Can You Be a Digital Nomad With a Dog?

If you’ve ever dreamed of living the digital nomad lifestyle but worry that having a dog might hold you back, you’re not alone. I used to think the exact same thing. For years, I assumed getting a dog meant giving up the freedom to travel the world.

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Short answer: yes, you can absolutely be a digital nomad with a dog. I work remotely while traveling with my rescue pug Puglo, who has now been to 19 countries with me. It takes more planning, paperwork, and patience than solo nomading, but with the right dog, the right destinations, and a solid routine, it works beautifully.

The idea of balancing remote work, border crossings, housing searches, and a whole other living being? it sounded overwhelming. I had so many questions. Would it limit where I could go? Would airlines even let him fly? What if he got sick in a foreign country?

I loved the freedom my lifestyle gave me, and I didn’t want to give it up. But I also couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. I craved companionship, especially during the lonelier stretches of nomad life. Still, I told myself, maybe someday, when I stop moving.

And then I met Puglo. A squishy-faced rescue pup I wasn’t planning on falling in love with, but who completely changed my life. Now, two years later, we’ve traveled across four continents together. From sunset beach walks in Mexico to riding motorbikes through Bangkok, he’s become the best adventure partner.

So, can you be a digital nomad with a dog? Absolutely. It’s not always easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. In this post, I’ll explain everything I’ve learned from traveling the world as a full-time digital nomad with a dog, so you can decide if this lifestyle is right for you and your pup.

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Is Your Dog Cut Out for Nomad Life?

It’s one thing to ask if you’re cut out for the digital nomad lifestyle. It’s another to ask if your dog is. Constant movement, new environments, loud cities, unfamiliar smells – some dogs thrive in it, others find it overwhelming. If your pup is highly anxious or easily stressed, they might not enjoy this way of life.

When I first met Puglo, I wasn’t planning to keep him. I was fostering him in Puerto Vallarta during the summer, thinking I’d give him a safe place to stay for a few months while I figured out where to go next. But something shifted as I started bringing him along on my adventures in Mexico.

We hopped on buses, went on hikes, sat together in busy restaurants, and he was so calm through it all. It was like he was made for this life. That’s when I started to realize he might be my soul dog.

I also noticed he was the perfect size to fly in-cabin, which makes international travel so much easier. If you’re just starting out and considering getting a dog to travel with, I highly recommend choosing one under 8 kilograms so they can fly with you in the cabin (some airlines in the U.S./Canada allow up to 10kg, but European airlines are very strict with this).

Beyond airline requirements, you also have to consider accommodation requirements and ease of getting around with your dog. While many Asian hotels say they allow dogs, they usually mean dogs under 15 kilograms. An Uber is much more likely to pick you up if your dog can sit on your lap. I love golden retrievers as much as the next girl, but having a small dog has made my life much easier.

That’s not to say traveling with a bigger dog is impossible. I follow several accounts with large dogs who travel full-time, but they usually stick to regions like Europe or North America, where it’s easier to get around by land. If you plan to hop continents regularly, flying with a large dog in cargo can be expensive and stressful for both of you.

Size is one factor, but temperament matters just as much. Look for a dog that’s relaxed, adaptable, and not easily startled by change. If you’re adopting a puppy, early socialization is key. Get them used to various environments, cafés, buses, loud cities, beach days, so they become confident travelers.

Another thing to consider is how your dog handles being cared for by someone else. You won’t always be able to bring them with you, for example, to high-end restaurants, or on many long day tours. I use TrustedHousesitters and Rover to find reliable pet sitters, and thankfully, Puglo has been more than adaptable to staying with new people when needed.

Not every dog will love life on the road, but some absolutely will. Puglo is proof of that.

Best Dog Breeds for Digital Nomads

The best dog breeds for digital nomads are small, calm, adaptable dogs that fit airline cabin limits (roughly 8 kg or less with the carrier) and can handle new environments without constant anxiety. Think Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, toy poodles, Havanese, and yes, pugs, though flat-faced breeds need extra care in heat and on flights.

Breed	Typical weight	Why it works for nomad life
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	5-8 kg	Calm, affectionate, happy anywhere you are
Toy or Miniature Poodle	3-7 kg	Smart, low-shedding, adapts fast to new places
Havanese	3-6 kg	Quiet in apartments, loves being with you all day
Maltese	3-4 kg	Tiny, portable, easy under airline seats
Bichon Frise	5-8 kg	Friendly, sturdy, good with strangers and cafes
Pug (like Puglo!)	6-9 kg	Adaptable couch potato, but needs heat and flight precautions

If you are starting with a puppy, the best puppy breeds for digital nomads are the same small companion breeds, with one extra tip: socialize them to carriers, cafes, and transit from day one. And keep in mind that flat-faced breeds like pugs and Frenchies face airline restrictions, which I cover in my guide to airlines that allow snub-nosed dogs. For a deeper dive, here are my picks for the best dogs for travel overall.

