Leashed in residential areas and public transport

"Dangerous" breeds: rules by federal state

Country Rules

The dog or cat must be identified by means of a 

The dog or cat must be vaccinated against 

, and must be repeated within the validity period. A vaccination after this period is considered a first vaccination and is only valid again after 21 days.

A puppy/kitten must be at least 12 weeks old when receiving its first rabies vaccination, which means they can only cross the border from the age of 15 weeks.

 with the driver and must be protected against sudden movements or in case of an accident. This can be achieved through a securely fastened 

In Austria, specific rules apply to leashing dogs, which can vary by municipality and state. In general, your dog must be kept on a leash in residential areas and grasslands. On public transport, both a leash and muzzle are often mandatory.

Always check the specific rules of the municipality where you are staying, as regulations may vary locally.

In Austria, regulations for "dangerous" dog breeds vary significantly by federal state: from no special requirements to mandatory licenses, courses and registration requirements. You can find more information 

When traveling with more than five animals, they must undergo a clinical examination, and their passport must include an additional certificate issued by the official veterinarian of the country of departure. The animals will then be subject to commercial transportation regulations.

The non-commercial transportation rules still apply when transporting more than five animals for participation in competitions, exhibitions, sporting events, or training, as long as the animals are older than 6 months and the owner can provide written proof of participation.

Neighbour Countries

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Austria

General leash requirement, unless stated otherwise

There is a general leash requirement. Dogs must be leashed everywhere, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Check municipal regulations for off-leash areas and specific rules in your area.

Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment

Belgium

Leash requirements vary by municipality, always March-September in nature areas

In Croatia, each municipality sets its own leash rules, but there are some general national regulations. The owner must ensure that the dog poses no danger to its surroundings. A special rule applies in nature areas: between March 1 and September 30, dogs must be leashed to protect breeding animals.

 (Staffordshire, American Staffordshire, Bull Terrier, Mini Bull) are only 

. Entry is prohibited without FCI pedigree, including for holidays or transit.

Croatia

In the Czech Republic, the leash requirement for dogs is 

, but is regulated at the municipal level. Each municipality may establish its own rules for walking dogs and designate specific zones where dogs are allowed to run freely. In practice, most Czech cities do have regulations requiring dogs to be on a leash in city centers, parks, and other busy public spaces. It is advisable to check the local regulations of your destination in advance.

Czech Republic

General leash requirement (except dog forests)

If you stay in Denmark for longer than 4 weeks, your dog must be 

There is a general leash requirement in nature areas. There are specific exceptions: dogs can be off-leash between October and March on beaches and in the 86 designated 'dog forests'. Even in these off-leash zones, dogs must remain under control.

The following dog breeds and their crossbreeds are 

 in Denmark: Pit Bull Terrier, Tosa Inu, American Staffordshire Terrier, Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, American Bulldog, Boerboel, Kangal, Central Asian Shepherd Dog, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, South Russian Shepherd Dog, Tornjak, and Sarplaninac.

There is an exception for transit: the dog may not leave the car except for brief, necessary breaks.

Denmark

Worming treatment (1-5 days before entry)

Leashed in urban areas and during breeding season

: From September 16, 2024, dogs and cats arriving from Russia and Belarus must have rabies antibody certificates. This also applies to pets returning to Finland - certificates must be obtained before travel.

 for all dogs, including puppies, to enter Finland. This treatment is not required for cats. The treatment must be administered by a veterinarian using medicine containing praziquantel or similar active substances.

As a main rule, the treatment must be administered 

24 to 120 hours (1-5 days) before entering

: no treatment required for dogs arriving directly from Norway, Ireland, or Malta.

For regular travel to Finland, the 28-day rule can be used. Under this rule, the dog must first be treated twice with a maximum interval of 28 days. After that, regular treatments follow, always within 28 days of the previous treatment, as long as travel continues.

Note: if the 28-day period is exceeded, the entire treatment series must be restarted with two treatments.

recorded by the veterinarian in the pet passport

In Finland, there is a general leash requirement in built-up areas. During breeding season (March 1 to August 19), dogs must also be leashed outside built-up areas. Outside breeding season, dogs may be off-leash in non-built-up areas, but only with the landowner's permission. Dogs are always allowed off-leash in dog parks, training areas, and enclosed gardens. Dogs are not permitted on public beaches, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Finland

Leashed in cities and during breeding season

 can transmit Leishmaniasis, a serious disease that affects joints, kidneys and eyes and is difficult to treat.

 is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal if not detected in time.

