Let’s be honest — holidays are about spending quality time together, and holidays that include our four-legged family members are even better! That’s why we’re delighted to offer a selection of dog-friendly holiday rentals in Dordogne, perfect for relaxed family breaks where no one gets left behind.

One of the joys of a dog-friendly holiday in Dordogne is how welcoming France is to well-behaved dogs

Travelling with your dog to France — and around France — is surprisingly straightforward, especially from the UK. Below you’ll find some helpful guidance to get you started. As always, please double-check requirements with your own vet before travelling.

Travelling to France with Your Dog – Essential Checklist

Visit Your Vet

If you don’t have an EU-issued pet passport, your dog will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This must be obtained from your vet each time you travel and can usually be arranged during a routine appointment.

Microchipping

Your dog must be microchipped, and the microchip number and date must be correctly recorded on the pet passport or AHC. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination.

Rabies Vaccination

Rabies vaccination is mandatory and must be given at least 21 days before travel. The vaccination details must be accurately recorded on the pet passport or AHC.

Tapeworm Treatment (for return to the UK)

To re-enter the UK, your dog must receive tapeworm treatment more than 24 hours and less than 120 hours before arrival. This must be administered by a vet and recorded correctly on the documentation.
We’re happy to recommend excellent local vets near our properties to make this easy while you’re here.

Out & About with Your Dog in Dordogne

One of the joys of a dog-friendly holiday in Dordogne is how welcoming France is to well-behaved dogs. In most places, dogs are welcome in villages, cafés, markets, walking trails and even many restaurants — especially useful during summer when it’s too hot to leave them in the car.

Below are some of our favourite dog walks and days out, all close to where we live and personally recommended.

Dog Walks & Outdoor Adventures

Étang du Coucou – Hautefort

A lovely lake near Hautefort, perfect for an easy day out. In summer, there’s even an inflatable aquatic park.

• Lakeside Walk: Flat, shaded 3km circuit on tarmac — ideal for all abilities. Stop for a coffee at the café halfway round.

• Woodland Circuit: A more challenging loop through peaceful woodland with stunning views of Hautefort Château.

In summer, don’t miss the evening food market with live music — dogs welcome, of course!

Badefols-d’Ans – Table d’Orientation

Just 6km from Hautefort, this village offers two beautiful marked walks. Park by the tennis courts, where you’ll find route maps.

Walk 1 – Table d’Orientation (Yellow Markers)

• Approx. 5km, easy to moderate

• Farm tracks, shepherds’ huts, truffle oaks and walnut groves

• Lovely views and very little traffic

• Cows may be present — keep dogs on a lead if needed

Walk 2 – Forest Loop (Green Markers)

• Approx. 8km, more challenging

• Ancient forest trails, great for hiking or cycling

• Wildlife spotting opportunities

• Steep return to the village — bring water and wear good footwear

Saint-Mesmin & the Auvezère Gorges

Perfect for hiking, cycling or gentle riverside walks. There are five scenic trails in the area.

• Park in Saint-Mesmin village square

• Multiple loop options available

• Out of season, park near the Saint-Mesmin bridge on the D72E5

• Paths can be stony and steep — good hiking shoes recommended

You can find full route details here:
👉 Guide du Périgord – Auvezère Gorges Walks

Walking Tips in Dordogne 🥾🐕

• Walnut Groves: Please take care — walnuts are an important local crop. Harvest season is September–October.

• Livestock: Keep dogs under control around farm animals.

• Water: Essential for both you and your dog, especially in summer.

Look out for yellow and green trail markers in villages and hamlets — these mark circular walking routes (“boucles”). Yellow routes are easier; green routes are more challenging.

Holiday Checklist for Your Dog 🧳🐾

Don’t forget your dog’s holiday essentials:

• Dog blanket (for furniture and outings)

• Food and water bowls (including a collapsible travel bowl)

• Water bottles

• Favourite toy (perfect for long lunches on the terrace!)

• Leads — many châteaux and gardens require dogs to be on a short lead

Pet-Friendly Self-Catering Accommodation in Dordogne

We offer a selection of pet-friendly gîtes and villas in Dordogne, ideal for relaxed holidays with your dog.
👉 Pet-Friendly Accommodation with Voila Villas France

Dordogne really is a wonderful place to visit with your dog — you’ll find they’re welcome in most social settings, from village cafés and restaurants to walking trails and markets.

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We’ll leave you with a few photos of Boo living her best dog life in Dordogne 🐕💚

If you have any questions about our accommodation, travelling to France with your pet, or the best routes to take, please get in touch — we’re always happy to help.

Bonne journée,
Joni & Ross 😊