What animals are illegal to own in France?
This includes big cats such as lions and tigers, and also monkeys, bears, wolves, or animals who need large quantities of water such as hippopotamuses, sea lions, and elephants. The reproduction of these animals in captivity will also be banned.
Taking a Dog on Public Transport in France
This is one area where France has previously not been as dog-friendly as other countries in Europe, although the situation has improved.
In Paris, small dogs are allowed on all forms of public transport (bus, metro, RER (train), trams and funicular) for free, but are meant to be carried in a bag or container, no larger than 45cm. However, in practice, I believe as long as they are genuinely small and not making a nuisance, you can get away with travelling with them on your lap without a bag.
We sometimes travelled with our dog on the metro like this, and saw other small dogs on laps, and encountered no issues. Larger dogs are only allowed on the metro and RER (train), not buses or trams, and must be leashed and muzzled, but no longer require a ticket. For the full rules, click here.
For other cities in France, the regulations vary. In some cities, only small dogs in a bag or basket are allowed on public transport. This is stated in the rules for Marseille and Lyon (during our visit in 2018). In this case, these small dogs travel for free.
In contrast, there is no such restriction for Bordeaux, with the regulations only stating dogs must be leashed or transported in a basket. There is also no mention of a ticket being required.
The rules usually also include some terms that the dogs cannot make any mess or inconvenience other passengers. If your dog is also classified as a “dangerous” breed of dog (see the note above), they are also usually not permitted on public transport.
If taking long distance trains, the rules are more consistent. All sized dogs are allowed on all types of trains, except for the Eurostar. For example, see the SNCF pet policy.
For dogs larger than 6kg, on TGV, Intercités and TER trains the applicable fare is 50% of the 2nd class fare (even if you are in 1st class). There are pet-specific fares for other types of trains. Dogs must also be muzzled.
For dogs smaller than 6kg, they must travel in a container smaller than 45 cm x 30 cm x 25 cm. While such dogs usually travel for free in most other trains in Europe, in France there is a set €7 charge. If you have bought your tickets online through a ticketing site, allow time to stop off at the ticket counter before your journey, to buy the extra ticket for your dog.
Banned dog breeds, list of banned dogs by countries
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In this country since 1997 Pitbull Terriers can be kept only if you are following thorough and effective precautions.
Since 2001 following dog breeds are officially prohibited:
Since 2011 following dog breeds are not allowed to import, cultivation and sale:
Since 1999 the country entered restrictions on the ownership of dangerous dogs breeds among which are so-called «wolfdogs» except for Czech Wolfdog and the Saarloos Wolfhond.
The Royal decree of 2002 entered restrictions on dog breeds such as:
In order to obtain a license for the housing of these breeds its owner must be of a legal age, have no criminal records, be mentally and physically healthy, as well as get liability insurance for a total of 120 000 euros.
Taking a dog to France/ Europe after BREXIT- essential things you need to know.
Let’s face it; as a new dog owner, you’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed right now. Whether you are new in France or just new to dog ownership, there are many things to learn. France is, no doubt, a dog-friendly country.
In fact, it’s one of the most popular travel destinations for dog owners and their furry friends. From Paris to the French Riviera, there are plenty of places to take your four-legged friend in France.
While living with a dog in France, it’s important to understand a few things about French pet culture and dog ownership. There are a few essential rules dog owners must keep in mind, e.g., dogs in France aren’t allowed in most public places.
The rules and general cultural norms around dogs in France may be different than what you’re used to, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all that the country has to offer with your furry friend by your side. This article will be your guide to everything you need to know about dogs in France, from the basics of dog ownership to the rules around taking your dog out in public.
Dogs are very popular in France. There are about 17 dogs per 100 people, one of the world’s highest ratios. If you want to become a new dog owner in France, there’s a lot to know, including dog ownership rules and places that permit dogs.
The French are known to be dog lovers; France is the most dog-loving country globally. Research shows there are about 17 dogs per 100 people, one of the world’s highest ratios. Whether you’re touring France with your dog, immigrating, or you’re a local, France offers many dog-friendly opportunities.
The weather is also conducive for your dog. 40% of French residents list their dogs as their most priceless things. They spend close to €3 billion on dogs every year.
Most accommodations in France are dog friendly. If on a road trip, most chain hotels on the outskirts of the cities allow dogs. Most pet-friendly accommodation in France provides you with contacts of local vets to complete all necessary health requirements before heading back home.
Some accommodations will ensure that your dog has enough water, food, and sleeping cushions, while others will let your dog sleep in the guest bedroom.
Provided your dog has a microchip, pet passport, and the necessary vaccinations, you can go camping with them in some of the country’s dog-friendly campsites. They include:
French public transport system is dog friendly. All dogs are allowed to travel on all types of trains except Eurostar. For dogs above 6kg traveling in TER, TGV, and Intercity, the fare is 50% of the 2nd class train rate, regardless of where you are seated.
Dogs weighing below 6kg must travel in a small container. There’s a standard fare of €7 for the dogs. In Bordeaux, dogs don’t require tickets. The only requirement is that they travel in baskets.
France offers many holiday destinations for you and your dog to explore. There’s countryside to roam freely and sandy beaches to surf. Some of the best dog-friendly holiday destinations include:
Some parks are dog friendly and allow dogs to roam and play inside. Big parks like Tuileries Gardens and Luxembourg Gardens have set aside small areas for dogs. These are some of the dog-friendly parks in France:
French dogs come in various shapes, sizes, skills, and colors. Owners use them for hunting, herding, therapy, companionship, competitions, search and rescue. These are the breeds that stand out among the rest in terms of their skills and personalities:
This breed is famous for hunting in France and is a great family companion. These dogs are affectionate towards family and other pets. They are energetic, making them ideal for homes with ample spaces to run around.
The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog that is affectionate and acts as a good guardian. The French love this breed because its personality provides love, laughter, and companionship.
Being the most popular of all breeds, the French bulldog has a history of being a travel companion for travelers from England to France. It’s a costly and rare breed. Their size makes them ideal for travel and snuggling.
These are muscular, strong dogs that make good guardians. They are intelligent, making them ideal for training.
The Labrador Retriever dogs have a history of being fishers’ helpers, where they did chores like retrieving fish and hauling nets. They are kind, intelligent, playful, and great companions. Other than being pets, today, these dogs are used for assistance, search or rescue, and in competitive shows.
This breed is famous for its athletic prowess. When they engage in dog sports and other activities, they are the happiest.
The Cavalier King Charles breed is a good companion, affectionate and playful. They love running, hiking, flyball, and dog rally. Some are used for hunting, while others act as therapy dogs.
The Belgian Malinois Shepherd breed is protective and loving. It is intelligent and can learn fast. They work as sniffer dogs for police and the military. They’re not ideal for small spaces and apartments because of their high energy and physical activity.
Being the second most popular breed in France, the Golden Retriever is friendly and tolerant. They are good hunters and sniffers, perfect for sports, service, and therapy.
The German Shepherd is a sporty, intelligent breed popular for police and firefighting work. They are courageous and excel when you train them in guiding the physically challenged, search or rescue, and herding.
Briard dates back to around the 8th century. In ancient Brie, France, these dogs helped in dairy farming by herding and protecting cattle from wild animals. They are full of love and are gentle, making them suitable for companionship. They are energetic and need regular exercise.
Although they’re not famous outside France, Beauceron dogs are loyal, brave, and intelligent. Police use them in their search and rescue missions. As a pet, they are affectionate and calm.