Fortunately, both problems can be prevented with proper preventive treatment. Ask your veterinarian for advice on protective measures against these parasites.

In France, dogs must always be leashed in urban areas and strict rules apply in nature areas. Between April 15 and June 30, dogs are only allowed in forests when leashed and exclusively on official paths to protect wildlife.

France enforces strict regulations for "dangerous" dogs, which are classified into two categories. You can find more information about these regulations 

 includes non-pedigreed dogs of the American Staffordshire terrier type (pit-bulls), Mastiff type (boerbulls), and Tosa type. These dogs are 

 includes pedigreed dogs such as the American Staffordshire terrier, Rottweiler, and Tosa. These breeds face 

 and must always be leashed and muzzled in public spaces. Owners must obtain a special ownership permit from their local municipality in France.

To obtain this permit, owners must complete a mandatory theoretical training course, have their dog undergo a behavioral assessment by a French veterinarian, and provide proof of liability insurance. It's worth noting that the municipality cannot refuse your permit application as long as you have completed all requirements and can provide the necessary documentation. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in substantial fines or confiscation of your dog.

) have personally navigated this process and are always happy to answer questions! Their golden tip: Make appointments for both the training course and behavioral assessment before traveling to France, and keep the confirmation documents with you. If stopped by police, these documents demonstrate your commitment to following the regulations and show that you're actively completing the necessary requirements.

Ministère de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation

France

Leash rules vary by state, always required in busy areas

In Germany, leash regulations for dogs vary by state. You can find these rules 

Generally, dogs must be leashed in busy areas such as shopping streets, at events, and on public transport. In nature areas, leash requirements often apply during breeding season (typically March to July).

The muzzle requirement for dogs in Germany is not uniform and can 

. There is no general rule that applies to all of Germany. However, a muzzle is often required in public places, especially for large dogs and certain breeds.

For short visits to Germany (maximum of four weeks), there are exceptions to the import ban for potentially dangerous dog breeds, such as Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, and crossbreeds of the aforementioned breeds. In some states, this list is more extensive, see 

Dog owners must be able to show the necessary documents, including proof of ancestry, vaccination certificate, and behavioral test certificate. This regulation is intended to accommodate tourists and short-term visitors. Checks may occur at German customs, so keep all papers on hand. Stricter rules apply for longer stays.

Bundesministeriums für Ernährung und Landwirtschaft (BMEL)

Germany

Complex preparation process (min. 4 months)

Given the complexity of the procedure, the mandatory quarantine, and the costs, bringing your pet to Iceland for a short vacation is usually not recommended. If you will be staying in Iceland for a longer period, for example for work or study, it may be worth going through this procedure.

Iceland has very strict import regulations for pets to keep the country free from certain animal diseases such as rabies. All dogs and cats must 

 upon arrival. Due to this quarantine, it is usually 

If you still want to bring your pet to Iceland, you should be prepared for a long preparation time (minimum 4 months) and significant costs for the quarantine.

To bring your pet to Iceland, you need an 

 from the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST). Your pet must be 

 must be performed to confirm that the vaccination was successful. This test must take place 

several other mandatory vaccinations and treatments

 are required, including extensive treatment against internal and external parasites. Shortly before departure, a veterinarian must prepare a 

 according to the guidelines of the Icelandic authorities.

Arrival in Iceland is only permitted via Keflavik Airport

. Your pet will be taken directly to a quarantine station where it must stay for 2 weeks under veterinary supervision.

Iceland does not allow pregnant or nursing dogs and cats to be imported. Additionally, the import of certain dog breeds and their crossbreeds is prohibited. This includes Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Dogo Argentino, Cane Corso, Presa Canario, and Boerboel. Wolf-dog hybrids up to 10 generations are also not allowed to be imported.

The import procedure for pets to Iceland is complex and requires careful planning and preparation. The rules may change, so it is important to consult the most up-to-date information. For a complete and current list of requirements, costs, quarantine facilities, and application procedures, we recommend visiting the official website of the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority: 

https://www.mast.is/en/import-export/import-of-live-animals

MAST - Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority

Iceland

 for all dogs, including puppies, to enter Norway. This treatment is not required for cats. The treatment must be administered by a veterinarian using medicine containing praziquantel or similar active substances.

always be under control when outside its own property

. This is especially true for greyhounds: they must be kept on a strong leash in public areas and may only be walked with a maximum of four at a time.

