Pet-Friendly Olbia: Beaches, Walks, Rules & Vet Help

Why Sardinia Is So Pet-Friendly

Sardinians grow up around animals: shepherd dogs in the countryside, cats in village courtyards, turtles crossing country roads, donkeys, goats and sheep on the move. It is very common to see drivers slow down or stop completely to let a dog, cat or even a turtle cross safely. On the highway and local roads, everything pauses until the animal is out of danger.

For visitors this translates into an island where pets are usually met with smiles, greetings and a gentle “ciao” from locals. In Olbia and along the north east coast you will find:

• Dedicated dog beaches where pets can swim legally
• Cafés and bars that welcome dogs at outdoor tables
• Shaded promenades and easy walking trails for daily exercise
• Several well-reviewed veterinary clinics in town
• Pet shops and para-pharmacies with quality food and accessories

Travel Rules for Bringing Pets to Sardinia

To enter Italy and Sardinia with a dog or cat you must follow standard European pet travel rules. Always check the latest information with your vet or official government sources, but in general you will need:

• An ISO-compliant microchip that can be scanned easily
• A valid rabies vaccination given after the microchip and at least 21 days before travel
• An EU pet passport (for EU residents) or an official EU health certificate (for non-EU travelers)
• Proof of general good health issued shortly before departure

Airlines and ferries may have extra requirements such as muzzles for some breeds, specific carriers for cats or rules for pets on deck. Always confirm with your transport company in advance and carry copies of all pet documents in paper and digital form.

For emergencies or serious issues during your stay, keep our guide to emergency numbers in Sardinia close at hand.

Dog Beaches Near Olbia & Golfo Aranci

Sardinia has regional rules that limit animals on most regular beaches in high season, but there are dedicated dog beaches and pet-friendly areas where dogs are welcome if they are healthy, microchipped and kept under control. Around Olbia and the north east coast you will find several good options.

Le Saline Dog Beach (Olbia)

Just a short drive south east of Olbia, Le Saline has a designated dog-friendly area where dogs can swim and play. The beach is long, with space to spread out, and the breeze makes summer days feel fresher. Bring your own umbrella and water bowl, keep your dog on a lead where required and always clean up carefully.

Cala Razza di Juncu & Nearby Spots

Towards the Costa Smeralda, Cala Razza di Juncu and nearby coves offer sections where dogs are allowed in designated areas or tolerated in quieter zones out of peak hours. Rules can change season by season, so always read the signs at the entrance and ask the lifeguard or local beach staff if in doubt.

General Beach Etiquette With Dogs

• Use only signed dog beaches in summer or very early/late hours on regular beaches where permitted
• Keep your dog on a leash unless an off-leash area is clearly indicated
• Carry waste bags, fresh water and a collapsible bowl at all times
• Choose quieter zones away from families who may not be comfortable with dogs

For more ideas on where to swim and walk together, see Best beaches near Olbia & Golfo Aranci.

Walks, Trails & Town Life With Pets

City Walks in Olbia

Olbia is an easy city for daily dog walks. The pedestrian area around Corso Umberto, the waterfront near Isola Bianca and the paths in Parco Fausto Noce offer flat, shaded circuits for morning and evening strolls. Outdoor cafés usually welcome dogs at terrace tables, especially if they are calm and on a short lead.

Trail 1: Parco Fausto Noce Loop

A simple, mostly flat loop inside Olbia’s main park, ideal for short walks, families and older dogs. Expect lawns, playgrounds, shaded paths and views of the surrounding hills. Water fountains are available but bring your own bowl.

Trail 2: Pittulongu Promenade & Beachfront

Outside the busiest summer hours, the seafront at Pittulongu is perfect for a longer walk on a lead. You can follow the small promenade, continue along the sand in low season and enjoy wide-open views of Tavolara. Combine this with a coffee at a beach bar that accepts dogs outside.

For more ideas on walks and day excursions that work well with pets, see Best day trips from Olbia and our sustainable travel guide.

Where Pets Are Welcome (And Local Etiquette)

In general, dogs are accepted on terraces of bars and restaurants, at many agriturismi and in most outdoor spaces as long as they are well behaved. Some shops and indoor cafés will invite small dogs inside at the owner’s discretion. Ask politely, keep the lead short and always respect “no pets” signs when they appear.

In villages and rural areas you may encounter working dogs protecting sheep or property. Give them space, keep your dog on a lead and avoid approaching flocks or gated yards. For more on norms, greetings and how to blend in, read our guide to local etiquette in Sardinia.

“For us, pets are part of the family. We love seeing guests arrive with their dogs, then leave saying Sardinia feels like home for all of them.” – Floriana, co-founder of RENTAL12

Veterinary Clinics & Pet Emergencies in Olbia

Olbia has several veterinary clinics and 24-hour numbers for urgent care. Save a couple of options in your phone so you do not have to search while stressed.

• Vet Service – Clinica Veterinaria, Corso Vittorio Veneto (general care and emergencies)
• Clinica Veterinaria Olbia Chiara Manca, Via Imperia (well reviewed for dogs and cats)
• Other clinics and pet pharmacies spread across Viale Aldo Moro and the city center

For human emergencies or serious incidents, refer to Emergency numbers in Sardinia, which covers ambulances, police, fire brigade and coast guard.

What to Pack for Your Pet in Sardinia

A little preparation makes travelling with pets in Sardinia simple. Combine your own essentials with a compact kit for your dog or cat:

• EU pet passport or health certificate, vaccination proof and microchip details
• Comfortable harness, short lead and optional long line for quiet areas
• Collapsible water bowl and refillable bottle for beach and trail days
• Favourite toys, blanket and a small stash of usual food to avoid stomach upsets
• Tick and flea protection, plus basic first aid items recommended by your vet
• Biodegradable waste bags and a small towel for sandy paws

For your own suitcase, see our guide Packing essentials for Olbia & North East Sardinia.

Pet-Friendly Sardinia: FAQs