Moving Abroad with Pets | Characteristics of 4 Countries Where It’s Easy to Live and How to Choose [2026 Edition]

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

To begin with, how do you determine which places are “pet-friendly” for relocation?

Whether a destination is pet-friendly can be assessed primarily from four perspectives. These include the strictness of quarantine procedures upon entry, the range of places where pets are allowed in daily life, the adequacy of animal welfare laws, and whether the climate and living environment suit your pet’s constitution. The four countries featured in this article are often described as “pet-friendly” based on at least one of these criteria.

Australia | A Culture of Caring for Pets Beyond Strict Quarantine Measures

Australia is a rabies-free country, and the government has established a strict quarantine system for dogs and cats entering the country. Since this involves a lengthy quarantine period and the submission of various documents, it is essential to begin preparations as early as possible once your travel plans are finalized.

On the other hand, a culture of treating pets as cherished members of the family is deeply rooted in Japan. There are many dog-friendly cafes, beaches, and parks, and the fact that the country offers an environment where people can relax and enjoy themselves with their pets is a major draw. Once you’ve cleared the initial hurdle of quarantine, you’ll find a country where pets can live comfortably.

Since the specific quarantine requirements vary depending on when you travel, once your travel plans are finalized,Australian Government (Department of Agriculture) Quarantine Information PageWe recommend checking the latest information as well (Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, verified in August 2026).

Canada | Majestic Nature and the Growing Acceptance of Pets in Outdoor Settings

Canada is blessed with vast natural landscapes and is dotted with numerous national parks and nature reserves. The country offers an environment where you can enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities with your pets, and even in urban areas, there are plenty of parks where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors.

In many areas, regulations restrict pets from entering the dining areas of restaurants where food is served; it is common for pets to be allowed only on outdoor patios. While some local governments have recently expanded their policies to allow pets on outdoor seating areas, policies vary by state and city, so it’s best to check in advance if there’s a specific restaurant you’d like to visit (Source: Official Policy of British Columbia(Confirmed in August 2026).

Depending on your pet’s species and coat type, you may need to take special precautions against the harsh winter cold. By preparing care tailored to the weather—such as measures to protect against the cold and ways to prevent a lack of exercise indoors—you can ensure your pet lives comfortably.

France | While pet ownership is becoming increasingly common, be sure to check the regulations on dog breeds

France is a country where living with pets has become an established part of the culture, particularly in urban areas such as Paris. It is not uncommon to see people with their pets on restaurant patios or on public transportation, and the belief that pets are members of the family is widely held.

On the other hand, the law may restrict the keeping or importation of certain dog breeds in France. Be sure to check the official information from the French Ministry of Agriculture before your trip to confirm that the breed you plan to bring is not included in these restrictions (Source: French Ministry of Agriculture(Confirmed in August 2026).

Switzerland | A legal system that prioritizes animal welfare and a lifestyle rich in nature

Switzerland is one of the countries with well-developed animal protection laws. The Federal Animal Protection Act and the Animal Protection Ordinance stipulate the basic responsibilities that owners must fulfill, such as providing dogs with sufficient daily exercise and opportunities to interact with other dogs and people. Microchipping is also mandatory (Source: Swiss Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs(Confirmed in August 2026).

Rules regarding pet ownership may vary by canton (state). For example, in the Canton of Zurich, a unique training program for pet owners was reintroduced in June 2025. Since the specific rules differ depending on the canton you plan to move to, it’s a good idea to check the regulations for your intended place of residence in advance.

Blessed with a beautiful natural environment, the city features many green spaces and parks, creating an ideal setting for enjoying walks with your pets and everyday life.

How do the four countries compare?

We’ve organized the characteristics of the four countries introduced so far to make them easier to compare. Since actual conditions are subject to change, please consider this information as a general trend only.

Caution:Quarantine requirements, pet care regulations, and policies regarding pets at restaurants vary by country, region, and time of year. The information in this article is intended to provide a general overview; be sure to check the latest official information from the authorities and local governments of your destination before traveling.

4 Things to Consider from Your Pet’s Perspective When Choosing a New Place to Live

Once you’ve gotten a sense of what makes a place livable, the next step is to check specifically whether it’s a good fit for your pet. Before making your final decision on where to move, checking the following four points will help ensure a smooth transition.

What PetAirJPN Can Do

If you’re wondering, “Is this country really the right fit for my pet?” please feel free to contact us. Guided by our vision of “eliminating borders for pets,” PetAirJPN is here to help ease the burden of everything from choosing a destination to making preparations.

If you could let us know your destination and planned departure date, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the preparations and procedures required for your pet in that country.

Summary: A pet-friendly environment is also a factor to consider when choosing a place to move to.

When considering moving abroad, determining whether your beloved pet will be able to live comfortably is one of the key factors to consider. The four countries featured here each have their own unique charms and points to keep in mind.

The advantages and considerations vary by country. Please take the time to carefully consider your pet’s age and temperament, the climate of your destination, and your own lifestyle. The overall process for travel procedures is as follows:How to Take Your Pet from Japan to Another Country | A Complete Guide to Procedures and PreparationsYou can check this information here. Please contact us individually for detailed requirements for each destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Written by: PetAirJPN Editorial Department (International Pet Transportation Operations Team)

*The information in this article is current as of August 2026. Quarantine regulations and pet ownership rules in various countries are subject to change without notice. This article is intended to provide general information only; to determine whether you can travel with your pet and to confirm specific requirements, please be sure to check the latest official information from the relevant national authorities, animal quarantine offices, and your veterinarian.