Ranking of the most dog-friendly countries
Which are the most dog-friendly countries in Europe? Here is an overview of great destinations to try with your dog or countries to avoid with your dog. Enough to make you want to travel with your dog!
In this section:
Is the grass really greener elsewhere? With the EmmèneTonChien.com team, we asked ourselves the question. Is France a dog-friendly country? Are there other even more dog-friendly countries in Europe? Are there any countries to avoid with your dog in Europe?
Here is a very complete overview of European countries to try with your dog. I hope it makes you want to travel with your dog. By car, train, plane or ferry: it is possible to explore many countries with your dog. You often don't have to go very far to take a look.
Greece
This country with its mild climate and heavenly landscapes allows all dogs without any distinction.
Indeed, dogs are allowed in almost all public spaces such as beaches, unlike in France. Dogs are also allowed to swim there. A real advantage if you like to practice water sports with your dog.
Regarding ferries which can take you from island to island, dogs are accepted as long as you keep them on a leash.
More generally, the Greeks are known to love animals. You will therefore not have too much trouble finding a veterinarian or even equipment and food for your doggie. Most restaurants and stores also allow dogs. However, be sure to ask if your dog is welcome before entering an establishment.
An important point to note: Greece is the land of stray cats. There are thousands of semi-wild cats roaming freely almost everywhere. If your dog doesn't really like cats: be wary. And there are also a lot of stray dogs.
Italy
Italy is the country in Europe where you will find the most pet-friendly holiday rentals.
In Italy, many spaces are dedicated to dogs. In these spaces, there is generally a grooming salon, dog training sessions or even the possibility of having your dog looked after by a petsitter.
You will find this type of dog space more particularly on Italian beaches.
You can also find the Dog Beach of San Vincenzo which is bordered by scrubland and in which it is possible to walk your dog without a leash. There is also Doggy Beach which is located next to the small village Marina di Castagneto Carducci.
Italy is a country Too Wow to travel by train with your dog.
To find out more about Italy, do not hesitate to take a look at the articles: “Visiting the Lake District in Italy with your dog","Going on a road trip in Italy with your dog: organization & preparations"And"Road trip in Italy with your dog, the unmissable things to discover!"
Croatia
When it comes to dog-friendly hikes and beaches in Croatia, you won't be disappointed! The vast majority of Croatian national parks accept dogs on a leash. A great opportunity to discover new natural spaces and take in the sights.
On the other hand, the vast majority of beaches also accept our doggies without any worries. It's a golden opportunity to relax and swim with your dog!
To find out more about holidays with your dog in Croatia, you can read the article “Go on vacation in Croatia with your dog"
Germany
Germany being a country bordering France, it is a very accessible holiday destination, which is already a major advantage! In a few hours by car, you will be there!
Dogs are accepted on transport in German public transport as well as in a large number of national parks.
In particular, you can go hiking in the Black Forest National Park. Here is a list of the different activities you can do there:
Ravenna Gorge : This narrow valley is home to the Ravenna stream. It is located in the Black Forest National Park. This is only accessible on foot. In addition, it is crossed by an old railway viaduct built in 1926. It is 36m high and measures approximately 224m long. During your walk in the Ravenna gorge, you will see pretty waterfalls, bridges and wooden footbridges crossing the river. The atmosphere is mysterious and magical. In addition, if you go there for the Christmas holidays, you will have the opportunity to discover the Ravenna Gorges Christmas Market (named “Ravennaschlucht Weihnachtsmarkt” in German). Local and artisanal specialties are offered there. You can reserve your places here.
Bisten Waterfall: This 50m high waterfall is worth the detour! During periods of heavy rain the water flows freely, however there is almost none during light rainfall. It's still a great opportunity to go for a little hike and stretch your dog's legs. The waterfall is located below the small village of Bisten and to the west of Hinterzarten.
Höllental: This is the gateway to the Black Forest. It is also a fantastic place for hiking and nature getaways with your dog.
Find the article “Traveling to Germany with your dog” to discover more about this destination.
Spain
Spain has something to dream about. Between mountains, beaches and small medieval villages, you might think you're on the other side of the world. However, it is not the most dog friendly country in the world….
Many beaches do not allow dogs, much like in France. However, we must not be categorical. Spanish municipalities and autonomous communities retain the right to decide on this. If this interests you, you can also find my article which lists all the dog-friendly beaches in Spain.
When it comes to public transport in Spain, dogs are generally not allowed. They are sometimes accepted on trains by being transported in crates to be stored in the luggage trolley. It's not W'ouf but it's already good to be able to take them.
As for ferries that take you to the Canary Islands and seaside islands, some allow doggies. Check with your shipping company about the conditions of transport of your animal.
I found some very useful information for you to know, especially if you are traveling by car: in Spain, dogs must be attached with a harness or a seatbelt by car under penalty of being fined.
Does this article make you want to visit Spain with your dog? Here are some articles that might interest you: “Visit the major cities of Spain with your dog","A weekend in Spain with my dog, between Aragon and Catalonia"And"Road trip in Spain with his dog"
Finnish Lapland
Finnish Lapland is an ideal country for hiking with your dog. National parks allow dogs if they are on a leash. So you can enjoy hiking!
I also wrote the article “Road Trip in Swedish Lapland with your dog” which might interest you.
