Dog-Friendly Travel Across Europe: Exploring with Bernice

Traveling across Europe is an adventure in itself, but doing it with a beloved pet makes the journey even more special. For Marc and me, taking our dog, Bernice, along on our motorhome travels has been one of the highlights of our trips. From hiking in the Dolomites to strolling through charming villages, having her by our side has made every experience richer and more memorable. Of course, traveling with a dog comes with its own set of challenges, but with a little planning, you can make sure your furry friend has just as much fun as you do.

Here are our top tips for making your European road trip dog-friendly, based on our own adventures with Bernice.

1. Plan Pet-Friendly Destinations

One of the first things we consider when planning a trip is whether the places we want to visit are pet-friendly. Luckily, many parts of Europe are incredibly welcoming to dogs, and we've been able to include Bernice in most of our activities. Here are a few things we look for:

• Pet-Friendly Accommodations: When booking campsites, hotels, or rentals, we always check if dogs are allowed. Many campsites across Europe are pet-friendly, often offering amenities like dog-walking areas, waste bins, and even dog showers. In some places, like Italy and France, we’ve even found hotels that provide dog beds and treats!

• Dog-Friendly Cities and Towns: Europe has plenty of dog-friendly cities where you can take your dog into shops, cafes, and public transportation. For instance, in France and Germany, many restaurants allow dogs to sit with you outdoors, and some even welcome them inside. We’ve also found that many public transport systems allow dogs, as long as they’re on a leash or in a carrier.

2. Hiking Adventures for You and Your Dog

Some of the best parts of our European road trip have been the hikes we’ve taken with Bernice. From the snow-covered peaks of Switzerland to the lush forests of Austria, Europe offers some of the most scenic trails perfect for a dog who loves the outdoors.

• Research Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails: Not all trails allow dogs, so we always research beforehand to find out which hikes are dog-friendly. In the Dolomites, for example, many of the trails welcomed Bernice, and she had the time of her life trotting along the paths and sniffing the fresh alpine air.

• Bring the Right Gear for Your Dog: When hiking, especially on long or steep trails, we always pack water and snacks for Bernice. We also have a special harness that makes it easier to lift her over rocks or obstacles if needed. In colder climates, we’ve found that a dog coat helps her stay warm, and in warmer weather, we take regular breaks to keep her hydrated.

• Respect the Local Wildlife: Some trails, especially in the mountains, pass through areas with livestock or wildlife. We always keep Bernice on a leash in these areas to ensure she doesn’t disturb the animals or get into any trouble. It’s important to be mindful of local regulations, as some parks require dogs to be leashed at all times.

3. Keeping Your Dog Comfortable During Long Drives

Long road trips can be tough on dogs, so it’s important to make sure they’re comfortable and happy during the journey. Bernice has become quite the seasoned traveler, and here’s how we keep her content while driving across Europe:

• Create a Cozy Space in the Motorhome: Bernice has her own designated spot in the motorhome where she feels safe and relaxed. We’ve set up a soft bed with her favorite blankets and toys, which helps her feel at home even when we’re on the move.

• Take Frequent Breaks: We always plan plenty of stops during long drives to let Bernice stretch her legs, get some fresh air, and take a bathroom break. This keeps her from getting too restless or uncomfortable, and it gives us a chance to explore more of the countryside.

• Keep It Cool and Comfortable: Depending on the weather, we adjust the temperature in the motorhome to make sure Bernice stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter. We also keep her water bowl easily accessible, so she stays hydrated throughout the trip.

4. Pet Passport and Travel Documents

Traveling with a dog across multiple countries in Europe requires some paperwork, but it’s all pretty straightforward if you plan ahead.

• Get a Pet Passport: Before setting off, we made sure Bernice had her EU pet passport, which includes her vaccination records, especially for rabies. This is essential when crossing borders, as some countries require proof of vaccinations to ensure your dog is healthy.

• Microchip Your Dog: Many countries in Europe require dogs to be microchipped, so we made sure Bernice had hers updated before leaving home. If your dog gets lost during your travels, a microchip makes it easier for local authorities or vets to reunite you.

• Local Regulations: Different countries have different regulations when it comes to dogs, so we always check the local laws in advance. For instance, some places require dogs to be muzzled on public transport or in crowded areas. It’s helpful to know these rules before you arrive to avoid any surprises.

5. Food, Water, and Health Considerations

Keeping Bernice healthy and happy on the road is a top priority, and that means making sure she’s well-fed, hydrated, and in good health throughout the trip.

• Bring Enough Dog Food: We always pack enough of Bernice’s regular dog food for the trip, as switching foods suddenly can upset her stomach. When we know we’ll be gone for an extended period, we plan ahead and find out where we can buy her specific brand of food along the way.

• Water on the Go: We carry a portable water bottle with a built-in bowl for Bernice, which is perfect for hikes and long drives. Staying hydrated is especially important when exploring in warmer climates or after a day of hiking.

• Vet Visits on the Road: Before we left, we researched vets in the areas we were traveling to, just in case Bernice needed medical attention. Many countries in Europe have excellent veterinary services, and it’s comforting to know where to go if something comes up.

6. Navigating Cities with Your Dog

Exploring cities with a dog requires a bit of extra planning, but it’s totally doable with the right approach.

• Dog-Friendly Public Transport: Many European cities, like Berlin and Paris, allow dogs on public transport, making it easy to get around with your pet. We always check the specific rules—some places require dogs to wear a muzzle or stay in a carrier.

• Find Parks and Green Spaces: While cities are fun to explore, we always make time to find a nearby park or green space where Bernice can run around and stretch her legs. It’s a nice break from sightseeing, and she enjoys it as much as we do.

• Restaurants and Cafes: Europe has a great café culture, and we’ve found that many outdoor seating areas are dog-friendly. In places like Italy and France, dogs are often welcome inside restaurants, too, so Bernice can join us while we enjoy a meal or a coffee.

Traveling with Bernice has made our European road trip an even more special adventure. From hiking through scenic landscapes to relaxing in cozy cafes, having her with us has added a new level of joy to our journey. While it requires a bit of extra planning and preparation, the rewards of exploring Europe with our furry companion are well worth it.

If you’re thinking of traveling with your dog, we encourage you to do it! With a little research and preparation, you can create unforgettable memories with your pet by your side. Safe travels, and happy exploring with your furry friends!