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Holiday in Spain with your dog: Pet-friendly guide

Every parent of a four-legged fur baby unavoidably experiences holiday guilt, while their pet is left at home for a week or longer. So, if you are able to bring your dog with you, that’s a win-win situation. Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe, with plenty to do and see, including pet-friendly activities. This article will guide you through everything you need to know. 

Flying with your dog

Perhaps the most difficult part of holidaying with your pet is the flying. The policies vary from airline to airline, so you must look it up in advance. Most airlines allow small dogs in the cabin, while larger breeds will travel in the cargo hold. Fear not, though – they are well looked after throughout the flight by dedicated staff. However, your main responsibility is to ensure that your dog has all the necessary vaccinations and health certificates for travel, including a pet passport. 

Finding dog-friendly hotels

Finding a dog-friendly hotel in Spain is certainly not an issue, as there are plenty of options. All the major cities, like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and Seville, will be the easiest for dog owners, but smaller towns will have options available too. For instance, Sercotel have hotels in more than 30 different locations in Spain, many of which are pet-friendly. The four-legged guests are even provided their own pet kit for comfort. So, as long as you inform your hotel about your needs upon booking, you will have a smooth experience. 

Activities to do with dogs

Spain offers plenty of opportunities to take your dogs out and enjoy tourist activities together. Here are some ideas: 

Beach days

Many Spanish beaches allow dogs, particularly in the off-season. So you can enjoy a fun day in the sand and sea with your furry family member!

Park visits

Most cities in Spain have family parks where dogs are welcome too. For instance, the El Retiro Park in Madrid or the Parc de la Ciutadella in Barcelona. 

Hiking

The country is also home to some of the most breathtaking national parks and hiking trails in Europe. If you and your dog enjoy days out in nature, it will be the perfect setting for a dog-friendly hike. 

Dining out

Well-behaved dogs are allowed in many restaurants and cafés, especially in the outdoor seating areas. Madrid and Barcelona are particularly easy when it comes to finding dog-friendly facilities. Always ask before entering, and the friendly locals will do their best to accommodate your needs or point you to other options.

Getting around

Again, the majority of cities will allow dogs on public transport, but rules can differ from place to place. In Madrid, for instance, dogs are permitted on buses and metros as long as they are on a leash or in a proper carrier. However, if your furry best friend gets anxious, renting a car may be a more convenient option. 

Tips for a smooth holiday

Lastly, here are some quick tips to make your experience as easy as possible:

– Be respectful to the environment – always carry poop bags and clean up after your dog.

– Respect local rules and keep your dog leashed in public areas.

– Bring a few familiar items from home to help your dog feel more comfortable.

– Plan some rest days in your holiday to avoid overwhelming your pet.

Final word

Holidaying with your dog is a super fun and exciting experience, although it does require a bit of extra planning and research. However, Spain could not be a better destination for both two-legged and four-legged travellers!