Moving to France With a Dog: What Expats Should Know Before Relocating (2026 Guide)
- Ryan Rothon
- Feb 23
- 4 min read
Moving to France with a dog is exciting, and in many ways, easier than you might expect. France is one of Europe’s most dog-friendly countries, but there are still important rules, health considerations and practical adjustments to be aware of.
Whether you’re relocating from the UK, US or elsewhere in the EU, this guide explains exactly what expats can expect when bringing a dog to France.
Entry Requirements for Dogs Moving to France
France follows standard EU pet travel rules, but the process depends on where you are moving from.
If You’re Moving From Another EU Country 🇪🇺
Your dog will need:
ISO-compliant microchip
Valid rabies vaccination
EU Pet Passport
That’s usually sufficient for entry.
If You’re Moving From the UK 🇬🇧
Since Brexit, UK pet owners need:
Microchip
Rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel)
Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of travel
Unlike travel to some countries, tapeworm treatment is not required for entry into France.
If you’re flying, always check airline-specific rules for crate sizes and breed restrictions.
Registering Your Dog in France
After arrival, your dog must be registered with the national identification database managed by I-CAD.
If your dog already has a compliant microchip, you don’t usually need a new one, but ownership details must be updated to a French address.
You should also:
Register with a local veterinarian (vétérinaire)
Ask about vaccination schedules used in your region
Consider pet insurance (France has several affordable options)
Registration is important not just legally, but in case your dog is ever lost.
Is France Really Dog-Friendly?
Yes! and often more than expats expect.
Cafés & Restaurants
In many parts of France, dogs are allowed inside cafés and restaurants, not just on terraces. It’s common to see dogs calmly lying under tables in Parisian bistros. Just always double check with staff or look for signs before going inside.
Public Transport
On SNCF trains:
Small dogs in carriers travel at a reduced fare.
Larger dogs require a ticket (usually around 50% of a second-class fare) and must be muzzled.
Local metros and buses generally allow dogs, though rules vary slightly by city.
Apartment Living
In cities like Paris, apartments can be small, but French landlords are typically more accepting of dogs compared to some other countries. Rural areas offer far more space and outdoor access.
Do the French Love Dogs? Dogs are deeply integrated into everyday French life. In cities, it’s completely normal to see dogs calmly sitting under café tables or accompanying their owners into small shops. In rural areas, dogs often live as working companions or active outdoor family members.
Unlike in some countries where dogs are treated almost exclusively as backyard pets, French dog culture tends to expect dogs to behave well in public spaces, and in return, they’re welcomed into those spaces.
Basic obedience and calm behaviour are valued, but over-the-top “dog pampering culture” is less common than in parts of the US or UK.
You’ll also notice:
Smaller breeds are especially popular in urban areas (French Bulldogs, Poodles, Dachshunds).
Dogs are commonly walked multiple times per day, even in apartments.
Barking excessively in apartment buildings is not well tolerated.
Many cafés automatically bring a bowl of water without being asked.
For expats, this means your dog is likely to be included in daily life, as long as they are well-socialised and under control.
Health Risks Expats Should Be Aware Of
France’s climate varies significantly from north to south, and so do health risks.
1. Leishmaniasis
In southern France (particularly near the Mediterranean), sandflies can transmit leishmaniasis. Preventative collars or treatments are strongly recommended if you live in or visit these regions.
2. Ticks & Lyme Disease
Ticks are common in wooded and rural areas across the country. Regular preventative treatment is essential.
3. Heartworm
Heartworm risk increases in warmer regions. Ask your local vet about appropriate prevention.
4. Heatwaves
French summers , especially in Provence and the south, can be intense. Pavement temperatures can become dangerous, and dehydration risk rises quickly.
Relocation itself can also cause digestive stress. Even confident dogs may develop temporary diarrhoea due to:
Travel anxiety
Environmental change
Water mineral differences
Sudden food changes
What About Dog Food in France?
France has a strong pet care market, but quality varies significantly.
You’ll find:
Supermarket kibble (often cereal-heavy)
Premium veterinary brands
Raw feeding suppliers
Specialist independent pet shops
Ingredient transparency differs between brands, and many expats are surprised by how formulations vary compared to what they’re used to in the UK or US.
If you are looking for a reliable, nutritional and convenient food in France, why not try our cold pressed range. Delivered to France with customer service in English.
Should You Change Food Immediately?
Generally, no.
During relocation, stability matters. Keeping your dog on a consistent diet for the first few weeks helps avoid unnecessary digestive upset.
If you do change food:
Transition slowly over 7–10 days
Mix old and new food gradually
Monitor stool consistency
Ensure adequate hydration
For warmer climates or sensitive stomachs, some owners prefer easily digestible options that avoid excessive processing.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Transition
Here’s what experienced expats often recommend:
Bring 2–4 weeks of your current dog food
Keep feeding times consistent during the move
Pack familiar bedding and toys
Avoid introducing new treats immediately
Locate a vet before you need one
Ask your vet about region-specific parasite prevention
The goal in the first month isn’t perfection, it’s stability.
Life in France With a Dog: What Surprises Most Expats
Many expats report that France feels:
More relaxed about dogs in public
More integrated in daily life
Less restrictive about indoor access
However, countryside areas may involve hunting seasons, livestock protection dogs and different local customs. Always research your specific region.
Final Thoughts
Moving to France with a dog is very manageable, and in many ways, rewarding. The country’s culture is generally welcoming to well-behaved dogs, and outdoor lifestyles suit active breeds particularly well.
The most important things to focus on are:
Legal paperwork
Registration updates
Parasite prevention
Diet stability during relocation
Once those are covered, you and your dog can settle into French life with confidence.
To learn more about dog nutrition read our handy guide.
Or why not treat your dog to some premium cold pressed dog food!
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