Updated for 2026 with current entry requirements, transportation policies, and dog-friendly recommendations throughout Amsterdam and the Netherlands.

Dog-Friendly Amsterdam: The Complete Guide

Amsterdam might be the most underrated dog-friendly city in Europe. While Paris and Rome get most of the attention, Amsterdam quietly delivers an exceptional experience for traveling with a dog. The compact city center is walkable, bikes and pedestrians outnumber cars, parks are plentiful, and the Dutch attitude toward dogs in public spaces is refreshingly relaxed.

I spent 10 days in Amsterdam with my Vizsla, Remy, and was consistently impressed by how easy it was. Dogs are allowed on GVB public transport, in many shops and restaurants, on canal boats, and in virtually every park. The flat terrain makes walking comfortable for dogs of any age or fitness level, and the city’s famous canals provide a constantly changing backdrop.

Entry Requirements

The Netherlands follows standard EU pet entry requirements.

From the US or Non-EU Countries

Requirement	Details
Microchip	ISO 11784/11785, 15-digit
Rabies vaccination	At least 21 days before entry
USDA health certificate	Endorsed by APHIS within 10 days of travel

From Within the EU

Valid EU Pet Passport with current rabies vaccination. No additional requirements for travel between EU/EEA countries.

Breed Restrictions

The Netherlands does not have breed-specific legislation. All breeds are welcome. This makes it one of the most accessible European countries for owners of breeds restricted elsewhere (like Pit Bulls, which are banned in the UK and restricted in Germany).

Getting to Amsterdam With Your Dog

Flying

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is one of Europe’s major hubs and has excellent pet handling facilities.

Airlines flying to Amsterdam with pets:

• KLM: The Netherlands’ national carrier, consistently rated among the best airlines for pet transport. In-cabin pets up to 8 kg (with carrier). Larger dogs in cargo via the KLM Pet Transport service, which uses climate-controlled facilities.
• Delta: Partner with KLM. In-cabin pets allowed on transatlantic flights to Amsterdam.
• United: Direct flights from several US cities. In-cabin and cargo options available.
• Lufthansa: Connection through Frankfurt with good pet handling.

Schiphol Airport pet facilities: The airport has a dedicated animal reception center (the KLM Animal Hotel) that handles arriving pets. If your dog travels cargo, you will pick them up here. The facility includes holding areas, outdoor exercise space, and veterinary support.

Train

If you are already in Europe, international trains to Amsterdam from Brussels (2 hours), Paris (3.5 hours via Thalys/Eurostar), Frankfurt (4 hours), and London (4 hours via Eurostar through Brussels) all allow dogs. Small dogs in carriers travel free on most services. Larger dogs require a ticket or muzzle depending on the operator.

Getting Around Amsterdam With Your Dog

Walking

Amsterdam’s city center is compact enough to walk everywhere. From Central Station to the Rijksmuseum is about 30 minutes on foot. The canal ring, the Jordaan neighborhood, and the Museum Quarter are all within comfortable walking distance of each other. The flat terrain means no hills, making it easy for dogs of all ages.

Public Transport (GVB)

Dogs are allowed on all GVB public transport (trams, buses, metro, and ferries):

• Small dogs in carriers ride free
• Large dogs need a separate ticket (same price as a child’s fare, currently around 1.50 EUR)
• Dogs must be on a leash at all times on public transport
• No muzzle required (unlike many other European cities)
• Free ferries across the IJ river behind Central Station allow dogs

The tram system is the most useful for getting around the city center. Lines 2, 5, and 12 connect major tourist areas. Remy rode the tram dozens of times and the experience was always smooth.

Cycling

Amsterdam is the world’s cycling capital, and some locals cycle with their dogs. Special cargo bikes (bakfietsen) with a box in front are commonly used to transport dogs. If you rent a cargo bike, a small to medium dog can ride in the box. For larger dogs, a running leash attachment allows them to jog alongside (only recommended for experienced cyclists on quiet paths, not in the busy city center).

Canal Boats

Several canal boat tour companies welcome dogs:

• Those Dam Boat Guys: Dog-friendly open-top canal tours
• Friendship Amsterdam: Private boat rentals where dogs are welcome
• Mokumboot: Self-drive electric boats, dogs allowed on board

Private boat rentals (self-drive electric boats that require no license) are an excellent option. Companies like Mokumboot and Boaty rent small electric boats for 50-80 EUR per hour that fit 6-8 people plus a dog. Cruising the canals with your dog is one of the most memorable Amsterdam experiences.