Get Ready for Paperwork and Regular Vet Visits

One thing no one tells you about traveling full-time with a dog is just how much paperwork comes with it. Every country has its own set of rules, and they don’t make it particularly easy. Before you book a flight or cross a border, you’ll need to research the import and export requirements for that destination, and yes, they change often.

Staying on top of your dog’s vaccines is essential, both for their health and for keeping your travel plans on track. Rabies is the big one most countries care about, and the requirements can be oddly specific.

In the EU, for example, the rabies vaccine has to be administered after your dog gets microchipped. I didn’t know that when I first started traveling with Puglo, and I had to completely rearrange my summer plans in 2024 because his vaccine was considered “invalid” just based on the order in which they were done.

There are a few key documents that can make your life a lot easier. If you’re spending time in Europe, getting an EU Pet Passport helps a lot – it makes border crossings within the EU seamless, and allows you to go between the U.S. and Europe without needing a USDA-approved veterinary certificate each time.

For global travel, especially to and from high-risk rabies countries like Thailand, a rabies titer test is often required to avoid quarantine. I had one done for Puglo at the USDA-approved lab in Kansas before bringing him to Thailand, knowing it would be essential for getting back into the US or Europe without issues.

The bottom line? Add vet visits and paperwork to your pre-travel checklist. It’s not the fun part of nomad life, but it’s part of the deal when you’re a digital nomad with a dog.

Some Countries Will Be Off-Limits

One of the harder truths about being a digital nomad with a dog is that some countries just aren’t an option. Places like Australia require a mandatory 30-day quarantine for pets, which is expensive and stressful, and not worth it unless you’re planning to move there long-term. Then there’s Bali, a hugely popular nomad hub, where dogs are outright banned from entering the island.

That said, there are still plenty of amazing destinations that welcome pets. Latin America, North America, Europe, and even parts of Asia have become more dog-friendly in recent years. But keep in mind, your dog won’t have the same passport freedom as you do. Every new country you visit will come with its own set of entry rules, and not all will be worth the effort.

Before you set your sights on a new destination, make sure it’s realistic for your pup too.

Choosing Pet Friendly Nomad Hubs

Not all cities are created equal when it comes to traveling with a dog. Some places make it easy to live, work, and explore with your pup, while others complicate even simple outings. Picking the right base is key to a stress-free nomad life together.

Here are some of the best cities I’ve found for living as a digital nomad with a dog:

• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – a laid-back beach town with tons of pet-friendly cafés, restaurants, and outdoor life
• Mexico City – urban jungle with leafy parks like Chapultepec and patio-friendly restaurants
• Berlin – one of Europe’s most dog-tolerant capitals, with dogs welcome on public transport, cafes, and bars
• Barcelona – beachside lifestyle, walkable streets, green spaces, and dog-friendly tapas bars
• Buenos Aires – lively and dog-loving city with hundreds of parks, off-leash spaces, inexpensive vet care, and pet-friendly restaurants

When I choose a hub, I look for:

• parks and green spaces for walking and play
• dog-friendly stays (Airbnb filters help)
• cafés, coworking spots, and shops that allow dogs
• easily accessible vet clinics and emergency care
• friendly attitude towards dogs

To dig deeper, I search Facebook groups (you can ask in mine), Reddit threads, or following pet travel influencers on Instagram.

Finding Accommodation and Getting Around with Your Dog

Fortunately, finding a place to stay with your dog has never been easier. Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com have pet-friendly filters that make searching a breeze. That said, expect to pay a little extra – many hosts charge a pet fee, and the selection can be more limited depending on the city. I always recommend messaging the host in advance just to double-check their pet policy.

When it comes to getting around, things can get a bit more complicated. As I mentioned earlier, flying is much easier if your dog is small enough to travel in the cabin. Always check with the airline well in advance, since most only allow a limited number of in-cabin pets per flight. Booking early is key.

Ground transport varies by region. In Mexico, many buses often don’t allow dogs at all, so I usually rent a car to have more flexibility. In contrast, Europe is a dream for traveling with pets. Trains are very dog-friendly, especially in countries like Germany and France, where you can bring your pup on board with you out of their carrier.

Transportation is one of the trickier parts of nomad life with a dog, but if you plan ahead, it’s totally manageable.

Daily Life on the Road with a Dog

One of the best parts about traveling with a dog is how it shapes your daily routine in the best way. Puglo gets me outside more, helps me stay active, and encourages me to slow down and enjoy simple moments, like a quiet morning walk or an afternoon in the park. Even when I’m feeling overwhelmed with work, he’s the reason I take breaks and get fresh air.

That said, traveling with a dog does require a shift in how you plan your day. I’ve found that time blocking is key. I schedule my work hours around Puglo’s needs, morning walk, meals, playtime, and a longer outing later in the day. Having structure actually makes me more productive, because I’m not constantly trying to multitask while he’s staring at me with his toy in his mouth.

