Viaggiare con il cane: auto, treno, aereo – Regole e consigli per vacanze senza pensieri

Travelling with your dog in Europe: by car, train, or plane – Rules and tips for a stress-free holiday

Going on holiday with your dog can be a wonderful experience. Whether it’s a weekend escape, a road trip, or a family adventure, bringing your four-legged friend along makes it all the more special. But to ensure a smooth and safe journey, it’s essential to plan ahead and understand the travel options—by car, train, or plane—across Europe.

In this guide, you’ll find up-to-date information, practical advice, and safety tips to help you travel with your dog in full peace of mind.

Travelling by car with your dog

In most European countries, the law requires that pets be transported safely, without causing distraction or risk to the driver. While details vary slightly by country, here are general best practices:

  • Use a safety harness attached to a seatbelt, a crate, or a car pet barrier to separate your dog from the driver’s area.

  • Keep your dog on the back seat or in the boot, never on the front seat.

  • Make frequent stops (every 2 hours), avoid direct sun exposure, and ensure good ventilation.

Tip: Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, especially in warm weather.


    Travelling by train

    Most major European railway operators (such as SNCF, Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia, ÖBB, etc.) allow dogs on board under specific conditions:

    • Small dogs often travel free if kept in a carrier.

    • Medium to large dogs may require a reduced-fare ticket, a lead, and a muzzle.

    • Guide dogs travel free of charge and without restrictions.

    Always bring:

    • Your dog's passport or vaccination booklet

    • Microchip registration documents

    Check the specific policy of your train provider before booking.

    Travelling by plane

    Each European airline has its own rules, but most follow IATA guidelines and allow pets under certain conditions:

    • Small pets (up to ~8 kg including carrier) may travel in-cabin, inside an approved carrier placed under the seat.

    • Larger dogs usually travel in the hold in an IATA-compliant crate.

    • Some EU carriers now offer cabin options for medium-sized dogs (up to 12–15 kg), especially on short-haul flights.

    Always check your airline’s pet policy, weight limits, fees, and documentation requirements before flying.

    Pre-travel checklist for your dog

    • ✅ Valid pet passport or health booklet

    • ✅ Microchip registered in the European Pet Register

    • ✅ Up-to-date vaccinations (incl. rabies for international travel)

    • ✅ Familiar food, water, bowls, blanket, or toy

    • ✅ Identification tag with your contact details

    • ✅ Optional: Pettap NFC tag for instant access to health and emergency info

    Travel smart with Pettap

    • Unexpected events can happen while travelling—accidents, allergies, sudden illness, or temporary separation.

      With Pettap, the smart NFC tag, anyone can instantly access your dog’s:

      • Owner contact details

      • Medical conditions, allergies, ongoing treatments

      • Emergency instructions (e.g. “Do not feed”, “Afraid of loud noises”)

      Just tap the tag with a smartphone—no app required.

    In summary

    • Car: Ensure safety with a crate, harness, or divider. Never travel with a loose dog in the front seat.

    • Train: Check your provider’s policy—small dogs in carriers, large dogs on leash with a muzzle.

    • Plane: Use IATA-compliant carriers; check airline weight and cabin rules.

    • Documents: Always carry a pet passport, microchip data, and health info.

    • Pettap: Keep vital info accessible in every situation.

    Travelling with your dog across Europe is not only possible—it can be easy and safe. With proper planning, the right equipment, and up-to-date information, your holiday will be enjoyable for both you and your loyal travel companion.

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