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Can my dog travel abroad with me?

Can my dog travel abroad with me?

Written by Sjoerd | July 1, 2025

Many people want to take their dog on holiday. When doing so, you must consider the different import requirements for each country you travel to or through. These include a valid pet passport, microchip, vaccinations, a health check by the vet, and possibly a parasite treatment. But did you know that not all dogs are welcome in every country? Or only allowed if strict rules are followed? In this blog, we discuss the requirements set by popular holiday destinations for bringing your dog.

Import requirements within Europe

If you want to travel abroad with your dog, you must comply with foreign laws and regulations. This applies not only to your destination country but also to any countries you pass through, such as when travelling by car.

The general rules for travelling with dogs within the European Union are:

The dog must have a European Pet Passport.
The dog must be identifiable. Read more in our blog: Identification and registration of your pet with a chip.
The dog must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel.

More information in our blog: Checklist: Taking your dog or cat on holiday.

These rules apply to people travelling with their pet for non-commercial purposes. Different requirements apply to commercial travel. You can contact the relevant UK authorities for more information.

For non-EU countries or destinations outside Europe, different rules may apply. You can find more information on the UK government’s website or from the relevant embassy.

Travelling with 'dangerous' dog breeds

Did you know that some countries prohibit certain dog breeds? These are often referred to as ‘dangerous’ breeds. The specific breeds banned vary by country.

In the Netherlands, for example, certain breeds require a Behaviour and Society test (OGM) to apply for a pedigree. This aims to prevent unwanted (aggressive) behaviour in these breeds.

In the Netherlands, the following breeds are subject to such requirements:

American Staffordshire Terrier
Dogo Argentino
Rottweiler
Mastino Napoletano
Fila Brasileiro

Rules regarding so-called ‘dangerous’ breeds vary per country.

Below we outline the additional requirements for travelling with your dog to:

Belgium
Germany
France
UK
Austria
Italy
Spain

Can I take my dog to Belgium?

If your dog has a valid European Pet Passport, rabies vaccination, and a registered microchip, you can travel to Belgium.

There are no breed-specific bans in Belgium.

Can I take my dog to Germany?

In Germany, dogs must be safely secured in the car using a seatbelt, travel crate or behind a dog barrier. Read more in our blog: Seatbelt rules for dogs in Germany.

Some federal states require dogs to be leashed and/or muzzled.

You may not stay for more than four weeks with certain ‘dangerous’ dog breeds, including:

Pit Bull Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Bull Terrier

Special documentation is required for these breeds, such as a pedigree, vaccination passport, and behavioural certificate.

Some states and municipalities have additional restricted breed lists. Check with local authorities or the German Ministry of Agriculture for up-to-date rules.

Can I take my dog to France?

France divides ‘dangerous’ dogs into two categories:

Category 1: Dogs without an FCI-recognised pedigree resembling:

American Staffordshire Terrier (Pit Bulls)
Mastiff
Tosa
Crossbreeds of these, including Boerboel

These dogs are banned from ownership, import, and transit in France.

Category 2: Dogs with a recognised pedigree:

American Staffordshire Terrier
Tosa
Rottweiler
Rottweiler-like crossbreeds

These dogs are allowed under strict conditions: a French-language course, behavioural test, muzzle, lead and liability insurance. See official guidelines for full details.

Can I take my dog to the UK?

The UK is no longer part of the EU. Northern Ireland follows EU pet travel rules, but Great Britain is a ‘third country’.

A rabies titre test is not required for travel between the UK and the EU.

Dogs must be transported safely in vehicles (seatbelt, crate, or barrier). The UK Highway Code states that animals must not distract the driver or cause danger.

The following breeds are banned in the UK:

Pit Bull Terrier
Japanese Tosa
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
Dogs or crossbreeds resembling these

Deworming with Milbemax (Praziquantel) is required 24 to 120 hours before arrival. The treatment must be recorded in the passport with all required details.

Returning to the Netherlands? You must complete an owner declaration stating the pet is not for transfer of ownership. This form is available via the NVWA or LICG websites.

Can I take my dog to Austria?

Austria follows EU travel rules. Some districts may impose leash or muzzle rules or have breed-specific restrictions. Contact the Austrian Ministry of Health for local guidance.

Can I take my dog to Italy?

No breed-specific rules apply. You must carry a muzzle and use it when required by authorities or if others’ safety is at risk. In public and urban areas, dogs must be on a lead no longer than 1.5 metres.

Can I take my dog to Spain?

Pets are not always welcome in Spanish hotels. The following breeds are considered potentially dangerous:

Pit Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Dogo Argentino
Rottweiler
Fila Brasileiro
American Staffordshire Terrier
Tosa Inu
Akita Inu
Crossbreeds

Also applies to dogs with certain features or aggressive history. Requirements: lead, muzzle, municipal licence, liability insurance (min. €120,000), fitness and psychological certificates, and a criminal record check. Rules vary by region – check with the Spanish embassy.

Flying with dangerous dog breeds

Flying rules vary by airline, destination, and breed. Some airlines refuse certain breeds; others allow them under strict conditions such as muzzling or crate transport. Always check with the airline in advance.