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Andorra

Discover Andorra with PawBox™

Planning a getaway to the stunning Pyrenees with your furry companion? You're in the right place! This PawGuide is your go-to resource for exploring Andorra with your dog, covering everything from travel tips and local laws to must-know etiquette and pet-friendly recommendations.

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Whether you're staying in a hotel, hiking a mountain trail, or strolling through charming villages, we want to make sure your stay is smooth, respectful, and full of tail-wagging joy.

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Let’s make your adventure in Andorra safe, fun, and unforgettable for both you and your pup.

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✅ Entry Requirements for Dogs​

To bring your dog into Andorra, ensure the following conditions are met:

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  • Microchip Identification: Your dog must be identified with a microchip compliant with ISO 11784/11785 standards. Tattoos are acceptable only if applied before July 3, 2011, and must be clearly legible. ​

  • Rabies Vaccination: A valid rabies vaccination is mandatory. For first-time vaccinations, the vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before entry.​

  • Documentation:

    • EU Residents: A pet passport is required for dogs traveling from EU member states, as well as from Switzerland, the Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Greenland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, or the Holy See.

    • Non-EU Residents: An official veterinary health certificate is necessary, issued within 10 days before travel, confirming the dog's health status and rabies vaccination. ​

  • Age Restrictions: Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old to receive a rabies vaccination. Entry into Andorra is permitted 21 days after the primary vaccination, making the minimum age for entry approximately 15 weeks. ​

  • Number of Pets: Travelers can bring up to five dogs for non-commercial purposes. ​​​

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🧳 Additional Recommendations​

  • Health Certificate: Even if not explicitly required, carrying a recent veterinary health certificate can facilitate border crossings and address any unforeseen issues.​

  • Leash and Muzzle: While not mandated by Andorran law, it's advisable to keep your dog on a leash in public areas. If your dog belongs to a breed considered dangerous in neighbouring countries, carrying a muzzle is recommended.​

  • Travel Supplies: Ensure you have adequate food, water, waste disposal bags and urine bottle for your dog during the journey.

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🐕 General Responsibilities of Dog Owners​

  • Registration: All dogs must be registered with the appropriate authorities as stipulated by Andorran regulations.​

  • Identification: Dogs are required to be identified with a microchip or a clearly legible tattoo applied before July 3, 2011.​

  • Vaccinations: Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies. For first-time vaccinations, protective immunity is achieved 21 days post-vaccination.​

  • Leash and Muzzle: In public spaces, dogs must be on a leash or have appropriate containment. Dogs that are considered dangerous or potentially dangerous must also wear a muzzle. ​

  • Owner Liability: Owners are responsible for any damage or inconvenience their dogs may cause to people or property. ​

  • Barking Nuisance: Owners can be fined if their dogs cause disturbances due to barking during specific hours. For example, offenses occurring between 10 PM and 12 PM, or between 6 AM and 8 AM on weekdays, and between 6 AM and 9 AM on weekends and holidays, can result in a penalty of €200. Offenses between 12 AM and 6 AM can lead to a €300 fine.​

  • ​Regulations for Dangerous and Potentially Dangerous Dogs. Andorra has specific regulations for certain breeds deemed dangerous or potentially dangerous. Breeds such as American Akita, Bullmastiff, Doberman, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Brazilian Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, American Pit Bull Terrier, Canary Dogo, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, Akita Inu, and Tosa Inu are subject to these regulations.

    • Owner Requirements: Owners must be adults with legal capacity, have no sanctions related to dog ownership, possess civil liability insurance, and provide documentation confirming successful completion of mandatory training. 

    • Control Measures: These dogs must be on a non-extendable leash not exceeding 1.5 meters and wear a muzzle in public spaces.

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🛂 Border Entry Considerations​

  • Transit Through Spain or France: As Andorra lacks an international airport, entry is typically via land through Spain or France. Be aware that these countries have their own regulations regarding certain dog breeds.​

  • Breed Restrictions:

    • Spain: Breeds such as Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, and Akita Inu are considered potentially dangerous and must wear a muzzle when passing through security.

