More and more people want to go out with their dogs, even by bike. It sounds like a fun idea: you on the bike, your dog happily running along. But is that even allowed in Belgium? And what about in other European countries? The rules aren’t the same everywhere, and in Belgium they’re stricter than you might think.
In this blog post, we explain exactly what’s allowed and what’s not when cycling with your dog in Belgium. We’ll explain why your dog isn’t allowed to walk on a leash next to your bike. We’ll also offer helpful tips on how to safely take your dog on your bike, such as a dog cart or bicycle basket. Finally, we’ll explain why pet insurance is a smart move if you often go out together. This way, you can take good care of both yourself and your dog.
The rules differ per EU country
The rules for taking your dog on a bicycle vary from country to country within the European Union. In some countries, dogs can be kept on a leash next to a bicycle, as long as they are kept safe. In other countries, this is prohibited. The way in which you are allowed to transport your dog on a bicycle also varies. In the Netherlands, you often see dogs in bicycle baskets or trailers, while this is less common in other countries. If you’re traveling abroad with your dog, always check the local regulations first. This way, you can avoid a fine or dangerous situations. What’s normal in one country may be prohibited in another. Safety and animal welfare are paramount everywhere, but the approach varies.
Can you cycle with your dog in Belgium?
In Belgium, you’re not allowed to just cycle with your dog. It might seem fun and healthy for your dog to run alongside your bike, but according to the Belgian Highway Code, it’s prohibited. You’re not allowed to let your dog run leashed alongside your bike on public roads. This prohibition is in place to protect the safety of both the dog and the cyclist. A sudden movement or an unexpected situation can quickly lead to an accident. That’s why there are strict rules. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t take your dog on the bike at all. There are other, safer ways to enjoy a bike ride together. We’ll discuss these later in this blog post.
What are the legal ways to transport your dog on a bicycle in Belgium?
While your dog isn’t allowed to walk alongside your bike, there are fortunately safe and legal ways to take your dog on your bike in Belgium. These are the most common options:
- Bicycle basket : Suitable for small dogs. Securely attach the basket to the front or back of your bike. A dog basket on your bike can be a great solution for your dog.
- Bicycle trailer : Taking a medium-sized dog on your bike, or a large dog? The trailer attaches to the bike and offers comfort and safety.
- Dog backpack : For small dogs that stay calm. Ensure good ventilation and comfort.
- Cargo bike : Increasingly popular, especially for larger dogs or several small dogs.
Make sure your dog is properly secured and comfortable during transport. Safety always comes first! Want to be sure your (new) bike is also secure? It’s always a good idea to compare bicycle insurance policies to ensure you’re protected and covered for any costs in the event of damage or theft.
Take out pet insurance for your beloved dog
If you regularly go out with your dog, for example, by bike, it’s especially important to have good insurance. Accidents can easily happen: a misstep while getting out of a bike trailer or an unexpected movement can lead to injuries or veterinary bills. With good pet insurance, you’re better prepared for unexpected medical expenses. This way, you don’t have to worry about the bill if something happens to your dog. On the dog insurance page of our website, you can easily compare different policies and make the best choice for your dog. This way, you not only ensure fun outings but also the right protection for your loyal dog.
