Dogs In Portugal

If you and your cat or dog are tempted by a new life in sunny Portugal, welcome to the club! With countryside rambles, seaside swims, and sandy toes (and paws) awaiting you, there’s plenty to enjoy. Vacationing in the sun with your dog is one thing, but if you’re moving to Portugal permanently with your Pet, there are a few more tasks to accomplish. For example, in Portugal, a dog license is required by law, and the number of animals allowed per household is limited. Don’t worry, and we’ll cover everything you need to do to bring your Pet, cat, or dog to Portugal (including Madeira and the Azores), whether it’s for a holiday or a permanent move. We’ve included pet laws for cats and dogs in Portugal, as well as access to public transport, beaches, and the requirement for dog licenses. And, of course, details on whether Portugal is dog friendly or not! Traveling with pets to Portugal is subject to the rules of the European Union Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), which makes it very easy to travel with a dog or cat to Portugal from another European Union (EU) country. There is no need to panic if you live in a non-EU region, as the requirements for entering Portugal with a cat or dog are clearly set out for non-EU countries as well. To enter Portugal with a pet cat, dog, or ferret, you will need an EU-issued pet passport or veterinary certificate (AHC). Please read our complete guide to taking a cat or dog to Portugal from countries including the US, Canada, and Ireland, as well as the UK (Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, and Wales).

Is Portugal Pet Friendly?

Portugal is definitely a pet-friendly country, and more than half of Portuguese households own pets. A large number of public parks and beaches are ideal for walking dogs, allowing them to explore nature without being stuck in an apartment. Some stores and restaurants are even labeled as “pet friendly,” allowing you to bring your Pet on a leash. However, most of these restaurants do not allow pets inside, but due to the warm weather, you can also enjoy your meal with your Pet on the terrace. There are a wide number of pet-friendly hotels in Portugal. Pets are not allowed to be on specific beaches during the summer, but you can always find beaches where this is not the case. Pets are not allowed on most public transport, except on trains and buses, where they must be muzzled. Animals are also protected under Portuguese law, and in 2014 mistreatment or abandonment of pets became punishable by fines or even prison terms.

Can I Take My Dog ​​On Holiday To Portugal?

Each country has its own rules regarding the importation of pets, visits, or residences. The requirements are quite similar in many ways, but the details really depend on where you live now. For e.g., if you and your dog live in another European Union country and your Pet already has a valid EU Pet Pass, you will not need to obtain additional paperwork to bring your Pet to Portugal.

If you currently reside outside the European Union, there are several steps you will need to take to move your Pet to Portugal. Again, the details depend on where exactly you are coming from. If you live in the United States of America, this USDA website explains how to move your Pet to Portugal. This means you can continue reading to learn all the essential information.

Your Pet must be vaccinated against rabies with either a one-year, two-year, or three-year vaccine. The Rabies vaccines must be administered at the same time or after your Pet is microchipped. That’s another requirement. The microchip must conform to ISO! Pets must also wait for at least 21 days right after receiving the rabies vaccine before arriving in Portugal. There are no other compulsory vaccinations. You will also need to complete a health certificate before departure and one signed by a veterinarian within ten days of arrival.

You will need to go ahead and purchase an additional pet ticket and determine whether your Pet will go with you in the hold or in the cabin. This will depend on the airline, but usually, dogs and cats can be transported in the cabin in a soft container of up to 8 kilograms. If your Pet is an assistance dog, it can travel with you in the cabin regardless of its weight. Pets traveling in containers up to 32 or 45 kilograms will travel in the cargo area. You will also need to collect the following documents: an EU pet passport issued by a veterinarian with an up-to-date rabies vaccine, proof of an ISO-compliant microchip, and a veterinary certificate completed before the flight. If you are not living in the EU, including the UK, you cannot go and get an EU pet passport; instead, you will only get a veterinary certificate which is valid for four months.

