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Financial District

Madrid

Discover Madrid with PawBox™

Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital, combines lively streets, grand boulevards, lush parks, and world-class culture, and it’s becoming more welcoming to dogs than ever. From sprawling green spaces to pet-friendly cafés and excellent services, you and your dog can enjoy the city to the fullest. This guide covers everything you need: local rules, dog-friendly walks, vet services, and insider tips.

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📜 Etiquette & Local Regulations

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  • Dogs must always be leashed in public areas (streets, plazas, parks), except in designated off-leash zones. Fine for dogs off-leash where not allowed: €300–€600.

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  • Only one dog per leash is permitted on busy streets.

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  • Potentially Dangerous Breeds (PPP) — like Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire, etc. — must wear a muzzle at all times in public and have specific liability insurance. Fine for walking a PPP without a muzzle or proper permit: up to €2,400.

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  • Owners must pick up dog waste immediately and dispose of it in bins. Fines for not picking up poop: €750–€1,500, depending on severity. Washing away urine with water is recommended; failure to do so can result in warnings or minor fines (usually €150–€300).

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  • All dogs must be microchipped and registered in the municipal pet registry. Rabies vaccination is mandatory. Fines for not vaccinating or not registering your dog: €300–€2,400.

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  • Dogs are allowed on Madrid Metro (outside rush hours) if leashed, muzzled, and in the last carriage; small dogs in carriers anytime. Buses allow small pets in carriers only. Cercanías trains (commuter rail) allow dogs leashed and muzzled. Fine for bringing a dog on public transport without following rules: €100–€200.

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  • Dogs are not allowed in children’s playgrounds, sand pits, sports fields, and some public gardens (check signage). Fine for entering restricted areas with a dog: €300–€750.

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  • Some parks allow dogs off-leash before 10 AM and after 8 PM (or sunset), outside playgrounds and busy paths (check local signs). Respect other park users, keep your dog under control, and avoid letting it approach strangers or children without consent.

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  • Avoid letting your dog bark excessively in residential areas. Noise complaints can result in minor fines or warnings.

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🚗 Getting There & Around

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  • High-speed AVE trains and regional trains allow pets (small pets in carriers; larger dogs leashed & muzzled).

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  • Metro & buses permit dogs outside rush hours if muzzled & leashed.

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  • Many taxis and rideshares accept dogs (always confirm when booking).

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🌳 Dog-Friendly Parks and Walks

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  • Retiro Park (El Retiro): Madrid’s most famous and central park, El Retiro is a lush, historic oasis with wide paths, shady groves, fountains, and a beautiful lake. Dogs are welcome throughout the park as long as they are leashed during peak hours, but there are specific times (early morning and late evening) and some designated areas where dogs can roam off-leash. Popular with locals and visitors alike, though it can get busy on weekends.

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  • Madrid Río: A long, scenic riverside promenade stretching for kilometers along the Manzanares River. This modern urban park is perfect for leisurely strolls with your dog on-leash, offering playgrounds, fountains, cafes, and plenty of benches along the way. There are also designated pet-friendly zones and access to grassy banks where dogs can relax.

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  • Casa de Campo: Madrid’s largest green space (more like a wilderness than a park) with sprawling woodlands, trails, and open fields. Dogs love it here for the sheer space and freedom to explore. While dogs should technically remain on-leash, it’s common to see well-behaved dogs enjoying a bit more liberty in less-crowded areas. Best for energetic and adventurous dogs who enjoy long hikes or runs.

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  • Parque Juan Carlos I: A spacious, modern park with contemporary sculptures, wide lawns, olive groves, and even a small lake. There are long paths ideal for walking or jogging with your dog, and plenty of room to find a quiet corner. This park feels less crowded than Retiro, making it great for dogs who prefer open spaces and a calmer atmosphere.

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  • Parque del Oeste: Located near Plaza de España and the Temple of Debod, this hilly, tree-filled park is known for its beautiful views of the Royal Palace and its peaceful atmosphere. Shady paths and grassy areas make it an excellent spot for a relaxed walk with your dog. Its slopes and hidden corners also mean it’s easy to find a quiet space even when the park is busy.​​

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  • Parque de la Cuña Verde de Latina: A 65-hectare “green wedge” in the Latina/Lucero area, perfect for long, peaceful walks. It features a dedicated dog area with agility equipment where pups can play off-leash within fenced confines

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  • Parque de Berlín (Chamartín): A charming, medium-sized park in Ciudad Jardín, known for its playground, World War II-era Berlin Wall pieces, and a leafy, fenced dog park with obstacles for pup playtime.

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  • Parque Europa (Torrejón de Ardoz): Just outside central Madrid, this park features miniature replicas of famous European landmarks, plus separate agility zones for small and large dogs in its pipicanes.

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  • Parque Cerro del Aire (Majadahonda): Home to one of the region’s largest dog parks (~30 000 m²), complete with agility circuits including seesaws, tunnels, jumps, and slalom courses.

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  • Parque forestal Adolfo Suárez (Pozuelo): An expansive 37 000 m² forested park adjacent to Casa de Campo, offering off-leash zones, shaded trails, and a tranquil environment for dogs to run and explore.

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  • Parque de Enrique Tierno Galván (Legazpi): A 45-hectare urban park featuring a lake, cultural facilities, and plenty of space for dogs to roam — ideal for cooling off and socializing.

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24/7 Emergency Veterinary Clinics

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Pet-Friendly Cafés & Restaurants

  • Frida Café (Chueca): Welcomes pets on terrace.

  • El Perro y la Galleta: Dog-themed eatery with treats for dogs.

  • Federal Café: Several locations; dogs welcome on patio.

  • The Toast Café: Dog-friendly brunch spot in Chamberí.

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VIP Pet Services in Madrid

  • Mr. Miau & Mrs. Guau Pet Spa

    • Grooming and luxury spa packages.

  • Dogville Madrid

    • Canine hotel, daycare, training.

  • Mascobox Madrid

    • Pet transport, hotel bookings, concierge.

  • Urban Dog Club

    • High-end pet club & boutique.

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