How Much Does It Cost to Take a Dog to France?

If you are planning a move to France and want to take your four-legged family member with you, it is worth budgeting for the extra costs well before moving day. The good news is that taking your dog to France is perfectly possible, but you will need to factor in veterinary paperwork, vaccinations and transport.

So, how much should you expect to pay?

How Much Does It Cost to Prepare Your Dog for France?

If you are moving from Great Britain, the cost will depend on whether your dog is already microchipped and has a valid rabies vaccination.

Here is a rough guide to the costs you may need to budget for in 2026:

Requirement	Estimated cost
Microchip, if needed	£20–£40
Rabies vaccination, if needed	£50–£100
Animal Health Certificate	£225–£320
Pet transport or ferry/tunnel fee	Depends on the route and provider

These are guide prices rather than fixed fees. Your vet may charge more or less, so ask for a full quotation before booking.

If your dog already has a microchip and a valid rabies vaccination, your main veterinary expense may simply be the Animal Health Certificate. If everything needs arranging from scratch, the costs will be higher.

What Is an Animal Health Certificate?

Since the UK left the EU, taking a dog from Great Britain to France has involved additional paperwork. From 22 April 2026, updated EU rules mean that UK residents should obtain an Animal Health Certificate for their dog's journey into the EU rather than relying on an EU pet passport for the outbound trip.

The certificate must be issued by an authorised Official Veterinarian. It is valid for entry into the EU for 10 days from the date of issue, so you need to arrange your appointment carefully around your travel date. You will generally need a new certificate for each separate trip from Great Britain to the EU.

Your dog must also be microchipped before, or at the same time as, its rabies vaccination. If it is receiving its first rabies vaccination, you must normally wait at least 21 full days before travelling. This means you should not leave these arrangements until the last minute.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel With Your Dog?

Your next expense is getting your dog across the Channel. The price depends on your chosen route, the number of passengers, your vehicle and the travel operator.

If you are driving, compare the cost of taking your dog on a ferry with using the Channel Tunnel. Check the operator's pet policy when booking, as the arrangements and fees vary. If you are hiring a removal company to transport your belongings, remember that you may need to arrange your dog's journey separately.

For a permanent move, it is also worth considering how your dog will cope with the journey. Plan regular breaks where possible, take familiar bedding and bring water, food and any medication your dog needs.

What About Taking Your Dog Back to the UK?

Even if you are moving permanently, you may want to return to Britain for visits. Dogs travelling back to Great Britain generally need an approved tapeworm treatment administered by a vet between 24 hours and five days before arrival, with the treatment recorded in the relevant travel document.

Budget for this additional veterinary appointment if you expect to make return trips. Check the latest requirements before each journey, as documentation and rules can change.

Is Taking Your Dog to France Worth the Cost?

For most owners, the expense is simply part of moving the whole family. Once your dog has arrived, you can enjoy exploring French countryside, walking local trails and relaxing in the garden of your new home together.

The best way to keep costs under control is to start planning early, compare Animal Health Certificate prices and check your dog's vaccination records. Most importantly, make sure the paperwork is correct before you travel.

For the latest official requirements, visit the UK government's guidance on taking your pet to an EU country.