Zagreb is a compact, walkable capital with a surprisingly green character. The city sits between the slopes of Medvednica mountain to the north and the flat plains stretching south toward the Sava River. This geography gives pet owners excellent variety — from urban park walks to forest hiking within 30 minutes. Zagreb has been growing its pet-friendly infrastructure, with new dog parks, improved waste station coverage, and increasing acceptance of dogs in restaurants and cafés. The ZET tram and bus system accepts pets, and the city's affordable cost of living makes it attractive for longer-term pet sitting assignments. The Maksimir Park, Jarun Lake, and Bundek Park provide substantial green spaces. For pet sitters, Zagreb offers Central European charm, low costs, and easy access to Croatia's Adriatic coast for weekend trips with pets.
Veterinary Clinics
Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine)
Heinzelova (university teaching hospital)
Veterinarska stanica Zagreb
Heinzelova (city veterinary station)
Veterinarska ambulanta Falco
Trešnjevka (western Zagreb)
Animal Clinic Buba
Novi Zagreb (southern Zagreb)
Pet-Friendly Parks
Maksimir Park
Off-leash OKZagreb's oldest and largest park at over 300 hectares, combining English-style landscaped gardens with natural forest. Five artificial lakes, wide walking paths, and designated off-leash areas for dogs. The park also houses the Zagreb Zoo. Excellent for long morning walks with dogs. Accessible via tram lines 4, 7, 11, and 12.
Maksimirski perivoj, 10000 Zagreb
Jarun Lake
Off-leash OKA recreational lake complex in western Zagreb with 3 kilometers of shoreline, walking and cycling paths, and grassy areas. Dogs are welcome around the lake and can swim in designated areas. The southern shore is quieter and preferred by dog owners. Several off-leash zones are available. Accessible via bus 109.
Jarun, 10000 Zagreb
Bundek Park
Off-leash OKA modern park around an artificial lake in Novi Zagreb, south of the Sava River. Flat, well-maintained paths, open lawns, and a fenced dog park. Very popular with families and dog owners, especially on weekends. The park connects to the Sava River embankment for extended walks. Accessible via tram to Savski most.
Bundek, 10020 Zagreb
Medvednica Nature Park (Sljeme)
Leash requiredZagreb's mountain — a nature park rising to 1,035 meters just north of the city. Extensive hiking trails through beech and fir forests, with dogs welcome on leash throughout. The trail from Bliznec to Sljeme summit takes about 2 hours and is manageable for fit dogs. Cooler temperatures make it ideal for summer walks.
Park prirode Medvednica, 10000 Zagreb
Local Pet Regulations
Dog Registration
All dogs in Zagreb must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and registered with the city through a licensed veterinarian. Registration enters the dog into the national Upisnik kućnih ljubimaca (pet registry). The annual city dog registration fee varies but is approximately €10–€20.
Leash and Muzzle Requirements
Dogs must be kept on a leash in all public spaces in Zagreb including streets, parks, and public transport unless in a designated off-leash area (park za pse). Breeds classified as dangerous by the city must wear a muzzle and be leashed at all times in public. All dogs must be leashed in the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and main pedestrian zone (Ilica, Ban Jelačić Square).
Dog Waste Cleanup
Dog owners must clean up after their pets in all public spaces. Zagreb has been expanding its network of waste bag dispensers, particularly in parks and residential areas. Fines for non-compliance range from €65 to €265.
Public Transport (ZET — Zagrebački električni tramvaj)
Small pets in carriers are allowed free on ZET trams and buses. Larger dogs must be muzzled and leashed and require a reduced-price ticket. Only one dog per passenger is permitted. Guide dogs travel free without restrictions. The tram system covers most of the city and is the easiest way to travel with pets.
Source: ZET
Designated Dog Parks (Park za pse)
Zagreb operates multiple fenced dog parks across the city where dogs can exercise off-leash. Notable locations include parks in Maksimir, Bundek, Jarun, and Savica. The city has been steadily expanding the number of designated dog areas in response to growing pet ownership.
For nationwide regulations, see our Croatia pet care guide.
Best Neighborhoods for Pets
Maksimir
A green, residential neighborhood adjacent to the enormous Maksimir Park. Quiet streets, local bakeries and cafés, and immediate access to one of the best dog-walking parks in Southeast Europe. Well-connected by tram to the city center. Affordable rents compared to central Zagreb.
Trešnjevka
A large residential district in western Zagreb with a strong neighborhood character. The Trešnjevka market, local restaurants, and several small parks provide a genuine Zagreb experience. Good tram connections and proximity to Jarun Lake for longer walks. Many pet-friendly ground-floor apartments.
Novi Zagreb (Bundek area)
The newer southern part of the city across the Sava River. Bundek Park is the centerpiece, with the Sava embankment providing kilometers of flat walking paths. More spacious than the historic center with larger apartments and green courtyards. Growing number of pet-friendly cafés and shops.
Šestine / Gornje Prekrižje
Hillside neighborhoods on the slopes of Medvednica with direct access to mountain trails. Quiet, semi-rural atmosphere just 15 minutes from the city center. Ideal for pet sitters with active dogs who enjoy hiking. Larger properties with gardens are common in this area.