I am a person who loves to travel the world with my furry best friend. It is a unique way to see new cultures. Recently, I decided to look for pet friendly places in Azerbaijan. At first, I was not sure what to expect. I searched for pet-friendly activities near me and even looked at pet friendly places in lonavala or pet friendly restaurants in lonavala for comparison. However, the call of the Caspian Sea was too strong to ignore. I packed my bags and prepared my dog for an adventure in the Caucasus.
Azerbaijan is a land of fire and history. It is a place where old meets new. Plus, I found that dogs azerbaycan culture is changing for the better. Many people now enjoy the company of pets. Therefore, I want to share my long journey through this beautiful country. It was a trip of seven days that took us from the bright lights of pet friendly baku to the high mountains of Khinalig.
Preparing for the Trip: The Paperwork
First of all, you must get the paperwork right. Azerbaijan has no restrictions on importing pets if you follow the rules. You do not want your pet to be denied entry or put into a cage for a long time.
| Requirement | Details | Source |
| Rabies Vaccination | Must be done at least 30 days and no more than 12 months before travel. | |
| Health Certificate | Issued by a vet no more than 10 days before you arrive. | |
| Microchip | Not strictly required by some laws but highly recommended for safety. | |
| Documentation Language | Papers written in English are accepted at the airport. |
I made sure my vet was approved by the government authority. My dog was also vaccinated against distemper, hepatitis, and parvo. Additionally, I bought a sturdy travel crate that was large enough for him to turn around and lie down. It is the most important step to make the flight easy. I also avoided using straw or hay in the crate because those are not allowed for international trips.
Later, when we arrived at the Baku airport, a doctor examined my dog and the papers. We were not quarantined because we had everything ready. It was a relief to step out into the fresh air of the capital.
Day 1: Exploring Pet Friendly Baku
Baku is a city of wind. It is also a city where you can find a good pet friendly cafe in baku if you know where to look. We started our morning with a stroll on the Baku Boulevard. This promenade goes along the sea. It has designated areas where your dog can roam. The views are scenic. The breeze feels good.
After that, we visited the Old City. This place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has narrow streets and old walls. I took my dog for a walk around the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. The atmosphere is very charming. Though Baku is not always the most dog-friendly place, people were often kind to us.
In the evening, we went to Fountain Square. This is a lively spot in the heart of the city. We sat at a pet-friendly outdoor cafe. My furry friend got a lot of attention from people passing by. It was a great way to end the first day.
Where to Eat: My Favorite Cafes in the Capital
Finding a pet friendly cafe in baku can be a bit like a treasure hunt. Some places only allow small dogs in bags. However, many spots are happy to see well-behaved pets.
- Bluebird Coffees: This is a great place to relax. They have a wide variety of coffee and tea. They also serve vegetarian dishes and breakfast all day. They even have water bowls for your dog.
- White Cat Coffee: This spot is a gallery too. You can see handmade art while you drink your coffee. They offer healthy sweets that are gluten-free and sugar-free.
- Benedict Cafe: This is one of the few places where you can often sit inside with your dog. It is a local favorite.
- Paris Bistro: This restaurant has a French vibe. They allow even small four-legged friends to visit with their owners.
- The House Cafe: Located at Fountain Square, this cafe is very cozy. You can bring your “younger friends” here to enjoy the atmosphere.
- United Coffee Beans: The design is modern and sleek. They are always happy to see guests with their small dogs.
Additionally, I visited Friends Central Perk. It feels just like being at home. They always find a place for small pets. Similarly, Cookshop and CoffeeBar are good options for an outing.
Day 2: History and Play at Gobustan
On the second day, we took a trip to Gobustan National Park. It is famous for mud volcanoes and ancient rock art. I took my dog for a hike on the trails. We looked at petroglyphs that are thousands of years old. It is a unique experience to share history with a pet.
