Things to Know (and Have) When Taking Your Dog Abroad

I’m with you; our dogs shouldn’t have to miss out on international trips if it’s possible! I’ve also dreamed of strolling through Paris, sipping Tuscan wine on a vineyard and driving through the Alps with my pups right by my side. In fact, it’s something I’ve done personally! It’s an unforgettable experience, and one I urge every dog owner to consider if they feel their dog is up for it.

That said, I also know it’s not always simple. Taking your dog out of the UK and back again comes with its fair share of red tape. There are quite a few rules, regulations, paperwork, and vaccinations you need to make sure you have. And of course, since the whole Brexit thing, rules have changed, so if you’ve thought about taking your dog abroad in the past, things might be different now.

Rules also vary depending on where you’re going, how you’re travelling, and even your dog’s breed, so there can be quite a bit to plan for. And the last thing you need is to be turned away at the border for a single certificate you could have obtained easily.

So that’s why this blog is here, to help make the whole process of taking your dog abroad as easy and stress-free as possible. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from using the Eurotunnel or booking a dog-friendly flight, to making sure your paperwork’s in order and your pup is comfy on the journey. And because packing for a dog is a fine art in itself, we’ve also put together a full international travel checklist so you don’t miss a thing.

If you're planning on taking your dog abroad, there's a lot to think about before you go. From travel paperwork and transport options to health checks and safety tips, this guide covers everything dog owners need to know for a smooth, stress-free trip. Whether you're heading to the EU, Northern Ireland, or further afield, being fully prepared is the best way to make sure your dog stays safe, happy and healthy while travelling.

Before anything else, it’s important to ask yourself: is your dog going to enjoy this trip? Some dogs love new places and travelling with their humans. Others find it stressful, especially if it involves long car journeys, hot weather, or unfamiliar environments.

So before you go travelling abroad with your dog, think about if your dog is comfortable in the car. Are they a pup that typically frets when travelling? If so, taking them on an international adventure might not be the best thing.

You’ll also want to consider their tolerance to heat. Some breeds of dogs, especially short-nosed breeds like Pugs or thick-haired pups, can struggle more in the warmth than others. So, if you’re planning on travelling abroad with your dog to a hot and sunny destination, you might want to rethink how comfortable they’ll be.

Finally, consider how confident your dog is. If they get anxious or nervous easily, especially around new places, people and the dogs, adventuring a little closer to home might be best before you go travelling abroad with your dog.

Not all dogs are suited for foreign travel, and that's okay. Sometimes a pet-sitter or local staycation is a kinder option.

Another thing to keep in mind before travelling abroad with your dog is making sure your destination is suited to your pup. For example, you’ll want to make sure the accommodation is dog-friendly, whether you’re checking into a dog-friendly hotel, holiday cottage or Airbnb. Even those that say they allow pets still sometimes have sure restrictions or additional fees so be sure to check these first. Access to outdoor spaces is another key factor as your dog will need safe and convenient areas for walks, toilet breaks, and playtime.

It’s also worth exploring what dog-welcoming activities are available in the area. Look for beaches, parks, cafés, and tourist attractions that allow dogs so your pet can enjoy the holiday with you. In case of emergencies, research local veterinary clinics beforehand, including their location and opening hours.

Be mindful of local health risks too. Some countries have parasites or diseases that are not commonly found in the UK, so speak to your vet about any additional vaccinations or preventative treatments your dog may need. Finally, consider the travel distance and mode of transport. Long journeys, whether by car, train, or plane, can be stressful and tiring for your dog, so plan rest breaks and make sure they’re comfortable throughout the trip.

Before travelling abroad with your dog, there are several legal requirements and important health precautions to be aware of. These documents and certifications ensure your dog is fit to travel and meet the entry requirements of the country you're visiting.

A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted under your dog’s skin. It carries a unique identification number that links to your contact details in a national database. Microchipping is a legal requirement for pet travel and must be done before any other travel documentation can be issued.

