The EU pet passport: contents and obligation
The EU pet passport is mandatory for travel between EU countries. It contains a description and your dog’s data (microchip or tattoo code), documents the rabies vaccination, and lists your vet’s contact details. Without this passport, neither departure from the EU nor re-entry is possible.
You apply for the EU pet passport through your vet, at least 4 weeks before departure. Each dog needs its own passport.
Minimum requirements for travelling within the EU
Your dog needs a microchip (15-digit ISO number) or a tattoo. The rabies vaccination must be up to date and documented in the passport.
Four destinations additionally require tapeworm treatment: Malta, Ireland, Finland and Northern Ireland are considered free of infection regarding the fox tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis). A vet must treat your dog no earlier than 120 and no later than 24 hours before entry and record this in the pet passport (Art. 8 lit. b or Art. 14 lit. d of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2026/131). If you are coming directly from one of these four areas, the treatment is not required. Norway requires the same treatment within the same time window. The deadline cannot be made up afterwards; plan the vet appointment into your journey.
Check the import regulations of your destination country on the relevant customs website.
Means of transport: car, train, plane
By car
The car is the safest means of transport for most dogs. A transport box or a partition between the driving area and the loading space is mandatory. An unsecured dog becomes a projectile in the event of emergency braking. Windows should not be opened too wide. Plan a break for exercise and water every 2 hours.
By train
In most EU countries, dogs travel on trains and buses for a small fee or free of charge. Some countries require a leash and muzzle. Find out in advance from the railway company. Long journeys can be stressful for dogs. Get your dog used to noises and movements in public transport.
By plane
Air travel is stressful for most dogs. Small dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin with some airlines, larger ones must go in the hold. This is psychologically stressful and only suitable for dogs that know and tolerate transport boxes well. Airlines have different regulations. Clarify the details early on.
Finding dog-friendly accommodation
Not all hotels allow dogs. Many charge extra fees or a deposit. Specialised portals for dog holidays help with the search. In several EU countries, there is a leash requirement in accommodation, for example in Italy, Spain and Denmark. Clarify the house rules before booking.
Planning your trip with your dog
Timely preparation makes travelling with a dog easier. Take care of documents at least 4 weeks before departure, clarify transport options and book dog-friendly accommodation. Check the country-specific entry requirements and pack a travel first aid kit for your dog.
FAQ on travelling with dogs
Which documents do I need for travelling with my dog in the EU?
The EU pet passport is the central document. For some countries, a copy of the vaccination book or a separate rabies vaccination certificate is also required. Non-EU countries have their own rules. For Switzerland, two requirements that apply to other third countries do not apply: it is listed in Annex I of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/636, so your dog does not need an antibody test or a named place of entry. Microchip, valid rabies vaccination and pet passport remain mandatory. For Norway and the United Kingdom, check the regulations of the respective country.
Is my dog allowed in restaurants?
In Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the house rules of the operator decide. Some restaurants allow dogs in outdoor areas. In Southern Europe, regulations are often stricter: in Spain and Italy, dogs are usually not allowed in indoor and outdoor areas of restaurants. Find out locally or online.
How do I calm my dog before the journey?
Habituation is most effective. Take your dog on short car trips so that it gets used to movement and noises. In case of severe fear or problems, your vet can recommend sedatives. Only use these after veterinary consultation.
Can my dog get infected abroad?
Yes. Parasites, infectious diseases and food intolerances are risks. Bring familiar food with you instead of changing it on site. Keep your dog away from unknown animals and check its coat regularly for ticks.