Dog-Friendly Parks and Green Spaces

Amsterdam has over 30 parks, and nearly all welcome dogs. Several have designated off-leash areas (losloopgebieden).

Vondelpark

Amsterdam’s most famous park is a 120-acre green oasis in the city center. Dogs are allowed throughout the park, and there is a large designated off-leash area in the southern section. The park has ponds, meadows, wooded areas, and several cafes with outdoor terraces. On any given afternoon, you will see dozens of dogs socializing in the off-leash area.

Amsterdamse Bos

This 2,500-acre forest park on the southern edge of the city is a dog paradise. It has extensive off-leash areas, a swimming pond, forest trails, and open meadows. The Bosbaan (rowing course) has paths along both sides that are perfect for long walks. If your dog loves swimming, the designated dog swimming area in the park is ideal.

Westerpark

A trendy park in the Westerpark neighborhood with cafes, cultural venues, and green spaces. Dogs off-leash in designated areas. The Sunday market (Westergas Markt) welcomes dogs and offers great food stalls.

Flevopark

On the east side of the city, this park has a large off-leash area and feels less touristy than Vondelpark. The Distillery ‘t Nieuwe Diep, located within the park, is a dog-friendly cafe with a beer garden.

Rembrandtpark

Near the Vondelpark but less crowded. Has a good off-leash area and is popular with local dog walkers.

Sarphatipark

A small, charming park in the De Pijp neighborhood. Dogs on leash only, but it is a lovely spot for a rest during neighborhood exploration.

Dog-Friendly Neighborhoods

Jordaan

The Jordaan is Amsterdam’s most charming neighborhood and one of its most dog-friendly. Narrow streets along canals, independent shops (many welcoming dogs), cozy cafes (bruine cafes), and excellent restaurants. The Saturday Noordermarkt farmers market is dog-friendly and a highlight of any Amsterdam visit.

De Pijp

A vibrant, multicultural neighborhood centered around the Albert Cuyp Market (Amsterdam’s largest street market, dogs welcome on leash). Excellent restaurants, bars, and the beautiful Sarphatipark.

Oud-West

Home to Vondelpark and the Foodhallen (an indoor food hall where dogs are welcome). Great restaurants and a residential feel with lots of local dog walkers.

Amsterdam Noord

Across the IJ river (free ferry from Central Station, dogs welcome), Noord has an industrial-creative vibe with waterfront cafes, the NDSM Wharf cultural area, and more space than the city center. The A’DAM Lookout tower has outdoor areas where dogs can join you.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes

The Dutch approach to dogs in restaurants is practical: if you are well-behaved, you are welcome. Most cafes and casual restaurants allow dogs inside, especially the traditional bruine cafes (brown cafes). More formal restaurants may only allow dogs on terraces.

Top Dog-Friendly Dining Spots

Cafes and Brown Cafes:

• Cafe ‘t Smalle (Jordaan): A historic 1786 brown cafe on the Egelantiersgracht canal. Dogs welcome inside. One of the most atmospheric cafes in Amsterdam.
• Cafe Papeneiland (Jordaan): Famous for its apple pie. Dogs welcome.
• Cafe Winkel 43 (Jordaan): Legendary apple pie, outdoor terrace, dogs welcome.
• Pllek (Noord): Waterfront cafe made from shipping containers. Great terrace, dogs welcome.

Restaurants:

• Foodhallen (Oud-West): Indoor food market with 20+ vendors. Dogs allowed inside.
• De Biertuin (Oost): Large beer garden, very dog-friendly.
• Hannekes Boom (Centraal): Waterfront restaurant near Central Station. Large terrace, dogs welcome.
• Moeders (Jordaan): Home-style Dutch cooking. Dogs welcome inside.

Restaurant Etiquette

• Dogs should stay under the table or beside you
• Bring a mat or blanket for your dog to lie on
• Water bowls are commonly provided
• Ask before entering any establishment: “Zijn honden welkom?” (Are dogs welcome?)
• Terrace seating almost always welcomes dogs

Dog-Friendly Activities

Canal Walks

The canal ring (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is the heart of Amsterdam. Walking along the Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht canals with your dog is the quintessential Amsterdam experience. Each canal has its own character, and the bridges offer beautiful photo opportunities.

Markets

• Albert Cuyp Market (daily except Sunday): The Netherlands’ largest outdoor market. Food, clothes, flowers, household goods. Dogs on leash.
• Noordermarkt (Saturday morning): Farmers market with organic produce, bread, and cheese. Dogs welcome.
• Waterlooplein Flea Market (daily except Sunday): Vintage goods and curiosities. Dogs welcome.
• Bloemenmarkt (daily): The famous floating flower market on the Singel canal. Dogs on leash.