How Much Does It Normally Cost To Bring A Dog To Portugal?

The cost of transporting a pet to Portugal will depend on the airline. With Portuguese airline TAP, a pet ticket can cost anywhere between €70 and €180, depending on where you fly from. It costs €70 for flights from Europe, Morocco, Tunisia, and flights between Accra and St. Thomas. It will cost €150 for most intercontinental flights. The only exception is if you are flying from the Dominican Republic, where it costs €180.

Remember additional costs such as a pet crate, microchip, vaccine, and EU pet passport. If you’re an EU resident, an EU pet passport alone can cost around €150, but it’s valid for the lifetime of your Pet. Expect to pay up for at least €300 to €500 for all of this, including an EU pet passport. However, prices will range from and fluctuate based on your location and the vet you choose.

Do I Need To Microchip My Animal To Travel To Portugal?

Yes. All pets that are traveling to Portugal (only dogs, cats, and ferrets are allowed) must have an implanted microchip linked to an EU pet passport or a health certificate issued by a veterinarian for non-EU citizens. The microchip should be implanted before the rabies vaccination.

What Are The Pet Requirements In Portugal?

Portugal requires all pets to have a rabies vaccine. They must have a receipt to prove this or have it documented in their pet passport. As pets must be at least twelve weeks old before vaccination, it may not be possible to bring a puppy. You also have to wait twenty-one days after the vaccine before your Pet can enter. The first vaccine is usually for one year, and then three-year vaccination certificates are acceptable.

All pets must have an implanted microchip which must be linked to their pet passport. The microchip should be implanted before the vaccine.

Since the UK has left the European Union, the rules regarding the transport of pets to Portugal have changed, and a pet passport is no longer a sufficient document. If you are moving with a pet from the UK, you will need to obtain a veterinary certificate (AHC), valid for four months.

If you have lived in the European Union and have an EU-issued pet passport, you will not need to obtain an AHC for travel to and from the UK.

If you are moving with your Pet from a country outside the EU, you will need a veterinary certificate. You will be responsible for customs, insurance, and shipping costs for your Pet.

No quarantine is necessary.

Can I Fly To Portugal With My Dog? 

Firstly, if you are planning to fly to Portugal with your Pet, be aware that most airlines only allow dogs and cats to be carried in the cabin. The size and weight of the animal determine whether it can accompany you on the flight or whether it will have to go in the hold. Before departure, check with your airline for a complete list of requirements for transporting your Pet on the plane.

When traveling to Portugal with your Pet, care should also be taken if you are traveling by car. In summer, high temperatures are dangerous and uncomfortable for pets. With that in mind, here are some tips to make your trip more pleasant and enjoyable:

Safety belt, transport box, or partition: These are the three ways to travel safely with animals in Portugal. The Pet Legislation (Decree No. 315/2003) mentions that “the animal must not interfere with driving”, which means that you cannot travel with pets freely in the car.

Documentation: No documents are required to travel with pets in Portugal; however, they may be required at hotels or accommodations, so it is recommended to carry your Pet’s vaccination record and check with your vet that the chip is working correctly.

Stopping every hour: It is recommended to make regular stops, especially if the journey is long so that your Pet can go to the toilet, eat and drink water.

Bring along toys: Having some toys available for your Pet while traveling is a way to calm them down and make them feel at home.

Control the environment: You should try to maintain a calm environment inside the car so that your Pet feels comfortable. This means not only checking the temperature but also paying attention to the volume of the music.

What Documents Would I Need To Take My Dog ​​To Portugal?

In order to be considered to fly with a dog (or cat or ferret), you will need the following documents:

  • A pet passport issued by a veterinarian with an up-to-date rabies vaccine
  • Proof of ISO Compliant Microchip
  • Health card completed before the flight

First, you can only travel to Portugal via commercial flights without quarantining your Pet with dogs, cats, and ferrets. Portugal has set a number of requirements that you must comply with. You will definitely need a pet passport issued by your vet, who will also monitor vaccinations. If you are not staying in the EU, including the UK, you cannot get an EU pet passport. Instead, you will only get a veterinary certificate which is valid for four months. 