Municipalities are also allowed to make their own rules about where dogs may or may not be walked and whether they must be kept on a leash, with special exceptions for guide dogs. That is why it is wise to always check the local rules.

The following breeds of dogs are considered "restricted breeds" in Ireland: American Pit Bull Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Doberman Pinscher, English Bull Terrier, German Shepherd (Alsatian), Japanese Akita, Japanese Tosa, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Rottweiler, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Ban Dog, and crosses of the above breeds.

These dogs are allowed into Ireland but must meet the following requirements: They must be kept on a strong lead no longer than 2 metres in length at all times, be muzzled in public places and be under the control of a person over the age of 16 who is physically capable of controlling the dog.

Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine

Ireland

Must carry muzzle, use when required/requested

 must always be used. This requirement applies in urban areas and all public spaces, except for specific off-leash dog areas designated by municipalities.

. The dog is not required to wear it by default, but it must be applied in two situations: when there is a risk to the safety of people or other animals, or when requested by the competent authorities.

Ordinanza del Ministro della salute 6 agosto 2013

Italy

Dangerous breeds: special permission needed

In urban areas, public transport, common areas, parking lots, sports fields, and during events, all dogs must be kept on a leash. In all other locations, owners must keep their dog under control and leash them if necessary.

Dogs must be kept on a leash within built-up areas, on public transport, in public parking lots, on sports grounds and during public events. Outside built-up areas, dogs may be off-leash but must remain under control.

, including Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Mastiffs, American Staffordshire Terriers, Tosas, Pitbulls, Boerbulls, and similar breeds. 

, less strict rules apply. These dogs are allowed to enter Luxembourg, provided that:
- The dog is 

kept on a leash at all times and in all places
- 

 proving legal ownership of the dog (the EU pet passport alone is not sufficient)

If you have any questions, please contact the 

Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA)

 in advance. They will be happy to help you.

, stricter requirements apply: the owner must complete a mandatory 12-hour training course, the dog must undergo 24 hours of behavioural training at an accredited centre, and a permit must be requested from the Ministry of Agriculture in advance. These dogs may not be kept by persons under 18 years of age or with a criminal record.

Journal officiel du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg

Luxembourg

Dogs must always be kept on a leash within built-up areas, except for assistance dogs. Outside built-up areas, dogs may be off-leash, except on paved roads and public places. Since each municipality can set its own rules regarding leash requirements, we recommend checking the specific rules of the municipality before your visit.

Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority

Netherlands

Must be leashed from April 1 – August 20

. Register on-site at the border by choosing the red zone ("Something to declare"). Have your pets and required documents ready for inspection.

There is an exception for dogs or cats traveling only between Norway and Sweden.

For regular travel to Norway, the 28-day rule can be used. Under this rule, the dog must first be treated twice with a maximum interval of 28 days. After that, regular treatments follow, always within 28 days of the previous treatment, as long as travel continues. The final treatment must take place after traveling has ended if the dog remains in Norway. 

general leash requirement from April 1st to August 20th

. Outside this period, dogs have more freedom. However, in cities and towns, a leash is usually required. Many municipalities have stricter rules with extended periods for the entire municipality or specific areas. Therefore, always check local regulations for the exact requirements in your area.

The following dog breeds are not allowed to enter Norway. This ban also applies to crossbreeds where one or more of these breeds are present in any proportion: Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Fila Brasileiro, Toso Inu, Dogo Argentino, Czechoslovakian Wolfdog.

This means these dogs are not permitted in Norway under any circumstances, even if they have all the required documents.

Norway

Protection against sandflies and heartworm

According to Portuguese law, it is not permitted to travel with loose animals in the car. In the traffic law, animals are considered "cargo" and must be transported safely. If authorities find that your dog or cat is not being transported correctly, you may receive a fine.

In Portugal, dogs must wear a collar or harness with the owner's name and contact details on public roads or in public places. Dogs must always be under the supervision of their owner.

Dogs must be leashed in public spaces. If a dog is not leashed, it must wear a functional muzzle. For regular dogs, it's therefore a choice: either leashed, or with a muzzle. Exceptions apply to dogs during competitions, training, and hunting dogs during hunting activities.

Municipalities can designate specific off-leash areas where dogs may run without a leash or muzzle under conditions established by the municipality.

strict rules apply to dangerous and potentially dangerous dogs

. This specifically applies to seven breeds identified in the law: Brazilian Fila, Dogo Argentino, Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Tosa Inu. Crossbreeds of these dogs are also considered potentially dangerous.

