Dog friendly Italy

We have expanded our family with a nice dog from the shelter and we would like to take our Pluto everywhere with us. But how does that work in Italy? How good is Italy for its four-legged friends?

My first feeling says: very good. In Italy, the list of dangerous dog breeds has even been abolished. The behavior of the individual animal counts. But let's take a closer look at the rules about dogs in Italy. Where will your four-legged friend be warmly welcomed? And what things should you take into account?

Even at the mall

Dogs are quite often welcome in the store in Italy. For example at Media World, the Italian version of Media Markt. So just take Fikkie with you when you pick out a new television. Ideal right? It may be less fun for the dog itself, but you can take your dog with you during a day of shopping.

We find it very handy, because that way you can do your shopping between walks. Yet one of us also often waits outside the store. Otherwise, our sweetheart will bite for a piece of cheese or sausage. Large dogs are less welcome in supermarkets. Only small dogs that you put in the shopping cart or carry are allowed.

Where the owner goes, the dog goes, the Italians think. So the dog also goes to the doctor, the dentist and even to church. He often gets a nice dog biscuit in those places too, because he is so good.

From watchdog to member of the family

Italians (in general) love dogs. The dog was originally used to guard the yard or for hunting. They were mainly on iron chains, so that they did not run away. If the dog was lucky, he could run loose in the garden.

In Tuscany, dogs are no longer allowed to be kept on a chain for long periods of time. Especially because there is a high risk of forest fires, where the dog usually has no escape option. In any case, more and more Italians have a dog as a real pet. Of course the dog is still in the garden during the day, but at night he can sleep inside.

Italians are not only fond of their own dog, but especially that of others. When we walk through the village, Pluto usually gets a pat on the head. When people see a dog here, they turn into children. It is the same in all restaurants. 

The first time we took the dog to a restaurant, we found it quite exciting. We spontaneously went out for dinner and had to sit inside because of the crowds. But the dog was treated with love and not seen as a nuisance. When we book somewhere and ask if the dog can come along, we are almost laughed at. Of course the four-legged friend can come along, why not? After all, the dog is the king of the family here. 

So do you want to eat out with the dog in Italy? Then that is often not a problem. Just let us know when you make your reservation and a special spot will be found for you. In the summer it's completely easy: you can sit outside on the terrace.

Nice walk with a few rules

On the beach

Dogs are not allowed on the beach in Italy during the beach season from May 1 to September 1. But luckily there are alternatives. In the north of Italy there are many dog ​​beaches (Bau Beaches) to find. Are you heading south? Then there are a little less, but with a total of 250 dog beaches, Italy is not doing badly at all. In autumn and winter dogs are again welcome on all beaches.

In the woods

It is wonderful to walk through the woods with your dog. It is important that you follow the rules. In Italy you have to keep your dog on a leash in many places. That is also necessary, because there is a lot of wildlife here.

We live in the countryside and I have encountered deer several times with Pluto. Then it's a good thing he's on a leash, because otherwise he'd just go after it!

So keep your dog on a leash as much as possible and only let it run loose in the special zones. This way you avoid endangering other (wild) animals.

In public buildings

We haven't been to a public building with our Pluto yet. I have read that if we are going to do that we should bring a muzzle. But I don't think I've ever seen a dog with a muzzle here, so in practice it won't be too bad. 

Taking your dog on vacation?

Are you taking your dog on holiday? For the Italian, that is an easy question. More than half of holidaymakers simply take their dog friend with them. There are many places where you can spend the night with the dog. They are certainly welcome at campsites and agriturismos. Please note, because usually the dog is not allowed to stay alone in the house. 

My experiences with booking a holiday with a dog have been good so far. We are going to Sardinia and Pluto is welcome at both accommodations. He is not allowed in the pool and not bothering the other guests, but that makes sense.

Other tips for a safe holiday to Italy with your dog

• Have a valid pet passport with all vaccinations.
• Notify the property of his arrival.
• Take all your dog's familiar things with you.
• Provide good protection against ticks.
• Enjoy the hospitality of Italy with your dog.

Fine accommodations for a holiday with your dog

Most B&Bs and hotels have to swallow when you bring the dog. What if he lays down on the couch or breaks something? In addition, you want there to be enough space for your dog to release its energy.

Do you want to enjoy your holiday in Tuscany carefree? Then you can go to these dog-friendly accommodations, where they take extra account of your four-legged friend:

Fattoria Maremmana (Marina di Grosseto) is close to a dog beach, and there is even a dog swimming pool. There are private gardens with a fence where the dog can be outside.

Campsite Frederico Farm (Pontremoli) is a nature campsite with all the facilities needed for a holiday with the dog. Various hiking trails lead from here, where you can enjoy nature together with your four-legged friend.

Agriturismo Orgiaglia (between Volterra and San Gimignano) provides a luxurious holiday for the dog. The agriturismo is surrounded by greenery and 10 minutes away you will find a river where the dog can swim.

Do you want to go to the Cinque Terre with the dog? Then is Campsite La Sphinge in Deiva Marina a good choice. All dogs, large and small, are welcome here. The campsite is surrounded by greenery, so go for a nice walk in the woods.