Camino de Santiago with a Dog: Practical Guide for Pilgrims with Pets

Walking the Camino de Santiago with your dog

Every year more pilgrims walk the Way of St. James with their dog. It is an incredible experience for both of you, but it requires planning. This guide covers the logistics, accommodation, regulations and veterinary advice so your dog enjoys the journey as much as you do.

Regulations: can I bring my dog on the Camino?

Yes, there is no law prohibiting you from walking the Camino with a dog. However, there are restrictions:

• [Pilgrim credential](/en/blog/pilgrim-credential-how-to-get): Your dog does not receive a Compostela certificate, but you do. Some shops on the Camino sell symbolic "canine credentials"
• Lead required: In urban areas and stretches shared with other pilgrims, your dog must be on a lead
• Pick up after your dog: Mandatory along the entire route
• Dangerous breeds: If your dog is classified as a potentially dangerous breed, you need a licence, insurance and a muzzle

Pet-friendly accommodation on the Camino

This is the biggest challenge. Not all hostels accept dogs.

Public hostels (municipal albergues)

Most do not allow dogs inside. Some let the dog sleep in a courtyard or outdoor area.

Private hostels

Some accept pets, but they are a minority. It is essential to book ahead and confirm they allow dogs.

Guesthouses and rural houses (casas rurales)

More flexible with pets. They are your best option if travelling with a dog.

Accommodation tips

• Always call ahead to confirm the pet policy
• Have a plan B for every stage
• In summer, book well in advance
• Bring a blanket or mat for your dog

Stages with a dog: pace and rest stops

• Recommended daily distance: 15-20 km (less than a pilgrim without a dog)
• Rest breaks: Every 5 km, find shade and water
• Schedule: Set off early to avoid the hottest hours
• Surface: The Camino alternates between tarmac and dirt. Your dog's paw pads suffer on hot asphalt

Vets on the Camino

There are veterinary clinics in the main towns:

• Sarria: Vet clinic in the centre
• Palas de Rei: Vet 10 min by car
• Melide: Vet clinic
• Arzua: Vet surgery
• Santiago: Several 24-hour clinics

Carry your dog's vaccination record and a basic canine first-aid kit.

Transport with a pet

If one day your dog is tired, has a minor injury or the stage is too long, you can book a taxi.

Our vehicle accepts pets at no extra charge. We transport your dog with you between stages of the Camino, from the airport or to any point. Just let us know so we can prepare the vehicle.

Situations where a pet-friendly taxi is useful

• Your dog is exhausted or has sore paws
• A very long stage (the Palas de Rei to Arzua stage is 29 km)
• A day of extreme heat or heavy rain
• You need to visit a vet

What to bring for your dog

• Collapsible food and water bowls
• Enough food (pet shops are not always available in small villages)
• Extendable lead + short lead for urban areas
• Poo bags
• Blanket or mat for sleeping
• Canine first-aid kit: antiseptic, bandages, paw pad protector
• Vaccination record
• Microchip (mandatory in Spain)
• Up-to-date antiparasitic treatment

Final tips

• Walk shorter stages than you would on your own

• Your dog needs more water than you think, especially in summer

• Check the paw pads every evening

• Do not push your dog if it looks exhausted -- a rest day is better than an injury

• Socialise your dog before the Camino: it will meet many pilgrims, dogs and bicycles