Vacation in Austria – with your dog

Having your own four-legged friend with you on vacation — what could be better?

Not much in our opinion. And if it’s also a sustainable vacation, then we’re thrilled anyway. That’s why we dedicate this blog post to the question: What do I have to consider if I want to take my dog with me on vacation to Austria?

Entering from within the EU

For EU citizens, this is, in fact, summarized quite simply:

A dog with a passport and a suitcase — © Jenifer Friedmann

an EU pet passport
a valid rabies vaccination
a microchip

Since 2013, this has been regulated by EU Regulation No. 576/2013. Nevertheless, there are a few additional points to consider.

The most important point is probably the leash and muzzle requirement in some parts of Austria. Since these can vary from community to community, you should always have both with you.

To go on vacation as stress-free as possible for you and your four-legged friend, you should also practice wearing a muzzle with your dog beforehand. It might also be interesting to know that your dog must be at least 15 weeks old to travel with you. Before that, there is no complete vaccination protection against rabies.

You are allowed to take a maximum of five dogs with you.

Man vet examining boston terrier with stethoscope in clinic. — © AdobeStock

Entering from outside of the EU

If you enter Austria from outside the EU, the requirements are somewhat stricter. Dogs from outside the EU must:

be at least seven months old
have a microchip or a readable tattoo (from before July 3, 2011)
have a complete vaccination protection against rabies
Bring a health certificate issued by a veterinarian
Have a certificate of ownership with them
Enter via Vienna, Linz, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz-Tahlerhof or Klagenfurt because you are required to show up at customs there.

If you follow these requirements, nothing stands in the way of vacating in Austria with your dog.

Depending on the region, there are exciting things to experience: the fascinating mountains, beautiful lakes, waterfalls, river landscapes and great cities want to be discovered and admired.

A great starting point for your adventure in Austria: Our Green Pearls® partner hotels: The “Aufatmen” and “Biohotel Grafenast” are excited to meet you and your four-legged friends.