Please read carefully, as it is essential that you follow each of the requirements strictly. If your Pet arrives with incomplete or incorrect documentation, it may be sent home, quarantined, or even euthanized. The last thing any country wants is a pet that brings disease or pests with it. Pets under 15 weeks of age are also not allowed to travel.

If your Pet is not traveling with you, you must also sign an authorization form for whoever will be accompanying or transporting your Pet.

Portugal welcomes pet dogs, cats, and ferrets who want to join their families and move to the country. If you are moving from the US or another country outside the European Union, your Pet can arrive by air at any of Portugal’s official international ports – Lisbon, Faro, or Porto.

Vaccination Against Rabies

Portugal requires all pets to be vaccinated against rabies before arrival. Rabies vaccination must be given AFTER microchip implantation. Rabies vaccinations for pets traveling to the EU must be older than 21 days and less than one year old at the time of travel. If your Pet’s vaccinations are older than one year, a new vaccine will be required at least 21 days before travel.

All EU countries also require microchips to be ISO-compliant. So if your Pet has a different type of microchip, they will need to get a second one (and both numbers will need to appear on their documentation). If your Pet’s microchip is the correct type but was implanted before the rabies vaccination, they will need to receive a new rabies vaccination and wait at least 21 days before entering Portugal.

Other Vaccinations

With the exception of rabies, Portuguese rules for importing pets do not require any additional vaccinations. However, you should consult your new vet in Portugal about any recommended local-specific vaccines or preventative treatments.

Cats and dogs are recommended to be vaccinated against the following. Please note that these vaccinations will be required if your Pet will be on board.

Dogs: CIV (Canine Influenza Virus), DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus), Bordetella (Kennel Cough), Leptospirosis

Blood Tests

Portugal does not particularly require the additional blood tests required for dogs, cats, or ferrets unless your Pet is from an “unlisted” country.

If your Pet is traveling from a “non-listed” country, a rabies titer blood test will be required. A rabies titer test must be performed at least 30 days after their rabies vaccination and at least three months before traveling to the EU. This test must be performed by a licensed veterinarian (USDA accredited), and the sample must be sent to an EU-approved laboratory.

Tapeworm Treatment

Your dog will not need tapeworm treatment to move to Portugal.

Health Cards

The requirements below apply to you if your Pet enters Portugal within five days before or after your own arrival date and if you have fewer than five pets in total. This is the most common scenario. If you are flying out of the US, you can find the health certification required for travel on the USDA website.

If you are traveling with more than five pets or your Pet (s) will arrive outside of the five-day period mentioned above, Portugal requires you to use a “commercial” health certificate. It doesn’t matter whether you are making the arrangements yourself or our Starwood Pet Travel team handles the specific details for you.

The health certificate should be completed and signed by an accredited veterinarian and then endorsed (signed and stamped or embossed) by the USDA APHIS veterinarian in your state. Portugal will allow an accredited veterinarian to fill out and sign the certificate electronically, but the USDA must use an original ink signature and emboss the documents. This document must be completed within ten days before your Pet’s arrival in Portugal.

Import Permit

Portugal does not entirely require pets to have an import permit. However, if you do decide you will be importing more than five pets or if your Pet arrives in the country more than five days before or after your arrival, additional paperwork is required.

 How Do You Register Your Pet In Portugal?  

Pet owners in Portugal have certain obligations to comply with. Basically, you have to register your Pet, including a dog or cat. Whoever decides to come to live in Portugal with their Pet will have to follow certain steps and rules. Portugal imposes specific requirements on dog and cat owners. These include registration and a license that you must renew every year. Living in Portugal with animals requires some mandatory processes and registration. Lisbon, an ex-pat assistant in Portugal, will tell you everything you need to know about registering and licensing your pets.

