Once you’ve figured out how to move to France with dogs, the real question begins: what is it actually like to live there with them? Beyond paperwork and logistics, living abroad with pets means navigating daily routines such as walking, transportation, vet visits, and finding care when you want to travel.

There are many similarities between owning a dog in France and in the US, but also a few important differences to understand before your move. Though, overall, the transition has been easier than we expected. 

Dog Sitting Options

One of the reasons I chose France was its central location within Europe. I was excited to explore nearby cities and countries while living here. As such, it was a big priority for me to find a safe place to leave my dogs while I was traveling. 

In France, there are essentially two categories when it comes to dog sitting: a private dog sitter or a professional dog boarding business. We looked at both options to find the perfect fit for us. Rover is a popular application in France that connects pet owners to local sitters. Pet owners can easily message potential dog sitters and read reviews from previous stays. I found that the cost of pet sitting is similar to US prices.

Professional dog boarding kennels can also be a great option depending on your dog’s specific needs. However, many professional boarding facilities require additional vaccines that are standard in France but less commonly given in the States, such as leptospirosis. For this reason, we chose a private sitter instead. It would be beneficial to research the vaccination requirements of any potential dog boarding facilities if you plan on using their services. These vaccines can be given by either an American or a French veterinarian. 

Food and Veterinary Care

Moving to another country can be a traumatizing experience for pets as it involves a lot of different changes all at once. It is recommended that you check if your current dog food can be bought in France. If not, it would be beneficial to transition to a dog food that can easily be found in France before the move. There are many boutique and large chain pet stores in every French city. It is also possible to purchase dog food from French veterinarian offices and in the large supermarkets. 

There are many veterinary offices available, just as there are in America. It is possible to find a vet that speaks English, especially in larger cities and expat-heavy areas. I do strongly encourage studying and trying to use the French language while in France whenever possible. However, having the option to communicate in English during a possibly stressful veterinarian visit can be beneficial.

Walking Etiquette and Off Leash Culture

France is a dog-friendly country. You will likely encounter multiple dogs every time you leave your accommodation. One noticeable difference from the US is the prevalence of off-leash dogs. Although often illegal in public spaces, many dog owners allow their dogs to walk freely without a leash. 

In my experience, French dogs are very calm and well-behaved. They will typically not interact with humans or other dogs and happily walk down the street next to their owners. Unfortunately, there are some exceptions and some are simply curious. This can be challenging if you have an anxious or reactive dog. If this applies to you, it may be better to walk your dogs at slower times of the day, including early mornings and late evenings. 

There are dog parks available within most cities in France that allow your dog the opportunity to run freely. In Nice, where I live, two beaches allow dogs, though access is seasonal. Dogs are generally permitted in winter, while specific beaches are designated during busier months.

Transportation with Dogs

Dogs are allowed on public transportation here in Nice. They can ride trains and trams while wearing a leash and muzzle. Although France is dog-friendly in general, rules may vary slightly by city and transport provider. It is best to check local regulations before attempting any travel with your pets.

A Few Extra Things to Know

• Many cafes and restaurants allow dogs and you will often see them quietly sitting under tables
• Dog waste bags are often provided in public spaces, parks, and along popular walking routes
• Pet insurance is common and generally more affordable than in the United States
• Dog grooming services are widely available and reasonably priced in most cities

Photo of my husband with our dogs in Nice

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