Holiday with a dog

Relax and unwind with your faithful companions - that's also possible in Schleswig-Holstein!

Do you want to share moments of happiness with your four-legged friend? Then grab your dog and come to Schleswig-Holstein, where dog-friendly accommodation, restaurants and beaches offer you and your dog the best opportunities for an unforgettable holiday.

Tips for your holiday with your dog in Schleswig-Holstein

Keeping an eye on and fulfilling the needs of pets is important and close to the hearts of dog owners. Nevertheless, consideration for others is essential and there are also a few rules to observe in Schleswig-Holstein. If in doubt, find out from the respective municipality/city or tourist information office what rules apply when on holiday with a dog on beaches, in forests and in general. There you will also find information on dog beaches, rules for walking dogs on the beach and how these can vary from season to season. Detailed information for dog owners and general rules for Schleswig-Holstein can be found on the website of the state of Schleswig-Holstein.

Leash and muzzle requirement

There are no standardised state or nationwide regulations or rules regarding the obligation to wear a lead or even a muzzle. These can vary greatly from region to region.
Dogs should not enter children's playgrounds.
Dogs must be kept on a lead in the city, in buildings and in public places.

Wadden Sea National Park, dykes and dunes

In Schleswig-Holstein, dogs must always be kept on a lead, not only in the Wadden Sea National Park, but also on the dykes and foreshore areas. The Wadden Sea is not only an important breeding area, but also a year-round resting place, winter quarters and moulting area for many protected bird species. It is also important to protect young or injured seals lying on the beach from curious dogs.
Dunes are also off-limits to dogs - birds nest there and dunes provide shelter and a refuge for a variety of animals.

Forest, hiking & co.

Please stay on the designated hiking trails with your dog. Every animal has a mind of its own and can suddenly behave uncontrollably. It is therefore particularly important to keep your dog on a lead in the forest.
Please make sure that your four-legged friend does not chase seagulls or other animals.

Schietbüddel

Dogs also have an urgent and natural need now and again. To prevent our neighbourhood from becoming a huge "minefield", their droppings should be put in dog waste bags - also known as "Schietbüddel" - and then in the residual waste bin. Dog waste bag dispensers are available in many places. It is advisable to always have a few dog waste bags in your bag anyway.

Equipment and labelling

Does your four-legged friend like to escape from time to time? Then collars should ideally have a mobile phone number, name and address of the owner.
A first aid kit and plenty of water for your four-legged friend - especially in summer - should always be in your luggage! The dog should have a shady spot if possible.
In an emergency, it is advisable to have your dog's vaccination certificate, health certificate and liability insurance number with you.
Treats: You can use these to reward your dog on the go and keep them happy.

Preparing for your holiday with your dog

Thorough preparation is crucial if you are travelling with your dog. This includes planning accommodation, travel arrangements and formalities that need to be clarified before you set off to ensure you have a stress-free and enjoyable holiday. Here is a checklist for your holiday with your dog in Schleswig-Holstein.

Veterinary visit:

Before travelling with your dog, it is advisable to visit the vet first. Not all pets are suitable for every type of transport, as some of them may be susceptible to stress.

Microchipping:

Microchipping your dog is of great importance as pets can occasionally have unexpected adventures. Should your dog get lost on holiday, you increase the chances of of finding him again.

Insurance & documents:

When travelling with your dog, make sure you have the liability insurance policy number with you in case your dog behaves unusually in an unfamiliar environment. In addition, the most important thing is the EU pet passport, which serves as a kind of passport for dogs and is issued by the vet.

Dog crate:

If your dog is not yet used to a dog crate, you should start getting him used to it a few weeks before you travel. Leave the dog crate open and accessible, place a soft dog bed inside and occasionally hide a treat in it.

Accommodation:

Make sure that your accommodation is dog-friendly. Many regions and towns have labelled their dog-friendly accommodation accordingly. If in doubt, ask once more whether dogs are allowed in your chosen accommodation.