In Portugal, registering and licensing your dog is mandatory and must be done when your Pet is between 3 and 6 months old. You must register your Pet at the Junta da Freguesia (Town Hall) in the area where you currently live as the owner or breeder of the animal.

All dogs born after July 1, 2008, must have an electronic identification chip and a rabies vaccination. To register your Pet and obtain a license for it in Portugal, you must have or show the following:

– health report for the animal (with current vaccination against rabies)

– Electronic identification chip

Different Categories Of Pets

Dogs are divided into the following categories:

Category A – Dog

Category B – Dogs for your economic livelihood

Category C – Dogs for military purposes

Category D – Dogs for scientific research

Category E – Hunting dogs

Category F – Guide dogs

Category G – Potentially dangerous dogs

Category H – Dangerous dogs

Category G includes Rottweilers, Brazilian Filas, Dogo Argentinos, Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and Tosa Inu.

For category H (dangerous dogs) and category G (potentially dangerous dogs), there is specific legislation that you need to be aware of. They are Legal Decree No. 312/2003 of December 17; Decree No. 315/2009 of October 29; Order No. 422/2004 of April 24; order No. 585/2004 of May 29; Expedition No. 10819/2008 of April 14.

Portugal recognizes a “dangerous animal” as any species of animal of any breed subject to the following conditions:

– bit or attacked someone;

– Seriously injured or killed another animal outside the owner’s property;

– was voluntarily declared aggressive by the owner;

– has been considered a risk to the safety of humans or other animals by the relevant authorities.

Dogs used in the military, police, or state security are exempt from the need for a permit, but the authorities that own them must have their own means of identification and registration.

A pet license in Portugal is valid for one year. Dog owners must renew their permits every year, or they will expire.

What Is the Information System for Pets (SIAC)?

It is a public database that collects information about pets residing in Portugal, as well as their ownership, possession, place of residence, and health status. It replaces the previous system of identification of dogs and cats (SICAFE), which was not very effective because it depended on the willingness of pet owners to register their animals.

A new Portuguese law states that registration of animals is mandatory once they have been microchipped. It is the responsibility of veterinarians and authorized representatives.

What Is The Purpose Of SIAC?

The main goal is to prevent animal abandonment by promoting responsible ownership. By simplifying procedures for registration and transfer of ownership of animals, it is possible to find the owners of animals that appear lost, abandoned, or sick on public roads.

How Does The Registration Process Work?

Pets must first be tagged with a transponder, which is an electronic device (animal microchip) that is injected under the animal’s skin at a pre-defined location. After marking, the animal is registered in the system. The registration record is linked to their microchip and also contains the identification and personal data of the owner and the relevant veterinary procedures (mandatory vaccinations, amputation, and castration). In the case of animals that come from a European Union country, registration is carried out in the name of the person listed in the pet passport or health certificate.

Which Animals Must Be Registered?

Identification and registration of pets are mandatory for dogs, cats, and ferrets born in Portugal or staying in the country for more than 120 days. Other species can be registered voluntarily. Exceptions are made for armed forces and security forces dogs that are marked and registered in systems equivalent to SIAC. The same exemption applies to pets living in research and experimental facilities.

How Does The Registration Of Purchased Or Adopted Animals Work?

Pets from a breeder or pet facility (such as an animal welfare association) must be registered in the system before leaving the premises, even if they are less than 120 days old.

Is It Possible To Vaccinate An Animal Without Registration?

No. Veterinarians are required to confirm that pets are registered with SIAC before carrying out rabies vaccinations or other relevant veterinary procedures. If the animals are not registered, doctors must tag and register them before proceeding with procedures.

What To Do If The Animal Cannot Be Marked?

If for health or similar reasons, the animal cannot be tagged with a microchip, the veterinarian must draw up and sign a statement justifying the absence of tagging.

