Rome in the middle of summer. The heat can reach over 35 degrees Celsius.
8. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is great for social dogs. The Gràcia neighborhood has dog-friendly cafes everywhere. Park Güell allows dogs in the outdoor areas. Similarly, Parc de la Ciutadella is perfect for a Sunday morning. But be careful about the beaches. Dogs are only allowed on city beaches from October to May.
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a happy city for dogs. You can take a boat ride in the harbor with a small dog. The Torvehallerne market has great outdoor seating for lunch. Transport is excellent and very easy to use. Additionally, you can visit the Roskilde Viking Ship Museum outdoor areas.
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon has a wonderful pet culture. The people are very kind to animals. I took a train to Cascais beach, and my dog swam in the Atlantic. The city is very affordable for travelers. However, the hills are very steep. Your legs will be tired after a day of walking.
11. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki has a very high percentage of dog-friendly hotels. Dogs are allowed on public transport, though you must use specific carriages. Suomenlinna Fortress is a great day trip. Dogs are welcome in most of the cafes on the island. It is a very quiet and peaceful city for a pet.
12. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is stunningly beautiful and cheap. You can walk across the Charles Bridge at sunrise with your dog. Letná Park has a huge off-leash area with great views. On the contrary, some restaurants in the tourist center are not dog-friendly. Also, remember the muzzle rule for public transport.
13. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is very elegant. You can even take your dog into traditional coffee houses like Café Central. Prater Park is a massive green space for running. Like Prague, there are strict rules for the Metro. Dogs need a muzzle and a half-price ticket.
14. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is a beautiful city of islands. Walking through the streets of Gamla Stan is a must. You can take a ferry to Drottingholm Palace. The grounds have an off-leash dog park. Dogs ride for free on buses and trams, but they must sit in the rear.
15. Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh is a top choice in the UK. You can walk along the Royal Mile with your pup. If you have energy, hike to the top of Arthur’s Seat for amazing views. Dogs are even welcome on many sightseeing buses. Plus, the nearby beaches are dog-friendly all year.
Why is Europe So Dog Friendly?
I often ask why is europe so dog friendly compared to other places. The answer lies in the laws and the culture. In countries like Switzerland, the law protects the dignity of animals. You cannot keep a dog on a perforated floor. Dogs must have daily contact with humans. They must be able to exercise outdoors every day. These strict welfare laws create a society that respects dogs as living beings, not just property.
On top of that, the pet food industry is massive. There are over 400 pet food companies in Europe. This shows how much people value their pets. In France, dogs are a part of the family. They sit on chairs in restaurants and receive their own water bowls. Similarly, in Italy, dogs are treated like queens and kings. People will stop you on the street just to tell you how beautiful your dog is.
Is the Europe Hotel Dog Friendly?
You must always ask is the europe hotel dog friendly before you book. Most major cities have many options. I used filters on sites like Booking.com to find the right spots. Some hotels in Amsterdam even offer room service for dogs. However, many luxury hotels will charge an extra fee for cleaning. This fee is usually around 10 to 20 Euros per night.
In Italy, I found many hotels that allowed my dog to stay for free. Additionally, some places provide dog beds and bowls. I stayed in a hotel in Verona that gave my dog a special key to the courtyard. Plus, always check for nearby green spaces. A hotel next to a park makes the early morning walks much easier.
Is Rail Europe Pet Friendly?
I have found that is rail europe pet friendly is a common concern for long trips. Most international trains are great. Nightjet sleeper trains carry dogs for 29 Euros. However, you must book the entire compartment for your group. You cannot share a sleeper with strangers if you have a dog.
Similarly, the Glacier Express in Switzerland is a dream trip. But be careful. It is not naturally dog-friendly. I had to call months in advance to provide paperwork for my service dog. For regular pets, you might need a different train. On top of that, are european trains dog friendly when they are crowded? It can be a nightmare. I struggled with three suitcases and a large dog on a packed Metro in Milan. It is always better to travel during quiet hours.
10 Best Dog-Friendly Cruises in Europe
While I could not find a list of ten specific “cruises” for pets, there are many boat-based experiences. These are the best ways to see Europe from the water with your dog.
- Stena Line Ferries: These are like floating hotels with private cabins and kennels.
- Amsterdam Canal Boats: Many private boat rentals and some tours allow pups.
