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Andrea S
Andrea S
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Bringing a Dog to Bulgaria as a Foreigner

Bringing a dog to Bulgaria requires more than just a plane ticket, regardless of whether you're drawn to the historic hills of Plovdiv, the lively streets of Sofia, or the coastal charm of Varna. A stress-free move depends on navigating Bulgarian local laws and EU pet import regulations. Let’s dive into the legal checklist to ensure your pup's arrival is as smooth as a walk in park.

Stray dog in Sofia

Do Dogs Need a Visa To Travel To Bulgaria?

Dogs need specific documentation, but not a visa, to bring a dog to Bulgaria. The exact requirements depend on your country of origin:

Upon arrival, pets go through customs checks. The pet may be placed under quarantine or sent back if there are any documents missing. To prevent quarantine or denial, it is crucial to prepare these veterinary documents prior to travel.

Understanding the Stray Dog Population in Bulgaria

If you are moving to Bulgaria with a pet, you will quickly notice that stray dogs (street dogs) are a common part of the urban and rural landscape. While the government and various NGOs have made significant strides in "neuter and release" programmes, managing your own dog's interactions with strays is an essential part of local pet ownership.

Safety First: Navigating Stray Encounters

Most Bulgarian strays are remarkably "street-smart" and will simply ignore you and your pet. However, it is important to follow these safety protocols:

Adopting a dog as a foreigner

Аdopting a Stray Dog

Adopting a street dog in Bulgaria is a noble way to grow your family, but it requires a specific legal and administrative process to move from "rescuer" to "registered owner." In 2026, Bulgaria maintains strict regulations under the Animal Protection Act and the Local Taxes and Fees Act.

Step 1: The Legal "Grace Period"

Before you can claim ownership, you should make a reasonable effort to find a potential owner. Under the Bulgarian Animal Protection Act, you are encouraged to check for an existing microchip at a vet. If the dog is marked, the owner must be notified. If no owner is found within a reasonable timeframe, the dog can legally be rehomed or adopted by you.

Step 2: Veterinary Preparation (Mandatory)

To register your new companion, you must first visit a licenced veterinarian to complete the health prerequisites. You cannot register a dog in Bulgaria without a passport.

Step 3: Municipality Registration (The "Tax" Step)

In Bulgaria, every dog owner must register their pet with the local municipality (Obshtina) within 3 months of acquisition. This is done at the Directorate of Local Taxes and Fees.

Step 4: Registration Fees and Exemptions

While most municipalities charge an annual fee (for example, 13 Euro in Sofia for 2026), many owners are eligible for a full exemption.

Step 5: Responsibilities While Walking Your Dog

Once registered, you will receive a registration number or stamp in the passport. In Bulgaria, you are legally required to carry your dog's passport or a copy of the registration receipt whenever you are in public. Control authorities, such as the Municipal Police, can request these documents at any time.

Local Attitudes: You will find a wide range of opinions among Bulgarians. Many locals are "neighbourhood feeders" who look after specific strays, while others may view them as a public nuisance. Because of this discrepancy, you should always be vigilant and keep your dog close to you when visiting new areas.

Adopting a Dog from a Shelter

A responsible and fulfilling way to give a homeless animal a second chance is to adopt a dog from a nearby shelter. In Bulgaria, animal shelters provide short-term care for stray dogs, including dogs abandoned by their owners, lost pets, and dogs born on the streets.

Adopting a dog from a shelter is typically entirely free, and there is no registration tax due at the time of adoption. Before rehoming, shelters usually make sure that every dog is medically ready. Typically, this consists of:

Adopting a dog that hasn't been neutered may be feasible in some circumstances. This is especially true for young puppies or dogs with health issues that make neutering them right away risky. Nonetheless, it is still customary to neuter a dog before adopting it; if this hasn't been done, the adopter may be responsible for doing so once the dog is healthy and of legal age.

Finding Reliable Pet Sitting in Bulgaria

As the "work-from-home" era evolves, the demand for professional pet sitters and dog walkers in Bulgaria is on the rise. Whether you need a daily walker for your Golden Retriever or a house-sitter for a weekend trip to the Black Sea, options are expanding quickly in major hubs like Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv.

While the industry is still maturing, here are the most effective ways to find help for your furry friend:

  1. Facebook Groups (The Most Popular Method) - Social media remains the heart of the Bulgarian pet community. Searching for groups like "Pet Sitters Sofia" or "Dog Walkers Bulgaria" will yield the most immediate results. These communities allow you to see reviews from other expats and locals.
  2. Dedicated Pet-Sitting Platforms - Websites specialising in pet-sitting and house-sitting are beginning to gain traction. While the volume of sitters might be lower than in Western Europe or the US, these platforms offer the benefit of verified profiles. Keep in mind that "professional" pet sitting is still a relatively new concept in Bulgaria, so it is wise to start your search at least 2–3 weeks before your planned getaway.
  3. Local Veterinary Clinics - Many Bulgarian vets have notice boards or can recommend trusted veterinary students who offer pet-sitting services on the side - a great option for pets with medical needs.

Tips for Navigating Bulgaria

Once you’ve cleared customs and settled into your new Bulgarian home, it’s time to explore. Bulgaria is a surprisingly dog-friendly country, though the experience often blends official rules with a relaxed "local" reality.

Leash Laws: The "Wild West" of Dog Walking

Technically, Bulgaria has clear leash regulations: dogs are expected to be on a lead in public spaces and are only permitted to roam free in designated dog runs. However, in practice, you may find it feels a bit like a "dog-powered Wild West."

While many Bulgarian dog owners are responsible, you will frequently encounter off-leash pets in urban areas. Don’t be startled if a "random fluff" comes barrelling toward you while the owner shouts “Toy e dobŭr!” (He’s friendly!) from 20 metres away. Always keep your treats handy and maintain your pup’s focus, as the "he's friendly" shout isn't always a guarantee of perfect manners!

Dog Parks and Green Spaces

Bulgaria’s major cities - like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna - are remarkably green. From sprawling urban parks to hidden neighbourhood gardens, there is no shortage of sniffing spots for your furry sidekick.

Pro Tip: Always carry your own waste bags, as dispensers in public parks can be hit-or-miss.

Dogs on Public Transportation

Can you take your dog on the bus or metro in Bulgaria? Yes. Domestic pets are generally allowed on public transport, including the Sofia Metro and city buses.

While the rules are permissive, the reception can be mixed. Usually, no one will make a fuss, but don’t necessarily expect a warm welcome from every passenger. To ensure a smooth ride: