Traveling with dogs without disaster: Tips for adventurous pet owners (aka people whose dogs have better luggage than they do)
I remember carefree vacations in the comfort of an airplane or train, which took me without any problems to my dream destination by the sea or to a mountain cabin in the wilderness. All I had to do was pack a few spare things in a suitcase or backpack and set off for fun without any further arrangements or plans.
However, that carefree attitude ended when we got our four-legged pet, who requires a lot of attention and thorough care, especially when traveling, which can be a bit stressful for them.
But because we consider him an important member of the family, we wouldn't dream of leaving him at home in someone else's care, because all the adventures and memories that make our lives more colorful are created with him by our side.
Let's face it.
For some of us, dogs aren't just pets. They're not even "furry babies." They're little four-legged prima donnas with more personality than most people and a travel wish list that includes "sniffing every tree in Europe."
If you are one of those people who refuse to leave your dog at home—not even for a day at a hotel spa—this article is for you.
I've been there. Once, I traveled to Austria with my husband and our 15-pound darling named Crowley in the back seat, who treated every stop as if it were his red carpet debut.
There were tears, there was laughter, there were moments when I questioned my life choices (and his), but above all, it was magical. Because nothing makes a trip more memorable than sharing it with your dog, including all the disasters –preferably fewer disasters, if you read on...
The joys of traveling with a dog (or why it's worth it)
Yes, you'll probably pack more for your dog than for yourself. And yes, you'll plan your route so that he can get out and stretch his legs. But what are the advantages?
You'll talk to more strangers. Dogs are social magnets. A schnitzel-loving Labrador in Austria can get you more friends than Tinder.
You'll get to know nature better. Do you want to laze around in a hotel all day? Not when your dog is watching the door like a soldier on a mission. You get up before the night shift hotel staff and walk through empty streets with a face as puffy as a tomato, waiting for the morning pile with a prayer that you can quickly get back to your warm bed in your room.
You'll have better stories. Like the time my sweetheart stole a bratwurst from a German beer garden in the middle of a band's performance. No one even batted an eyelid. Bavaria gets it, but I was mortified and asked myself, Where did I go wrong in his upbringing?
Traveling by car: Where the adventure begins (and dog drama)
Dogs love cars—until they get to know them. If you've ever had your dog throw up in the middle of a mountain pass or get tangled up in a dog travel harness, you know what I'm talking about.
Let me teach you how to avoid this emotional trauma...
Tips for surviving car travel
- Get a crash-tested safety harness or crate for your dog. Safety first. Your furry friend is not an airbag.
- Sun shades and cooling mats. It can get hot in Europe – especially in Italy or Croatia. Your dog will thank you (and so will your leather seats).
- Stop every 2 hours. To stretch their legs, sniff around, and probably pee on the same tree as 40 other dogs on the road.
- Always carry water and travel bowls with you. You'll forget your water bottle before you forget theirs. It's a proven fact.
- The playlist is important. Our darling often falls asleep listening to loud rock music, which is as loud as at a concert. Coincidence? I don't think so, he revels in it and sleeps like a log.
Where to stay: Dog-friendly accommodation where you won't go crazy
Hotels and Airbnb accommodation across Europe are increasingly pet-friendly. Some even welcome your dog with treats and a bed that's nicer than yours.
Packing tips for stays
Dog bed or travel mat. Some dogs insist on sleeping in your bed. Others want their blanket. Take it with you just in case.
Towel (or 3). For paws, drool, puddles, mysterious substances.
Foldable bowls. You'll find them in your car's cup holders for the next 3 years.
A bag of treats for bribes. Especially useful when trying to lure your dog off a stranger's couch.
Vaccination card. Some accommodations (or other checkpoints) will require it. Be prepared, especially if you are traveling between countries.
Where to go: Trips around Europe where dogs are welcome
Europe has been surprisingly dog-friendly in recent years—as long as you're not trying to sneak them into a Michelin-starred restaurant or the Louvre.
Here are some places where your dog can have the same adventures as you:
France (especially the countryside)
Dogs are practically second-class citizens in rural France (and that's a compliment). Markets, cafes, and even some castles allow dogs on a leash.
Bonus: French dogs are surprisingly well-behaved. Maybe your dog will adapt too (or maybe not).
Try: Dordogne for riverside walks and historic villages, or Alsace for wine villages and hiking trails.
Germany and Austria
Well-organized, clean, and full of dog-loving people. Dogs are often allowed on public transport (sometimes even with a ticket!). Mountains? Lakes? Yes and yes.
Try: Lake Wolfgang in Austria or the Black Forest region in Germany. Lots of trails and, of course, schnitzel to share.
Italy (just avoid midsummer)
Italy loves dogs – just not when it's 39°C. Dogs roam the squares, drink from fountains (okay, they lick them) and even shop in boutiques at a discount.
Try: The Dolomites for hiking or Lake Garda for swimming and chilled wine with your pet at your feet.
Switzerland
Extremely picturesque, incredibly clean and surprisingly dog-friendly. You'll have to budget carefully, but if you want to walk among cows with your dog by your side, it's worth every Swiss franc.
Try: Lauterbrunnen Valley or any place where you can ride a picturesque railway and imagine your dog starring in a Wes Anderson film.
Trips that are best suited for dogs...
Car trips: Maximum flexibility. Stop when your dog needs a break, and your dog can rest.
Hiking vacations: Great for energetic breeds. Just check the terrain and rules for walking dogs.
Weekend getaways (small towns): Think Bruges, Ljubljana, Salzburg—not Paris in August.
Camping or glamping: Bonus points if your dog likes to sleep under the stars (and at which it barks).
Lower your expectations, raise your sense of humor...
You'll miss that beautiful museum. You'll mostly hear goats bleating at you. You'll have to hand wash your travel towel covered in something unidentifiable.
But you'll also wake up and watch the sunrise from a mountain cabin with your dog.
You'll laugh when they chase pigeons in the square. You'll appreciate how they snuggle up to you in a strange bed because they know you're their home, wherever you are.
And honestly? That's the best thing about traveling with them.
So go for it — pack some treats and hit the road.
Your dog may not remember the Eiffel Tower, but he will remember chasing ducks down the street. And so will you.
Do you have your own story about traveling with your dog? Have you experienced any embarrassing or funny moments with your pets?
Share your experiences in the comments...
