Rotterdam is the Netherlands' second-largest city, known for its striking modern architecture, bustling port, and increasingly dog-friendly culture. The city abolished its dog tax (hondenbelasting) in 2018, making dog ownership more accessible. Kralingse Bos — a large city park around a lake — features designated off-leash areas and a dedicated dog beach. The Zuiderpark, Rotterdam's largest park, provides vast green spaces for extended walks. The city has a well-marked network of off-leash areas (losloopgebieden) in most neighborhoods. Rotterdam's public transport via RET allows dogs on metros, trams, and buses free of charge. The flat terrain and extensive cycling infrastructure make the city easy to navigate with dogs. For pet sitters, Rotterdam offers a modern, diverse city with excellent park access, waterfront promenades, and a pragmatic Dutch attitude toward pets in public life.
Veterinary Clinics
AniCura Dierenkliniek Rotterdam
Ommoord-Hillegersberg (five locations in north Rotterdam)
Dierenkliniek Blijdorp
Blijdorp (near Rotterdam Zoo)
Dierenkliniek Kralingen
Kralingen (east Rotterdam)
Pet-Friendly Parks
Kralingse Bos
Off-leash OKRotterdam's most popular dog park, set around the Kralingse Plas lake. Large sections allow off-leash walking, and there is a dedicated dog beach where dogs can swim. Paved paths throughout make the park accessible in all weather. Multiple cafés and restaurants border the lake. Easily reached by tram from the city center.
Kralingse Bos, 3062 Rotterdam
Zuiderpark
Off-leash OKOne of Rotterdam's largest parks offering extensive green spaces, sports facilities, and a network of walking trails. Designated off-leash areas (losloopgebieden) are clearly signed. The park is flat and fully accessible with wide paths. A community garden and children's farm add variety. Located in Rotterdam-Zuid.
Zuiderpark, 3083 Rotterdam
Vroesenpark
Off-leash OKA smaller neighborhood park in Rotterdam-Noord with open meadows, a pond, and shaded walking paths. Popular for daily dog walks with a friendly community of regular visitors. Dogs can be off-leash in designated areas. A good option for a quick walk rather than a full-day outing.
Vroesenpark, 3039 Rotterdam
Het Park (Euromast Park)
Leash requiredA historic 19th-century park near the Euromast tower along the Nieuwe Maas river. Mature trees, winding paths, and waterfront views. Dogs must be leashed throughout. The park connects to the Museumpark area and is walkable from the city center. A pleasant stop on a longer riverside walk.
Parkhaven, 3016 Rotterdam
Local Pet Regulations
Off-Leash Areas (Losloopgebieden)
Rotterdam designates specific areas as losloopgebieden where dogs may be off-leash. These are marked with green signs showing a dog without a leash. Outside these areas, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Fines for off-leash violations start at €95. The city's website provides a map of all designated areas.
Source: Gemeente Rotterdam
No Dog Tax
Rotterdam abolished its dog tax (hondenbelasting) in 2018. Dog owners are no longer required to register their dogs with the municipality for tax purposes, though all dogs must still be registered in the national chip database.
Dog Waste Cleanup
Dog owners must carry waste bags and immediately clean up after their dogs in all public areas. Fines for failing to clean up are €140. Rotterdam provides waste bag dispensers and dedicated dog waste bins in parks and residential areas.
Public Transport (RET)
Dogs are allowed on Rotterdam's RET metro, trams, and buses free of charge. Dogs must be on a leash and behave calmly. Small pets in carriers also travel free. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free without restriction.
Source: RET Rotterdam
Dangerous Dog Breeds
The Netherlands requires owners of dogs classified as high-risk by their municipality to take additional measures including muzzling and short leashing in public. Individual municipalities can impose requirements based on specific incidents. All dogs must be identifiable by microchip under Dutch law.
For nationwide regulations, see our Netherlands pet care guide.
Best Neighborhoods for Pets
Kralingen
An affluent neighborhood on Rotterdam's east side bordering Kralingse Bos. Direct access to the park and lake for daily dog walking. Tree-lined streets, a village-like atmosphere around the Kralingse Plaslaan, and several veterinary clinics. One of Rotterdam's most desirable areas for pet owners.
Blijdorp / Rotterdam-Noord
A residential area near the zoo with Vroesenpark at its center. Quiet streets, good public transport connections via Rotterdam Centraal, and proximity to shops and cafés. Multiple veterinary practices serve the neighborhood. A practical and affordable area for pet sitters.
Katendrecht
A former docklands area transformed into a trendy neighborhood on a peninsula in the Nieuwe Maas. Waterfront promenades, restaurants, and the Fenix Food Factory. Compact but walkable with water views. Dogs are welcome at many outdoor terraces. Less green space than suburban areas but strong urban character.
Hillegersberg-Schiebroek
A green residential district in north Rotterdam with lakes, woodland, and suburban streets. Close to AniCura veterinary facilities and several off-leash areas. The Bergse Bos forest and Bergse Plassen lakes provide extensive walking routes. A quieter alternative to the city center.