Let’s be honest — when we talk about “travelling with pets,” we’re not really talking about cats, parrots, rabbits, or goldfish. And while someone, somewhere, has probably brought their bearded dragon to Ibiza, most animals are happier staying home.
But dogs? Dogs belong here. You see them everywhere: in cafés, by the sea, curled up in the back of an old Jeep, or trotting alongside someone barefoot and smiling. Especially the bohemian ones — scruffy, soulful, collarless (but deeply loved). Ibiza suits them. Or maybe they suit Ibiza.
So if you’re thinking of bringing your dog to the island — or just wondering if it’s possible — this page is for you. We’ll walk you through what’s allowed, what’s beautiful, and what to be careful with. Whether you’re staying for a week or a full season, here’s everything you need to know to share the island with your four-legged soulmate.
✈️ First Things First – Bringing Your Dog Into Spain
To bring your dog into Ibiza, you’ll need:
- A valid EU Pet Passport
- Up-to-date rabies vaccination (min. 21 days before travel)
- A working microchip
- Tapeworm treatment if coming from the UK or Ireland
- Good planning, especially in summer
Flying? Most airlines allow small dogs in cabin (under ~8kg incl. carrier). Medium and large dogs travel in the hold. Choose a dog-friendly airline (like Iberia or Vueling), and book well in advance — summer routes get busy fast.
Driving from the mainland? Ferries are a great option. Companies like Balearia and Trasmed allow dogs on deck and offer pet-friendly cabins. We tried them, and they are great!
🌴 What It’s Like for Dogs on Ibiza
Ibiza can feel like a dog’s dream — pine forests, dirt roads, open air, café terraces, and lazy afternoons. You’ll find:
- Trails and fields to roam
- Dog-friendly cafés and farm-stays
- A generally relaxed attitude
- Plenty of canine company
But also:
- Some beaches with seasonal dog bans (especially July & August)
- Extreme heat that can be dangerous, especially for dark or short-nosed breeds
- A few off-leash strays or reactive dogs — mostly harmless, but worth noting
In short: dogs are welcome — but you’ll need to read the room, and the weather.
☀️ Staying Safe in the Sun – Summer Tips for Dogs
- Walk early morning or late evening only
- Bring water and a collapsible bowl
- Test pavement heat with your hand
- Never leave your dog in a parked car
- Shade is sacred. So is a fan.
- Let them swim — but rinse salt off after
- Watch for pine needles, burrs, foxtails and cactus near trails
🦴 Leashes & Local Attitudes
Ibiza may be free-spirited, but that doesn’t mean your dog should roam free.
Leashes are officially required in public areas — yes, even on this laid-back island. But reality? It’s a mixed bag.
In towns and beaches, you’ll see plenty of well-behaved dogs on a lead. But head into the countryside or lesser-known coves, and suddenly… you’re the only one playing by the rules. Expect finca dogs guarding invisible boundaries, and off-leash island mutts who might be friendly — or just territorial and loud.
🧭 Local tip: Always keep a leash at hand, especially near homes, trails, and beaches. Even mellow dogs get defensive when a loose barker charges at them.
Most locals are relaxed, but tensions rise quickly when dogs get snappy — and you can be fined (€300+) if yours causes trouble while off-leash.
So be chill, be respectful, and be prepared. Ibiza loves dogs, but she expects you to handle yours.
🏖️ Dog-Friendly Beaches & Walks
There are no official dog beaches, but you’ll see dogs on many shorelines — especially:
- Early morning or off-season
- Cala Llenya, Es Codolar, Portinatx (more chill areas)
- Remote coves in the north and northeast
- Clifftop and inland trails all over the island
In high season, stick to shaded walks, forested areas, and early dips.
🐕 Where to Stay, Eat & Hang Out with Your Dog
Ibiza has plenty of pet-friendly options — though not always advertised.
- Agroturismos and fincas often allow dogs (ask ahead)
- Santa Gertrudis, San Juan, and the countryside are especially dog-tolerant
- Beach bars in less touristy areas (like Cala Nova) often welcome dogs on leash
- Many cafés put out water bowls without saying a word — that’s Ibiza
✨ Tip: Dress your dog like a local (i.e., no harness with fake jewels) and they’ll fit right in.
🧼 Vets, Emergencies & Essentials
- Vets in all major towns — most speak English or German
- 24h emergency vets in Ibiza Town and Santa Eulalia
- Pet stores for organic kibble, natural flea sprays, and boho leashes
Save a vet number. Just in case.
💫 Why Dogs (and Their Humans) Love It Here
There’s a rhythm to Ibiza that makes dogs slow down. They nap longer. They sniff more deeply. They understand something we forget — that being here, in the sun and the dust and the wind, is enough.
If you’re the kind of person who travels with your dog, you already know: they’re not “just a pet.” They’re part of your life, your joy, your nervous system. And they deserve a piece of the island too.