Taking a Dog to France (EU Guide)
France follows European Union pet travel regulations, making it one of the easiest countries to visit with your dog. With proper documentation, your dog can travel freely within the EU without quarantine.
Overview
France follows European Union pet travel regulations, making it one of the easiest countries to visit with your dog. With proper documentation, your dog can travel freely within the EU without quarantine. Meeting the core requirements — microchip, rabies vaccination, and an EU pet passport or health certificate — is all that's needed for a smooth entry.
Entry Requirements
1. Microchip
- •Your dog must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip.
- •The microchip must be implanted before or at the same time as the rabies vaccine.
2. Rabies Vaccine
- •Your dog must be vaccinated against rabies.
- •The vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before travel.
- •If it's a booster vaccine, there's no waiting period if given on time.
3. EU Pet Passport
- •EU residents: Your vet can issue an EU pet passport.
- •Non-EU residents: Obtain a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel.
- •The passport/certificate must include microchip number and rabies vaccine details.
4. Age Requirement
- •Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old before receiving rabies vaccine.
- •Wait 21 days after vaccination before travel.
- •Minimum travel age: approximately 15-16 weeks.
Travel Within the EU
Once your dog has an EU pet passport, you can travel freely between EU countries:
- •No additional requirements for most EU countries.
- •Some countries have additional tapeworm treatment requirements (see below).
Special Requirements for Certain EU Countries
Tapeworm Treatment (Required for some countries)
Required for
Not required for
- •Treatment must be administered 24-120 hours (1-5 days) before arrival.
- •Must be recorded in the pet passport.
Travel Insurance for Your Dog
We recommend getting travel insurance for your dog when traveling to France. Veterinary care abroad can be expensive, and insurance gives you peace of mind.
Recommended Pet Insurance · France
SantéVet (France)
- Coverage
- Vet care, accidents, illnesses
- Price
- From €15/month
- Best for
- France residents
Assur O'Poil (France)
- Coverage
- Vet care + travel
- Price
- From €12/month
- Best for
- Budget-conscious
Why travel insurance?
- •Veterinary care abroad can cost €500–5,000+ for emergencies.
- •Some countries require proof of insurance for entry.
- •Peace of mind during your trip.
Some of the links above are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Always check each insurer's pet and travel policy before subscribing.
Travel Methods
By Air
- •Most airlines allow dogs in cabin (under 8kg) or cargo (larger dogs).
- •Popular airlines: Air France, Lufthansa, KLM, EasyJet, Ryanair.
- •Check airline-specific pet policies before booking.
By Ferry
- •Many ferry companies accept dogs (DFDS, Brittany Ferries, P&O).
- •Dogs usually stay in the vehicle or in kennels on board.
- •Book pet space in advance.
By Train
- •Most European trains allow dogs (SNCF, Deutsche Bahn, etc.).
- •Small dogs in carriers often travel free or at reduced fare.
- •Larger dogs may require a ticket (usually 50% of human fare).
By Car
- •No border controls within EU Schengen area.
- •Bring your dog's pet passport for occasional checks.
- •Ensure your dog is secured (harness or crate).
Find Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Finding accommodation that welcomes dogs can take extra planning. Search for stays at your destination, then use the "Pets allowed" filter where available.
Before booking, always confirm the property's current pet policy directly. Check any pet fees, number of dogs allowed, weight limits, breed restrictions, whether dogs may stay unattended, and which areas of the property they can access.
Restricted Breeds
France has specific regulations for certain breeds:
Category 1 (Attack dogs - restricted)
- •American Staffordshire Terrier (Pit-bull type)
- •Mastiff-type dogs without pedigree
- •Tosa Inu
Category 2 (Guard/Defense dogs - regulated)
- •Rottweiler
- •American Staffordshire Terrier with pedigree
- •Tosa Inu with pedigree
Requirements for Category 1 & 2
- •Sterilization certificate (Category 1)
- •Behavioral evaluation
- •Liability insurance
- •Not allowed in public transport or public buildings
Note: These restrictions apply to residents. Tourists with these breeds should check with French authorities before traveling.
After Arrival
- Register your dog with a local vet (recommended).
- Ensure your dog wears a collar with ID tags.
- Consider European pet insurance for veterinary care.
- Check local leash laws and dog park regulations.
Dog-Friendly France
France is very dog-friendly:
Restaurants
Most allow dogs in indoor and outdoor seating.
Shops
Many small shops allow dogs; larger stores vary.
Public transport
Dogs allowed (small in carriers, larger with ticket).
Beaches
Many beaches allow dogs, especially in off-season.
Hotels
Most hotels accept dogs (often with small fee).
Useful Links
Checklist Before Travel
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel freely between France and other EU countries with my dog?
Yes. Once your dog has an EU pet passport with valid microchip and rabies vaccination, you can travel freely between EU countries. Some countries (Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway) require an additional tapeworm treatment 24-120 hours before arrival.
What is the minimum age for a puppy to travel to France?
Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old before receiving the rabies vaccine, then wait 21 days before travel. The minimum travel age is approximately 15-16 weeks.
Do non-EU residents need an EU pet passport?
Non-EU residents cannot obtain an EU pet passport directly. They need a health certificate (Animal Health Certificate) issued by an official veterinarian within 10 days of travel. Once in the EU, a local vet can issue an EU pet passport.
Does France ban any dog breeds?
France categorizes certain breeds as Category 1 (attack dogs) and Category 2 (guard/defense dogs) with restrictions including sterilization, behavioral evaluation, and liability insurance. Tourists with these breeds should check with French authorities before traveling.
Important: Important: EU rules apply to France. Always check the latest requirements before traveling, especially if visiting other EU countries with additional requirements (tapeworm treatment).
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