Your vet can perform this quick and simple procedure, and they will need to record the microchip number on your dog’s travel paperwork. Before your trip, ask your vet to scan the chip to ensure it’s working correctly and that your contact details are up to date. If the chip cannot be read, your dog may be denied entry to your destination.

Your dog must be vaccinated against rabies before travelling. This vaccine is not optional and is a strict legal requirement for travel to most countries. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old to receive the vaccine, and you must then wait 21 full days before your dog can travel. This waiting period allows the vaccine to become fully effective.

Be aware that the rabies vaccination is not a one-off and it needs to be kept up to date with regular boosters. If there is a lapse in the cover, you’ll need to restart the 21-day waiting period, which could delay your travel plans. Speak to your vet well in advance of your departure to ensure your dog's rabies vaccine is valid and properly documented.

If you are travelling from Great Britain to the EU or Northern Ireland, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for your dog. Pet passports issued in Great Britain are no longer valid for travel to these destinations. Instead, the AHC is a multi-page, detailed document that confirms your dog is microchipped, has been vaccinated against rabies, and meets all other travel requirements.

This certificate must be issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV), which is something not all vets hold, so you’ll need to check with your practice and book an appointment in advance.

The AHC must be completed no more than 10 days before your date of travel. Once issued, it allows your dog to enter the EU or Northern Ireland within those 10 days. After entry, the certificate remains valid for up to four months of onward travel within the EU and for return to Great Britain.

You’ll need a new AHC for every trip abroad, even if you’ve travelled before. Because appointments for AHCs can fill up quickly, especially during holiday seasons, it’s wise to contact your vet at least a month in advance to plan accordingly.

If you're heading off on a Euro adventure with your pup, there's one little but very important thing you cannot forget: tapeworm treatment. Yes, it's as lovely as it sounds.

Before entering the EU, your dog needs a vet-administered tapeworm treatment, given no more than 5 days and no less than 24 hours before arrival. This used to only apply to certain countries like Ireland, Malta, Norway, etc. but now it's required for most EU destinations.

You’ll need to plan for the return trip too. If you’re coming back into the UK, your dog will need another tapeworm treatment within 48 hours before landing on home turf . Again, this must be done by a vet, and yep, it needs to be officially recorded in your dog's Animal Health Certificate (AHC).

If your destination is outside the EU or Northern Ireland, different rules apply. In most cases, your dog will require an Export Health Certificate (EHC) and possibly additional tests or treatments depending on the destination country's import requirements. These rules vary significantly from country to country.

For example, some places may require blood tests to confirm rabies protection, while others may have restrictions on certain breeds or demand quarantine. The EHC must also be issued by an Official Veterinarian, and the process can take several weeks or longer, so it’s essential to start preparations early.

To find out the exact requirements, we suggest consulting the UK government’s pet travel guidance or speak directly to your vet. Just always be sure to allow plenty of time to gather the right paperwork and ensure nothing delays your travel.

Sadly, flying with your dog isn’t easy. In fact, most major animal welfare organisations like the Blue Cross and the RSPCA strongly advise against flying with your dog unless it’s absolutely necessary. 

Because unless your pup is an assistance dog, they’ll probably have to travel in the cargo hold, the same noisy, unfamiliar space your suitcase goes. It's loud, dark and can experience big temperature swings so it's not exactly ideal for a creature that’s used to curling up on your sofa.

But if flying really is your only option, we suggest checking the following

• Check airline rules early as they all vary wildly

• Go for direct flights to avoid stressful layovers

• Use an airline-approved pet crate that’s comfy and secure

• Talk to your vet about travel safety including sedation 

But there is some good news. If your dog is on the smaller side, some airlines do allow pets to fly in the cabin with you. They’ll need to stay in their carrier under the seat in front of you, but this is going to be much less stressful for them compared to being away from you in cargo.

