Austria is considered a very "dog friendly" destination that welcomes dogs and their owners. But as in other countries, certain rules and laws apply here too and have to be observed.
Under the rules that apply when travelling with dogs, every dog must be marked either with a microchip or a visible tattoo. Dogs entered in a stud book may be marked with a tattoo, but that tattoo must have been done before 3 July 2011 and must be clearly legible. If the tattoo was done after that date, the dog will need a microchip for trips abroad.
It is important to note that the microchip must be implanted before the vaccination against rabies. Rabies vaccination is essential and the dog must have a valid vaccination recorded in its European passport. At least 21 days must pass before the trip abroad from the date of the first rabies vaccination.
The dog must also have its own European passport, issued by a certified veterinarian. The passport contains information about the dog’s owner, the microchip number, records of rabies vaccination and other relevant information about the animal’s state of health.
Although it is not compulsory, it is recommended to take out travel insurance for the dog, which covers veterinary treatment abroad in the event of illness or injury. Such insurance is usually available as part of travel insurance at a reasonable price.
Under the rules, one person may accompany a maximum of 5 dogs, except for trips to breed shows, sporting events and competitions. In those cases you must be able to prove participation in the event. More at: food.ec.europa.eu
If the dog is accompanied by someone other than its owner, that person must have written authorisation from the owner. These measures are meant to ensure transparency and the safety of animals during travel.
Austria sets strict rules for the entry of puppies and young dogs. Puppies under 12 weeks, which have not yet been properly vaccinated against rabies, and young animals aged between 12–16 weeks, which have been vaccinated but whose vaccination is not yet valid in terms of travel conditions, may not enter Austria. These measures are meant to protect animal health and prevent the spread of disease.
In Austria similar rules apply to dogs off the lead as in the Czech Republic, which makes it a fairly relaxed and friendly destination for dog owners. In public places with heavier foot traffic it is nevertheless advisable for owners to keep their dogs under control, whether on a lead or with a muzzle. These are compulsory only outside schools and nurseries and on public transport.
As for walking dogs, Austria places emphasis on the cleanliness of public spaces. Dog owners are obliged to clean up after their pets, including on walks. An owner caught not cleaning up after their dog faces a fine. The amount differs by province. It is therefore important that dog owners respect these rules and keep public spaces clean.
It is recommended to attach to the dog’s collar or harness an identification tag with the contact details of the owner, so that a dog can be returned faster and more safely if it strays. Engraved tags with the dog’s name and an international telephone number, including the +420 code, are ideal
As for carrying a dog in a car in Austria, similar rules apply as in the Czech Republic. The dog must be secured against unwanted movement so that it does not endanger the safety of the driver or of other road users.