travel to germany with dog

What are you looking for?

Travelling with pets.

High Five, © colourbox.com

Do you plan to travel with your pet(s) from the United States to Germany and need specific information about regulations and procedures? Below you will find basic information about various possible Scenarios.

These COVID-19 travel restrictions are subject to change without notice.

With a view to the complexity of travel regulations with pets, German Missions in the U.S. cannot give binding information. This notwithstanding, the following information with links and addresses may be helpful for planning purposes:

• Every animal needs to be identified by a clearly readable tattoo or a microchip (this has been mandatory for newly identified animals since July 3, 2011).
• Proof of valid immunization against rabies must be furnished in the animal health certificate. The period of validity of the immunization is based on the information provided by the manufacturer. A primary vaccination must be administered at least 21 days prior to crossing the border. The pet has to be microchipped before the rabies vaccination.
• Entry is conditional on the animal being accompanied by a person. The accompanying person must provide a written declaration stating that the animal is not being moved for purposes of sale or a change of ownership.
• The aforementioned conditions governing entry must be documented in an animal health certificate issued by an officially authorized veterinarian. In addition, the traveler must carry supporting documents such as a vaccination certificate.

Current regulations and further information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture

and on the EU website .

The Veterinary Border Inspection Office of the State of Hesse at Frankfurt Airport provides information and assistance as well.

Further information about live animal export requirements, including a list of local veterinary service centers and an FAQs section, can be found on the USDA website

• Top of page

Traveling with Pets in Germany

Birge Amondson

Planning a trip to Germany but don’t want to leave without your four-footed friend? Germany is a fabulously pet-friendly country and if you'd like to travel with your dog or cat or whoever you call a friend, all it requires is planning ahead and knowing the rules. Learn these important regulations and helpful travel tips to travel with your pet in Germany

Vaccination and Papers Required fro Taking your Pet to Germany

Germany is part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme . This allows pets to travel without boundaries within the EU ( European Union ) as each pet has a passport with vaccination record. Passports are available from authorized veterinarians and must contain details of a valid anti-rabies vaccination, usually within 10-30 days before travel.

You need to present the following documents when entering Germany from outside the EU Pet Scheme with your pet:

• Valid rabies vaccination (at least 30 days but no more than 12 months prior to the entry to Germany)
• Bilingual veterinary certificate (English/German)
• Your pet needs to be identified by a microchip (standard: ISO 11784 or ISO11785 ); your vet can do this, and it is not painful for the animal.

The EU pet passport is only for dogs, cats and ferrets . Other pets must check relevant national rules on taking animals in/out of the country.

You can download the required documents and get updated and detailed information on the official Website of the German Embassy.

Air Travel with Pets

Many airlines allow small pets in the passenger cabin (dogs under 10 pounds), while larger pets are “Live Cargo” and will be shipped in the cargo hold. Make sure to get a airline approved kennel or crate for your furry friend and take the time to get them comfortable in the crate before leaving.

Notify your airline well in advance about your pet and ask about their pet policy; some airlines require an international health certificate. Airlines usually charge a fee for shipping a pet which ranges from $200 to 600. If money is no object and the paperwork seems intimidating, you can hire a company to ship your pet for you.

Traveling With Dogs in Germany

Germany is a very dog-friendly country. They are allowed almost everywhere (besides grocery stores) with only the rare Kein Hund erlaubt ("No dogs allowed").

This is made possible because most German dogs are very well-behaved. They heel perfectly, listen to every command and even stop before crossing the street. It is incredible to watch, and takes a lot of heard work from dog owners. If you want to own a dog in Germany, prepare to also train them to perfection.

However, dog owners should know that the following breeds are considered dangerous by the government as class 1:

• Staffordshire Bull Terriers
• American Staffordshire Terriers
• Or any dog mixed with the above breeds

Rules vary from federal state to federal state , but generally, these breeds are not allowed to stay longer in Germany than four weeks and they must be muzzled when out in public. If they are allowed to stay, you will need to apply to local authorities for a license and supply Haftpflichtversicherung (personal liability insurance). There are also class 2 dogs that face more lenient standards, but are still require registration. This includes Rottweilers, American Bulldogs, Mastiffs. Consult with the local authorities for banned or restricted breeds and requirements for registration.

Even dogs without muzzles should not be pet without asking. This is not culturally acceptable and you may get a curt response from the owner and the dog.

Train Travel With Pets in Germany

Small to medium-sized dogs, who can travel in a cage or basket, can be taken free of charge on German trains , U-Bahn, trams and buses.

For larger dogs, you have to buy a ticket (half price); for safety reasons, larger dogs also have to be on a leash and wear a muzzle.

Dogs in Restaurants and Hotels in Germany

Dogs are allowed in many hotels and restaurants in Germany. However, some hotels might charge you for a pet (usually between 5 and 20 Euro).

Adopting a Pet in Germany

If you aren't bringing a furry friend with you, you can make one in Germany. Adopting a pet is possible in Germany. If you adopt a pet in the EU, they automatically come with a passport and vaccination book.

How to Travel Internationally With Your Pet

How to Travel to Sweden With a Dog

Pet Travel - Can I Bring My Dog With Me to the UK?

How to Travel to Denmark With a Dog

Taking a Dog to Norway: Rules and Regulations

Tips for Traveling With Dogs or Cats to Italy

How to Travel to Finland With a Dog

Travel to Mexico With Your Pet

With So Much Red Tape, Are You Sure You Want to Travel With Your Pet?

What to Know About French Customs Regulations

Tips and Tricks for Air Travel With Your Dog

Pet Birds and Air Travel

How to Buy and Use the National Park Pass for Seniors

Marriage Laws for Caribbean Destination Weddings

What You Can & Can't Bring Into Canada

Eurotunnel - Driving "Le Shuttle" Through the Channel Tunnel

Questions about traveling with a pet?

Contact | email | facebook.

Home > Pet Passports > Germany Pet Passport & Import Regulations

Germany Pet Passport & Import Regulations

Notice: the eu commission has classified the united kingdom as a part 2 listed third country. (more information here on this classification) if you are planning to travel to germany from the united kingdom, a titer test will not be required; however, uk pet passports will not be accepted. a different health certificate will be required. see step #5..

There will be no quarantine for your pet as long as the following regulations are met. Unless otherwise stated, the regulations below apply to domestic dogs, cats and ferrets including service and emotional support dogs and cats. Owners of other pets should refer to item 12.

Pet Microchip

The first step to prepare your dog, cat or ferret to enter Germany is to have your pet microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15 digit pet microchip .

If your pet currently has a microchip that is not ISO 11784/11785 compliant, then you have 3 choices:

• You can bring your own microchip scanner .
• You can contact the officials at the Border Inspection Post where you will enter the EU and inquire as to whether they have scanners that can read your pet's chip.
• If your pet's current microchip can still be read, your veterinarian can implant compliant chip. The number and implant dates of both microchips must be documented on the EU Health Certificate (see step #5).

A tattoo is an acceptable form of identification as long as it was given prior to July 3, 2011, is clearly visible and your pet was vaccinated for rabies after the tattoo was applied.

Rabies Vaccination

All dogs, cats and ferrets must have proof of a current rabies vaccination administered after a microchip was implanted to enter Germany.

The first rabies vaccination after the microchip is implanted is called the primary vaccination and it should be a one year vaccine unless manufacturer specifications permit its use as a primary vaccination. If your pet's previous rabies vaccination had expired before being revaccinated, the next vaccination becomes the primary vaccination.

All vaccinations that are administered after the primary vaccination are called booster vaccinations.

If your pet is entering Germany from a rabies-free (click here) or rabies-controlled country (click here) , the primary rabies vaccination must be administered no sooner than 21 days before entering Germany.

There is no waiting period after booster vaccinations as long as:

• the previous vaccination was administered after a microchip was implanted AND
• the booster vaccination was administered before the previous vaccination had expired.

Germany does honor the 3 year rabies vaccination for dogs, cats and ferrets; however, it should only be administered as a booster, not as a primary vaccination. You can speak to your veterinarian about this.

Once your pet has entered Germany, a 21 day waiting period is not required for subsequent visits, provided rabies boosters are kept up to date, and the other entry requirements are met.

If your pet is entering Germany from a high-rabies country, it must wait for a minimum of 30 days after the primary or booster vaccination before receiving a rabies titer test (see step #3).

Rabies Titer Test

If your pet is entering Germany from a high-rabies country (click here) , your pet must be microchipped, then vaccinated for rabies (in that order). After waiting a minimum of 30 days after the primary or booster vaccination, a rabies titer test (FAVN) must be administered. (Have your veterinarian scan your pet's microchip prior to the titer test.)

Samples must be processed at approved laboratories. Assuming test results are within acceptable limits, your pet can enter Germany no sooner than 3 calendar months after the date the blood was drawn and avoid quarantine. This step is not required unless entering Germany from a high-rabies country (click here) .

Tapeworm Treatment - Dogs Only

A tapeworm treatment is not required when entering Germany from any country.

Pet Health Certificate

The type of health certificate required for your pet depends on whether or not your pet's transport is accompanied OR it involves a purchase, sale or transfer of ownership. Choose from two options below.

Non-Commercial Transport: the owner or a legal representative of the owner is traveling with or within 5 days of the pet AND the transport does not involve purchase, sale or transfer of ownership.

Non-commercial transport to germany from a country outside of the eu:.

Regulations in steps 1 and 2 apply. If entering Germany from a high-rabies country, step 3 applies as well.

A licensed veterinarian in the originating country must complete the non-commercial EU health certificate for Germany . Endorsement by a government veterinarian must occur within 10 days of arrival.

If your pet is traveling from the United States, the veterinarian must be accredited by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the health certificate must be endorsed by a State USDA office unless the certificate is completed by a military Veterinary Corps Officer or GS-0701 series civilian government veterinarian employed by the military.

If your pet is traveling from Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency must endorse forms issued by Canadian veterinarians.

If traveling to Germany from another country, then the forms must be endorsed by the government agency responsible for the import and export of animals.

This form is good for transports of 5 or less dogs, cats or ferrets. (see item 6 if you are traveling with more than 5 pets.) The form is good for 4 months of travel within the EU as long as the rabies vaccination documented on it does not expire.