Later in the afternoon, we visited the Dash Salahli Dog Park. This is a spacious area that is well-kept. My dog was able to socialize and play with other local dogs. We had a picnic and enjoyed the landscape. Finally, we returned to Baku for a relaxing dinner at a pet-friendly restaurant.
Day 3: The Charm of Sheki
We left the capital and traveled to Sheki. This city has picturesque streets and traditional houses. First of all, we visited the Sheki Khan’s Palace. The stained glass windows are amazing. I took my dog for a peaceful walk in Sheki Khan’s Garden.
We stayed at a dog-friendly guesthouse. It was wonderful to eat traditional food while my dog rested nearby. On top of that, we found that some cultural performances allow well-trained dogs if you ask in advance. I checked the BringFido list and found that Shaki Host House is a pet-friendly place to stay. They even provide food and water bowls.
Day 4: Mountain Air in Gabala
Next, we went to Gabala. This is a resort town in the mountains. The air is fresh. The scenery is beautiful. We took a cable car ride at the Tufandag Mountain Resort. The views were breathtaking. My dog enjoyed the mountain hike.
We also walked through the Ruins of Kabala. It is an old archaeological site. It was a slow and quiet walk. Later, we ate at a restaurant that used fresh local ingredients. My dog was happy to be out in nature.
Day 5: The Heights of Nakhchivan
We took a flight from Baku to Nakhchivan. This is an area with a lot of history. We visited the Momine Khatun Mausoleum. It is a magnificent structure. After that, we went to the Alinja Fortress. It is on top of a hill. The walk along the fortress walls was long but rewarding. The views of the region are panoramic.
We found a dog-friendly park in the city center to take a break. In the evening, we had dinner at a local restaurant where my dog could enjoy the quiet atmosphere.
Day 6: The Coast of Lankaran
We traveled south to the city of Lankaran. This place is known for beaches and green forests. I took my dog for a very long walk on the beach. The gentle waves and sea breeze were perfect.
We also visited the Lankaran Fortress. It is an ancient site that tells the history of the region. Later, we relaxed at a beachfront cafe. We watched the sunset and ate local seafood. It was a very peaceful day.
Day 7: Pomegranates in Goychay
Our last stop before returning to Baku was Goychay. This is the land of pomegranates. We took a guided tour of a pomegranate farm. My dog explored the orchards while I learned about how they grow the fruit.
If you visit in October, you can go to the Pomegranate Festival. Dogs are welcome if they are on a leash. There is music, dancing, and a lot of food. Finally, we headed back to Baku to enjoy the vibrant nightlife one last time.
Hidden Gems: Khinalig Village
If you want to go off the beaten path, you must visit Khinalig. It is a remote village in the Caucasus Mountains. The stone houses are very old. The people are very hospitable. It is a dog-friendly village with amazing mountain scenery. I hiked in the surrounding peaks with my dog. It was a moment of pure peace.
Important Rules and Cultural Tips
It is important to know the local rules. In Azerbaijan, pet ownership has specific laws.
- Leashes and Muzzles: You must keep your dog on a leash in public. Large dogs must also wear a muzzle.
- Signage: If you have a large dog at home, you must put a sign on your door. It must say that there is a “dangerous dog” inside.
- Apartment Limits: A family can only have one dog and two cats in an apartment.
- Public Areas: Pets are generally not allowed in children’s play areas or near schools.
- Public Transport: Dogs are usually not allowed on public transport. However, you can take them on trains in special carriages if you have a vet certificate and a ticket.
Similarly, you must be careful about stray animals. There are many wild dogs and cats in the streets. Some stray dog packs can be territorial. I saw packs of dogs near the Heydar Aliyev Center that were not friendly to other pets. Therefore, it is always best to keep your dog close to you.
Dealing with Shepherd Dogs in the Mountains
If you go hiking, you will see shepherd dogs. These are massive and shaggy animals. They are famously territorial. I once heard a story from a traveler named Simona Cibulková. She and her friend were hiking near Laza when they were chased by these dogs.
