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.

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"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

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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.

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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.

Czech Republic

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.

In the Czech Republic, the leash requirement for dogs is not established in national legislation, 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.

Denmark

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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.

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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.

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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)

Iceland

Complete gids voor reizen naar België met huisdieren: toegangseisen, documenten en praktische informatie voor een zorgeloze vakantie.

Reizen naar België met hond & kat | Regels & Tips | Dogs on the road

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 spend 2 weeks in mandatory quarantine upon arrival. Due to this quarantine, it is usually not practical to bring your pet for a short vacation.

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 import permit from the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST). Your pet must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. After the rabies vaccination, a blood test must be performed to confirm that the vaccination was successful. This test must take place at least 30 days after vaccination.

In addition to the rabies vaccination, several other mandatory vaccinations and treatments are required, including extensive treatment against internal and external parasites. Shortly before departure, a veterinarian must prepare a health certificate 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

Ireland

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 Ireland. 

By law, a dog must 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

Italy

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Must carry muzzle, use when required/requested

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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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.

Portugal

Protection against sandflies and heartworm

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

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.

In Portugal, 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)

Slovenia

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

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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

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.

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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.

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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

United Kingdom

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 official website.

Pets must enter Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) via approved routes and carriers. 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.

You must also complete a declaration stating that you do not intend to sell your pet or transfer its ownership. This form can be downloaded from the official website. 

As a main rule, the treatment must be administered 24 to 120 hours (1-5 days) before entering. All treatments must be recorded by the veterinarian in the pet passport.

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, unless otherwise indicated by signs.

In the United Kingdom, certain dog breeds are prohibited. 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 (Northern Ireland)

Check the requirements for traveling with your dog in Europe ✓ Current rules ✓ Customs info ✓ Required documents. Start your journey here!

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