- Copenhagen Harbor Rides: Small dogs are often welcome on the harbor buses.
- Stockholm Ferry: Take the boat to Drottingholm Palace for a royal day out.
- Venice to Pula Ferry: I took my dog across the Adriatic Sea on this route.
- Lake Zurich Steamers: Dogs can ride the public boats for a small fee.
- Lake Como Ferries: This is a great way to explore the beautiful Italian lakes.
- Thames River Boats: Some boat services in London allow dogs on deck.
- Norwegian Coastal Ferries: Essential for seeing the fjords with a dog.
- Seine River Cruises: Look for smaller operators in Paris that allow pets.
Dog-Friendly Beaches and Nature
If your dog loves the sand, Europe has the best spots. Plage de la Salie in France is the number one dog beach. It has vast stretches of flat sand for running. Praia do Cabedelo in Portugal is the second best. It is great for long walks and fetch. Additionally, Holkham Beach in England is a beautiful nature reserve that welcomes dogs all year.
For hikers, the Alps are a paradise. My dog and I hiked the Five Lakes Tour in Zermatt. Dogs ride the funicular and gondola for free there. You should always bring a collapsible water bowl and extra snacks. Plus, be careful around cows. Mother cows can be aggressive if they feel their calves are in danger. Always keep your dog on a leash near livestock.
Common Pitfalls and Practical Tips
You will face challenges on the road. One of the biggest is public transport rules. Even if a country is dog-friendly, they might hate your dog’s size. Frankfurt was one of the least friendly cities for me. Uber Pet drivers there asked me to put my large dog in a closed trunk. I could not believe it. I recommend calling private car services ahead of time if you have a big dog.
Similarly, is cite europe dog friendly for all breeds? No. Germany bans certain breeds like Pit Bulls and Staffordshire Terriers. They cannot enter the country at all. Also, remember to clean up after your pet. In some Spanish cities like Gran Canaria, you must carry a water bottle to clean the pee from the sidewalk. If you do not, the police might stop you and give you a fine.
FAQ
Can I go to Europe with my dog?
Yes. You definitely can take your pet to the European Union or the Schengen Area. You must follow specific rules to ensure the pet is healthy and safe. First of all, your dog needs an ISO-compliant microchip. This chip must be in place before the rabies vaccine is given. Additionally, a valid rabies vaccination is mandatory. You also need a Pet Passport if you live in the EU or an Animal Health Certificate if you come from a non-EU country like the United States. Some countries like Finland or Norway also require a tapeworm treatment before you enter.
Where to go in Europe with a dog?
Many countries on the continent are very welcoming to four-legged friends. Italy is a top choice because dogs are part of daily life and can enter restaurants, bars, and even supermarkets. Germany is another great spot with excellent public transit rules and many green spaces. Switzerland offers beautiful lakes and alpine hiking trails that are perfect for active pups. Additionally, France and Croatia have many dog-friendly cafes and beaches to enjoy.
Are dogs allowed on flights in Europe?
Yes. Many airlines allow pets, but each company has its own rules. Small dogs often fly in the cabin if they weigh less than 8 kilograms with their carrier. Larger dogs must travel in a pressurized, temperature-controlled section of the hold. However, low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air do not allow pets on board at all.
Is it stressful for dogs to fly?
It can be very difficult for them. Flight travel is often stressful, especially if the pet is alone in the hold. Large dogs can find the experience traumatizing. Therefore, it is always better to book a direct flight to reduce the time your dog spends in the air.
Which airline is most pet friendly?
Vueling is a fantastic choice for small dogs because they have a simple online booking process. Lufthansa has an excellent reputation for safety and handles both cabin and hold travel very well. KLM is also a top pick because you can add your pet to your booking easily through their website. Plus, Air France is reliable for international routes.
Can I fly to Italy with my dog?
You certainly can. Italy follows standard EU rules for pet entry. A unique update in 2025 now allows some dogs over 8 kilograms to travel in the cabin on certain domestic Italian airlines. This is a big step for owners of medium-sized breeds.
Concluding Words
A European adventure with your dog is a dream come true. You will find a continent filled with 90 million dogs and a culture that treats them like family. From the pristine streets of Zurich to the sunny beaches of Lisbon, there is a perfect spot for every pup. Proper planning for paperwork and transport makes the journey smooth. Europe is ready to welcome you and your best friend for a trip of a lifetime.