They had to climb a metal post to stay safe. The dogs circled them and barked loudly. Finally, a shepherd on a horse came to save them. He gave them a tip: if a dog charges, you should huddle together and squat low. This is a sign of submission. On top of that, he gave them long wooden poles to carry. These “sticks” help if a dog comes too close.
Best Places to Stay
I found many great hotels that welcome pets. Here are a few top picks:
- Sheraton Baku Intourist: This hotel is near the sea and has a wellness center.
- Hilton Baku: It has a revolving rooftop bar and great views of the Caspian Sea.
- Pik Palace Shahdag: This is a luxury escape in the mountains. They have dog-friendly trails and fresh mountain air.
- Hillside Boutique Hotel: This place has a garden and a restaurant. It is very family-friendly.
- Four Seasons Hotel Baku: This is one of the most popular luxury spots for pet owners.
Plus, there are many budget options. You can stay at the Freestyle Hostel Baku or the Friends Hostel Baku. These places are clean and central.
Services for Your Pet
If you need a vet, I recommend Alfavet. They are professional and know the rules for taking a dog out of the country. You need an export permit 1 or 2 days before your flight. You can also visit Petty Paws for grooming and vet services.
If you need supplies, Baku has many pet shops. MauglI Zooshop and Pet Point are good places to find food and accessories. You can also order supplies online through websites like Baku Pet Magazine.
FAQ
Are dogs allowed in Azerbaijan?
Yes. Azerbaijan is a pet-friendly country. You bring your pets from your home country without big problems as long as you have the right papers. Azerbaijan has no restrictions on importing pets if you have vaccination records and a health certificate.
Which mall can I bring my dog to?
Actually, you cannot bring your dog to any mall in Azerbaijan. People usually say the city is not very dog-friendly when it comes to shopping centers. Therefore, you should stick to open-air parks or cafes.
Where can I go with my pet?
You have many options. First of all, Baku Boulevard is perfect because it has areas for dogs to roam. You also walk in the Old City or hike in Gobustan National Park. Additionally, you visit the Dash Salahli Dog Park for playtime.
What to avoid in Azerbaijan?
You must avoid children’s play areas and schools. Also, do not take your dog into medical centers. You should be careful around packs of wild dogs near the Heydar Aliyev Center. Plus, do not use straw in your travel crate because it is not allowed.
Which country is the most dog friendly?
According to external information, Switzerland and France are often called the most dog-friendly countries. These places allow dogs in most restaurants and even on trains without many rules.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for dogs?
According to external information, this rule helps people understand new pets. First of all, the dog needs three days to decompress. Later, the dog takes three weeks to learn a routine. Finally, the dog needs three months to feel at home.
Are dogs allowed on MTR?
The MTR usually refers to the train system in places like Hong Kong. In Azerbaijan, dogs are mostly not allowed on public transport. However, you take your pet on a train if you use a special carriage and have a vet certificate.
Is 313 pet-friendly?
According to external information, 313@somerset is a mall in Singapore. It is not in Azerbaijan. As I mentioned before, malls in Baku do not allow pets inside their buildings.
What is pet friendly tourism?
According to external information, this is a type of travel where you bring your pets along. It means you choose hotels, transport, and parks that welcome animals. It is a growing trend for people who treat pets like family.
What are signs of dog anxiety?
According to external information, you might see your dog pace or pant a lot. Also, your dog might whine or hide. Similarly, some dogs shiver or refuse to eat when they feel scared or stressed in a new place.
What are the top 3 most popular pets?
According to external information, dogs are the most popular choice. Cats are the second most common pet. Finally, fish or small birds take the third spot in many homes around the world.
Concluding words
Azerbaijan is a land of surprises for pet owners. You find many hotels and cafes that welcome your furry friends. However, you must follow the laws about leashes and muzzles. This journey from the Caspian Sea to the mountains is worth the effort. You and your pet will have a great time if you plan well. Gradually, the country is becoming a top spot for people who travel with dogs.