Who Can Be Registered As An Owner?

Only natural persons can be registered as pet owners in the pet information system. But there are two exceptions:

If the animal lives in a facility licensed to keep pets, such as official collection centers, boarding centers, assistance dog training centers, and pet trade facilities;

If the owner is a public authority or rescue organization or a business that holds a license or a license issued under the private security regime.

Who Can Register With SIAC?

Only veterinarians, parish councils, town councils, and persons accredited by these bodies can register dogs, cats, and ferrets. Whenever they take an animal off the street, official collection centers must wait 15 days. If no one applies for the animal after this period, the person in charge of the center must register the animal in the pet information system with the institution’s data.

When Do I Need To Change My Registration Details?

Registration in the pet information system must be updated whenever the animal changes ownership, the owner changes residence (even if the animal does not change with him), the animal changes residence (even if the owner does not change with him), the animal disappears or diseases.

How To Transfer Ownership Of An Animal?

When an animal changes owners, the record in the animal information system should be changed. The former owner should be the first to report the change and informs the system that the animal is no longer with him. The transfer should then be confirmed by the new owner.

What About Animals Acquired As A Gift Or Part Of An Inheritance?

Animals that have changed ownership other than by purchase or adoption must also be registered with the new owner’s details. It is up to the new owner to update the registry with the official authorities.

Consequences Of Non-Compliance With New Pet Legislation

Failure to comply with Portugal’s new Pet Information System registration rules results in fines ranging from €50 (for individuals) to €3,740 (for legal entities).

Where Can I Adopt A Pet?

Adoption is a great way to give a rescue animal a warm and loving home. There are animal shelters where you can adopt a dog or cat.

Bianca is a great site to see online, which dogs and cats need a loving home. You can also grow animals. Or why not volunteer and help at the shelter?

The Animal Shelter in Lisbon is a council facility for rescuing animals. Here you can adopt or foster a pet and also volunteer.

Adoption Dogs Portugal is another organization that cares for rescue dogs until they find a loving home. Check out their site for pictures and profiles of pooches available for adoption.

Dining In Portugal With A Dog

As we have mentioned above, the rules for dining in restaurants and cafes in Portugal with a dog have not changed much since our visit in late 2017. Earlier on the back, dogs were strictly prohibited from entering restaurants and cafes.

Although there was one restaurant in Lisbon without outdoor seating that accommodated us by seating us by the entrance, almost outside, and there were a plethora of awnings for outdoor dining in the rain. 

However, the situation is now quite in line with many other countries in Europe, leaving it up to owners to decide whether dogs can come inside, as long as animals are kept outside food preparation areas.

There are probably still many restaurants where dogs are not allowed, as customs take a while to change, but it’s always worth asking at the entrance.

Taking Your Dog On Public Transport In Portugal

The situation with dogs in public transport is better in Portugal than in neighboring Spain. Both large dogs and small dogs are often allowed on trains and other forms of transport.

However, please note that the following dog breeds are considered dangerous in Portugal and are not allowed on public transport: 

Fila Brasileiro

American Staffordshire Terrier

Dogo Argentino

Pit Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Rottweiler

Tosa Inu

Dogs On Trains In Portugal

Trains in Portugal are primarily operated by Comboios de Portugal. The rule for most trains, including intercity and regional trains and city trains in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra, is that both small pets in a box and larger dogs on a short lead and with a muzzle are allowed.

Both large and small dogs are allowed on city trains in Porto

Small pets can travel free, while larger dogs can travel free on city trains; a half-price ticket on Regional and InterRegional trains and a full-price ticket are required to be able to sit on Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains. For the larger dogs, you must also carry a vaccination certificate and a valid ID (or probably the Pet’s passport).

Only small pets in a box are allowed on international train services to Portugal. This includes both the Celta train from Porto to Vigo in Spain and the Sud Expresso and Lusitânia Comboio Hotel sleeper trains terminating in Lisbon.