Of course, there are times when you just can’t bring your dog with you. Whether it’s a tour, a long travel day, or a coworking day in a no-dog space, you’ll need reliable pet care options. I’ve had great experiences using apps like Rover to find local pet sitters or doggy daycares.

In cities where Rover doesn’t operate, local Facebook and WhatsApp groups have helped me find trusted sitters and even make new friends.

Travel Gear for Dogs

Traveling with a dog means carrying some extra luggage. The essentials will vary a little depending on your dog’s size and travel style, but here’s what I always bring: a carrier or crate (especially for flights or public transport), travel bowls for food and water, a harness and leash, an airtag nametag, and weather-appropriate clothing. If we’re heading somewhere cold, Puglo has his little fleece hoodie.

Toys are a must. I usually bring one he’s familiar with to keep some sense of home, but I also love picking up new ones as souvenirs along the way. It’s a fun ritual for both of us. A ball from Berlin or a stuffed cactus from Mexico are small things, but they help him connect with each new place,too.

If you’re nervous about leaving your dog alone in a new environment, a pet camera can help ease your mind. I’ve used them in Airbnb stays when I had to duck out for a few hours. And if you plan on letting your dog off leash (in parks or trails), a GPS tracker is a smart investment. It gives peace of mind if they wander a little too far chasing a squirrel.

When it comes to training, consistency is everything. A few basic commands, like recall, stay, and leave it, can make all the difference when you’re navigating unfamiliar places together. If your dog can stay calm and responsive in busy environments, it opens up so many more possibilities on the road.

Vet Care Abroad and Emergencies

If you’re traveling full-time with your dog, chances are you’ll end up at the vet more than you expect. Whether it’s routine care, a vaccine update, or something unexpected, vet visits become part of the lifestyle, and it’s something you need to factor into your monthly budget.

The good news is that vet care outside of the U.S. and Canada is often much more affordable. In places like Mexico, Colombia, and even parts of Europe, I’ve paid a fraction of what the same procedure would cost back home. That said, the quality and availability of care can vary greatly depending on the country.

For example, I waited until I was in Germany to get Puglo’s baby tooth removed. It never fell out, and while a vet in Mexico told me it could wait, I didn’t feel fully confident having it done there. Being in Berlin, with access to modern clinics and clear communication, gave me the peace of mind I needed to proceed with the procedure.

I always make sure to have a list of nearby vets and emergency clinics wherever I’m staying, just in case. It also helps to keep digital copies of your dog’s vaccine records and health documents in your phone or cloud storage so they’re easy to access when needed. It’s not the glamorous side of nomad life, but staying on top of your dog’s health is non-negotiable when they’re your travel companion.

Joys of Being a Digital Nomad with Dog

There’s something really special about seeing the world with your dog by your side. Yes, it adds logistics and responsibilities, but it also adds so much joy, connection, and meaning to every day on the road.

Puglo has changed the way I travel. He gets me outside more, encourages me to explore neighborhoods I might have skipped, and helps me slow down and actually be in the moment. Some of my favorite memories aren’t from famous landmarks, but from little moments watching him chase waves on a beach in Portugal, nap in my lap on a long bus ride, or make friends with locals in a park in Mexico.

Having a dog also opens up conversations and helps combat the loneliness that can come with solo travel. People approach me all the time to say hi to Puglo, and those little interactions often turn into real connections. He’s like a magnet for kindness.

Most of all, he brings a sense of home, no matter where I am. When you live a nomadic life, having that kind of emotional anchor, someone who’s always there, always excited to see you, means more than I ever expected.

Traveling with a dog isn’t always easy, but for me, it’s made the nomadic lifestyle feel fuller, more grounded, and infinitely more rewarding.

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Being a Digital Nomad With Dog

Being a digital nomad with a dog isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Yes, there’s more planning, more paperwork, and sometimes a little extra stress. But there’s also more joy. More companionship. More moments that make you stop and smile in the middle of a foreign street because your dog is happily trotting beside you, completely unfazed by where you’ve landed this time.

Traveling with Puglo has made my nomad lifestyle feel more grounded and meaningful. He’s my routine, my adventure buddy, and the reason I’ve met strangers who turned into friends. If you’re willing to put in the extra effort, this lifestyle is not only possible, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

I hope this guide helps you feel more confident about bringing your pup along for the ride. Because there’s nothing quite like seeing the world through your dog’s eyes, one country at a time.

If the flight is the part making you nervous, that is exactly why I created my Flying With Your Dog guide. It walks you through everything you need to take your first flight with your dog!

Ready to Take the Leap With Your Dog?

If there is one thing 19 countries with Puglo taught me, it is that the paperwork is the part that makes or breaks a move abroad. Every country sets its own rabies and import rules, and the official USDA APHIS Pet Travel site is where I always start before I book anything. Give yourself months, not weeks, for rabies titer tests and microchip timelines.

Digital Nomad With a Dog: FAQ

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