    • France: Certain breeds, including Staffordshire Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Tosa Inu, require pedigree certification. Crossbreeds of these are not permitted. ​​

  • Importing Dogs into Andorra. When bringing a dog into Andorra:

    • Identification: The dog must have a microchip or a clearly legible tattoo applied before July 3, 2011. 

    • Rabies Vaccination: A valid rabies vaccination certificate is required. For first-time vaccinations, ensure that 21 days have passed since the vaccination.

    • Documentation: Dogs entering from EU member states, Switzerland, the Faeroe Islands, Gibraltar, Greenland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, or the Holy See must have a pet passport. Dogs from other countries require an official animal health certificate. ​

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🆘 Emergency Contacts​

In case of emergencies, here are some veterinary clinics in Andorra:

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🚗 Getting Around​

  • By Car: Convenient for flexibility; be prepared for parking challenges in city centers.​

  • Public Buses: Only small dogs in carriers (max 45x35x25 cm) are allowed.​

  • Tourist Buses: Policies vary; some 4x4 tours permit dogs—always inquire in advance.​

  • Taxis: Generally accommodating, but it's best to call ahead and confirm.

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For pet-friendly transportation, consider using the CityXerpa app, which offers services similar to Uber in Andorra.

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🐾 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Andorra​

Andorra is a paradise for nature-loving pet owners, offering stunning trails you can enjoy with your furry friend. Here are some of the best routes:

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Tristaina Lakes

  • Location: Parish of Ordino

  • Overview: A circular route connecting three glacial lakes with breathtaking views.

  • Distance: ~5 km

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Perfect for: A relaxing and scenic walk with your dog.

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Engolasters Lake & Camí de les Pardines

  • Location: Parish of Encamp

  • Overview: A nature and culture route that passes through a botanical garden and historic charcoal kilns.

  • Distance: ~13 km

  • Difficulty: Medium

  • Perfect for: Active dogs and owners looking for a blend of beauty and history.

 

Canillo Circular Route

  • Location: Parish of Canillo

  • Overview: A demanding trail that circles the entire parish, offering panoramic views of valleys and peaks.

  • Distance: ~24 km

  • Difficulty: High

  • Perfect for: Experienced hikers with well-conditioned dogs.

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These trails offer memorable experiences for pet-friendly adventures surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pyrenees.

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🏞️ Mountain Adventures​

When exploring Andorra's beautiful trails:

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  • Leash Your Dog: Especially on popular routes like the Ruta del Ferro or Camí de les Pardines.​

  • Respect Livestock: Keep dogs leashed near grazing animals to prevent disturbances.​

  • Be Considerate: If you encounter other hikers, leash your dog temporarily as a courtesy.​

  • Avoid Herding Dogs: Do not allow your dog to approach working shepherd dogs.

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These guidelines help protect the local wildlife and ensure a safe experience for everyone

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🍽️ Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Andorra​

After a long walk, you and your pup deserve a break. Here are some welcoming spots where dogs are allowed:

 

  • Borda Eulari (Anyós). Traditional Andorran cuisine with a cozy atmosphere.​

  • Hotel L’Isard Restaurant (Andorra la Vella). Offers hearty mountain dishes at a fair price.​

  • La Borda del Tremat (Encamp). Rustic restaurant serving traditional local food.​

  • Borda D’Erts (Erts). Local dishes with a modern twist in a charming setting.​

  • L’Ovella Negra (Vall d’Incles Road). A beautiful natural setting perfect for relaxing post-hike.

