Moving to a new country is a big step, but moving with a pet adds a whole other layer of logistics. Tirana is a city in transition, and while pet ownership is becoming more common among the local population, there are still some cultural and bureaucratic hurdles you need to know about before you arrive.
Whether you are bringing your pet from the States or planning to rescue one of the many “streeties” here, this guide covers the basics you need to know for Tirana in 2026.
CRITICAL LEGAL & MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: I am an expat sharing community research. I am NOT a licensed veterinarian, attorney, or shipping professional. Regulations regarding pet travel and local laws can change without notice. ALWAYS verify requirements with your airline, the USDA (or equivalent), and a licensed Albanian vet before traveling.
Getting to Tirana
Flying with a pet into Tirana International Airport (TIA) has become easier, but the route matters.
Pet Friendly Airlines
Many expats fly with Lufthansa, Swiss, or Austrian Airlines, as they have well-established procedures for pets in cargo or cabin. ITA Airways is also a popular choice for those coming from the US (JFK) with a layover in Rome, though be prepared for a hustle if you need to access your dog during a delay.
Pet-Friendly Taxis
Getting a dog or cat across Tirana can be difficult if you do not have a car. Patoko has offered a pet option inside its ride-hailing app, allowing passengers to request a driver who will accept an animal in a carrier. Check that the option is still visible when booking, and message the driver with the type and size of animal before pickup.
Taxi Landi is also an option for traveling with your pet from the airport or to veterinary appointments.
Titer Test Requirements
There’s often confusion about whether a rabies titer test is required for pets coming from the US. Community research and the USDA website confirm that while a record of a rabies vaccine is mandatory, a titer test is currently NOT required for entry into Albania.
Finding a Pet Friendly Rental
In Tirana’s competitive rental market, having a pet can be a deal-breaker for some landlords. See Apartment Hunting in Albania: The Expat’s Survival Guide for more info.
Not A Dog Friendly Culture
Some landlords explicitly state “no pets” in their agreements. It is generally harder to find a property if you have a dog, though cats are sometimes more easily accepted.
Best Neighborhoods For Pets
If you have a dog, aim for areas with green space like Tirana e Re or near the Grand Park (Liqeni Artificial). These areas are the most grassy and walkable, though you should avoid heavy traffic roads for your pet’s safety.
Neighbor Etiquette
People in Tirana are generally wary of noise. The rule for expats is: as long as the dog doesn’t bark, the neighbors usually won’t care. Keeping your pet quiet and under control is the best way to avoid conflict.
Pet-Friendly Socializing
While you shouldn’t expect to take your dog into every boutique or high-end restaurant, Tirana is slowly opening up. Rove Coffee & Bakery is quiet sanctuary in Tirana that is explicitly pet-friendly, making it a great spot to work with your pup at your feet.
Veterinary Care in Tirana
If you’re moving to Albania with a pet, it’s worth identifying a veterinarian before you need one. Here are 3 clinics to consider:
International Pet Hospital by PetVille — Tirana, near TEG
A modern veterinary facility offering consultations, diagnostic testing, surgery, grooming, and pet boarding. The hospital also advertises a 24/7 emergency line: +355 69 807 0007.
Vet Hospital Tirana — Tirana, near Liqeni i Thatë
An established veterinary hospital offering diagnostic testing, surgery, emergency care, and boarding. Contact the hospital directly to confirm appointment availability and current emergency hours. Ask for Dr. Emre, who is known for being very thorough.
O&B Vet Clinic — Tirana
is good for large dogs and offers great care and is well equipped to investigate more complex issues if they should arise.
Dog Training, Daycare & Boarding in Tirana
Dog Coaching Center is a dedicated dog-care facility in Lundër, just outside Tirana, offering professional training, daytime care, and overnight boarding.
The center occupies approximately 2,500 square meters, with indoor and outdoor play areas and individual rooms for boarding dogs. Its training programs include behavioral assessments, private sessions, and residential training.
Published prices include:
- Dog daycare: 1,500 LEK per day.
- Overnight boarding: 3,000–3,500 LEK per night, depending on the length of stay.
- Behavioral assessment: 5,000 LEK.
- Private training: Packages start at 40,000 LEK for five sessions.
- Bathing: 2,500 LEK.
- Transport within Tirana: 1,500 LEK each way.
Dogs must have up-to-date vaccinations and parasite prevention for training, daycare, and boarding. Daycare is offered on weekdays, with limits on how frequently dogs can attend.
Volunteering
Flight Volunteers
If you are a traveler without a pet, consider being a Flight Volunteer for one of the many rescues waiting to fly from Tirana to new homes in the US, Canada, or the EU. Organizations often cover all costs and handle the airport check-in for you.
Rescuing Strays
You will encounter many street dogs in Tirana. While they live outdoors, many locals care for them, and you will see a sense of coexistence and compassion. If you find a sick or injured animal, be aware that specialized care is often coordinated through expat Facebook groups.
Pet Passports
If you rescue a pet in Albania and plan to take them with you when you leave, start the Albanian pet passport and vaccine process immediately. It is easy but takes time to complete the legal windows required for international travel.
Pet Supplies & Grooming
Local Options
Most major grocery stores like Spar or Conad have pet sections for basics.
PetVille is a dedicated pet retailer with stores in Tirana, Vlorë, Durrës, and other locations. Its catalog includes familiar brands such as Royal Canin, Hill’s, Purina, Acana, Orijen, Pedigree, Whiskas, and Sheba, along with toys, carriers, litter, and grooming supplies.
Need grooming? PetVille also offers grooming services at select locations. Check directly for availability, pricing, and which services are offered at your nearest branch.
Where to Buy Imported Pet Supplies
Baronesha in Tirana is another option for imported pet essentials. Its pet supplies section includes pet food, grooming products, and practical accessories such as waste bags.
Look for brands such as Animology if you’re searching for familiar grooming products. You can browse Baronesha’s website or check its Wolt storefront. The website advertises delivery outside Tirana, although stock and delivery availability may vary.
If you need specific items from the US or UK, it’s often best to ask a fellow expat to bring them in their luggage, as shipping can result in lost packages.