Switzerland
In Switzerland, the majority of hotels and restaurants accept dogs. This is a great opportunity to explore this country.
You can go to Switzerland by car but also by train! To find out more about your pet's travel conditions by train, you can read the article Tips for traveling with your dog by train.
Dogs are allowed on public transport in Switzerland. Certain regulations are still required: keeping a leash and wearing a muzzle are required.
The advantage of Switzerland is also that there are very beautiful natural spaces, ideal for a successful vacation with your dog.
You can go to this destination and have dog friendly activities all year round. In summer, you can take advantage of the mountains for hiking, mountain biking or swimming in the cool lakes of Switzerland. Dogs are also allowed in most parks and nature reserves as long as they are on a leash. In winter you can practice dog winter sports such as skijoring, snowshoe cani-hiking, cani-skateboarding and many others!
If you want to go on vacation to Switzerland with your dog, I recommend reading Holidays in Switzerland with a dog, Visit Zermatt in Switzerland with your dog and French-speaking Switzerland with a dog in 3 episodes. Enough to make you want to go on vacation with your dog.
Ireland
Ireland has the advantage of having large expanses and natural spaces, which is a real plus, especially for hiking. Besides, be careful not to let your dog loose anywhere because there are many herds of sheep.
As for the restaurant, dogs are strictly prohibited indoors. Some accept meals on the terrace but this is not the case for everyone, you always have to ask. Pubs are more accepting of dogs.
In terms of cultural visits, the rules are roughly the same as in France. It depends on the nature of the visits and it is best to always ask if dogs are allowed before going.
If you want to know more about this beautiful country to discover with your dog, you can read the testimony of Alex who went to Ireland with her dog Kina: Traveling in Ireland with a dog.
QUALIDOG-certified accommodation abroad
Does this article make you want to go abroad with your dog? Discover a selection of QUALIDOG-certified accommodation abroad!
Slovenia
This vacation destination remains relatively unknown. However, it is a top vacation destination for nature and dog lovers. Slovenia is not only a dog-friendly country: our four-legged friends are welcome. This destination is really great because of its large expanses of nature. Between mountains, lakes, waterfalls and sea, we can say that you are spoiled for choice. Dogs are accepted in the vast majority of natural spaces, whether in the mountains or in the forest.
However, they must be kept on a leash in order to best conserve the fauna and flora and not to frighten wild animals.
There is not much cattle breeding in Slovenia, which is very convenient for mountain walks. Indeed, you have little chance of coming face to face with a herd and the Patou who protects them body and soul.
Slovenians are very attached to respecting their environment. They are therefore intolerant of droppings that are not collected. It's just a matter of common sense. So bring plenty of bags for this purpose!
Dogs are allowed to swim in lakes except Lake Bohinj.
Here are some ideas for walks to do in the Slovenian mountains:
- Kobarid Historical Trail.
- Tolmin Gorges: dogs are allowed to swim
- Planica site
- Pokljuka Gorge
- Vintgar Gorge : During periods of drought there may be a lack of water, especially in summer)
- Lake Bled : This lake can be very busy in summer
The Slovenians are very dog-friendly, to the great pleasure of Wouafer's. So having a dog can really help break the ice. Additionally, when you go to a restaurant, your pooch is often served a bowl of water without even having to ask. If that’s not classy!
Dogs are unfortunately not allowed on the vast majority of buses. If you have a small dog, it can fit in a bag or crate in a pinch, however this does not completely ensure that it will be welcome on the bus.
On the other hand, dogs are accepted on trains: either the dog is small and can fit in a bag, otherwise a muzzle must be worn for larger dogs.
Regarding air travel, I advise you to read the article Traveling with your dog by plane – instructions.
In short, Slovenia is a dog-friendly country in every way. Don't ask yourself any more questions about going there with your doggies; they will be welcome.
If you would like to know more, you can find the testimony of Marlène who visited Slovenia with her dog.
Austria
Austria is a country famous for its mountains, turquoise lakes and rich cultural heritage. The majority of museums are unfortunately not accessible to our furry friends.
However, many activities are done outdoors, Austria being a country full of natural spaces. This is a great place to do lots of things with your dog in Austria.
Natural parks in Austria are also accessible to dogs provided that they are kept on a leash of course. Enough to go on great hikes and enjoy the beautiful landscapes that Austria has to offer you.
There is no dog breed that is banned in Austria. This country is based on the principle that everyone is responsible for their dog.
When it comes to public transport with your dog in Austria, you are required to buy a half-fare ticket for them, regardless of their size. You should also make him wear a muzzle.
Most restaurants and bars accept pets, however it is always best to ask in advance.
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There are a few countries missing from this panorama, you won't have missed that 😉 but I'm already working on the sequel! Find it soon in the Mag' of EmmeneTonChien.com. England, Belgium, Portugal… there are still many destinations to discover with your dog. In the meantime, I hope this article has made you want to travel with your dog!
organize your holidays
Ready to discover Europe? Has this article made you want to organize a stay with your dog? Prepare your vacation with peace of mind by clicking on the following links:
Read also
- Take a road trip in Europe with your dog
- Traveling in Europe with your dog
- The 5 most beautiful GR in France to walk with your dog
How to travel with your dog?
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