Museums (Outside Areas)

Most Amsterdam museums do not allow dogs inside (with the exception of assistance dogs). However, the outdoor areas around museums are excellent for walks:

• The Museumplein (Museum Square) between the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum is a large open space where dogs can play
• The gardens around the Rijksmuseum are beautiful and free to walk through
• The Eye Filmmuseum in Noord has a stunning waterfront terrace where dogs are welcome

Day Trips

• Zaanse Schans: Historic windmill village 20 minutes from Amsterdam. Dogs on leash welcome in outdoor areas and on the grounds.
• Haarlem: Charming city 15 minutes by train. Dog-friendly parks, markets, and cafes.
• The Beach (Zandvoort or Bloemendaal): 30 minutes by train. Dutch beaches have dog-friendly sections, and some are off-leash friendly outside of summer.
• Keukenhof Gardens (spring only): Dogs are not allowed inside the gardens, but the surrounding tulip fields are stunning for walks.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Hotels

Several Amsterdam hotels actively welcome dogs:

• Kimpton De Witt: Near Central Station. No pet fees, no size restrictions. Provides bed, bowls, and treats.
• Hotel V Nesplein: Boutique hotel in the city center. Dogs welcome for a small surcharge.
• Pulitzer Amsterdam: Luxury hotel on the Prinsengracht canal. Dogs up to 20 kg welcome with amenities.
• Conscious Hotel Vondelpark: Near the park. Eco-friendly hotel that welcomes dogs.
• Stayokay hostels: Several locations, some pet-friendly. Budget option.

Houseboats

Staying on a houseboat is uniquely Amsterdam, and many houseboat rentals on Airbnb and VRBO welcome dogs. Living on the canal with your dog is a special experience.

Vacation Rentals

Airbnb has extensive Amsterdam listings with pet-friendly options. Apartments with canal views and private entrances are ideal for dogs.

Practical Information

Veterinary Care

Amsterdam has excellent veterinary clinics. The Dierenkliniek Amsterdam and Dierenziekenhuis Amsterdam are two well-regarded options. Emergency vet services are available 24/7. Consultations typically cost 40-70 EUR.

Pet Stores

Major chains include Pets Place (nationwide) and Jumper Dierencentrum. Independent pet shops and organic pet food stores are found throughout the city.

Weather

Amsterdam’s weather is maritime: mild but wet. Average temperatures range from 3C (37F) in January to 22C (72F) in July. Rain is frequent year-round. Pack a waterproof dog coat and carry a small towel.

Dog Waste

The Netherlands takes dog waste seriously. Amsterdam has dedicated dog waste bins (green bins marked “hondenpoep”) throughout the city. Fines for not cleaning up are around 140 EUR.

Leash Laws

In Amsterdam, dogs must be on leash in public areas unless in a designated off-leash area (losloopgebied). Off-leash areas are well-marked with green signs showing a dog silhouette.

Budget Planning

Category	Estimated Daily Cost
Pet-friendly accommodation	100-250 EUR
Dog food	5-10 EUR
Public transport (dog fare)	3-5 EUR
Canal boat rental (2 hours)	50-80 EUR total
Dining out	30-60 EUR (your meals)
Dog treats and supplies	5-10 EUR

Sample 5-Day Amsterdam Itinerary With Your Dog

Day	Activities
Day 1	Jordaan neighborhood walk, Noordermarkt (if Saturday), brown cafe visit, canal walk
Day 2	Vondelpark morning walk (off-leash area), Museumplein, Oud-West and Foodhallen
Day 3	Self-drive canal boat tour, De Pijp and Albert Cuyp Market, Sarphatipark
Day 4	Day trip to Haarlem or Zandvoort beach, evening in Amsterdam Noord
Day 5	Amsterdamse Bos (forest park), Westerpark, farewell dinner at canal-side restaurant

Final Thoughts

Amsterdam works beautifully as a dog-friendly destination because the entire city is built for pedestrians and cyclists rather than cars. The flat terrain, compact size, abundant parks, relaxed attitude toward dogs in businesses, and excellent public transport create an environment where traveling with a dog feels natural rather than forced.

Remy loved Amsterdam. The parks, the canal-side walks, the cafe culture where he could lie at my feet while I sipped coffee and watched the world go by. It is a city that understands that dogs are part of life, not an inconvenience to be managed.

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