Dog-friendly Tenerife: bringing your dog and where you can go
Updated 29 October 2026 · DoTenerife
Tenerife is reasonably dog-friendly if you plan ahead. Dogs are banned from most beaches, but there are designated dog beaches, plenty of outdoor terraces welcome dogs, and the tram allows them under set conditions. The biggest hurdles are getting your dog to the island in the first place, finding pet-friendly accommodation and managing the heat.
Many long-stay visitors bring their dogs for the winter. Here’s what to know.
Bringing your dog to Tenerife
Tenerife is part of Spain and the EU, so EU pet travel rules apply.
- From the EU: an EU pet passport, microchip and valid rabies vaccination.
- From the UK and other non-EU countries: usually a microchip, rabies vaccination and an animal health certificate issued by an official vet shortly before travel. Some countries need a rabies antibody test months in advance.
- Flights and ferries: few airlines fly dogs in the cabin on routes to the Canaries, and hold space is limited. Some people travel via mainland Spain and take the ferry from Huelva or Cádiz to Santa Cruz.
Pet travel rules change, so check your government’s official guidance and talk to your vet several months before you go.
Dog beaches
Most Tenerife beaches don’t allow dogs, particularly in the bathing season. The island does have designated dog beaches (playas caninas), including:
| Beach | Area | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| El Confital | Granadilla de Abona, near El Médano | Dog area of around 170 m near Montaña Roja; can be windy and rough |
| Playa del Cabezo | Granadilla de Abona, near El Médano | Dark sand, around 260 m, with parking |
| Playa del Puertito | Güímar | Dog area at the southern end near the marina; usually calm |
Santa Cruz and other municipalities have also designated dog areas on some beaches. Rules are set by each council and can change. Look for signs at the entrance.
General rules for dog beaches:
- Your dog must be microchipped and vaccinated.
- An adult must supervise at all times.
- Potentially dangerous breeds (PPP under Spanish law) must be muzzled and on a lead.
- Pick up after your dog.
For other beaches, see Tenerife beaches.
Public transport
- Tram: since 2023, dogs can ride the tram between Santa Cruz and La Laguna without a carrier, wearing a muzzle and on a short lead, in the designated area of the rear carriage. One dog per tram, and not during weekday peak hours (07:00–09:00 and 13:00–15:00).
- Buses: small pets in a carrier are generally allowed on TITSA buses. Larger dogs can be more restricted. Check TITSA’s current policy before you travel.
- Taxis: acceptance is at the driver’s discretion. Ask when booking, and mention the size of your dog.
- Assistance dogs can travel on all public transport.
Accommodation
Pet-friendly hotels are less common in the big resorts, though some apartments and villas accept dogs. Rural houses (casas rurales) in the north and inland are more likely to welcome pets. Filter for pets when booking and confirm directly with the owner, as conditions such as size limits and extra cleaning fees vary.
Eating and drinking out
Many cafés and bars along the promenades have terraces where dogs are welcome. Inside, it depends on the owner. A water bowl is a common sight outside dog-friendly places. For evening shows, outdoor terraces are your best bet; DoTenerife’s map can help you find venues near your accommodation.
Walks
- Promenades: long seafront walks in Los Cristianos, Las Américas, Costa Adeje, Puerto de la Cruz and El Médano are popular with dog owners, generally on a lead.
- Forests: Anaga and the pine forests around La Esperanza and Vilaflor offer cooler walking.
- Teide National Park: dogs are subject to restrictions in national parks. Check current rules before you go.
Heat and health
- Walk early and late. Pavements and dark volcanic sand get very hot.
- Watch for calima, the hot, dusty Saharan air; see Tenerife weather by month.
- Processionary caterpillars can be found in pine areas in late winter and spring and are dangerous for dogs.
- Vets: there are many veterinary clinics in the resorts. Note one near you and its out-of-hours number.
Rules to know
- Dogs must be on a lead in most public areas.
- You must pick up after your dog, and fines can apply.
- Some breeds are classed as potentially dangerous in Spain, which brings extra requirements such as muzzles and insurance.
If you are planning a long stay with your dog, read our 90/180 rule guide as well.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs go on the beach in Tenerife?
Dogs are banned from most beaches, especially in the summer bathing season, but the island has designated dog beaches, such as El Confital and Playa del Cabezo near El Médano and Playa del Puertito in Güímar. Rules are set locally, so check signs.
Can I take my dog on the bus in Tenerife?
Small pets in a carrier are generally allowed on TITSA buses. On the Santa Cruz–La Laguna tram, dogs can travel without a carrier on a short lead and muzzle, outside weekday peak hours. Check current rules before travelling.
What do I need to bring my dog to Tenerife?
From the EU, a valid EU pet passport, microchip and rabies vaccination. From outside the EU, including the UK, you will usually need an animal health certificate, microchip and rabies vaccination. Rules change, so check official guidance well before you travel.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Tenerife?
It depends on the owner. Many cafés and bars with outdoor terraces welcome dogs, but indoor dining areas often don't. Ask first.
Is Tenerife too hot for dogs?
Summer days and hot calima spells can be hard on dogs. Walk early in the morning or in the evening, carry water, and avoid hot pavements and black volcanic sand in the midday sun.