There are some additional size and weight restrictions; check the rules for complete terms. Pets are also allowed in the sleeper compartment only if you book the entire compartment, and there is a hefty fee.

Dogs In Local Transport In Lisbon

In the Lisbon metro, similar rules apply to city trains. Dogs must be either in a container or on a short leash with a muzzle. No ticket is required.

If you take a bus or tram in Lisbon operated by Carris, their website states that pets must be in a suitable carrier that can be carried as “hand luggage”.

Dogs On Long-Distance Buses In Portugal

When it comes to long-distance travel in Portugal, the rules are more generous than in many other countries, at least for domestic ones.

On buses operated by Rede in Portugal (except international services), small dogs are allowed in a suitable cage in the passenger compartment if you purchase a pet ticket. Detailed information can be found here. Rede buses are particularly known for their popular trips to the Algarve coast.

Accommodations Suitable For Dogs In Portugal

According to a survey, the percentage of pet-friendly hotels in European cities, Lisbon, Portugal, was near the bottom. Only 6% of hotels were listed as pet-friendly, with only Dublin ranking lower. Although at least there were still 40 out of a fairly hefty 661 hotels, guesthouses and guesthouses.

When we were in Portugal, we didn’t really look for accommodation in hotels but instead found great Airbnbs. We lived mainly in apartments, including a ground-floor apartment on the outskirts of Lisbon with a large backyard – perfect for our dog!

The Backyard In Our Lisbon Airbnb

We also stayed in a lovely cottage surrounded by vineyards with an open fire in the Douro Valley. You may have to dig, but there are some excellent dog-boarding options out there.

Dog-Friendly Tour Of Portugal

Consider adding some of these dog-friendly sightseeing options to your itinerary while you’re in Portugal.

Wander The Streets Of Lisbon

It’s a tough call, but Lisbon is a close winner in my choice of the favorite city in Portugal, probably due to the beautiful weather we had during our visit.

Don’t miss the narrow streets of the Alfama district or the Miradouro de Recolhimento viewpoint. Be prepared for a lot of hills if you don’t resort to the trams (the most crowded ones are best avoided if you’re taking your dog).

Taste Port In Porto

The northern city of Porto is known to be quite synonymous with port, the fortified wine named after the city. To visit one of the historic port caves and enjoy a tasting, head to the south side of the Douro River to Vila Nova de Gaia.

We enjoyed a fun visit and delicious tasting at Augusto’s, a boutique merchant. Your little dog was welcome with us, although bouncing puppies probably wouldn’t be.

Cross The Luís I Bridge In Porto

If you want to walk between the center of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, it is best to take the Luîs I Bridge. This historic bridge is one of Porto’s most famous landmarks.

This arch bridge is unusual in that the lower level carries a road while the upper level carries a subway. As a pedestrian, it is possible to cross on both levels. The lower level has a narrower walkway, while the upper walkway is more comprehensive and offers better views. Just make sure to keep your dog on a short leash or carry it in your arms.

Then continue through the narrow and romantic streets of Porto.

Explore The Douro Wine Region

The famous Port wines (plus various whites and reds) are grown upriver from Porto in the famous Douro wine region.

The beautiful town of Peso da Régua, with its very own wine museum, is a good base for exploring the region. Spend a few days visiting vineyards, driving to scenic spots, and enjoying the great restaurants in the region.

Winery visits are best booked in advance. We were lucky when we got to Sandeman’s that they were about to start a tour for another couple, plus our dog was able to join us.

Taste The Portuguese Cake

You can’t visit Portugal without enjoying a Portuguese cake (or two or more). It has one of the most popular bakeries serving these cakes is Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon’s Belém district. Queues are often long, but they move faster than you expect.

You will probably need to leave your puppy outside for a while, just long enough to buy a takeaway box. Then head to Parc de Belém across the road or walk to Belém Tower. Although it’s probably best not to share any with your dog, they’re too good!

