All you need to know about living with a dog in Milan

Milan is famous not just for being the fashion capital of the world; it is also one of the most dog-friendly cities in all of Europe. Dogs in Milan are welcomed everywhere – shopping malls, tourist sites, restaurants and other public spaces.

International pet travel to Italy is easily accomplished as long as you fulfil all pet import regulations. If you plan to move to Milan with your favourite pup, here’s all you need to know about living in the Italian city with a dog.

Pet parent responsibilities in Milan

Having a pet in Milan comes with a set of pet parent responsibilities. As a pet parent, it is your responsibility to ensure your pet’s mental and physical well-being. Pet parents have to make sure their pet receives adequate care and exercise and has access to medical attention whenever required. In Milan, a pet parent has to follow these regulations:

• The pet parent has to ensure their pet does not cause harm to other people or property.
• All dogs must be registered with the regional Canine Registry Office within ten days of entering the country.
• All pet dogs must be vaccinated as recommended by the vet.
• All pet dogs must be microchipped or tattooed for identification.
• When you take your dog out for a walk, make sure you pick up after your dog.
• Pet dogs must be on a lead on public transport and in public spaces.

Public transport with a pet dog in Milan

Milan is exceptionally pet-friendly, and dogs are allowed on almost all public transport services, including trams, buses and trains. Always carry your dog’s pet passport with you when out with your dog on public transport. Dogs on trains and buses are expected to be on a lead and muzzled. However, the muzzle rule is not usually enforced; however, make sure to carry one so you can muzzle your dog if requested.

Pet dogs are allowed to travel on Italy’s top travel company, Trenitalia. Small dogs and cats can travel for free in their pet crates. Only one pet is allowed per traveller. Large dogs must be muzzled and on a lead. Pet dogs are not allowed on the seat and must not disturb fellow passengers. Guide dogs and service dogs can travel free on all trains and are permitted in the restaurant wagon.

Pet-friendly housing in Milan

Pet-friendly accommodation in Milan is extremely easy to find. Many apartments, condominiums and holiday homes in the city are pet-friendly. If you plan to vacation in Milan with your dog, pet-friendly hotels, vacation homes, and Air B&B rooms are readily available.

Some apartment complexes have specific rules for dogs; picking up after your pet, making sure your pet is not very noisy, and ensuring your pet does not destroy property are some of the pet parent responsibilities in Milan.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Milan

Pet parents and their doggie friends are spoilt for choice when it comes to cafés and restaurants in Milan. There are several dog-friendly restaurants all over Milan where your pup is welcomed with a pat and a bowl of water. Some restaurants also have a doggie menu, while others allow pets only in the outdoor seating. Some excellent pet-friendly restaurants in Milan are:

• Rosso Rubino
• Vala
• Sushi Koboo
• La Tartina
• Insalaty
• The Salentini

Best dog parks in Milan

Walking and socialising with your dog in Milan is extremely enjoyable because of the sheer number of beautiful dog parks all over the city. Look out for public gardens with enclosed dog runs where your dog can exercise and socialise off-lead. Most dog parks have access to water for your pet, and some of them also have dog toys and fun structures for play and exercise. Some pet-friendly public gardens in Milan are:

• Mobility Dog Park in the Indro Montanelli Gardens
• Acquario di Parco Sempione
• Dog area in Marinai D-Italia
• Canile Park

International pet travel to Milan? Call Petraveller for assistance.

International pet transport to Milan with your dog or cat is possible only if all pet import regulations are fulfilled. Understanding these pet import rules can be challenging for pet parents, and it is recommended to use an accredited pet travel agency to manage the many details of the relocation.

If you are planning to travel to Italy with your pet dog or cat, reach out to Petraveller for more information on international pet travel and a free pet transport quote.