You or your representative must sign a Declaration of Non-Commercial Transport stating that your pet's transport does not involve the sale or transfer of ownership of your pet.

Non-Commercial Transport to Germany from another EU Member State:

Regulations in steps 1 and 2 apply.

Have your veterinarian update an EU Pet Passport for your pet. A non-commercial EU health certificate is not required for pets traveling to Germany from another EU Member State unless a rabies booster was administered by a veterinarian outside of the EU at any time after your pet received its microchip.

Commercial Transport: the owner or a legal representative of the owner is not traveling with or within 5 days of the pet OR the purpose of the transport involves a sale or transfer of ownership OR more than 5 dogs, cats or ferrets are traveling with or without their owner.

Traveling to germany from a rabies-free or rabies-controlled country outside the eu:.

All dogs, cats and ferrets may enter Germany commercially from EU countries, rabies-free or rabies-controlled countries. Dogs, cats and ferrets from other countries may only enter Germany with or within 5 days of their owners or their owner's representative. In this case, non-commercial rules would apply.

A licensed veterinarian in the originating country must complete the commercial EU health certificate for Germany . The certificate must be issued and endorsed within 48 hours of travel.

If your pet is traveling from the United States, the certificate must be endorsed by the local USDA office unless the certificate is completed by a military Veterinary Corps Officer or GS-0701 series civilian government veterinarian employed by the military.

If your pet is traveling from Canada, the form must be endorsed by the local CFIA office.

If your pet is traveling to Germany from another country, then the forms must be endorsed by the government agency responsible for the import and export of animals.

This form is good for transports of 5 or less dogs, cats or ferrets. (see item 5 if you are traveling with more than 5 pets). It is valid for 4 months of travel within the EU as long as your pet's rabies vaccination does not expire.

Your pet must enter through an approved Border Inspection Post (BIP) at an international airport in Köln Bonn, Berlin Tegel, Frankfurt Main, Hahn, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt-Hahn, Hannover-Langenhagen, Leipzig-Halle, Berlin Schönefeld and Stuttgart Airports. Notice must be given 24 hours prior to arrival. 

Commercial Transport to Germany from another EU Member State:

Your pet must travel from a licensed premises which is registered with the governing authority in your EU country responsible for the import and export of animals.

Your veterinarian must obtain and update an EU Pet Passport for your pet.

Your pet's veterinarian must issue an Intratrade health certificate completed within 48 hours of entry.

Your pet's transport must be entered into the TRACES system.

Traveling with more than 5 pets

If you are traveling with 6 or more cats, dogs or ferrets, in order to transport them under non-commercial regulations, they must be 6 months or older and attending or training for a competition, show or sporting event. If this is not the case, your pets must meet the requirements for commercial transport. (see step #5)

Entering Germany from Malaysia & Australia

If your pet is entering Germany from peninsular Malaysia, the following conditions must be met:

1. Your pet has had no contact with pigs during at least the past 60 days prior to export. 2. Your pet has not lived in a place where cases of Nipah disease have been confirmed during the past 60 days. 3. Your pet has been tested with negative a result to an IgG capture ELISA test carried out in a laboratory approved for testing for Nipah disease viruses within 10 days of export.

Cats may only enter Germany from Australia under the condition that they have not lived in areas where cases of Hendra disease have been confirmed during the past 60 days.

Entering Germany by Air

Accompanied pets entering by air from all non-EU countries except Andorra, Switzerland, the Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Greenland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino and the Vatican City State must do so at Border Inspection Posts at the following airports: Berlin, Munich, Shoenfeld, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Hannover, Koln, Hahn, Leipzig-Halle.

Pets should enter Germany directly or transit through another EU Member State. If your pet transits through a high-rabies country, then a Transit Declaration will be required stating that your pet has had no contact with rabies-carrying animals and remained secured within the airplane or airport.

All domestic dogs and cats must be free of evidence of disease communicable to humans when examined at the port of entry to Germany. If your dog or cat is not in apparent good health, further examination by a licensed veterinarian may be required at your expense.

Puppies and Kittens

Puppies and kittens may only be imported into Germany or pass through Germany in transit with adequate vaccine protection against rabies.

The earliest age that rabies vaccination can be administered is 12 weeks of age. Entry will not be permitted until at least 21 days have passed after rabies vaccination if entering from another EU country or rabies-controlled country. Puppies and kittens entering from high-rabies countries cannot do so until they are at least 7 months of age.

Banned Breeds

Germany bans the import or transit of certain dog breeds and their crosses: Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Bull Terrier.

There are a few exceptions to this ban. If your dog is staying in Germany for less than 4 weeks, it is exempted from these regulations. Additionally, exemptions apply for dogs of these breeds that have previously lived in Germany and are being returned to Germany. Security or watch dogs, dogs providing service for the disabled and dogs of the rescue and civil protection services are also exempted. Documentation must be provided to substantiate the exemption.

Additional breeds can be restricted according to the regulations of the Federal land in which they will be establishing residence. Specific backup regarding your dog's breed should be available. (pedigree, results of character evaluations, service certificate, etc.)

If your dog will be residing in any of the following Federal Lands, then locally competent authorities of the Land in which the dog is intended to be kept permanently will need to issue permission for its import in advance.

If your dog will be residing in the Federal land of Baden-Württemberg, then these breeds are considered as dangerous: Bullmastiff, Dogo Argentino, Bordeaux Dogge, Fila Brasilero, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Mastiff and Tosa Inu.

If your dog will be residing in the Federal land of Bavaria, then these breeds are considered as dangerous: Bandog, Tosa Inu, Alano, American Bulldog, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler, Perro de Presa Canario (Dogo Canario) and Perro de Presa Mallorquin.

If your dog will be residing in the Federal land of Berlin, then these breeds are considered as dangerous: Tosa Inu, Alano, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Dobermann, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler, Perro de Presa Canario (Dogo Canario) and Perro de Presa Mallorquin.

If your dog will be residing in the Federal land of Hamburg, then these breeds are considered as dangerous: Bullmastiff, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Kangal Dog, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler and Tosa Inu.

If your dog will be residing in the Federal land of Hesse, then these breeds are considered as dangerous: American Bulldog, Dogo Argentiono, Kangal Dog (Karabash), Caucasian Shepherd Dog and Rottweiler.

Exporting Pets Living in Germany

All dogs, cats and ferrets leaving Germany for another EU Member State must be microchipped, vaccinated for rabies (in that order) and wait 21 days before leaving the country.  If you are planning to take your pet on a trip to a country with a high incidence of rabies , your veterinarian should do a Blood Titer Test before you leave Germany if you intend to return. Export permits may be required for non-accompanied transports.

Other Animals

There are no rabies requirements for other species of rodents, rabbits, ornamental fish, intervebrates, amphibians and reptiles imported to Germany from other EU states as well as Andorra, Switzerland, Croatia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway and San Marino.

Up to 3 guinea pigs or hamsters can be imported into Germany with their owner. A health certificate is recommended.

Birds being imported from rabies-controlled countries under non-commercial regulations must accompany their owners. There must not be more than 5 birds in a transport.

Birds that have not been vaccinated against Avian Influenza may either:

Be subjected to quarantine for at least 10 days in the country of origin. Samples must be taken from the birds no earlier than on the third day of isolation. These samples must be tested for the detection of H5N1 antigen or genome with negative results.

In the case of specific countries of origin, 30 days of isolatation in the originating country before traveling or at an approved facility in Germany instead of placing them in quarantine for 10 days and taking blood samples.

Birds that have been vaccinated with an H5 vaccine on at least 2 occasions, with the last vaccination being administered at least 60 days and no more than 6 months prior to importation, will avoid all quarantine.

Your bird must be accompanied by an Annex II heatlh certificate issued by a licensed vet and endorsed by the agency responsible for the import and export of animals within 10 days of travel.

Birds entering Germany from another EU country must be accompanied by a health certificate.

If your pet is not a dog, cat or ferret, and especially if it is a turtle or parrot, you should verify that it is not protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).  You will need to apply for additional permits if this is the case. Over 180 countries participate and enforce CITES regulations.

• Search CITES database .
• Read More about CITES

Need More Information?

To the best of our ability, we ensure that recommendations given on PetTravel.com reflect the current regulations. We cannot predict how a given country may enforce these regulations. Noncompliance may result in the need to make arrangements to put your pet into quarantine at your expense, return your pet to the country of origin, or euthanize your pet. We suggest that you minimize the disruptions that may occur by following the rules of the country you are visiting.

Further detail on import permits, costs, tests and procedures are available at minimal cost at PetTravelStore.com . We also stock all the equipment and accessories you will need for traveling with your pet. Same day shipping Monday through Friday until 4:00 PM EST.

GOT QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS???

Due to the high demand, we may be unable to respond to your  question quickly if posted below. If you need a fast response, you can post them directly to our Facebook page , blog , or forum . We will respond as soon as we can.

Please note that the accuracy of comments made from Facebook users other than Pet Travel have not been verified. We do not endorse any person or company that may offer transport services through posts to this webpage.

(239) 344-8959

Client Portal

• How it Works
• Cat Transport
• Corporate Pet Relocation
• Dog Transport
• International Pet Transport
• Military Pet Relocation
• US Domestic Pet Transport
• US Pet Imports
• Pet Protection Plan
• Testimonials
• Why Choose Starwood?
• Country Pet Travel Guides
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Travel Kennel Calculator
• State of Pet Travel Annual Report
• Destinations

Moving a Pet to Germany

Rules and regulations for international pet shipping, blood tests, import permit, health certificates, photo of pet, banned breeds, age restrictions.

• Microchip for Pet Travel to Germany
• Quarantine for Pet Travel to Germany
• Area Specific Information

Pet Carrier Measurement Guide

Ultimate guide to moving pets, international airline pet policies, top destinations in germany.

• How Starwood Can Help

What Pet Travel Documents Are Needed to Travel to Germany?

The German Federal Customs Service (known as “ZOLL”) is responsible for regulating pet importation. As with every other country, the rules for moving to Germany with a pet depend on where you’re living now. For example, if you and your dog or cat (or ferret) are coming from another European Union country and your pet already has an EU Pet Passport , you’re good to go.

