Traveling internationally with your small dog can be an unforgettable adventure—but not all destinations are created equal when it comes to pet-friendliness. From paperwork requirements to quarantine rules and general cultural attitudes toward dogs, planning is key. If you’re dreaming of jet-setting with your pup, here's a guide to the easiest and hardest countries to travel to with a small dog from the USA—based on regulations, entry requirements, and overall dog-friendliness.
The Easiest Countries to Travel To With a Small Dog From the USA
These destinations offer relatively straightforward pet travel processes and are known for being small-dog friendly.
Mexico
One of the most accessible international destinations for American dog parents, Mexico is a favorite for a reason.
Why it’s easy:
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No health certificate required for entry by air or land
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Dogs are allowed to enter with proof of a current rabies vaccine
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Crossing the border by car (especially via California or Texas) is simple and low-stress
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Many accommodations and restaurants are pet-friendly, especially in cities like Mexico City, Tulum, and Oaxaca
What to bring:
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Rabies vaccination certificate
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Your pup’s regular travel essentials (just in case customs asks)
Pro tip: Even though a health certificate isn't required, some airlines may still ask for one—always check their pet travel policy before flying. FYI I always flew with Delta and had no issues with Mia.
Spain
Spain is one of the easiest countries to travel to with a small dog from the USA. Many major airlines flying into Spain allow dogs in the cabin (as long as they meet size and carrier restrictions), and the entry process is manageable with some preparation.
Why it’s easy:
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No quarantine required
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Pet-friendly culture, especially in cities like Barcelona and Madrid
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Dogs are welcome on many restaurant patios, beaches, and in some public transit
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Once you're there, you can easily get a European Pet Passport, which makes travel throughout the EU seamless. (I got Mia’s in Barcelona—it cost around €150 and included a vet exam and paperwork.)
Entry Requirements:
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Microchip (ISO-compliant)
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Rabies vaccine (administered at least 21 days before travel)
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USDA-endorsed EU Health Certificate (valid for entry within 10 days of issuance)
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a nature-lover’s paradise that also happens to be relatively easy to visit with your pup.
Why it’s easy:
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No quarantine
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Only requires a valid rabies certificate and a basic health certificate from a USDA-accredited vet (no EU-style form needed)
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Pet-friendly beaches, eco-lodges, and outdoor activities galore
Colombia
Colombia is emerging as a pet-friendly destination, especially in cities like Medellín and Bogotá.
Why it’s easy:
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Requires just a basic health certificate from your USDA-accredited vet (within 10 days of travel)
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No quarantine
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Beautiful weather and welcoming pet culture in cities and coffee regions
France
France, particularly Paris, is famously dog-friendly. Small dogs are welcome in many cafes, boutiques, and even some museums. Entry requirements are similar to Spain’s, and once inside the EU, travel between countries is easy with a European Pet Passport.
Pro tip: Get your pet passport in France or Spain to make future travel easier.
Italy
Another dog-loving country, Italy allows small dogs on many forms of public transportation, and they’re welcome in outdoor dining spaces and even in some stores. Italian cities like Rome and Milan are surprisingly walkable for pups.
Tip: In addition to standard EU travel rules, always carry a leash and muzzle when using public transit in Italy—some regions require it.
Canada
Canada is just a short hop for most US travelers, and it’s very welcoming to American pups.
Why it’s easy:
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No quarantine
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Requires only proof of a valid rabies vaccination
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Border crossings by car are low-stress, and many urban areas (like Toronto and Vancouver) are super dog-friendly
The Hardest Countries to Travel To With a Small Dog From the USA
These destinations have strict quarantine policies, complicated paperwork, or limited pet-friendly infrastructure.
United Kingdom
Surprising to many, the UK has one of the most complicated pet entry systems in Europe—and pets are not allowed in the cabin on inbound flights.
Why it’s hard:
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Only cargo transport allowed for entry (no cabin pets)
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Requires a specific UK Health Certificate (not interchangeable with EU version)
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Expensive quarantine boarding may apply if documents are incorrect or delayed
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Must arrive via an approved airline and airport
Workaround: Some travelers fly into France or Belgium first, then take the Eurotunnel or ferry into the UK with their dog safely in-cabin.
Australia
Australia has some of the strictest pet import rules in the world. Your dog will need months of advance preparation and a mandatory 10-day quarantine in Melbourne upon arrival.
Why it’s hard:
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Only certain airlines/routes approved
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Extensive pre-travel testing and paperwork
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Strict quarantine even if fully vaccinated
New Zealand
Similar to Australia, New Zealand requires months of planning, veterinary testing, and quarantine. It’s not impossible—but it’s definitely not easy.
Requirements:
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Import permit
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Quarantine reservation (minimum 10 days)
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Extensive blood tests and parasite treatments before departure
Japan
Japan requires an import application at least 40 days in advance and has a detailed set of requirements for vaccinations and microchipping. While quarantine can sometimes be avoided with perfect paperwork, it’s not guaranteed.
Pro tip: If even one document is missing or out of date, your dog could face extended quarantine upon arrival.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
If you’re dreaming of bringing your dog to Dubai, just know it’s NOT actually like Miami. While the city markets itself as modern and luxurious, it’s not nearly as pet-friendly as it may seem on Instagram. This is mainly because in Islamic culture, dogs are seen as "dirty" and not as parts of the family like we have grown to see them in the United States. Nevertheless, the culture in terms of dog acceptance is changing, but it's still less dog-friendly than you'd think.
Why it’s hard:
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Import permits are required and must be approved before travel
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Only two pets per person are allowed into the country per year
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No pets allowed in-cabin on most international flights into the UAE—you’ll have to fly your dog in as manifest cargo. Etihad Airways is the only airline to UAE that allows pets in cabin (on some, not all, routes)
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You must enter and exit the country through Abu Dhabi airport (AUH). From there you take a special pet taxi to Dubai
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Dogs are not allowed in regular taxis, making it hard to move around the city. It's best to rent a car if you're traveling with your dog
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Dogs are not widely accepted in public spaces: beaches, parks, and even many outdoor cafes often do not allow dogs
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Strict rules around breed restrictions and vaccination history
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The climate is extremely hot, which can be dangerous for pups, especially in summer
Bottom line: Dubai may look glamorous, but it’s not an easy or comfortable destination for small dogs. Unless you’re moving permanently and have the resources to navigate the system, it’s probably best to choose a more pet-friendly spot.
Bonus Tips for Traveling Internationally With Your Dog
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Book pet-friendly airlines: Air France, Iberia, Lufthansa, and TAP Air Portugal are known for allowing small dogs in-cabin on international flights.
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Visit your USDA-accredited vet to get your health certificate and ensure your paperwork is complete.
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Get your European Pet Passport once in the EU: It simplifies travel between EU countries and is valid for years with updated vaccinations. You can find more information about pet travel to Europe HERE.
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Consider your pup’s comfort: Long flights can be stressful—make sure your carrier is cozy, well-ventilated, and airline-approved.
Whether you’re dreaming of tapas in Spain, tacos in Mexico, or exploring the streets of Paris with your pup (bring a MIA sweater!), the world is full of dog-friendly destinations. Mexico, Spain, Costa Rica, and Canada top the list of easiest countries to travel to with a small dog from the USA, while places like the UK, Australia, and Japan require more effort and planning.
With the right prep, you and your pup can travel almost anywhere—just remember to plan ahead, check the fine print, and keep your dog’s comfort front and center.