Moving to Portugal with a Pet: A Complete Guide

Relocating to Portugal with a pet, especially a dog, is an exciting adventure, but it requires a bit of preparation. Portugal is known for being a pet-friendly country, with ample green spaces, cozy cafes, and plenty of dog-friendly beaches. However, there are some regulations to keep in mind, particularly regarding pet transportation, vaccinations, and residency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible for both you and your pet.

Bringing Your Pet to Portugal: Rules and Regulations

When moving to Portugal with your pet, you’ll need to follow the EU’s regulations for pet importation. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped with a compliant ISO 11784/11785 15-digit microchip.
• Vaccinations: Dogs and cats need to be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entering Portugal.
• EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate: If you’re coming from an EU country, your pet needs an EU pet passport. For non-EU countries, you’ll need a veterinary health certificate issued by an accredited vet.
• Tapeworm Treatment: Required for dogs coming from high-risk countries.
• Dangerous Breeds: Some breeds classified as “dangerous” need additional permits and must be registered with local authorities.

Pet Relocation Services

If organizing your pet’s move seems overwhelming, there are professional services that can handle the logistics for you. Here are a few trusted companies that specialize in relocating pets to Portugal:

• Air Transport Animal
• Animalcouriers
• C Four Paws
• Euro Pet Transport
• Pet Air UK

These companies manage everything from documentation and flights to quarantine regulations if necessary.

Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodation

Portugal is full of pet-friendly accommodations, whether you’re looking for a short-term rental or a permanent home. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com allow you to filter for pet-friendly properties. While many landlords are happy to welcome tenants with pets, it’s always best to double-check with them beforehand.

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Portugal

Portugal is known for its dog-friendly beaches, and there are plenty to choose from. Some of the best include:

• Near Lisbon: Praia da Mata (Costa da Caparica), Praia da Samarra
• Near Porto: Praia do Coral, Praia da Agudela
• Alentejo: Praia da Aberta Nova, Praia da Ilha do Pessegueiro
• Silver Coast: Praia da Foz do Arelho, Praia da Baleal
• Algarve: Praia do Barril, Praia da Rocha, Praia de Armação de Pêra

Just make sure to check for any seasonal restrictions that may apply.

Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails

Portugal’s diverse landscape is perfect for outdoor lovers and their furry companions. Here are a few dog-friendly trails to explore:

• Sintra-Cascais Natural Park (Lisbon area) – Coastal and forest trails with stunning views
• Serra da Estrela – High-altitude trails with breathtaking scenery
• Rota Vicentina (Alentejo) – Scenic coastal and countryside routes
• Gerês National Park (North) – Portugal’s only national park, offering pet-friendly hikes

Veterinary Services & Emergency Clinics

It’s essential to know where to find a reliable vet in your area. Here are some emergency clinics in key regions:

• Lisbon: Hospital Veterinário de Lisboa
• Porto: AniCura Veterinário do Porto
• Algarve: AlgarveVet (Faro)
• Alentejo: Hospital Veterinário do Alentejo (Évora)
• Cascais: VetOeiras (Oeiras, near Cascais)
• Braga: Hospital Veterinário de Braga
• Silver Coast: Clínica Veterinária São Martinho do Porto

Pet Insurance in Portugal

Pet insurance can save you from unexpected veterinary costs. Some popular options in Portugal include:

• Tranquilidade Pet Insurance
• Fidelidade Pet Insurance
• Generali Pet Protection

Take the time to compare plans to find the one that suits your pet’s needs.

Adopting a Dog in Portugal

Thinking about adopting a dog in Portugal? There are several shelters where you can give a dog a second chance. Some well-known ones include:

• União Zoófila (Lisbon)
• Cantinho dos Animais de Évora (Alentejo)
• Refúgio dos Animais Abandonados de Sintra (Sintra)
• Patinhas Felizes (Porto/North Portugal)
• Animais Como Nós (North Portugal)

Adopting from a shelter is a great way to help a dog in need while supporting the fight against animal abandonment.

Special Regulations for Dangerous Dog Breeds

Portugal has specific regulations for certain breeds considered “potentially dangerous,” such as:

• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Rottweiler
• Pit Bull Terrier
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro
• Tosa Inu

Owners of these breeds must obtain a special license, ensure their dog is always leashed and muzzled in public, and carry third-party liability insurance.

To obtain the special license, follow these steps:

• Ensure the dog is a recognized dangerous breed and meets ownership requirements (e.g., over 18, no criminal record).
• Have the dog evaluated by an authorized veterinarian.
• Submit an application to the local municipal authority with the required documentation.
• Keep your pet’s living conditions secure, maintain insurance, and renew the license annually.

Using the DogPack App

The DogPack app is a great resource for dog owners moving to Portugal. It helps you locate dog-friendly parks, beaches, hiking trails, and pet services across the country. It also allows users to connect with other dog owners and share recommendations, making it an essential tool for pet lovers in Portugal.

Useful Portuguese Phrases for Pet Owners

If you’re new to Portugal, these phrases will come in handy when communicating with vets, landlords, and other pet owners:

• O meu cão é amigável (My dog is friendly.)
• Posso trazer o meu cão? (Can I bring my dog?)
• O meu cão precisa de um veterinário. (My dog needs a vet.)
• Há uma clínica veterinária perto daqui? (Is there a veterinary clinic nearby?)
• O meu cão está doente. (My dog is sick.)
• Onde fica a praia para cães mais próxima? (Where is the nearest dog-friendly beach?)
• Este local é permitido para cães? (Is this place dog-friendly?)

Final Thoughts

Portugal is an amazing place to live with a pet. With beautiful outdoor spaces, welcoming establishments, and plenty of pet-friendly areas, it’s a country that truly embraces pet owners. By ensuring your pet’s documentation is sorted, securing a pet-friendly home, and knowing where to find vet care and fun activities, you and your furry friend can make a seamless transition to your new life in Portugal.