You can read those rules in detail here if you currently live in a non-EU country. As an overview, however, you’ll find everything you need to know below. Germany’s regulations are not complex compared to many other countries.

Originals of all documents must travel with your pet.

Rabies Vaccinations

Rabies is the only immunization required for dogs, cats, and ferrets to enter Germany. To be considered valid, the rabies vaccine must be administered after or at the same time your pet is microchipped. The vaccination must be greater than 21 days old and less than one year old at the time of travel. 

To enter Germany, your pet’s microchip must be ISO-compliant. If your pet has a microchip that was implanted prior to rabies vaccination, they will not need to be re-vaccinated but will need to get a second, ISO-compliant microchip. All paperwork must show both microchip numbers.

The first rabies vaccination given after implantation of a microchip (or at the same time) is considered the “primary” vaccination. This definition also applies to a vaccination given after an earlier rabies vaccine has expired. All pets must wait at least 21 days between the current rabies vaccination date and their arrival in Germany.

Other Vaccinations Pets are not required to be vaccinated for anything other than rabies. However, the following vaccines are recommended to be valid when your pet enters Germany and should be given at least 2 weeks before your pet departs:

• Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus (DHLPP), and Bordetella
• Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP)

If you are moving from a non-listed country (where rabies is a known problem or not reliably controlled), your pet will also require a rabies titer blood test. The blood test must:

• Be completed by a government-approved veterinarian
• Be sent to an approved laboratory
• Be completed at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination and at least 3 months prior to travel

Dogs, cats, and ferrets do not need an import permit to enter Germany.

The health certificate must be completed within 10 days prior to your pet’s departure.

Pet photos are not required. If someone asks, though, we suspect you’ll have plenty available on your phone to show them!

What Are the Pet Restrictions for Germany?

When it comes to banned dog breeds , Germany’s regulations do become complicated. Countrywide, except for documented service dogs, you may not import any dog that is a purebred or mix of Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or Bull Terrier. Beyond that, however, each of the country’s federal Lands (equivalent to states in the US) can enact their own restrictions.

Dogs considered dangerous by federal Land:

• Baden-Württemberg - Bullmastiff, Dogo Argentino, Bordeaux Dogge, Fila Brasilero, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Mastiff, Tosa Inu
• Bavaria - Bandog, Tosa Inu, Alano, American Bulldog, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler, Perro de Presa Canario (Dogo Canario), Perro de Presa Mallorquin

Brandenburg - Tosa Inu, Alano, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Dobermann, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler, Perro de Presa Canario (Dogo Canario), Perro de Presa Mallorquin

• Hamburg - Bullmastiff, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Kangal Dog, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler, Tosa Inu
• Hesse - American Bulldog, Dogo Argentino, Kangal Dog (Karabash), Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Rottweiler

If your dog is on the restricted list for the Land where you will be living, you may be able to obtain prior written permission from local authorities to import your pet after all.

Germany does not allow pets not vaccinated against rabies to enter the country. Puppies cannot be vaccinated until they are 12 weeks old, and the vaccine must be given at least 21 days prior to entry. Therefore, puppies must be at least 15 weeks old for import. If you are coming from a non-listed country as described above, the minimum age for import is 7 months due to additional time required for the blood titer test following rabies vaccination.

Do I Need a Microchip for My Pet to Travel to Germany?

Every pet entering Germany must be implanted with a microchip that is A 15-digit ISO standard or 9-digit AVID compliant.  

Pets must be microchipped before the rabies vaccination is administered.

If your pet has an older microchip, it may be possible to carry a chip reader with you, but your vet can easily and safely implant your pet with a second, ISO-compatible chip. Note that pets with two microchips must show the number and date of implantation for BOTH chips on all documents.

We strongly urge pet parents to also register their pet’s microchip with Global Pet Register .  Other registries are country-specific; GPR is the only pet recovery database that works around the world.

What Are the Quarantine Requirements for a Pet Traveling to Germany?

As long as your pet meets all the requirements and has the proper documentation, they will not face quarantine. However, a lack of adequate paperwork can result in quarantine, deportation, or worse.

Are There Any Area Specific Pet Requirements in Germany?

As noted above under Banned Breeds, each Land within Germany can set its own rules for pets living within their jurisdiction. Checking in advance about rules for pet import, licensing, etc. will help avoid surprises and make your move go more smoothly.

FAQs on Pet Travel

• Frankfurt, Germany

Our Top Blogs About Germany

What You Need To Know About Moving Your Pet To...Germany!

Petiquette in Germany

Social Dog Walks in Germany

Keeping Your Dog Warm in Germany During the Winter

Dog Commands in German

Our Germany pet shipping services include:

• Door-to-door transport
• Assistance with health certificates, import certificates, and other travel documents needed for animal transport to Germany (outlined above)
• USDA endorsement and consular legalization (when needed) of all relevant documents where required
• Airline-approved flight kennels provided with personalized labels, identification and emergency notification instructions
• Customs clearance and delivery to your home
• Local pet taxi service to and from the airport, your home, veterinarian, kennel, or groomer – available in major German cities as well as their surrounding areas
• Travel consultation and flight reservations

We will inform you of your pet's full itinerary before the trip and we will update you as your pet travels  to Germany .

Request a FREE Quote

Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture

Social media accounts of the ministry.

• instragram_icon
• youtube_icon

Rules on entering the European Union (EU) with dogs, cats and ferrets

The rules of Regulation (EU) no. 576/2013 have applied to the entry with dogs, cats and ferrets from non-EU countries (so-called third countries) since 29 December 2014. These regulations aim to provide protection against the introduction and spread of rabies.

The requirements regarding the animal health status are, in principle, based on the rabies situation both in the third country of origin and in the Member State of destination within the EU. A maximum of 5 of these pets may be carried per person. The animals must not be intended to be given to a new owner.

By way of derogation, the maximum number of 5 pets may be exceeded if the animals are being moved for the purpose of participating in competitions, shows and sporting events or of training for such events (not for trading purposes). These animals must be at least 6 months old and evidence in writing must be provided that they have been registered for one of the above-mentioned events.

In all other cases the rules for trade in animals apply. For more detailed information, please refer to theOrdinance on Intra-Community Movement, Import and Transit of Live Animals and Products (Ordinance on Disease Control).

In Germany, the federal states ( supreme veterinary authorities of the Länder ) are in charge of implementing and monitoring this EU Regulation.

Preconditions for entry to the EU

Dogs, cats and ferrets from Andorra, the Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Greenland, Iceland, Croatia, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican City must be accompanied by a pet passport that meets the requirements of Annex III, Parts 3 and 4 of the implementing Regulation (EU) no. 577/2013 .

It must be possible to clearly assign this pet passport to the respective animal, i.e. it must be possible to identify the animal by tattoo or microchip and the identification number must be entered in the passport. Since 3 July 2011, micro-chipping has been mandatory for newly identified animals. The pet passport also needs to certify valid anti-rabies protection.

If the animals come from third countries listed in Annex II Part 2 of the implementing Regulation (EC) no. 577/2013 , the following conditions apply:

• Every animal needs to be identified by a clearly readable tattoo or by a microchip (this has been mandatory for newly identified animals since 3 July 2011, Technical requirements for transponders   (PDF, 31KB, File does not meet accessibility standards) ) and
• proof of valid immunisation against rabies must be furnished in the animal health certificate . At all events, care must be taken that the vaccination must not be performed before attaching the microchip in order to guarantee that the rabies vaccination can be clearly and unmistakably attributed to the animal. The period of validity of vaccine protection is based on the information provided by the manufacturer. If in doubt, please ask your veterinarian. A primary vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before the border is crossed.
• Entry is conditional on the animals being accompanied by a person responsible for the animals. The accompanying person must provide a declaration in writing stating that the animal's movement is not intended for sale or a change of hands.
• Entry may only be made in a direct manner. If the animals pass through non-listed countries during transportation, the keeper or his agent must certify in a self-declaration that the animal did not have any contact with animals susceptible to rabies in transit and that it did not leave the means of transport or the airport.

If the country of origin is not listed and the rabies situation there and its monitoring is thus unclear or alarming, the following conditions also apply:

• Prior to entry, the animals must be subjected to a blood test for antibodies against rabies. The blood sampling must have been performed at least 30 days after vaccination and at least three months before entry. The blood sample must be taken by a veterinarian who is authorised for this purpose in the respective third country. The blood test itself must be performed in a laboratory approved by the European Commission (Annex I of Commission Decision 2004/233/EC). List of laboratories authorised to perform rabies tests in the Member States and in the third countrie It is recommended to get in touch with the laboratory concerned beforehand in order to agree on the conditions for the dispatch of the blood sample. If the vaccination intervals as set down by the vaccine manufacturers have been observed after the blood test, it is not necessary to repeat the blood test.
• The three-month period prior to entry does not apply to the re-entry of pets from a non-listed third country into the EU if the accompanying EU pet passport shows that the blood sample was taken before this animal left the Community territory and that sufficient antibodies to rabies were detected in the blood analysis.

The above-mentioned conditions governing entry must be documented in an animal health certificate that is issued by an officially authorised veterinarian (the Chinese veterinary authorities require that the animal health certificate is in the Chinese language ). In addition, the traveller must carry supporting documents such as a vaccination certificate or a document furnishing proof of the results of the blood test.

Entry is conditional on the animals being accompanied by a person responsible for the animals. The accompanying person must provide a declaration in writing stating that the movement of the animal is not intended for sale or a change of ownership.

Please note that all pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) always have their documents and identity checked when entering/re-entering the EU from a non-EU country. The accompanying person must register the animal with the customs authority for this purpose. Pets from third countries must enter the country via an airport or port that appears in the " List of points of entry to the Federal Republic of Germany ". Exempted from this provision are pets from Andorra, Switzerland, the Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Greenland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino and the Vatican City State.

Ban on entry and transit with puppies/kitten under 15 weeks of age

Puppies may only be imported into Germany or pass through Germany in transit with adequate vaccine protection against rabies. In this context, a distinction is made between animals coming from a listed third country and from a non-listed third country.

