<p>Taking your dog on holiday to the Alps can be a tricky business so here are our top tips.</p>

Top Tips for Taking your Dog on a Ski Holiday

Taking your dog on holiday to the Alps can be a tricky business so here are our top tips.

Advice
Published at: 22 Nov 2019
Last updated at: 9 Nov 2023

We understand just how hard it can be to leave your dog when you go away on holiday. They are, of course, an important member of the family. However, as resorts and luxury chalets have become more dog-friendly bringing your pooch along has never been so easy. Take note of our top tips and get ready for a snowy pawed luxury ski holiday in the mountains!

Alicia Bryan
Alicia Bryan

Top tips for taking your dog to the Alps

  1. In order to travel, your dog will need to have a pet passport and microchip. A visit to your vet prior to leaving the country can verify that the microchip is working and where it is located. Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations including rabies. They will have to wait 21 days after their rabies vaccination before they can leave the country.
  2. Phone restaurants in advance to find out if they are a dog-friendly establishment,  many ski resorts accept well-behaved dogs in bars and restaurants.
  3. Your dog will love winter walks just as much as you, but make sure you have a paw balm or boots on hand as ice, snow and salt can all make for some sore and cracked paws. Dogs without an undercoat will also need a coat to keep them warm in freezing temperatures. 
  4. If you want to take your dog to the top of the mountain, most cable cars accept dogs for free but this depends on the policy of each resort. Dogs must be kept on a lead around the skiing areas.
  5. Not all accommodation is dog-friendly, however well-behaved your pet is, so make sure you check before you travel that the owner of the property accepts dogs. It can often depend on the size and breed of dog so probably best to leave your Great Dane at home! It is also worth noting that some owners will charge an additional cleaning fee for pets.

Favourite Dog-Friendly Chalets:

Chalet Blanc, Morzine

Luxury Chalets in Morzine
Living room at Chalet Blanc in Morzine

With views overlooking Point de Nyon and Pleney, Chalet Blanc is just a few minutes drive from Morzine. Set around a log fireplace, Chalet Blanc has a stunning open plan living and dining area with wrap-around windows from which you can admire the mountain and forest scenery.

On the lower level of the property, there is a large cinema room - perfect for relaxing in the afternoon.

Chalet Chopine, Meribel

Luxury Chalets in Meribel
Hot tub at Chalet Chopine in Morzine

A short drive from the Chaudanne lifts, Chalet Chopine in Méribel gives easy access to the local shops, bars and restaurants. A perfect chalet for families, guests can enjoy the peaceful spa area which includes a sauna, steam room, shower and massage area.

Chalet Chopine also has a south-facing terrace where you can admire the breathtaking valley views.

Casa Feroze, Alta Badia

Luxury Chalets in Alta Badia
Exterior view of Casa Feroze in Alta Badia

Situated in the centre of Colfosco just 40 metres from the slopes, Casa Feroze offers easy access to the Sella Ronda circuit and is just a short stroll from the shops and restaurants. The chalet has a cosy lounge with a wood-burning fireplace, four en-suite bedrooms and a sauna for relaxing after a day exploring the Dolomites ski area.

There are plenty of snowy tracks where you can go for scenic walks with your dog too.