Owners of these dogs must be of legal age, have a clean criminal record (no convictions in the past 5 years), and have liability insurance. A special permit must be requested from the local municipality (junta de freguesia).

In public spaces, these dogs must wear a muzzle and be leashed. Potentially dangerous dogs without a pedigree must be sterilized between 4 and 6 months of age.

A dog can also be classified as "dangerous" if it has bitten, attacked, or caused injury to a person, or if it has caused serious injury to or killed another animal.

Direção-Geral de Alimentação e Veterinária

Diário da República Eletrónico (Decreto-Lei n.º 315/2009)

Diário da República Eletrónico (Portaria n.º 422/2004)

Diário da República Eletrónico (Decreto-Lei n.º 315/2003)

Diário da República Eletrónico (Decreto-Lei n.º 314/2003)

Portugal

In Slovenia, dogs must be kept on a leash in public places at all times.

Slovenia

In Spain, dogs must be kept on a leash in public places at all times.

. This applies specifically to eight breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, and Akita Inu.

Owners must be of legal age, have a clean criminal record, and possess physical and psychological fitness certificates. They must also have liability insurance of at least €120,000 and obtain a special permit valid for five years.

In public spaces, these dogs must wear a muzzle and be kept on a non-extendable leash no longer than two meters, with one person handling only one dog at a time. All dogs must be microchipped, and any loss must be reported within 48 hours.

Dogs not belonging to these breeds may also be classified as dangerous if they show aggressive behavior, have attacked people or animals, or meet specific physical characteristics such as a muscular build, chest circumference between 60-80 cm, height between 50-70 cm, and weight above 20 kg.

Ministerio de Agricultura, Pesca y Alimentación

Agencia Estatal Boletín Oficial del Estado

Spain

Leashed March-August in nature, always in parks

. An exception applies to Norwegian pets.

 at the border by choosing the red zone ("Something to declare").

. This is only possible if you live in an EU country and your pet has a European pet passport. After online registration, you may use the green zone ("Nothing to declare"). Keep your registration number and pet passport ready for possible inspection.

between March 1 and August 20 in natural areas

 to protect wildlife during the breeding season. National parks and most nature reserves require dogs to be leashed at all times.

Sweden

In Switzerland, there is no national legislation for leash requirements. The rules vary greatly by canton and can be very specific. It is therefore essential to check the cantonal regulations for your specific area.

In Switzerland, regulations for "dangerous" dog breeds vary by canton. Some cantons completely prohibit certain breeds, while others have specific requirements or no special restrictions. For example, in Zurich these breeds are prohibited, but visitors may bring them temporarily if the dog is both leashed and muzzled in public spaces.

Check the specific rules of each canton you plan to visit. You can find more info 

Bundesamt für Lebensmittelsicherheit und Veterinärwesen BLV

Bundesamt für Zoll und Grenzsicherheit BAZG

Switzerland

General leashrequirement, unless stated otherwise

The United Kingdom (consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) left the European Union on January 31, 2020. Although the UK is still geographically part of Europe, it no longer belongs to the European Union. As a result, the rules for traveling with pets between the EU and the UK have changed.

Please note: European travelers need a valid passport (not an identity card) and an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter the United Kingdom. The ETA can be applied for via the 

Pets must enter Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) via 

. Upon arrival, your pet's microchip and documents will be checked. This inspection may also take place before boarding, for example if you are traveling by ferry or Eurotunnel.

 stating that you do not intend to sell your pet or transfer its ownership. This form can be downloaded from the 

You do not need to treat your dog if you are coming directly from Finland, Ireland, Malta, or Norway.

In the United Kingdom, leash regulations are determined locally and may vary by location. In 

most public spaces, parks, and nature areas, your dog must be kept on a leash

. The following dog breeds are not allowed to enter the United Kingdom: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro and XL Bully (banned in England and Wales). This prohibition also applies to crossbreeds where one or more of these breeds are present.

Whether a dog belongs to a prohibited type depends on how the dog looks, not on the breed or name. If your dog resembles a Pit Bull Terrier, for example, it may be considered a prohibited type.

These dogs are not admitted to the United Kingdom under any circumstances, unless they already have a valid Certificate of Exemption.

Gov.uk (Highway code - Rules about animals)

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Nothern Ireland)