If the puppies come from a listed third country, they may be imported into Germany at the age of 15 weeks at the earliest (rabies vaccination after 12 weeks + 21 days to develop immunity).

Young animals from non-listed third countries are eligible for import at the age of 7 months at the earliest (rabies vaccination after 12 weeks + blood sample 30 days after vaccination + a waiting period of 3 months).

List of points of entry to the Federal Republic of Germany

The following table shows the list of points of entry to the Federal Republic of Germany according to Article 34(3) of Regulation (EU) No 576/2013 of the European Parliament and the Council of 12 June 2013 on the non-commercial movement of pet animals and repealing Regulation (EC) No 998/2003.

Released 12. Aug 2020 as article

Further information

• Regulation (EU) No 576/2013 of the European Parlament and of the Council of 12 June 2013   (PDF, 984KB, File does not meet accessibility standards)
• Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 577/2013 of 28 June 2013   (PDF, 14MB, File does not meet accessibility standards)
• Paul-Ehrlich-Institute: Vaccines for Veterinary Use
• animal-husbandry
• international-affairs

Related topics

Animal welfare.

Farm animals

Animal health

Veterinary medicinal products

Livestock trade and transport

How To Germany’s privacy policy .

Pets in Germany

• Written by: How To Germany
• Last updated: October 4, 2022

Bringing your pet(s) to Germany from a non-EU country

Transporting your pet Rules for air transport of animals vary from airline to airline, but, in response to customer demand, they are usually friendly about it. The airline should be notified when you book the flight if you plan to take a pet.

It’s almost always required that the traveling animal be in a shipping crate that is sturdy, properly ventilated and large enough so that the pet may freely stand, turn around and lie down. Prescribed crates are available at pet stores and from most airlines. Remember to check with the airline when in doubt.

The crate usually goes in a pressurized cargo bay, though some airlines allow passengers to carry their pets in the cabin if the crate can fit under a seat.

There are pet travel services that can be useful, especially if the animal won’t be accompanied by the owner. They also can advise on pitfalls to shipment such as a quarantine period at the destination.

To prevent the illegal and unethical trade of animals, owners of pets must accompany their pets or travel within five days of the pet – either before or after. (If the animal travels more than five days before or after the arrival of the owner, then the pet has to meet different and more stringent requirements before they are allowed into Germany.)

Entering Germany

Each person moving to Germany from outside the EU is allowed to bring in a maximum of five animals as part of their “personal or household items”. The animals should be family “pets” and not brought to Germany to be traded or sold.

Animals brought into Germany (and other mainland European countries in the EU) do not have to be quarantined if they have the proper vaccinations (and the paperwork to prove that) and if they come from a country on a EU approved list. More information on the harmonization of EU country regulations regarding pets can be found at this link.

Since pets are regarded as part of the importation of household goods and personal items, there are certain rules and regulations that apply to them. The  German Customs Office (Zollamt)  is the federal agency charged with making sure that pet owners comply with the rules. The animals that are screened and can be approved for import by the Customs Office include cats, dogs, ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs and other rodents, horses, turtles or tortoises (if not considered an endangered species), ornamental fish, parrots and parakeets, carrier pigeons and other types of birds. If you want to bring in any other type of animal you should check with the German Embassy or Consulate in your home country to see what procedures you may need to follow. This especially applies to animal species that may be on an endangered species list or other “exotic” pets.

Dogs and Cats (and ferrets)

If you wish to bring a cat or dog into Germany from a country outside the EU, the animal must have been vaccinated for rabies at least 30 days but no more than 12 months prior to its entry. Proof of the vaccination must be presented at the border. This proof can be a form in both German and English that has been completed by your vet. You can download a  EU Veterinary Certificate in German/English here .

It is a European Union requirement that dogs and cats have an identification number, either on a clearly visible tattoo or as a microchip, and that this number corresponds to one on the examination certificate. Microchips must be implanted in pets before they get their rabies shots. Microchips are now required for all pets except for those who were tattooed before July 3, 2011.

Certain breeds (and cross breeds) of dogs present special problems. The rules vary from state to state in Germany, but most consider Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers too dangerous. Their import is banned. Several of the states, including Bavaria, Brandenburg and North Rhine-Westphalia, also have what they consider a Category 2 Kampfhund, and this includes the Rottweiler.

There is no outright ban on the import of Rottweilers and other Category 2 Kampfhund breeds or crossbreeds, but they must be submitted to a viciousness test. If they pass the test they are treated like any other dog. But if they fail they are subject to the same rules as the Pit Bulls and Terriers. If they are not outright banned from the state they face a high licensing fee, must be neutered and must be muzzled and kept on a leash whenever they are off the owner’s property.

For more detailed information on which breeds may be banned and in which states the ban is effective it would be wise to contact a specialist in importing pets. You can also go to  www.zoll.de  for a detailed list of banned breeds and other information about restrictions on dangerous dogs.

There are generally no special restrictions on the importation of service dogs, but they need to meet the vaccination and identification requirements.

Importing Service dogs that fall under the “Dangerous dogs" category.

Service dogs that are included in the “dangerous breeds” categories are defined by the Customs Office (Zollamt) as:

“Security or watch dogs, dogs for handicapped people, guide dogs for the visually handicapped, and rescue and civil protection service dogs.”

They also state:

“Similarly, dangerous dogs which are to be kept as service dogs by public services or armed forces as well as guide dogs, dogs accompanying the disabled and dogs of disaster and rescue protection services may be imported.”

They go on to state:

“In these cases it is absolutely essential that the owner possesses the documents necessary to verify the animals (for example: a pedigree certificate, a vaccination certificate, a character test certificate, and other certificates from the competent office of public order).

The competent public order offices and the central customs information service can answer general inquiries, and your local competent customs office can answer specific questions about your actually intended or already initiated clearance procedures.”

More information about this is  here .

Birds Proof of vaccination against Avian Flu (A1 and HSN1)) may be required before birds can enter Germany. Birds that may not have been vaccinated face a quarantine of at least 10 days in the country of origin or 30 days in Germany so they can be tested to make sure they do not carry the disease. Birds must also have a veterinarian health certificate proving ownership. These certificates are only valid for 10 days.

Rabbits, Hamsters, Guinea Pigs There is a limit on the number of rabbits that can be brought into Germany. Only three can be brought in as private pets. Any more than three would fall under the “commercial trade in pets” rules. Hamsters and guinea pigs can be brought in with no conditions, except for being included in the total number of allowable pets.

Snakes, reptiles and other exotic animals It is recommended to check with the German Embassy or Consulate in your home country before bringing in certain reptiles or other exotic animals to see whether they may fall under the protected or endangered species categories. Certain animals can only be brought into the country through authorized entry points.

When your pets arrive

If you live in rented quarters you must have the permission of the landlord before keeping a pet.

As in many other countries, dogs must be licensed. A tax on dogs (Hundesteuer) must also be paid. This can vary from state to state and municipality to municipality. Check with the local authorities. Cats need no license, nor are they taxed. Check with the authorities for other rules regarding other pets such as leash laws and rules regarding allowing pets to roam free.

With these and all pets, the owner is legally responsible for anything the animal does. They are subject to lawsuits if, for instance, a dog runs a motorcyclist off the road and he is disabled for life. A personal liability policy that includes coverage of ownership of a dog and other pets is recommended.

Dogs (with the exception of service dogs) are not allowed in grocery stores, butcher shops and other shops where fresh food is sold. Some Konditerei, or cafes, don’t allow them either. Many restaurants allow them if they behave properly. Establishments that don’t want you to bring your dog inside will have a small sign affixed on the window. It usually shows a picture of a dog and will read something like, Wir müssen leider daraussen warten (unfortunately, we must wait outside).

Veterinarians in Germany

A veterinarian in Germany is called a Tierarzt(in). You can find Tierärtze in print and online telephone listings. There is no shortage of qualified vets in Germany. Many vets also speak English.

Many vet offices have a distinct sign hanging outside their offices – a large V with a snake coiled around a staff inside the letter. A standard vet’s office is much like a regular doctor’s office. There may be one or two vets and some staff. They can normally perform a number of treatments and administer vaccines and medications. They may also have some basic diagnostic equipment that could include x-ray machines, blood testing equipment and ultrasound equipment.

An animal hospital is called a Tierklinik. A Tierklinik is normally staffed by vets, support staff and veterinary school students doing their practical rotations. The clinics offer the full range of services to include surgeries, overnight boarding for observation and full diagnostic services with modern equipment. They also have staff on hand (or on call) around the clock to handle emergencies.

Payment for your pet’s treatment is normally made right away using cash or an EC card. In some cases, the vet may offer to send a bill if you don’t have cash on hand.

Traveling in the EU with your pets

You can take your dog or cat with you when traveling in Germany. Train tickets in Germany can be purchased for them at about half the regular fare.

For travel within European Union countries, qualifying pets (cats and dogs and some others) must now have a passport issued by a licensed veterinarian. The passport serves to properly identify pets and has a record of their vaccinations. It is valid for the life of the pet and is identical for all European countries.

Pet rabbits, rodents, fish and reptiles do not need a passport.

The German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture has more information on the  movement of pets at this link .

You can download pdf samples of passports here .

Get your free documentation list now

Bringing Pets To: Germany

Are you transporting your dog or cat to Germany? You've come to the right place! There are many considerations when it comes to pet transport to Germany to ensure your trip or move goes smoothly. Connect with our experts and see how we can make this portion of your pet relocation to Germany as stress-free as possible so that you can focus on your human move.

Need Our Support?

Let's Get Moving!

What to Know Before Transporting Dogs and Cats to Germany

Microchip and vaccinations.

Make sure your pet meets these basic requirements so you can begin the import process.

Import Documentation

The EU requires endorsed import documentation that your veterinarian must complete.

The 5-Day Rule (and more)

Have you heard about the EU 5-Day Rule? Learn about this and other factors that could affect your move.

Germany Pet Import Requirements and Timeline

Time frame: we recommend starting at least 30 days ahead

All dogs and cats transported to and entering Germany must be microchipped and vaccinated according to German requirements. Read more below for specific details and requirements. 

