Why Taking Your Dog on Holiday Is One of the Best Decisions You’ll Make

Saying goodbye at the kennels can be emotional, not just for us but for our dogs, too. Taking your dog with you means avoiding that stress altogether. Instead of tearful drop-offs or worrying phone calls for updates, your dog stays by your side, enjoying the same experiences you do. Holidays become richer because they’re shared - from countryside walks to evenings relaxing together after a day of exploring.

Travelling with your dog can also reduce anxiety for both of you. Many owners spend their holidays wondering whether their dog is settling in, eating properly, or being looked after as well as they would be at home. When they’re with you, all of that is replaced with reassurance, closeness and peace of mind.

France and Spain are perfect destinations for dog-friendly adventures. Both countries offer stunning coastlines, vast rural landscapes and miles of hiking trails. Whether that means wandering along Brittany’s rugged cliffs, discovering the peaceful fields of Normandy or navigating the dramatic mountains of northern Spain, there’s no shortage of fresh air and open space for your dog to explore. Travelling with your dog also means you create memories together, from watching a Spanish sunset to paddling in the French Atlantic surf. These small shared moments make a holiday truly unforgettable.

If you’re looking for a calm, comfortable way to travel with your dog, Brittany Ferries is an excellent choice. Their approach to pet travel is thoughtful and practical, designed to ensure that everyone (two-legged and four-legged) has a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Depending on your route, you can choose from several options, including kennel accommodation, pet-friendly cabins, or, on shorter crossings, leaving your dog safely in your vehicle. This flexibility is ideal, especially if you know your dog prefers the familiarity of your car or would be more relaxed in a private space with you nearby.

Travelling by ferry also removes much of the stress associated with airports. There are no long queues at security, no cramped carry-on cases, and no concerns about your dog travelling as cargo. Instead, you can board with your car, settle in at your own pace and enjoy the journey together. The ships offer space, calm and comfort, making the start of your holiday feel like part of the holiday itself.

With routes from Portsmouth, Plymouth and Poole to well-positioned ports such as Caen, Cherbourg and Santander, Brittany Ferries places you right at the heart of some of Europe’s most dog-friendly areas. Whether you’re setting off on a road trip across the French countryside or planning an extended stay in northern Spain, you arrive refreshed and ready to begin your adventure. And with over 90,000 pets travelling with the company each year, you’ll be supported by experienced staff who understand what dogs and their owners need.

France has a long-standing reputation for being dog-friendly, and it shows. From Brittany’s sweeping coastlines to the tranquil farmland of Normandy and the river valleys of the Loire, the country offers no end of places for dogs to walk, run and stretch their legs. Roads are typically well equipped with service areas providing green spaces and dog-walking opportunities, making long drives much easier and more enjoyable.

Accommodation is also surprisingly flexible. Many gîtes, campsites and hotels are happy to accept dogs, and travelling with your car means you can bring everything your dog needs to feel at home. Brittany Ferries even offers ferry-inclusive accommodation packages, simplifying the booking process and allowing you to secure both your sailing and a dog-friendly place to stay at the same time.

Northern Spain is equally appealing for dog owners, especially those who enjoy a slower pace of life. Coastal paths, mountain trails, and rural villages offer plenty to explore together, and many cafés and restaurants welcome dogs on their terraces. The region’s landscapes are varied and dramatic, offering new views and surroundings every day.

Sailing to Spain is particularly convenient for more extended holidays. The ferries give you the space to pack your car with everything your dog might need, from beds and bowls to toys and blankets, without worrying about luggage weight or airline restrictions. Driving also gives you complete freedom once you’re there - you can explore at your own pace, stop when you like and travel in a way that suits your dog’s needs.

Before travelling, it’s important to make sure your dog’s documents are in order. Your pet will need to be microchipped and fully vaccinated, and you’ll require an Animal Health Certificate issued shortly before departure.

Packing thoughtfully also helps your dog feel comfortable and settled. Bringing their own bedding, bowls, food and favourite toys can make new surroundings feel familiar and reassuring. On the road, both France and Spain offer frequent service areas with grassy or wooded areas, ideal for regular breaks and safe exercise stops.

One final tip: book early. Pet-friendly cabins and kennel spaces can be popular, especially in peak months, so securing your space in advance ensures your voyage is exactly what you need.

Travelling with Brittany Ferries allows you to bypass the most stressful parts of international travel. There’s no need to worry about pets travelling in cargo holds, and no navigating airports with carriers or anxious dogs. Instead, your dog travels alongside you in comfort, with the reassurance of friendly staff and an environment designed to make journeys straightforward.

With direct routes to some of the most beautiful dog-friendly regions in Europe, plus expert guidance on pet travel requirements, Brittany Ferries gives you everything you need to plan a relaxed, enjoyable holiday with your four-legged best friend. Whether you’re dreaming of quiet coastlines, peaceful countryside or adventurous road trips, there’s nothing quite like discovering the world together.

And with a Waggel policy in place for your dog, you'll be protected against emergency treatment for up to 90 days each policy year if the country you're in is a member of the PETS travel scheme and the EU.