Most airlines that allow cabin travel have a weight limit between 8–10 kg which includes the carrier. European airlines like KLM, Lufthansa, and Air France are often more pet-friendly when it comes to cabin travel from the UK to Europe.

That said, most UK airlines don’t allow pets in the cabin. There are a few exceptions like British Airways, which may allow it on some short-haul European routes operated by SUN-AIR, but these are rare.

Our advice is to always double check with the airline before you book and make sure you're fully aware of things like weight restrictions, carrier dimensions and any route-specific rules.

Travelling with your dog on the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais is one of the safest and most dog-friendly ways to take your dog abroad.

Pros:

• Dogs stay in the car for the short 35-minute journey
• You stay with them in the vehicle the entire time
• Exercise areas are available before and after the crossing

Cons:

• Your dog must stay in the car for the full crossing
• There is a charge for pets, so check the fees in advance

As someone who has used the Eurotunnel myself when taking my dog abroad, it’s definitely a mode of transport I would recommend.

Ferry travel is another common option, but again there are a few important things to consider:

Pros:

• Some ferries have dog-friendly cabins
• Others allow pets in designated areas
• A few even accept foot passengers with dogs

Cons:

• Some ferries require dogs to stay in the car, which can be dangerous especially during the warmer months. The Blue Cross does not recommend ferry travel that requires dogs to be left alone in a vehicle.
• Some companies require dogs to wear a muzzle in public area
• Not all ferry companies accept pets, and some routes charge extra

• Check your return journey – You may need to repeat tapeworm treatment or meet other entry requirements to get back into the UK.
• Bring your own microchip reader – if your dog’s chip isn’t ISO standard, travel companies might not be able to scan it.
• Only travel with 5 dogs or fewer – unless you’re attending a registered competition or event.
• Carry your paperwork – keep your dog’s AHC, microchip details, and vaccination record easily accessible and with you at all times while travelling abroad with your dog.

Okay, so now that we’ve ticked off the slightly boring (but definitely necessary) stuff like microchips, certificates and vaccines, let’s move on to the fun part: what to pack when you’re travelling abroad with your dog!

Whether you’re heading off for a beach break, a countryside escape, or a European road trip, having the right gear can make the holiday safer, smoother and a lot more fun for both of you. Here’s the ultimate checklist of everything you’ll want to take with you when travelling abroad with your dog.

• Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
  You’ll need a valid AHC for every trip to the EU or Northern Ireland. It must be issued by an official vet and used within 10 days of travel. It also allows four months of onward travel within the EU and return to the UK.
• Rabies Vaccination Record
  Proof of an up-to-date rabies vaccination is non-negotiable. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old and wait 21 days after the jab before travelling.
• Microchip Documentation
  This is a legal requirement. Make sure your dog is chipped and the chip is working and registered to your current contact details.
• Tapeworm Treatment Proof
  Your pup will need to be treated for tapeworm between 1–5 days before you travel and less than 48 hours from you returning to home soil. That's two treatments in total for your trip there and back.
• Export Health Certificate (EHC)
  If you’re venturing outside the EU, this replaces the AHC. It’s country-specific and takes time to arrange, so check requirements early.

• Food and Water Bowls (Preferably Collapsible or Travel-Friendly)
  Your dog’s got to eat and drink, even on the go. So travel bowls for dogs save space and are super convenient for pit stops and picnics.

• Enough Dog Food for the Whole Trip (Plus Extra, Just in Case!)
  Switching diets on holiday can lead to upset stomachs so keep your dog’s tummy happy by sticking to what they know and pack lots of their go-to dinner.

• Treats and Snacks
  Dog treats are a must when travelling with your dog abroad as they can be used for rewarding good behaviour and keeping your dog focused when you’re in new, distracting environments.
• Medication
  Don’t forget any daily meds, supplements, or regular treatments your dog needs. It can be hard to get the same brands abroad.
• First Aid Kit for Dogs
  When travelling abroad with your dog, we urge you to take a dog first aid kit with you. These come equipped with all the essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tick removers and paw balm. Accidents do happen so it’s always good to be prepared.

