Travelling abroad with your dog: rules, tips & essentials

At Love My Human, we know how much our dogs mean to us. They're not just pets - they’re family. So, it’s no surprise that more and more dog owners are choosing to take their pups along on overseas adventures. Whether you're planning a leisurely road trip through France or a mountain getaway in Austria, travelling with your dog from the UK is entirely possible - with the right preparation.

Here's our expert guide to help you plan a safe, smooth, and stress-free journey with your dog, no matter how you're getting from A to B.

First things first: The legal bits

Before you book tickets or start prepping your dog carrier, it's vital to ensure you’re meeting all the legal requirements for travelling with a dog from the UK.

Your dog must be microchipped and fully vaccinated against rabies. The rabies jab needs to be done at least 21 days before travel, so timing matters. And since the UK left the EU, your dog will also need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This must be issued by an official vet within ten days of departure and is valid for four months for travel within the EU.

It’s a good idea to schedule this vet appointment well in advance - especially during peak travel seasons when vets get booked up quickly. Before returning to the UK, dogs must be treated for tapeworm by a vet between one and five days before your journey, unless you’re returning from Ireland, Malta, Finland, or Norway. Make sure this is recorded properly in your paperwork, or you could face delays at the border.

Check all requirements well in advance of your return, especially if you’re travelling through multiple countries, as local rules can vary.

Choosing how to travel

There are several ways to take your dog abroad, each with its own pros and cons. The best choice often depends on your destination, your dog’s temperament, and how much time you have.

Travelling by car via Eurotunnel

One of the most popular and dog-friendly options is to drive to Folkestone and use the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle. You stay in the car with your dog for the 35-minute journey to Calais, making it ideal for anxious pets who feel safer near you. There’s even a designated pet area at the terminal so your dog can stretch their legs before boarding.

Ferries across the Channel

Ferries are another great option. Operators like DFDS, Brittany Ferries, and P&O offer pet-friendly cabins or onboard kennels depending on the route. While pets aren't usually allowed on passenger decks, many dogs settle just fine in the kennels, especially with a familiar blanket or toy. It’s worth noting that longer crossings can be more tiring for both of you, so plan accordingly.

How about taking the train?

Pets are not allowed on trains to and from London, between Brussels and Lille, or on our Eurostar Sun and Snow routes. You can travel with a guide or assistance dog or cat, but you’ll need to contact them at least 24 hours before your journey. Pets are welcome on all other Eurostar routes between Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, but there are some rules, so best check those out first here. And don’t forget, you can take a train to Folkestone, then drive through the Eurotunnel. Once in Europe, you’ll find train services like France’s SNCF are much more dog-friendly. Small dogs can often travel free in carriers, while larger dogs just need a muzzle and a small fee.

Flying with your dog

Air travel is the most complex option for pet owners. Most UK airlines don’t allow dogs in the cabin, meaning they must fly in the cargo hold. While perfectly safe when managed by experienced handlers, this isn't always suitable for all breeds - particularly brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs like bulldogs and pugs.

Some European carriers, like Lufthansa, KLM, and Air France, offer more pet-friendly options from their hubs. If you are set on flying, we strongly recommend using a specialist pet travel agency to help you navigate the logistics and ensure your dog’s welfare is prioritised.

What to Pack for Your Dog

Just like us, dogs need their own travel essentials, of course! Along with the legal documents - microchip records, AHC, and rabies certificate - make sure to pack your dog’s food, bowls, leads and ID tag.

A comfortable bed from home will help them settle, especially during long journeys. And depending on your destination, you may also need a muzzle (for some public transport in Europe), a tick remover, or a cooling vest for hotter climates.

At Love My Human, we stock a curated range of luxury dog travel gear on the website and even more in our shop on the King’s Road, Chelsea - from stylish carriers to collapsible bowls - that should make travel much more stress-free and comfortable for both of you.

Last minute groom?

We love hearing about our customers’ canine adventures, and we’re always happy to help you prepare, whether it’s with expert advice, travel-friendly accessories, or just a last-minute groom before you head off.

So, if you’re planning a trip, do pop into our boutique on the King’s Road! We’ll help you get your dog adventure-ready in style.

Safe travels and happy tails!

www.lovemyhuman.co.uk