Country-by-Country Pet Entry Guide: Europe Edition

Introduction

Europe is a dream destination for dog lovers — scenic walks in the Swiss Alps, sidewalk cafés in Paris, and seaside strolls along the Amalfi Coast. The good news? Europe is one of the most dog-friendly regions in the world, with clear, unified pet travel rules across most countries. But there are still key differences between EU and non-EU nations that every traveler should know.

This comprehensive guide breaks down pet entry requirements, paperwork, and local travel tips across Europe’s most popular destinations — helping you and your pup travel with confidence from London to Lisbon.

1. Understanding the EU Pet Travel Scheme 🇪🇺

The European Union operates under a harmonized system called the EU Pet Travel Scheme, which allows easy movement of pets between member countries — and simplified entry for visitors from approved nations like the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

• 🔢 Microchip: ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip required before rabies vaccination.
• 💉 Rabies Vaccination: At least 21 days old and up-to-date at the time of travel.
• 📋 EU Health Certificate (Annex IV): Endorsed by an official vet within 10 days of entry, unless your dog already has an EU Pet Passport.
• 🧬 Rabies Titer Test: Only required if traveling from a non-approved country (e.g., India, Thailand).

Pro Tip: Once your dog enters the EU, you can exchange your entry paperwork for an EU Pet Passport at a local vet — simplifying future European adventures!

2. France 🇫🇷

France is famously dog-friendly, from Paris cafés to Riviera beaches. Entry is straightforward if you follow EU rules.

• 📋 Requirements: Microchip, rabies vaccination (21 days minimum), and health certificate.
• 🚫 Banned Breeds: Certain “category” breeds (like Pit Bulls and Tosas) face restrictions or entry bans.
• 🐾 Local Tip: Dogs are welcome in most outdoor dining areas, trains, and hotels — but always check small signage for “Chiens Interdits.”

Pro Tip: SNCF trains allow dogs under 6kg for a small fee; larger dogs require a muzzle and discounted ticket.

3. Italy 🇮🇹

Italy welcomes dogs almost everywhere, from sidewalk cafés to ferries.

• 💉 Requirements: Standard EU entry rules — rabies vaccine, microchip, and health certificate.
• 🚫 Breed Restrictions: None officially, but local leash and muzzle laws apply in cities.
• 🐕 Local Tip: Dogs ride trains for a small fee (Trenitalia and Italo both allow it). Many beaches have “Bau Beaches” dedicated to dogs.

Pro Tip: Always carry a muzzle when traveling by public transport — not for punishment, but because it’s required by law in certain regions.

4. Germany 🇩🇪

Germany’s entry rules mirror EU standards, but it also enforces specific animal welfare and breed laws.

• 📋 Requirements: Microchip, rabies vaccine, EU health certificate.
• 🚫 Restricted Breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier are banned from import.
• 🐾 Local Tip: Dogs are allowed on most trains and in restaurants, but must remain leashed in public parks.

Pro Tip: Germans love well-trained dogs. Obedience is admired — consider basic commands in German (“Sitz,” “Bleib,” “Hier”).

5. Spain 🇪🇸

Spain is increasingly dog-friendly, especially in urban areas like Madrid and Barcelona.

• 💉 Requirements: Rabies vaccine (at least 21 days old), microchip, and health certificate.
• 🚫 Breed Restrictions: Potentially dangerous breeds (PPP) require special permits if staying long-term.
• 🐕 Local Tip: Many beaches are dog-friendly outside of summer season (October–May).

Pro Tip: Tapas bars often welcome dogs on terraces — bring a collapsible bowl for water during warm afternoons.

6. Portugal 🇵🇹

Portugal follows EU rules and welcomes visiting pets warmly.

• 📋 Requirements: Microchip, rabies vaccine, EU health certificate.
• 🏖️ Beaches: Many allow dogs in off-season; a growing number are officially dog-friendly year-round.
• 🚫 Restrictions: None specific beyond EU animal health regulations.

Pro Tip: Lisbon is full of dog-friendly cafés and coastal walks — but avoid midday summer heat on pavements.

7. Switzerland 🇨🇭

Though not an EU member, Switzerland aligns closely with EU pet travel rules.

• 💉 Requirements: Rabies vaccination, ISO microchip, and valid health certificate.
• 🚫 Breed Restrictions: Certain cantons (like Geneva) restrict breeds such as Pit Bulls, Boerboels, and Rottweilers.
• 🐕 Local Tip: Public transport is dog-friendly — purchase a half-fare ticket for medium to large dogs.

Pro Tip: Hiking trails often cross grazing areas — leash up near livestock for safety and respect.

8. United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Post-Brexit, the U.K. operates independently from the EU Pet Travel Scheme, but the process remains similar for travelers.

• 📋 Requirements: Microchip, rabies vaccination (21+ days before travel), and Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of entry.
• 💊 Tapeworm Treatment: Required 24–120 hours before arrival (except from Ireland, Malta, Finland, or Norway).
• 🚢 Entry: Only via approved routes and transport companies.

Pro Tip: The Eurotunnel is the most pet-friendly option for entering the U.K. — no need to leave your car, and dedicated pet relief areas are available in Calais and Folkestone.

9. Norway 🇳🇴

Norway, though outside the EU, accepts the EU Pet Passport and has similar rules.

• 💉 Rabies Vaccine: At least 21 days before entry.
• 🔢 Microchip: Required.
• 💊 Tapeworm Treatment: Must be given by a vet 1–5 days before arrival.

Pro Tip: Dogs are welcome on ferries and trains across Norway — just bring a towel for rainy weather adventures!

10. Greece 🇬🇷

Greece’s entry process is simple, and the country’s relaxed attitude extends to dogs as well.

• 📋 Requirements: EU-standard documents — microchip, rabies vaccine, health certificate.
• 🚫 Restrictions: None significant, but stray dogs are common — keep your pup leashed in urban areas.
• 🏝️ Local Tip: Ferries between islands allow dogs, but some require carriers or muzzles for larger breeds.

Pro Tip: Santorini and Crete are extremely photogenic for pups — early morning walks beat the heat and crowds.

11. Austria 🇦🇹

Austria follows standard EU pet entry rules and boasts one of Europe’s cleanest, most organized pet infrastructures.

• 💉 Requirements: Rabies vaccination, microchip, health certificate.
• 🐾 Local Tip: Dogs can accompany you in nearly all public spaces — but must wear a muzzle on Vienna’s public transport.

Pro Tip: Cafés and mountain lodges almost always offer water bowls — Austrians love well-behaved dogs.

Conclusion

Europe makes pet travel remarkably accessible, provided you stay organized with vaccinations, microchips, and paperwork. Once you’ve cleared customs, your pup can join you for scenic hikes, train rides, and sidewalk dinners across dozens of countries. Whether sipping espresso in Rome or exploring alpine trails, Europe proves that the world truly opens up when you travel together — one paw print at a time.