• Car Seat Belt or Harness
  For car journeys, dogs legally need to be restrained. A seat belt clip or travel harness keeps them secure and safe.
• Car Seat Covers
  Protect your car interior from muddy paws, sand, drool or worse with a dog car seat protector cover.
• Crate or Travel Carrier
  Especially handy for nervous dogs or if you’re travelling by plane. Make sure it’s airline-approved if flying.

• Blankets and Soft Toys
  Bring familiar-smelling items from home to help your dog feel secure in new surroundings. If they have a favourite blanket or soft toy, put it with them in the car for the journey.
• Dog Bed or Crate Mat
  Even if your accommodation provides a bed, most dogs settle better with something that smells like home, so consider packing your pup’s dog bed or at least a blanket of some sort.
• Cooling Mats 
  If you’re travelling abroad with your dog during warmer months, dog cooling mats are great for keeping them cool and safe in the heat.

• Shampoo, Towels and Brushes
  We have no doubt, if you’re planning on travelling abroad with your dog, that you have some hikes or beach swims planned. That means you’ll need to be ready for some messy moments so dog shampoo, microfibre towels and dog brushes are a must.
• Poo Bags (& Lots of Them!)
  You’ll likely need more than you think, so pack plenty of poo bags and be sure to always clean up after your dog, no matter where you are.
• Dog Wipes
  Dog wipes are great for having with you in the car or rucksack ready for any clean-ups when you don’t have time for a full bath.

• Chews and Puzzle Toys
  Keep your dog mentally stimulated while you’re relaxing with enrichment toys like slow feeders or treat dispensers. These are particularly great when your pup joins you out for an evening meal or it’s too warm for outdoor play.
• Balls, Frisbees or Fetch Toys
  Perfect for active dogs, fetch toys mean your dog has plenty of chance to run off any pent up energy – especially if they’ve been in a car for a long period of time.
• Long Line or Training Lead
  Long leads for dogs are great for giving your pup freedom while keeping them safe in unfamiliar areas.

• Collar with ID Tag 
  Make sure the tag includes your name and current holiday contact details in case your dog gets lost abroad.
• Spare Lead or Collar
  It’s always good to have a backup for your dog’s usual collar and lead, especially if your dog is prone to chewing or you’re planning on doing lots of adventuring when taking your dog abroad.
• Torch or LED Collar
  For early morning or late-night walks in unfamiliar spots, visibility is everything so make sure to pack glow-in-the-dark leads and harnesses and a torch.
• Travel Insurance That Covers Pets
  When taking our travel insurance for yourself, make sure it covers your dog too. And if not, you’ll want to take out a separate policy for them. Most policies offer emergency vet coverage or help with lost pets while travelling abroad with your dog.

Phew! That may look like a lot, but packing properly means you’ll be ready for anything. And we promise that extra suitcase filled with all your pup’s goodies is so worth it.

Taking your dog abroad is such a special experience and one we really urge anyone with a confident pup to consider. Whether you're exploring cobbled streets in Europe or chilling lakeside with a croissant and your furry best friend, taking your dog abroad can be unforgettable.

That said, it’s not the right fit for every pup. Some dogs just don’t enjoy the chaos of travel so they might be happier staying home with someone they know and trust. But if your dog is confident, curious, and always up for an adventure, then taking your dog abroad can be one of the best things you’ll ever do together.

Just be sure you’re fully prepared with all the necessary paperwork, passports, and treats! And if you’re still missing a few bits from your dog’s suitcase, we’ve got your back. At WOOOF, we stock everything you need for taking your dog abroad, from collapsible bowls and water bottles to car seat covers, enrichment toys, high-value treats, cooling mats, travel harnesses and more.

All information sourced from Blue Cross, RSPCA and GOV.UK

30 of the Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the UK

Heatstroke in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms & How to Prevent It 

The Best UK Dog-Friendly Campsites in Stunning Locations