Take A Day Trip To Cascais

One of the most popular known day trips in Lisbon is to head to Sintra, with its many palaces, including the colorful Pena Palace. However, dogs are not allowed, even in the parks, so take the train to the beach suburb of Cascais for a dog-friendly day trip.

Dogs travel free on the train; just make sure they are on a lead and muzzle unless they are in a bag. The train tends to arrive close to the beach and port.

Take a stroll through the streets and then to the coast with its parks and bays, maybe walk to Boca do Inferno, a natural sea arch.

Take A Day-Long Trip To Guimarães

An ideal day trip from Porto is to head to historic Guimarães for a day trip. The city is home to many well-preserved medieval buildings and is considered the birthplace of Portugal.

One of the highlights of the visit is Guimarães Castle, standing on a hill above the city. And since you are allowed to bring our dog inside – not that there was much to see.

Oliveira Plaza in the heart of the city is also charming.

Go To The Algarve Beaches

The beaches in the Algarve region are known to be some of the best in all of Europe. What about dogs, are they still allowed on the beach?

In Portugal, there is a rule that dogs are not allowed on “privileged beaches” (i.e., beaches with beach chairs and the like) with lifeguards during the summer season. This essentially starts anytime between Easter and May, depending on the beach, and runs until October.

On the other hand, on unrelieved beaches and where there are no signs prohibiting the local council, the entry of dogs is allowed directly throughout the year. 

So we recommend visiting outside during the summer season, heading to the beach with your dog, or looking for quieter beaches (without lifeguards) where your dog can frolic.

There is a growing demand for dog-friendly beaches in Portugal, with two opening in recent years (North Sand Portinho Beach in Peniche, north of Lisbon, and Coral Beach in Viana do Castelo, on the far north coast). Perhaps a dog beach could soon be declared on the Algarve coast?

Pet-Friendly Holiday Accommodation In Portugal

From north to south, Portugal has an increasing number of pet-friendly hotels and other types of accommodation, and one great option to consider is rural tourism, where pets are more welcome. Here are some suggestions of pet-friendly backcountry hiking destinations where you and your pets will be very welcome this summer.

  • Monte da Barragem;  With a privileged view of the Montargil dam, this rural property allows you to give complete freedom to your dog, who can run through the fields and dive into the dam without you having to worry about anything.
  • Casa dos Esteios: Built from granite, this pet-friendly house is a typical farmhouse located in Termas de São Vicente, Tâmega e Sousa. It has a garden with a swimming pool, a children’s playground, and a miniature golf course, a paradise for the whole family, including animals.
  • Casa Cerejeira: In Vila Nova de Famalicão, this pet-friendly holiday home is a country cottage with an outdoor area where you can enjoy the pool or barbecue. The fact that outdoor space is also a key point for pet owners, as animals can run freely and safely.
  • Monte Azul: A typical Alentejo paradise located in Odemira, it allows guests to enjoy an expansive lawn and an outdoor saltwater pool. Here you can also enjoy a well-deserved vacation with your pets.

For more pet-friendly holiday rentals in Portugal, visit Rentalia for a wide range of pet-friendly accommodations throughout Portugal.

Beaches That Accept Pets In Portugal

Taking advantage of the summer holidays to refresh yourself on the beach is a must in Portugal. Check out our selection of the best dog-friendly beaches in Portugal, located around the country, and remember that there are rules you need to follow if you want to enjoy swimming with your pets in Portugal this summer.

During the high season, dogs are not allowed on tourist beaches. These are the beaches that have sunbeds, flags, and lifeguards. However, you can take your dog to any beach during the rest of the year. Portugal has an incredible coastline of beaches, so it won’t be challenging to find a beach to take your dog to.

Can I Have A Pet In The Apartment?

Portuguese law states that one can have pets in apartments, up to three dogs or four cats, but no more than four pets in total. It would be best if you first familiarized yourself with the requirements of your apartment complex, as they have different rules.