How to start the process of moving your pet to Germany

• Each pet shall be identified using a microchip.
• No other form of identification is acceptable.
• The microchip should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO standard 11785.
• Germany currently accepts AVID 9 and AVID 10 in addition to ISO.
• The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is administered.
• All pets must have an original Rabies Certificate signed by the vet. The Rabies vaccine must be at least 21 days old at the time of the final health exam.

Further details regarding the rabies vaccine:

• Pets may be transported to Germany with a current one-year vaccine (also known as a “primary” vaccine).
• Pets may be transported to Germany with a 3-year vaccine that was administered less than a year ago (otherwise it may be considered a booster).

Other recommended vaccines include:

• Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus (DHLPP) and Bordetella.
• Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).

Pet relocation services to Germany can help you understand this timeline and help you start the process of transporting your pet to ensure a seamless move.

These should be valid at the time of import and administered no less than two weeks before export date for maximum effectiveness.

Time frame: Within 10 days prior to departure (non-commercial)

• During this step, we provide detailed templates to your veterinarian and offer guidance to ensure all required forms are completed correctly for German Import Requirements.

If you have any questions or concerns about the process, our team of experts is always available to assist you. We have years of experience with pet transport to Germany and can help you navigate everything from German pet import requirements to finding an accredited veterinarian.

Proper paperwork prevents hangups at customs

EU Health Certificate

Your dedicated relocation coordinator will provide you with an EU Health Certificate that your accredited veterinarian must fill out and sign in a different color ink than the certificate's printing, usually blue ink. This certificate is valid for 10 days from the date of issue by the official veterinarian until the date of the checks at the EU point of entry. If you plan to travel further within the EU, don't hesitate to contact us for additional guidance.

USDA Endorsements

To ensure compliance with the USDA regulations, the following forms must be sent to your local USDA for approval:

• Microchip Implantation Record
• Rabies Certificate
• EU Vet Health Certificate
• Airline Health Certificate

It's important to note that these forms should be readily available from your vet, but it's recommended to call ahead and confirm availability.

• Remember that your vet must complete the EU Health Certificate within ten days of departure.
• However, please note that this timeframe changes within the context of a commercial move, where additional requirements may apply.
• Read below for more information on the 5-day rule and commercial move requirements.

Important information to keep your move on track.

Since Germany is an EU country, make sure you know the regulations unique to the EU!

What to know about about commercial moves and breed bans

EU 5-Day Rule

If your dog or cat is being transported “non-commercially,” they must fly within five days of their owner. If you cannot meet this 5-Day Rule, the move can still be carried out, but it will be considered a commercial move, which increases costs and changes the EU import requirements and timeline. In such cases, you will need to meet stricter import requirements. 

Banned Breeds in Germany

Not all dog breeds are allowed in Germany. The following breeds (or a mix of one) are banned,even if they are family pets:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Bull Terrier
• Rottweilers (not banned, but subject to a viciousness test)

Export and transit are not affected by this ban.

Unlisted Countries and Additional Requirements

If you come from an "unlisted country," your pet will need a rabies antibody test, also known as a titer. In this case, you must follow the below steps before arriving in Germany with your pet:

• Microchip and rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old before blood draw)
• Rabies antibody test performed by an accredited veterinarian and sent to an EU-approved laboratory.
• Before completing export paperwork, you must wait 90 days after the blood draw (assuming a passing result).

Find out if your origin country is listed here before choosing a pet relocation service to Germany.

Travel Stories and Tips

More Blog Posts from Germany

More Stories of Pet Moves to Germany

Moving to Germany with a Dog or Cat

• Moving to Germany
• July 20, 2023

When immigrating to Germany, individuals are permitted to bring a maximum of five pets with them. However, it is important to note that there are specific requirements and regulations in place for the non-commercial immigration of cats and dogs, which may vary depending on the breed of the pet and the country of departure. These requirements primarily focus on ensuring the health and well-being of the animals.

Essential requirements to move with your dog or cat to Germany

The regulations are in line with the broader animal health requirements set by the European Union for the movement of pets within EU countries.

One of the key requirements for bringing a cat or dog into Germany from a non-EU country is that the animal must have been vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination should have been administered at least 30 days prior to entry, but no more than 12 months before. Proof of this vaccination must be provided at the border. It is advisable to obtain a form, available in both German and English, from a veterinarian to serve as documentation.

Additionally, all dogs and cats entering Germany must have an identification number, which can be in the form of a visible tattoo or a microchip. This identification number should correspond to the information provided in the examination certificate. It is important to note that microchips should be implanted in pets before they receive their rabies shots. However, exceptions exist for pets that were tattooed before July 3, 2011.

What dogs are not allowed to bring to Germany

It is worth mentioning that certain breeds and crossbreeds of dogs may present specific challenges when immigrating to Germany. Regulations pertaining to these breeds can vary from state to state within Germany.

Note: Please be aware that importing or holding certain ‘dangerous’ dog (category 1) breeds in Germany is prohibited or requires a special permit. On their website the german customs office details these regulations and which breeds are affected. Among these are: 

• Pit Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Bull Terrier

Some states, such as Bavaria, Brandenburg, and North Rhine-Westphalia, also have regulations for a category known as “Kampfhund,” (category 2) which includes the Doberman, Komondor, Kuvasz, Maremma, Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Rhodesian Ridgeback and Rottweiler. While these breeds are not outright banned from import, they are subject to additional requirements, such as a character test, and may face restrictions or licensing fees.

Some Airlines also restrict air travel for certain breeds that “have unique respiratory challenges due to the anatomy of their noses and throats, and are more prone to risk when under stress or exposed to other environmental changes.” This particularly affects snub-nosed breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and British Shorthair or Persian cats.

Importing service dogs, including those categorized as “dangerous dogs,” is generally allowed in Germany. Service dogs encompass various roles, such as security or watch dogs, dogs for disabled individuals, guide dogs for the visually impaired, and rescue and civil protection service dogs. However, specific documentation, including pedigree certificates, vaccination certificates, and character test certificates, may be required to verify the status of the service dog. It is recommended to contact the relevant authorities, such as the local customs office or the central customs information service, for precise information and guidance regarding the clearance procedures for service dogs.

Moving to Germany with pets: Entry Requirements

Generally, pets must fulfill these requirements to be able to enter Germany: 

Age: The minimum age your pet needs to have to enter Germany is 15 weeks.

Microchip : your pet must have a microchip that conforms to ISO standard 11784 (HDX or FDX-B transmission) and can be read with a reader corresponding to ISO standard 11785. (For Pets marked before July 201: a clearly readable tattoo is also accepted).

Rabies Vaccination: Your pet must have a valid rabies shot before entering Germany. The rabies vaccination must be injected after the microchip. In the case of primary vaccination, you must wait 21 days after the shot before entering Germany.

EU: Pet-Passport If you are traveling from an EU country, you will need to present your EU Pet Passport. You can get a European Pet Passport from any authorized vet, and it is valid as long as the rabies vaccination is active.

Non-EU: Animal Health Certificate: The Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is a legal requirement to take your pet to Germany from outside the EU. This document is issued by an official veterinarian and proves that your pet is free from rabies and any other foreign diseases.

Non-EU: A blood test  For some countries, the EU requires an additional blood test to be conducted to ensure the good health of your pet. On this website of the European Union , you can find out if your pet has to get the test done before traveling.

If you are unsure or require ore specific information for your country of departure, you can either check the website of the federal ministry for food and agriculture or contact the local German embassy or consulate.

What happens if your pet does not fullfill the requirements? 

If you fail to fulfill the requirements for bringing your pet to Germany, there are consequences. German customs officials can confiscate your pet, and it will be placed in quarantine at a local animal shelter. The costs for the quarantine will be your responsibility. The length of the quarantine can vary depending on the specific requirements that were not met, and it can last up to six months. It is essential to ensure that you comply with all the necessary regulations and requirements to avoid any issues when bringing your pet to Germany.

Dog registration and Taxes

Dog registration is a mandatory requirement in Germany, and it typically involves obtaining a license for your dog, which requires an annual fee. The registration process can usually be completed at the local Rathaus or communal office in most cities.

However, in some areas, you may have the option to waive the first annual fee by participating in a course to obtain a dog license, known as “Hundeführerschein.” This course includes an exam that tests your knowledge of the rights and responsibilities associated with owning a pet.

How to travel to Germany with my pet?

Transporting your pet to Germany requires careful planning and consideration. The method of transportation will depend on your location and whether you’re traveling within Europe or from a different continent. While driving is an option within Europe, many expats choose public transport or air travel.

Pets are generally allowed on German public transport, often for free or at a reduced fare with a train ticket. Most airlines also accommodate pets, but it’s important to inform the airline during the flight booking process to ensure they can accompany you.

Non-commercial import of pets to Germany is limited to a maximum of five dogs, cats, or ferrets.

When flying, airlines typically require a special travel container for your pet with proper ventilation and space for movement. It’s crucial to label the kennel clearly to avoid misplacement and ensure your pet has enough food and water for the journey.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has established guidelines for approved containers for pets traveling in the cabin or as cargo. Familiarize yourself with these requirements before your trip.

For flights under 10 hours, many airlines allow small cats or dogs to travel in the cabin. Usually, only one pet per passenger is permitted, and a maximum of two pets per cabin. Ensure the pet carrier fits under the seat, has a waterproof bottom, and adequate ventilation. Sherpa, Bergan, and SturdiBag carriers are compliant with airline regulations when appropriately sized.

Related Posts

Maternity leave Germany

• Louisa Anger
• July 11, 2023
• Living in Germany

Buying a car in Germany

Studying in Germany 

Afternoon activities for children in Germany

Childcare in Germany

Social Security in Germany: Social Benefits and State Aids

Moving To Germany With Pets [A Step-By-Step Guide]

Researched & written

by Jen Palacios

April 19, 2024

Moving to Germany alone is complex, however moving to Germany with pets can be an extra stressful experience, but it does not have to be one if you prepare well. 

If you are wondering if you can bring your cat or dog to Germany, the answer is with the proper documents, yes, you can! In most cases, all you will need is for your pets to have a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and an Animal Health Certificate .

