Travelling with your dog: crossing borders from Denmark
Bringing your dog along on a Scandinavian escape isn't just possible. It's often delightful.
Bringing your dog along on a Scandinavian escape isn't just possible — it's often delightful.
From crisp forests in Sweden to fjord walks in Norway, much of the region is dog-friendly and beautifully set up for responsible pet travel. But before you pack the treats and passport, there are a few things to know about crossing borders with your dog from Denmark.
This guide focuses on travelling to Sweden, with added notes on Norway, Finland and Iceland at the end. Whether you're heading off by train, car, ferry or plane, here's what you'll need to keep tails wagging and rules followed.
What your dog needs to enter Sweden from Denmark
Sweden follows standard EU pet travel rules but adds a few of its own. The good news is that travelling from Denmark is relatively simple, especially if you already live within the EU.
Here's what you'll need:
1. EU Pet Passport
Issued by an authorised EU vet.
Must include microchip details and rabies vaccination records.
2. Microchip
Must be ISO standard (11784/11785).
Implanted before the rabies vaccine.
3. Rabies vaccination
Given at least 21 days before travel if it's your dog's first vaccine.
Must be valid and recorded in the pet passport.
That's it. No tapeworm treatment required for Sweden when entering from Denmark.
How to get there: practical transport tips
By car (via Øresund Bridge)
The Øresund Bridge is the most direct route into southern Sweden.
Dogs remain in your vehicle — no special procedure at the border, but random checks can happen, so keep documents handy.
The bridge is a toll road. Book online in advance for a better rate.
By train (DSB/Øresundståg)
Dogs are welcome on trains between Denmark and Sweden.
On Swedish trains, dogs must sit in designated "dog-friendly" carriages. These are clearly marked.
Bring your dog's EU passport in case of inspection at the border.
By ferry
Ferries from Helsingør to Helsingborg, or longer routes like Grenaa to Halmstad.
Most allow dogs but may require them to stay on the car deck or in a designated area.
Check individual ferry policies before booking.
By air
If you're flying within Scandinavia, check airline-specific pet policies. SAS and Norwegian generally allow small dogs in-cabin if crated.
Pet passport and vaccination records must be shown at check-in.
Dog-friendly life in Sweden
Sweden, like Denmark, is generally dog-loving — but with rules.
Leads are required in most public areas, especially near wildlife during spring and summer.
Dogs are welcome in many cafes, outdoor seating areas, and public transport — but always ask first.
National parks vary — some allow off-lead walking, others do not. Check signage or local websites.
Pockets of Sweden are wonderfully set up for dog travel. Coastal towns like Ystad or Helsingborg, forested areas in Småland, and even urban breaks in Malmö, Gothenburg, or Stockholm all offer good options — just plan ahead.
What to pack for your dog
- EU pet passport (with valid rabies vaccine)
- Lead, collar with ID, and harness
- Travel crate or seatbelt harness for cars
- Food, treats, water bowl
- Tick prevention (especially for rural areas)
- Poo bags (fines exist in many cities for not picking up)
- Blanket or travel bed for overnights
Other Scandinavian countries: what you should know
Norway
Tapeworm treatment is mandatory for dogs entering Norway.
Must be given by a vet 24–120 hours before entry.
Must be recorded in the passport.
EU pet passport, microchip, and rabies vaccine still required.
Norway is highly dog-friendly in nature but often stricter in cities. Leads are required in most public places.
Finland
No tapeworm treatment required from Denmark.
Standard EU rules: passport, microchip, rabies vaccine.
Ferries from Sweden to Finland are well-equipped for travelling with dogs.
Helsinki is especially good for urban dog travel.
Iceland
Much stricter and not recommended for short trips.
Dogs must quarantine for 2 weeks, even with all documentation.
Only possible with prior approval and considerable paperwork.
Iceland is best saved for a future solo adventure unless you're relocating.
Final thoughts
Travelling from Denmark to the rest of Scandinavia with your dog is straightforward, as long as you follow a few simple rules. Sweden in particular makes an ideal dog-friendly escape — close by, culturally familiar, and full of walking trails, nature reserves, and cosy cafés that won't blink twice at a well-behaved hound under the table.
Whether you're hopping across the Øresund for a weekend in Malmö or setting off for a forest getaway, remember: a dog with a passport is a dog with options.