Regional guide · Updated August 2026

Travelling with a dog in Europe 2026

To travel with a dog, cat or ferret between EU countries you need an EU pet passport issued by an authorised vet, a microchip implanted before the rabies vaccination, and a valid rabies vaccination administered at least 21 days before travel. Ireland, Finland, Malta and Norway additionally require tapeworm treatment administered by a vet between 24 and 120 hours before arrival.

Where to go

  • France · France

    Dogs travel on SNCF trains including the TGV with a paid ticket, and most city parks and terraces admit leashed dogs, making it the easiest large country for car-free pet travel.

    Official information

  • Germany · Germany

    Deutsche Bahn carries small pets free in a carrier and larger dogs on a child fare; dogs are widely admitted in restaurants and hotels.

    Official information

  • Netherlands · Netherlands

    Dense network of off-leash areas and dog-friendly public transport with a low-cost day ticket, plus flat terrain for long walking itineraries.

    Official information

  • Italy · Italy

    Trenitalia carries dogs on all train categories and coastal regions have a growing supply of officially designated dog beaches.

    Official information

  • Spain · Spain

    Animal welfare law since 2023 has expanded pet access to public spaces, and Renfe allows dogs on most services with growing weight limits on long distance.

    Official information

Practical questions

What documents do I need inside the EU?
An EU pet passport issued by an authorised vet, containing the microchip number and a rabies vaccination valid and administered at least 21 days before the first crossing. The passport stays valid as long as the vaccination is kept current.
Which countries require extra treatment?
Ireland, Finland, Malta and Norway require treatment against Echinococcus multilocularis, administered by a vet between 24 and 120 hours before arrival and recorded in the passport.
How many animals can I travel with?
Up to five pets per traveller under the non-commercial movement rules. Above that number, or if the purpose is a sale or transfer, commercial import rules apply.
Can I fly with a dog in the cabin in Europe?
Most European carriers allow small pets in the cabin up to a combined weight of roughly 8 kg including the carrier, with limited places per flight. Book the pet place at the time of the ticket, as it cannot be guaranteed later.

Sources

Go deeper

Travelling with pets data briefAll travel trends 2026