If you live in an apartment in Portugal, you are only allowed to have three adult dogs. However, this can be increased to six adult dogs if you obtain permission from your local veterinarian and public health officer. To do this, you must apply for a permit at the town hall where you live. The limit on the number of animals you can keep may always be lower than above, depending on the rules of shared occupancy.

In rural buildings (land only) or mixed buildings (land with a house), you can keep up to six adult animals and possibly more if the land is large enough and animal welfare standards are guaranteed.

If you follow the rules for public health and maintaining peace in your neighborhood, you can keep up to three adult dogs and four adult cats in the apartment, both in the countryside and in the city. However, you may not exceed a total of four pets.

If you do not comply with these laws, the local authority will inspect your premises by sending an environmental officer or local authority vet to notify the owner that their animals will be taken and placed in local authority kennels for a period of time. Time. This gives the owner time to meet standards. 

Noise From Dogs In Portugal

Noise is one of the biggest problems for dogs and the people living around them. If your dog is left alone for long periods of time or if he is not given enough time outside, he may develop certain behaviors, such as constant barking. As an owner, you are responsible for making sure that your Pet thrives and does not disturb your neighbors, whether in an apartment or even on a farm in nature.

Most owners won’t have this problem, but dogs that bark constantly are restless and can drive your neighbors to the point of a nervous breakdown. 

You must know that any neighbor who has problems can contact the police (GNR or PSP). They can ask you to stop the noise source or alert the council, who can impose a minimum fine of €500.

Are There Any Dog B​reeds That Are Banned?

Portuguese law recognizes that some dog breeds are potentially dangerous and can cause injury or death to humans or other animals. These dog breeds are not banned in Portugal, but there are special requirements for owning them.

The owner must be over 18 and pass a psychological evaluation test. He must have no criminal record and sign a document that he is fully responsible for the actions of his animal. They must also take out liability insurance.

Potentially dangerous breeds are:

Pit bull terrier

Rottweiler

American Staffordshire Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Fila Brasileiro

Dogo Argentino

Tosa Inu or Japanese Mastiff

Pet Food And Supplies

You can buy pet food from supermarkets or specialist pet food suppliers.

Nature is a Portuguese company that supplies premium food and treats for cats and dogs. Their products are available in twenty-four locations throughout the Lisbon area as well as online.

Dog Wish is much more than just a pet store. Here you can buy food and all kinds of accessories for pets. They also have pet spas, vets, and Pet sitting services. You can visit a store or shop online.

Perfect Pet is a pet store that sells everything you need for different pets. They take care of cats, dogs, rodents, rabbits, reptiles, birds, and fish.

Veterinarians

Clinica Veterinaria Jaoa XXI is a clinic in Lisbon. Their tagline is ‘The best veterinary care for your best friend.’ They provide all the necessary pet care that includes everything from vaccinations and dental work to emergency care.

Lambert Veterinary Clinic provides all pet care services. This clinic only has a five-star rating, which is a testament to its excellent service and care.

The Most Popular Dog Breed

Portuguese dog breeds vary significantly in appearance, temperament, and purpose. But all these breeds can trace their roots back to Portugal. Living in a country dependent on agriculture and maritime activity, Portuguese dog breeds are usually built for life outdoors – on land or in water. Among the native Portuguese canines, there are primarily large sheepdogs, hunting dogs, and guard dogs, but there are also smaller companions.

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Conclusion

Portugal is very Pet friendly, and you will see many people walking their dogs. Unfortunately, unlike other countries, they have yet to pass a law that requires one to pick up a store with their dog. You will notice a lot of dog excrement on the streets, which is unpleasant. Pets are even welcome to accompany their owners to most shops, restaurants, and cafes. All dogs must wear a name and address collar. If you want to bring your dog to Lisbon, it shouldn’t be a problem if you follow the requirements.