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These spots let you enjoy Andorra’s cuisine without leaving your dog behind.​

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💝 Luxury Dog Services in Andorra

High-End Pet Boutiques & Fashion

  • ByMacota (https://bymascota.com): Carries premium brands like Hunter and Barbour, plus designer collars and winter gear for mountain adventures.​

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Exclusive Dog Spas & Grooming

  • Spa Caní d’Andorra (spacanandorra.com): Offers thermal water treatments, mud masks, and paw waxing for winter protection.

  • Dog Wellness Pyrénées (dogwellnessandorra.com): Focuses on post-hike recovery with massages and organic grooming products.

  • Peluquería Canina Luxe (peluqueriacaninaluxe.ad): VIP grooming with silk-conditioning treatments and blueberry facials.

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VIP Dog-Friendly Experiences

  • Private Mountain Guides (e.g., Andorra Adventures – andorra-adventures.com): Tailored hikes with dog-friendly routes in the Pyrenees.

  • Luxury Chalet Stays – Some high-end rentals (check Andorra Luxury Chalets – andorraluxurychalets.com) offer pet concierge services, including dog chefs and heated beds.

  • Helicopter Tours (e.g., Andorra Helicopters – andorrahelicopters.com): Small dogs may join private scenic flights (carrier required).

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Gourmet & Health-Conscious Treats

  • Barkery Andorra (barkeryandorra.com): Artisanal dog biscuits made with local ingredients like Pyrenean honey.

  • Can Gourmet (cangourmet.ad): Premium raw food and freeze-dried venison treats for gourmet pups.

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Elite Training & Concierge

  • Andorra Dog Training (andorradogtraining.com): Private sessions for obedience and agility in mountain terrain.

  • Pet Concierge Andorra (petconciergeandorra.com): Offers everything from ski-day pet sitting to gourmet meal delivery for dogs.

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🔝Dog Services & Seasonal Events in Andorra

Winter (Dec-Mar): Snow & Ski Elegance

  • Paw Protection Stations: Some ski resorts (Grandvalira – grandvalira.com) offer free paw waxing at base stations.

  • Dog-Friendly Snowshoeing: Book private guided tours (Andorra Guides – andorraguides.com) with heated dog rest stops.

  • New Year’s “Yappy Hour”: Sport Hotel Hermitage (hermitage.ad) hosts a champagne toast for owners and gourmet treats for pups (Dec 31).

Spring (Apr-May): Mountain Blooms & Wellness

  • Canine Yoga Retreats: Caldea Spa (caldea.com) occasionally offers outdoor “Doga” (dog yoga) sessions with thermal lake access.

  • Easter Egg Hunts for Dogs: Barkery Andorra (barkeryandorra.com) organizes treat-filled hunts in private gardens.

Summer (Jun-Aug): Alpine Adventures

  • VIP Dog Pools: Hotel Roc Blanc (rocblanc.com) opens a reserved pool area for dogs on summer weekends.

  • Stargazing Hikes: Andorra Astronomy (andorra-astronomy.com) leads private evening treks with dog-friendly blankets and star-shaped treats.

Autumn (Sep-Nov): Harvest & Luxury

  • Truffle Hunting Tours: Join Gourmet Andorra (gourmetandorra.com) with trained dogs to forage for black truffles.

  • Pet Fashion Week: Mascotes Andorra (mascotesandorra.com) hosts a runway show for designer dogwear (Oct).

 

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🐶 Pet Adoption​

Andorra is home to several dedicated animal welfare organisations that facilitate pet adoption and promote responsible pet ownership. Here are some notable associations:

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GosSOS Andorra - https://www.gos-sos.org/

GosSOS is a non-profit organisation focused on rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned or mistreated dogs in Andorra. They ensure that each adopted dog is identified, dewormed, vaccinated, and tested for leishmaniasis, providing adopters with peace of mind. The organisation relies heavily on volunteers and donations to continue its mission.

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Nami (Associació Protectora de Gossos) - https://www.facebook.com/namigossos/

Nami is another animal protection association in Andorra, specifically focusing on the welfare and adoption of dogs. They work towards rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs in need.

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