In this guide, we will cover the requirements to travel with your pet to Germany and some tips that will make flying with your furry friend easier.

This guide is for non-commercial dog and cat immigration to Germany. You are allowed to bring a maximum of 5 pets.

🖌️ Table of Contents

Requirements for bringing a pet to Germany

If you want to move to Germany with pets and you are probably wondering what papers you need, here is the list:

According to the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the minimum age your cat or dog needs to have to enter Germany is 15 weeks.

The 15 weeks minimum age comes from the fact that dogs and cats must have a rabies vaccine to enter Germany. The first vaccine against rabies can be given to a puppy or kitten after they turn 12 weeks. It takes around 21 days for the rabies immunity to build up. So adding those weeks together, we land on the minimum 15 weeks of age.

2. A microchip

Your pet must have a microchip that conforms to ISO standard 11784 (HDX or FDX-B transmission) and can be read with a reader corresponding to ISO standard 11785 ( source ). I know this sounds very technical, but don’t worry, you have to make sure to give those specifications to your vet before your cat or dog gets the microchip. The microchip is mandatory for pets that have been re-marked since July 3, 2011. If your pet was marked before this date, they are allowed to enter the country with a tattoo as long as it is clear and readable. A microchip is useful not only to find your pet when it gets lost but also to claim ownership if someone else is claiming they are the owners of your furry friend. If your pet’s microchip does not comply with the ISO standard 11784, you can do one of the following three options:

• Bring a suitable microchip reader with you
• Call the EU Port of Entry to ask if they have a reader capable of reading your pet’s microchip
• Ask your vet to implant a suitable microchip

3. A rabies vaccination

Your dog or cat must have a valid rabies shot before entering Germany. The rabies vaccination must be injected after the microchip. If your pet gets a primary vaccination, you must wait 21 days after the shot before your furry friend is eligible to enter Germany. Germany considers a primary vaccination when:

• It is the first shot after the microchip was implanted
• The previous rabies shot expired before your pet could get a new one

If your pet got a booster vaccination, you don’t need to wait 21 days before you can travel. The validity of the vaccination depends on the type of vaccine. Therefore, you should consult with your veterinarian for further information.

The EU website has detailed the requirements the rabies vaccine must comply with to be valid in Europe in Annex III.

4. Animal Health Certificate (for non-EU countries)

Good to know

If you are traveling from an EU country, you will need to present your EU Pet Passport. You can get a European Pet Passport from any authorized vet. The EU Pet Passport will always be valid, as long as the rabies vaccination is also valid.

An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is a legal requirement to take your pet to Germany. The purpose is to keep Germany free from rabies and any other foreign diseases. 

The AHC needs to be issued by an official veterinarian. An official veterinarian is certified to perform work on behalf of the government of the country you live in. As an alternative, it can be issued by an authorized veterinarian and then endorsed by the proper authority of the country you live in.

An AHC typically includes information like the pet owner’s details, the cat or dog’s description, rabies vaccination details, and a rabies blood test (if required). 

In addition to the certificate, the person traveling with the pet must have a written declaration (that you should write yourself) indicating the pet is entering the country for non-commercial reasons.

The Animal Health Certificate is valid for ten days after the vet has signed it . So make sure to call in advance to organize the appointment, so it fits with your travel plans.

You may find the Animal Health Certificate form on the website of the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, as well as an explanation of how to fill it out .

For more details about the papers you need for your pet to travel to Germany, you can check your government’s resources:

• Australia: Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment
• Brasil : Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply
• Canada: Canadian Food Inspection Agency
• UK : Official Government Page
• United States : Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Simple Germany’s Hot Tip

If you require specific information for your country of origin, you can always contact the German Embassy or Consulate in your country.

5. Blood test (not always required)

To find out if your pet needs to have a rabies blood test, you can search for your country in the list of countries in Annex VIII of the EU website . If your country has “ rabies antibody titration test ” next to it, then your pet has to get the test done before traveling.

After the rabies vaccination, you need to wait at least 30 days before doing the blood test. Additionally, you need to do the blood test at least three months before entering the EU.

If your pet needs to have a rabies antibody test, it will need to remain in quarantine for 90 days . The quarantine starts on the day your pet’s blood was collected for the test. Quarantine means that your pet cannot leave the country for that period of time.

What happens if you don’t follow the requirements?

Should you decide to bring your pet to Germany, without fulfilling the requirements, your pet will be confiscated by German customs at the airport and placed in quarantine at a local animal shelter.

Depending on what requirement is missing for your pet to safely enter Germany, the quarantine can last between one week or six months. The worst scenario is missing the rabies vaccination.

Please make sure to have all documents checked and ready before boarding a plane to Germany with your pet. Otherwise, you will put your pet and yourself in harm’s way.

Being in quarantine for an extended period of time will traumatize your animal, as it will have no contact with the outside world. It will also be a financial burden for you. Here in Dusseldorf, the animal shelter charges you 20 euros per day for a cat and 23 euros per day for a dog that stays with them, due to not fulfilling the custom requirements.

Which dog breeds are banned in Germany?

The following dog breeds (including any mixed breed) are not allowed to be imported to Germany or held in Germany unless you have a specific license, which involves an incredibly high amount of bureaucracy and costs:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Bull Terrier

These breeds get considered dangerous dogs (category 1) as listed on the official German customs page .

Additionally, every German state holds a list of other dangerous dogs, such as a Rottweiler. These dogs often get named category 2 dogs and get considered dangerous until proven otherwise with a character test.

8 tips for flying with your pet to Germany

If you are wondering how to fly a pet to Germany, the following tips are for you.

1. Book a pet-friendly flight

Before booking your flight, make sure to check the airline’s pet policy. You need to know if your cat or dog is allowed to travel in-cabin (with you) or if it needs to go in a special cargo area. Also, make sure to check the size and breeds allowed , as well as the size of the carrier you will need for flying . Especially for cargo kennels for big dogs the requirements are airline-specific and vary.

Not all airlines will allow you to reserve a spot for your pet while booking the ticket online. So it is highly recommended that you call the airline directly and make the reservation for you and your pet with them. In addition, some airlines have a maximum amount of pets allowed in an aircraft, so it’s super important that you get the confirmation that your cat or dog is allowed to travel on the same flight as you.

If you own a snub-nosed dog (e.g. bulldog, pug) or cat (e.g. British Shorthair, Persian), then you will need to do things a bit differently. Most airlines do not accept these types of pets on normal flights. The reason is that because of their breathing issues they might go under too much stress during the transportation process that they might suffer circulatory issues or even die.

Lufthansa Cargo offers a great service to transport your brachycephalic pet called Live Animals Cargo .

2 . Train your pet to like the pet carrier

When moving to Germany with pets, they will need to be in a carrier most of the time of your trip. So it is important that your cat or dog makes a positive association with the carrier. The goal is to make the carrier a safe place where the pet can relax, eat and sleep.

You can place one of your pet’s favorite toys in the carrier. Having something that has the scent of your pet will give it a sense of security.

You can also plan some short trips with your dog or cat, so they get used to being inside the carrier. You don’t need to go far. You can drive to the store or around the block a few times; this will make them get used to the bumps and sounds of a moving vehicle.

If your cat is not leash-trained, then you might want to have a carrier that is a bit bigger to allow your cat to stretch.

3. Prepare for the airport security procedure

Airport security will require you to take your feline friend outside the carrier to pass through the metal detector. In most airports, you can ask for a private screening room, so you don’t have to worry about taking your pet out of the carrier in a hectic environment.

In other cases, a private screening room will not be available. If this is the case and your pet is prone to feeling nervous around new and loud environments, it might feel the need to escape. To avoid chasing your furry friend (especially your cat) around the airport, consider getting a harness and a leash for your cat, even if it is not leash-trained.

4. Ask for relaxing medication (only if necessary)

If you think your pet will be stressed during the flight, ask your vet for some relaxing medication. 

Do this a couple of months before your trip so you can try them at home in a safe environment. This way, if your pet responds with an allergic reaction or the medication does not work, you can go back to the vet.

5. Feed your pet at the right moment

If your flight is in the morning, you can feed your pet a bigger meal than usual the night before. Try to avoid feeding your pet 6 to 9 hours before the flight; this will minimize the chances of pooping or vomiting in the airplane.

Pack some food with you, so when you arrive in Germany, you can find a quiet place and feed your pet. It will be so happy and grateful. 

6. Keep your pet in a safe place before leaving your home

Some pets might get nervous and will sense something weird is happening by seeing you packing or taking out their carrier. Especially if your cat gets nervous and tends to hide, you can put it in a safe and comfortable place. For example, in the bathroom with a comfy blanket or similar. 

This way, you know exactly where your pet is, and you won’t have to run around your apartment looking for it shortly before you have to leave for the airport.

7. Pack essentials for your pet

Besides your pet’s food, remember to pack the essentials when you move with your pets to Germany:

• A disposable foil tray and some litter : You can find a quiet place at the airport and try to get your cat to do their business before boarding the plane.
• Baby wipes : So you can clean things easily in case something unexpected happens.
• Plastic bags : Just in case you need to scoop up some mishappens before throwing it in a bin.
• Water and food bowl
• Absorbent toilet training pads : If your pet wants to do their business on the plane, this is a lifesaver to avoid an uncomfortable smell for you and your fellow passengers.

8. Check airport regulations

Make sure to check how pet-friendly the airports are that you will be in. For example, some have pet relief areas; others allow you to take your pet outside of the carrier, as long as they have a leash.

9. Prepare for Customs and Immigration

Once you land, you and your furry friend will need to go through customs and immigration. Here you will present all your documents, your pet will be examined, and hopefully, be given the green light to enter the country.

If you sent your pet by cargo, for example through Lufthansa’s Live Animal Cargo service, then the process might take a bit longer. We heard from a Brazilian couple who traveled to Frankfurt and sent their french bulldog through this service and waited six hours to be reunited with their furry friend again.

FAQs for moving to Germany with pets

Can pets ride on trains in germany.

Yes, pets up to the size of a regular house cat travel for free in trains. Now, what does the ‘size of a house cat’ mean? As long as your pet fits inside a carrier and the carrier fits under the seat or on the shelf above the seat, then they can travel for free.

