As I strolled through Casa Batlló, an enigmatic creation by Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona, my canine companion garnered more attention from tourists than the intricate ocean-themed interiors influenced by the architect’s deep-seated love for the sea. Tourists’ heads swiveled, smiles gracing their faces, as my four-legged friend, unperturbed by the admiration, kept his gaze fixed on me, eagerly awaiting his next treat—a flavorful dried salmon bite.
Arty, my Manchester Terrier, undeniably shone amidst the bustling, sinuous corridors of Gaudí’s masterpiece.
Despite my initial concerns regarding the perception of dogs in Spain, shaped by social media accounts highlighting the plight of rescued dogs, my apprehensions swiftly dissipated. With a dog population double that of children under 15 years old, as reported by Spain’s National Institute of Statistics (INE), it became apparent that the country, particularly Barcelona, holds a profound fondness for canine companions.
The city boasts a notable canine community, prompting the need for updated regulations as of 2024. Dogs now have the freedom to roam off-leash in specified areas during designated hours, with local authorities diligently enforcing these guidelines. Barcelona, nevertheless, offers a delightful existence for our furry pals, with numerous spaces for them to explore, sniff around, and frolic off-leash at appropriate times.
A warm reception awaited us at Nobu, a prominent dog-welcoming establishment where dogs are invited to accompany their owners for meals and drinks by the pool, complete with customized beds and bowls in the hotel room. A detailed canine guide to Barcelona led us to delightful discoveries such as gelato parlors like Badiani Gelato Rosselló and sun-drenched aperol spritz spots like the rooftop of Casa Batlló.
Our adventure led us uphill to Parc Güell, another architectural gem by Gaudí offering panoramic city vistas and a designated off-leash zone at its summit. We ventured to Montjuïc for a unique perspective of the Olympic pools constructed for the 1992 games, pausing for refreshing Aperol spritz at Salts—a picturesque spot for enjoying the sunset overlooking the harbor.
With just a brief two-day window to uncover Barcelona’s treasures, we barely skimmed the surface, missing out on the dog-friendly Llevant Beach and the photo opportunities at Sagrada Familia. Excursions from the city also beckoned, with musician Charlie Wallbank suggesting Montserrat as a haven for podencos—a mere two-hour train journey away.
Embarking on the journey from the UK to Barcelona with a furry companion is no small endeavor: it entails either a 25-hour ferry voyage or a two-day drive from Calais. However, for those who undertake the voyage, a delightful existence awaits their four-legged friends in this lively Spanish metropolis. Until our next escapade, I’ll immerse myself in reveries inspired by sunrise snapshots of Barcelona’s dog-friendly beaches and anecdotes of podencos Nala and Monkey reveling in the good life.
Exciting vicarious canine escapades in Barcelona await!