March 19, 2026
Best Countries for Travelling with Your Dog
Best Countries for Travelling with Your Dog.
Travelling from gorgeous coastal locales and misty forests to urban cityscapes and hole-in-the-wall restaurants with your four-legged companion trotting at your side can be truly memorable. However, we also know that not every country is as pet-friendly as the next. So, before you book your flight and get your pet harnessed and ready to explore, you might want to have a squiz at this guide.
What Makes a Country Dog-Friendly?
Usually, you’ll have a good idea of whether a country is pet-friendly by how easily the country allows pets to integrate into daily life. With this in mind, here are a few of the signs that pets are welcome overall:
- There are dog parks that allow pets to socialise and roam.
- The country’s public transit systems accommodate pets with little fuss.
- There are vet clinics available in case of emergencies.
- There are a few off-leash beaches that allow your dog to run free and wild.
- Cafes and restaurants that allow your pet inside.
Best Countries to Travel with Your Dog to
Here’s a carefully curated list of five of the best countries to travel to with your dog that generally allow pets at attractions, in cafes, on transportation, and in accommodation.
New Zealand
For coastal views, quiet explorations, and winery trips, New Zealand is a popular choice. That’s why many are often ecstatic to hear that many places are dog-friendly. So, if you’ve been eyeing New Zealand, you’ll want to plan a trip to places like Tawharanui Regional Park near Auckland and Lyall Bay in Wellington. The former is known for its dog-walking areas and coastal sights, and the latter for its off-leash areas for seaside walks.
Portugal
Portugal is one of the best countries for pet owners to visit, especially if your dog loves the outdoors. When you visit this beautiful, sunny locale, you can explore two spectacular beaches. These are Praia do Porto de Mos in the Algarve or Ramalha Sul Beach in Esposende. They both welcome furry friends.
Then there are also parks like Quinta do Pisão near Lisbon. Here you can explore scenic walking trails while you and your four-legged best friend enjoy the fresh air. And when you want a bite to eat, there are always cafes like Seagull Method Cafe in the same city. However, only certain restaurants permit dogs entry under Portuguese law.
Japan
Japan has some of the best railway systems. In particular, those operated by Japan Railways Group are a go for pet owners. Their trips are often pet-friendly for small dogs kept in secure carriers. But it’s not only the railways. Japan also has urban buses and taxis that allow pets in carriers. So if you’re travelling with your pet in this country, it’s not too difficult to get from one place to the next.
Additionally, the country has quite a few enticing attractions that are surprisingly pet-friendly. For example, many travellers find themselves hiking Mount Takao with their four-legged friend at their side or wandering through Nara Park, which is famous for its free-roaming deer.
France
France is undoubtedly one of the most romantic countries in the world. But romance aside, it’s also a paradise for travellers with pets. With several towns being dog-friendly, you’ll be spoilt for choice. However, two of the best picks include Dijon and Beaune.
When visiting Dijon, you can walk your dog through its historic centre, which forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, Beaune, known for its prestigious Burgundy wines, allows you to visit cellars, shops, and cafes such as TOMA Bar a’ Vin & Food, Clos du Cedre, and Mason Chanzy with your dog on a leash.
It’s also worth noting that although many cities and towns in France have restaurants that welcome dogs, etiquette is strict. Dogs must behave well and remain under the table.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands has a relatively lax attitude (laws aside) towards most things. So it’s unsurprising that it welcomes travellers with dogs with open arms. It’s not uncommon to see dogs riding to day care in cities on cargo bikes. Nor is it strange to see them at the bow of a boat in Amsterdam, in a bag on trains, or trotting through Vondelpark or Westerpark.
You’ll likely also catch many a glimpse of dogs at the feet of their owners. They are often present at parks and checking into pet-friendly hotels like Hotel Esherea and the Parkhotel Rotterdam. These and other hotels are worth considering when travelling here with your pet.
How Do You Prepare for a Dog-Friendly Adventure?
It’s always a good idea to ensure you’re preparing for your exciting adventures the best way you can. Usually, this means ensuring you have everything your pet needs in order.
However, it also means making your life a little easier by having your paperwork finalised, an international eSIM ready to go, and all essentials packed. Here are a few practical tips for traveling with your dog:
Make Sure Your Dog Is Microchipped
The last thing you want is for your dog to accidentally slip its leash and lose them in a country you’re visiting. For this reason, the best thing to do before you travel (if you haven’t already) is to get your dog microchipped. Most international destinations require microchipping before travel, and you’ll likely have a chance to do it when your dog gets its rabies vaccination.
Confirm Airline Pet Policies in Advance
Not all airlines allow dogs to travel aboard for international flights. Additionally, there are often strict rules surrounding temperature restrictions, crate sizes, and whether dogs can travel in the cabin or the cargo hold. So make sure you speak with the airline before travel day to avoid any nasty surprises.
Secure Health Certification and Confirm Vaccinations
It’s also a good idea to secure official health certificates for your dog, as international travel often requires them before you depart.
Also, some countries require a government veterinary authority to endorse this certificate, such as South Africa and the United States. Along the same lines, you also need to keep vaccinations up to date, as most countries require proof of current rabies vaccinations.
Wrap-Up
There is nothing in this world quite like travelling abroad with your beloved dog by your side. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if it’s yours, there are many exciting adventures awaiting you across the ocean.
With pet-friendly cafes, accommodation, transportation, and attractions, you have a large selection of dog-friendly countries to begin exploring. Just make sure you prepare for your adventures so you’re not left facing sticky situations.