In today’s pets-come-too world, it’s common to come across dogs on the rivers and canals in France. In fact, on many private craft, canines form part of the crew and, of course, all lock keepers own a dog. If you’re thinking of taking Fido on your next trip along the waterways, then this guide to dog-friendly boating holidays in France is an absolute must-read.
In it, we consider the sorts of boating holidays in France that are suitable for dogs. We then list our top tips to ensure safety for you and your furry plus-one. And finally, look at the practicalities and logistics of getting a dog into France.
Which boating holidays in France are dog friendly?
This question makes an obvious starting point and should be your first when booking a holiday on the water. At French Waterways, we can help you organise the following dog-friendly boating holidays:
Can dogs go on hire boating holidays in France?
Yes, almost all self-hire boats allow pets on board. As a result, this type of river and canal cruise offers the widest range of craft and routes.
Other advantages include:
- The flexibility of deciding your own itinerary and schedule.
- Zero worries about your dog bothering other passengers.
Can dogs go on hotel barges in France?
The answer to this one depends on the hotel barge owners. Some welcome pooches on board, while others have a strict no-dogs policy.
If you’d like to take your furry friend on a hotel barge cruise, take a look at the Saraphina, one of our 3-star Premier options. The owner has dogs and welcomes others.
Can dogs go on river cruises in France?
Again, the answer depends on the river cruise company and the time of year. Some companies operate dog-friendly holidays in France on certain routes at particular times, so enquire first to find out which river cruises are running when.
Practicalities of taking a dog on a boating holiday in France
The next step is all about logistics, aka the ins and outs of actually getting Fido from your home to the boat in France. This stage inevitably involves planning and paperwork, so be sure to start well in advance of your trip.
What do dogs need to enter France?
Under French law, dogs travelling into France must be at least 12 weeks old and have the following:
- A microchip.
- A rabies vaccination certificate, dated at least 21 days before you travel.
- An animal health certificate or pet passport. Pets entering France from outside the EU (including the UK) need an animal health certificate that must be issued by a vet within 10 days of travel. The certificate is valid for four months.
Find out more about the requirements for your pet if you’re travelling from the UK to France.
What about ferries and planes for getting to France?
Most ferry routes allow dogs on board but bear in mind that you need to book tickets in advance and pay a surcharge.
Not all airlines accept dogs, in the cabin or in the hold, and even those that do admit them, usually have restrictions on size and breed. Double-check before you book.
Where can you enter France with a dog?
You can only enter France through a designated travellers’ point of entry – this link lists all of them, including land and sea borders.
What are the rules for dogs in cars in France?
You must restrain your dog with a seat belt or put it in a crate or partitioned area.
Is France dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are bienvenus and generally allowed to go in shops, restaurants and cafés. They should be on a lead in public parks and gardens and wear a muzzle on public transport unless they weigh less than 6kg and you take them in a carrier.
Find out more about hiring a boat and taking your dog to France
Tips and advice for dog-friendly boating holidays in France
Once you’ve found your dog-friendly craft and know the rules, read our top tips for taking dogs on the water in France.
Decide whether it’s for your dog – while most dogs will love the experience, not all pooches will take to a boating holiday in France like a duck to water. For example, nervous animals may find the trip too stressful.
Think about the boat access – will it be easy for your furry friend to get on and off? Some dogs may be nervous about a narrow gangplank or find the hatch to the inside a challenge.
Buy a life vest – most dogs swim naturally, but in case of accidents, buy a life vest and get your dog used to it before your trip. Choose a vest with a loop on the back so that you can hoist your dog out of the water with a boat hook if necessary.
Pack your dog’s stuff too – don’t forget a bag with your dog’s lead, bed, food and toys.
Get your dog used to the boat – when you first step on board, give your dog time to become familiar with the boat’s layout and movement and the engine noise.
Keep your dog hydrated and cool – your boating holiday will probably be during the hottest months of the year, so ensure your dog stays in the shade, gets the chance to cool off in the water and always has plenty of drinking water.
Nominate a dog minder – if you’ve chosen a self-drive boating holiday, it’s helpful to have someone in your party to keep your dog under control when you’re manoeuvring the boat. While driving a hire boat is easy, you’ll find that navigating a lock is less stressful without a dog around you.
Book you and Fido that boating holiday
And finally, the best bit of all – booking your boating holiday in France! Head over to our handy booking page and pick your dates, choose your destination and then select your boat. Bon voyage!