If your dog is not in a carrier, it needs to be leashed and wear a muzzle at all times. If your dog is bigger than a regular house cat, you need to get a ticket for your dog.

If you’re traveling long distances (between cities), you can purchase your dog’s train ticket online. You can do so either by the new Deutsche Bahn website (https://next.bahn.de/ ) or through their mobile app called NextDBNavigator. The website is in German, but if you use Chrome as a browser, you can translate it to your language of preference. If you want to book it in German, you are looking for the word ‘Hund’.

If you are traveling short distances (within a city), you need to consult with your local transportation company as some cities allow dogs to travel for free, while others require a ticket. You can always find a service center in the main train station of your city where you can ask about the regulations that would apply to your furry friend.

How long must a pet stay in quarantine when moving to Germany?

Germany does not require your pet to be in quarantine, as long as it has a valid rabies vaccination (which is one of the requirements to allow your furry friend to enter the country).

Does my pet need a passport to move to Germany?

If you are traveling from a non-EU country, you need to show the Animals Health Certificate, as mentioned above. If you are moving to Germany with pets from another EU country, you only need to show the official EU Pet Passport.

How Much Does Bringing Your Pet To Germany Cost?

The whole process, including the flight, might cost between 1.500 and 2.500 euros . It highly depends on your country of origin and whether a rabies antibody test or not might be needed.

As an example, a Brazilian couple who travelled with their french bulldog paid 2.200 euros for the whole process. Here is the breakdown:

Life with your pet in Germany

Before you jump on that plane to Germany, make sure when looking for a place to stay in Germany that it allows pets. Whether you are initially looking for a short- or long-term apartment, you will need to get approval from the landlord to hold a cat or dog. Homelike is a great platform to find initially furnished apartments, with a filter for pets.

Read Our Related Guide

Renting In Germany [A Detailed Guide In English]

Once you have successfully moved to Germany with your pet, you, of course, need to know the rules and regulations of holding a cat or dog in Germany. While holding a cat in Germany does not require any approval or bureaucratic steps, you need to follow a few steps when owning a dog in Germany.

We have written a detailed guide on what to pay attention to when owning a dog in Germany.

Dogs In Germany [ A Complete English Guide]

There you have it, a step-by-step guide on the procedure for moving to Germany with your pets. We hope this guide has been helpful to you to understand how you can move your pet with you to Germany. We wish you all the best of luck with your move! 

This article contains affiliate links . When you click on the links to the products we mention in this article and purchase them, we will receive a small commission. It will not make any difference to you in price; however, it allows us to keep Simple Germany alive and striving.

About the Author

Jen Palacios is a researcher and writer at Simple Germany specializing in aiding international skilled workers to navigate the complexities of German life.

Jen brings a unique immigrant perspective to her writing. Beyond her professional pursuits, Jen is an avid learner with interests ranging from woodworking to web development.

She is committed to writing guides and producing YouTube videos for Simple Germany that provide practical guidance for internationals aiming to settle into life in Germany more smoothly.

You Might Also Enjoy These Guides

Dogs in germany [lifestyle, rules & regulations], 10 things nobody tells you about owning a dog in germany.

Empowering internationals to settle into life in Germany more smoothly.

• Germany Explained
• Service Providers
• Scoring System
• Support Us 💜
• Podcast Interviews
• Brand Assets

Cookie Policy

Privacy Policy

Refund Policy

in Düsseldorf

© All Rights Reserved. Simple Germany is a trademark registered in the European Union.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Go to navigation
• Go to main content
• Go to sidebar
• Go to search
• Go to footer

Main content

Transporting animals in the aircraft.

You can take your dog or cat with you on Lufthansa flights. Please read the following information carefully before booking a flight with your pet.

A good trip for your precious pet

Depending upon the kind of animal, its weight and size, and the regulations applicable in different countries, transport is possible at an extra cost either as additional carry-on baggage in the passenger cabin or as excess baggage in the aircraft’s air-conditioned cargo hold. Lufthansa Cargo also offers the transport of the above-mentioned animals and other species as air freight. Special rules apply to assistance dogs. Please note that because of local circumstances and restrictions, the transport of large animals in the cargo hold to certain destinations is not possible.

What travel options are there for the different types of animals?

The transport options for animals with Lufthansa depend upon the kind of animal, as well as its weight and size. Further information is available on this page and the following pages.

Register small dogs and cats as carry-on baggage in the cabin

Only smaller dogs and cats, weighing no more than 8 kg including their carrying container, may be transported under certain conditions as additional carry-on baggage in the passenger cabin. Larger dogs and cats, and all other animal species regardless of their weight and size, are not allowed in the cabin. You must register no later than 72 hours before departure. Otherwise, please contact the Service Center up to 24 hours before departure. Lufthansa also reserves the right to apply stricter regulations where necessary and refuse bookings on certain routes (such as to the UK and Ireland, for example) to exclude the animal from travel.

For you to take your pet into the cabin as carry-on baggage, we require your confirmation that the animal meets the stated requirements. Please present two printouts of the completed and signed form at the check-in counter to confirm this.

Please note that the form is not required for assistance dogs on direct flights to/from the USA.

Register larger dogs and cats as excess baggage in the cargo hold

Dogs and cats, which weigh more than 8 kg including their transport container, may be transported under certain conditions as excess baggage in the aircraft’s air-conditioned cargo hold. You must register no later than 72 hours before departure. Otherwise, please contact the Service Center up to 24 hours before departure.

For the carriage of all other animals, please contact ​ Lufthansa Cargo .

Assistance dogs

You can take your assistance dog with you on board Lufthansa flights free of charge. Please find out about the general requirements for taking an assistance dog into the aircraft cabin with you.

Fighting dogs

Special regulations apply if you wish to take any breed of fighting dog with you when you fly.

Snub-nosed animals

Dogs and cats belonging to snub-nosed breeds have anatomically restricted airways with the accompanying difficulty in breathing. For this reason, there are special instructions and rules for transporting these animals.

Other animals/animals as air freight

If you are unable to travel together with your pet, if country regulations stipulate that animals must be transported by air freight, or if you would like to transport an animal not listed on lufthansa.com, it is possible to have your animal transported as air freight. Varying prices apply to shipping animals as air freight (for example, with Lufthansa Cargo). For this, you need a carrier who specialises in transporting animals. You can find the contact details of one near you with the help of the  ​ animal shipper search . If you have any questions about this, the ​ Lufthansa Cargo Service Center  will be happy to assist you further. You can contact them in Germany on tel. 0180 6 – 747 100 (calls cost €0.20 per min. from the German landline network; max. €0.60 per min. from mobile phone networks).

General advice on transporting animals on Lufthansa flights

Compliance with animal welfare provisions and import and export regulations for animals.

Please note the minimum age of the animals to be transported. For dogs and cats the minimum age is:

• and 15 weeks for carriage from/to/via Germany.

Please make sure that you find out about the import and export regulations applicable to your pet in your departure, transit and destination countries in plenty of time and before booking your flight. Such information is available from the relevant consulates, for example. Please also ask your vet about applicable animal welfare provisions for travelling with your pet. Obtain all the travel documentation required for your pet so that nothing will stand in the way of your trip.

In the event of Lufthansa having to refuse the carriage of your pet because of non-compliance with the regulations, Lufthansa is not liable for any resulting costs (e.g. rebooking charges, animal boarding costs, hotel accommodation).

Lufthansa also reserves the right to refuse to transport animals in the cargo hold if there are extreme weather conditions at the destination. This can happen at short notice or seasonally.

Please note: each passenger is allowed to take a maximum of two animals with them (in an approved carrying container). Animals can be transported in the cabin and/or in the cargo hold:

• No more than two animals (dog or cat) in the cabin (in an approved carrying container) or no more than two animals in the cargo hold (in one or two approved carrying containers)
• One animal (dog or cat) in the cabin (in an approved carrying container) and one animal in the cargo hold (in an approved carrying container)

Importing dogs into the USA

Due to the risk of rabies, there are currently restrictions on importing dogs into the United States. You can find detailed information about these CDC restrictions and the possibility of obtaining an exemption on the website of the United States Center for Disease Control.

If you have an existing booking confirming transportation of a dog, please contact our Service Center.

For new bookings, please observe the new transport restrictions. You can find further information about these restrictions and the possibility of gaining an exemption on the website of the United States Center for Disease Control.

The restrictions apply to all dogs transported to the USA by aircraft, including assistance dogs. 

You can find further information about the transport restrictions here:

Restrictions on flights with several airlines

All the regulations mentioned here apply exclusively to flights operated by Lufthansa. For codeshare flights, therefore, please make sure that you check the regulations of the airline operating the flight. If you are travelling with several airlines, please ensure you have confirmation from all the airlines concerned that they will also transport your pet.

Registration deadlines for the carriage of pets

Your pet must be registered and confirmed for the flight by Lufthansa no later than 24 hours before departure (for assistance dogs, the deadline is 48 hours before departure).

As the allocation is limited, we recommend that you book your pet in early, preferably at the same time as you book your own flight.

Information concerning your pet’s welfare

• If possible, get your pet used to its carrying container at home before the journey by putting it into the closed carrying container several times for about two hours at a time and rewarding it afterwards with a treat.
• Many pets are very nervous before and during a flight. Nevertheless, you should think very carefully before giving your pet a sedative. This makes it difficult to predict how your animal may react. It can, for example, cause circulatory problems during the flight. Please ask your vet’s advice about this.
• Put your pet’s "comfort blanket" and its favourite toy in the carrying container in order to soothe and calm it with familiar smells.
• Ask your vet how to adapt your pet’s dietary needs for the flight.

Check-in options

Online and mobile check-in 23 hours before departure is possible for all passengers travelling with animals. You must collect your boarding pass from the check-in counter at the airport.

Taking pets into Lufthansa lounges

You are also welcome to take your four-legged friends with you into our lounges. Please understand, however, that out of consideration for our other guests, your dogs or cats should not be allowed to wander freely around Lufthansa lounges and should await their onward journey in their carrying container or pet carrier. Assistance dogs are exempt from this regulation.

