Austria

Complete guide for traveling to Austria with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to Austria with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

"Dangerous" breeds: rules by federal state

Leashed in residential areas and public transport

The dog or cat must be identified by means of a microchip and must have a European passport.

The dog or cat must be vaccinated against rabies. The first vaccination must be given at least 21 days before departure, 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.

The dog or cat must not interfere with the driver and must be protected against sudden movements or in case of an accident. This can be achieved through a securely fastened car crate, a special harness attached to the seat belt, or a closed luggage compartment with a safety net or barrier.

In public transport, including ski lifts, dogs in Austria must wear a muzzle.

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 here.

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.

Belgium

Complete guide for traveling to Belgium with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to Belgium with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

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

Croatia

Complete guide for traveling to Croatia with your pet: quarantine rules, required vaccinations, customs procedures, and transport regulations for dogs and cats.

Traveling to Croatia with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

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.

Dogs of bull terrier types (Staffordshire, American Staffordshire, Bull Terrier, Mini Bull) are only allowed in Croatia with an FCI pedigree. Entry is prohibited without FCI pedigree, including for holidays or transit.

Denmark

Complete guide for traveling to Denmark with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to Denmark with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

General leash requirement (except dog forests)

If you stay in Denmark for longer than 4 weeks, your dog must be registered in the Danish Dog Register. This also applies to temporary stays.

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 not allowed 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.

Finland

Complete guide for traveling to Finland with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

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Worming treatment (1-5 days before entry)

Leashed in urban areas and during breeding season

Note: 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.

An anti-Echinococcus treatment is mandatory 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 Finland. Exception: 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:Note: if the 28-day period is exceeded, the entire treatment series must be restarted with two treatments. 

All treatments must be recorded by the veterinarian in the pet passport.

The dog or cat must not interfere with the driver and must be protected against sudden movements or in case of an accident. This can be achieved through a securely fastened car crate, a special harness attached to the seat belt.

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.

France

Complete guide for traveling to France with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to France with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

Leashed in cities and during breeding season

If you travel to the south of France, you need to protect your pet against two dangerous parasites:

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

Heartworm 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 here.

Category 1 ("Attack Dogs") includes non-pedigreed dogs of the American Staffordshire terrier type (pit-bulls), Mastiff type (boerbulls), and Tosa type. These dogs are not permitted in France.

Category 2 ("Guard and Defense Dogs") includes pedigreed dogs such as the American Staffordshire terrier, Rottweiler, and Tosa. These breeds face strict regulations 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.

Anaïs and Pepsi (@pepsi_amstaff) 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

Germany

Complete guide for traveling to Germany with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to Germany with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

Leash rules vary by state, always required in busy areas

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

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 vary by state (Bundesland) and even by municipality. 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 here. 

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)

Italy

Complete guide for traveling to Italy with your pet: quarantine rules, required vaccinations, customs procedures, and transport regulations for dogs and cats.

Traveling to Italy with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

Must carry muzzle, use when required/requested

The dog or cat must be vaccinated against rabies. The first vaccination must be given at least 21 days before departure, 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 fixed leash with a maximum length of 1.50 meters must always be used. This requirement applies in urban areas and all public spaces, except for specific off-leash dog areas designated by municipalities.

An owner or handler must always carry a muzzle (rigid or soft) with them. 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

Luxembourg

Complete guide for traveling to Luxembourg with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to Luxembourg with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

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.

Luxembourg legislation classifies certain dog breeds as dangerous, including Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Mastiffs, American Staffordshire Terriers, Tosas, Pitbulls, Boerbulls, and similar breeds. These dogs may only be imported or purchased with special permission from the Ministry of Agriculture. The owner must complete a mandatory 12-hour course, and the dog must undergo 24 hours of behavioral training at an accredited center. These certificates are valid for three years. 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

Netherlands

Complete guide for traveling to the Netherlands with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to the Netherlands with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

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

Norway

Complete guide for traveling to Norway with your pet: quarantine rules, required vaccinations, customs procedures, and transport regulations for dogs and cats.

Traveling to Norway with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

Must be leashed from April 1 – August 20

All pets must be registered with Norwegian Customs. 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.

An anti-Echinococcus treatment is mandatory 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. 

As a main rule, the treatment must be administered 24 to 120 hours (1-5 days) before entering Norway. 

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

Norway has a 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.

Slovenia

Complete guide for traveling to Slovenia with your pet: quarantine rules, required vaccinations, customs procedures, and transport regulations for dogs and cats.

Traveling to Slovenia with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

The dog or cat must be identified by means of a microchip and must have a European passport. 

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

Spain

Protection against sandflies and heartworm

In Spain, you need to protect your pet against two dangerous parasites:

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

Spain has strict regulations for dangerous dogs. 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

Sweden

Complete guide for traveling to Sweden with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to Sweden with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

Leashed March-August in nature, always in parks

All pets must be reported to Swedish Customs. An exception applies to Norwegian pets. 

There are two ways to report: 
Report on-site at the border by choosing the red zone ("Something to declare"). 

Register online in advance through the Swedish Customs website. 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.

In Sweden, dogs must be kept on a leash 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.

Switzerland

Complete guide for traveling to Switzerland with your pets: entry requirements, documents, and practical information for a worry-free vacation with dogs and cats.

Traveling to Switzerland with dogs & cats | Rules & Tips | Dogs on the road

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

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 here.

Bundesamt für Lebensmittelsicherheit und Veterinärwesen BLV

Bundesamt für Zoll und Grenzsicherheit BAZG

Discover the story behind Dogs on the road ✓ Our mission to make traveling with your pet easier ✓ Reliable travel info across Europe

About Dogs on the road | Travel guide for pets in Europe

Together with my boyfriend, two Border Collies (Missy, 11 years & Echo, almost 2 years) and two cats (Oakley & Mochi), I've been living in Norway since November, after having lived in Belgium for years. Missy and Echo are the inspiration behind Dogs on the Road - a website with information, practical tips and inspiration for making safe and adventurous trips across Europe.

When I'm not building websites for my full-time job, you'll find me outside in nature with Echo and Missy, or studying for dog and cat nutritionist. We can't wait to explore the beautiful Norwegian landscapes together!

Traveling with your dog in Europe - it sounds simple, but when you start looking for information, it quickly becomes challenging. The information you find is often outdated, contradictory, or scattered across dozens of websites. What should be an exciting preparation turns into a frustrating search.

This is exactly why I started Dogs on the Road. I want to gather all reliable and up-to-date information in one place, so you can focus on what really matters: traveling safely and carefree with your dog.

Here you'll find not only the practical matters you need to arrange for each country, but soon also tips and information to make your journey even more enjoyable. From paperwork to hiking trails - we'll figure it out for you!

Together, we're making traveling with your dog through Europe a little bit easier.

Any questions, comments or suggestions?
Fill out the form, and we'll get in touch with you as soon as possible!

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Everything about traveling with pets to {{country}} ✓ Current rules ✓ Required documents ✓ Important information for dogs and cats. Check here!

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The dog or cat must not interfere with the driver and must be protected against sudden movements or in case of an accident. This can be achieved through a securely fastened car crate, a special harness attached to the seat belt, or a closed luggage compartment with a safety net or barrier. 

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