Taking A Dog To Germany: Rules & Regulations

If you are confused about taking a dog to Germany and want to know what the rules regulations are that you must follow for smooth transportation then you’re in the right place.

In this article, you will find out everything you need to know and will give you a proper answer for what you need when taking a dog to Germany.

Nothing’s more fun or exciting than going on vacation to a new country for the very first time, and the way to make your vacation more memorable is to bring your beloved dog along for the ride.

But when visiting a foreign country there are certain rules you will have to follow.

There are certain countries that enforce tighter rules and regulations when it comes to pet travel.

The breed of the dog also comes into play for deciding if the dog is allowed in the country or not.

Extensive research into this subject has to be performed before thinking about knocking on the foreign door with a dog by your side.

Germans love their pets, but no country would be complete without any rules and regulations. For Germany, it’s the same.

Some of you may not be familiar with the laws of Germany when it comes to bringing pets over. This guide will let you know about the rules that you need to follow for taking a dog to Germany.

Rules & Regulations

Germany is one of the countries that fall under the European Union regulation.

According to the EU, if you are planning to bring your dog from a non-EU country, then you should have your dog checked with the vet.

There is the federal agency charged with making sure that pet owners comply with the rules called ‘ZOLL’ The German Customs Office to learn more about ‘ZOLL’ and for more information regarding the EU country regulations regarding pets and what to expect click on the link above.

Before heading to Germany your dog will need to be  vaccinated against rabies  and must be over 12 weeks old to receive this vaccination, this can be given at the same time as the usual annual booster vaccinations.

You must wait 21 days from the date of their first rabies vaccination before travelling with your dog to Germany or any other EU member state All of this must be recorded in the documentation.

Having updated documentation for the dog will help out a lot while the dog undergoes various checkups. Germany requires 3 years vaccination period for dogs.

If the situation requires the dog to take another shot, then it has to be performed.

Ask your vet if the dog needs a new one or not, and recorded documentation to prove the dog is indeed healthy.

So, you can see your dogs in Germany without any trouble preventing it.

Besides getting a rabies shot, the dog should also get checked for tapeworms. This checking has to be done 5 days prior to the departure day. Otherwise, the dog has to go through quarantine.

You must follow the same rule over again when you are bringing your dog back from the foreign land to your country.

The changing of the climate could create harmful bacteria or attach them to the dog.

If the dog goes unchecked, then it might harm the dog’s inner system.

Leaving anything to the last minute of travel may prohibit the dog from entering the country.

The next thing is if your pet doesn’t have a microchip installed, then make sure to do it before travelling.

Micro-chipping installation is normally done before the rabies shot.

Another thing you should look out for when getting your dog microchipping is the ISO numbers, 11784 or 11785.

Make sure the microchips on the dog should have the 11784 or 11785 number.

Consider asking the vet about microchipping and when is the perfect time to install them before taking a dog to Germany .

So all the decision has to be taken before the travel date. If you want to spend your time with all of your dogs in Germany.

Another thing you should watch out for is tattoos. Tattoo on the dog may seem cute and memorable before, but now it is completely prohibited.

If the tattoos are fresh or made recently, that can get the dog banned from entering the country.

Older tattoos are still allowed, if you are planning to tattoo your dog, then don’t, if you want to travel to other countries with your favorite pal by your side.

Transportation

The rules for getting the dog from one airline to another stay the same. The rule has always been to inform the airline first about your situation.

Normally, it is common for airline companies to get these notifications. There are certain rules laid out by the airline companies that the traveler should follow.

One of the rules is making your dog stay in a sturdy crate with enough space for head and body movement.

And the crate needs to have some holes for ventilation. 

This also has to meet all of these requirements for the comfort of your dog and the rules of the airline companies.

Some airline companies would allow the crates carried by their owners. But it is not going to be the same experience for everyone. Some might have to leave the crate at the cargo bay. 

Smaller pets (< 10 pounds) are allowed to be with their owners while traveling. But others have to take to the cargo bay for their journey to Germany.  

If you have smaller dogs, then make sure the pet carrier for the dog stays under the seat.

Some airlines would have tighter restrictions inside the plane. Make sure the pet carries stay in Infront of you.

Bigger dogs would count as cargo for the plane that’s why they have to go through the cargo bay to step into the foreign land.

To learn more about what size your pet carrier must be and what airlines accept dogs in the cabin check out this article below.

Related Content:

• 10 airlines that accept dogs in the cabin

Airline Guidelines

Airline companies will have their own set of rules regarding pet travel.

Some companies wouldn’t even allow any pet to be on board, even if the pet meets all the requirements set by the government.

Each airline companies have their own guidelines that they follow. Even if they support pet traveling, the pet has to meet up with all the prerequisites. Then they might allow the pet to be in a cabin or through the cargo section.

Some companies such as delta don’t allow the dog to transport as a cargo. If you are boarding a delta plane then the dog has to go through aircraft cabins.

Related Article:

• Airlines That Allow Dogs In Cargo

Some might charge a huge amount of money for pet travel. If you can’t seem to find an alternative, then you have to pay a hefty amount for the pet to travel to another country.

Airlines would have their own weight limit, container size, height, and weather conditions. Sometimes the deciding factor may lie inside of the weather.

Not only do you have to make your dog ready to meet all the requirements but you also have to pick the perfect season and date for a perfect pet journey.

In some instances, the weather change can create illness in a dog and sometimes results in death. The weather has to meet specific environmental conditions for pet travel to continue or start.

As you might have guessed, the temperature number varies from one airline to another.

For delta, if the weather condition sits at 10°F (-12C) or above 85°F (29.4C), then your dog might not get allowed to travel.

Some airlines provide alternative courses to avoid the bad effect of the temperature affect the dog.

For example, if you want to take your dog on summer vacation. Then there are certain rules you can follow to take the dog to Germany without prohibition. In summer, you must depart in the evening or in the early morning.

Because in these time durations the temperature is likely to be in cool condition.

To be noted, this only happens in certain airline companies, most of them will block the traveling of the pet under these circumstances.

Another thing is making sure your dog is ready to board the plane, Some dogs might not feel too happy staying far from the ground.

They might show unusual behavior if they get boarded without any notice.

So, ask your vet, if the dog is ready to take off. There are plenty of things that might harm your dog’s health. For example, as you are moving into another country, you will definitely experience a sudden change in the climate.

If the dog is not ready, this sudden change in the environment can cause a lot of stress for the dog to handle.

The weather might be too hot or cold for the dog to endure, it might lead to some distortions event.

If that happens, then you will be unable to find the proper solution because of being in another country.

The language barrier might affect your communication for describing the symptoms the dog has been showing, ever since it arrived.

Wild behavior on the dog can get you in legal trouble with the airline companies. Mostly foreign dogs are required to wear a muzzle on them at all times to avoid influencing the environment.

When you take out the dog in the public make sure you are in control, not vice versa.

It is better to ask the vet about these problems and make sure the dog is perfectly fine traveling to a different region.

If the dog doesn’t meet a certain standard, then it is better to leave the dog with your neighbor or any relative’s house.

The Cost For Taking A Dog To Germany

Before taking a dog to Germany you should be prepared to face the shipping charges.

The rate will differ from countries and airliners. The airliner will charge money for the shipment of the animal.

On average, you have to spend 200$ for the small animal, and 400$ – 600$ for the larger ones.

That is not to say these prices will be the same for every airline. Before thinking about traveling make sure to confirm the price point to the airliners.

Almost all the airliners have good customer service to provide you information on everything to your needs. these costs might see an increase to them if the dog gets sick in a foreign land.

Then you will have to deal with a large amount for simple vet service.

The language barrier already being the problem with communicating effectively, this could increase the overall expenses for your travel.

In these times better to check on the insurance policy, to make sure your pet gets handled well, even if the pet is in another country.

In Germany the vets are called ‘ Tierärtze ’ , some of them do speak English, and they would have everything inside the place to take care of your dog.

If the situation gets amped up to 11, these vets have all the modern tools to perform timely operation.

In Germany, dogs are a much more favorable companion amongst the citizens. So you will have plenty of vet offices around the city.

If you don’t have cash in hand at the time, then they would send you a bill. Having good insurance would help you out a lot in these circumstances.

If you don’t have any insurance for the pet, then make sure to carry a bit more money, for the just-in-case incidents.

Or you can opt-out of the pet aboard policy for better care only for a moderate amount of money.

Dogs Passport

Consider getting a pet passport for the dog, this would provide an instantaneous result on the approval of the dog.

To make a valid passport for the dog, it has to meet certain standards first. To do all that, you should ask the vet, for a lot of tests.

One of the major things that make the passport such a great thing to have for the dog’s validation, is vaccination.

If the dog has a pet passport, then it tells the dog has been cleared from all sorts of diseases. Passport raises the chance of seeing your dogs in Germany.

People tend to forget that the passport needs to be renewed if you are keen on traveling to different places. The vaccination shots have to have recent dates on them for them to work properly.

Having a passport for the dog would tell everything there is to know about the dog to the authority of the airline.

No longer do you and your dog have to sit through a quarantine list to get the approval.

Banned Breeds Of Dog In Germany

As I said before in the article, not all airliners will have similar rules and regulations for pets.

The breed of the dog also gets taken into context. This rule is not made by the airliner company but by the country itself.

Germany has tighter rules when taking certain Dog breeds in Germany that they consider harmful.

This includes some rules that even reach so far down the road to banning the dog due to various reasons.

Before you are thinking about traveling with the dog, make sure that it fits the description set by the German government.

All the 16 states of Germany have their own rules towards the kind of pet they would allow to roam in their street.

Mostly, the kind of pet that they consider to be dangerous.

Dog breeds such as Pitbull are considered dangerous and aggressive animals, bringing them to Germany is not an option for the people who own this breed of dog.

But some states, like Niedersachsen, have no rule prohibiting any breeds of dog from entering the region.

But generally, German dogs are diverse in breed. The list of prohibited dogs contains only a few breeds of dogs.

If you are planning to visit Germany, it is recommended to do extensive research on the stats and their rules regarding your dog.

Before losing hope on ever bringing the dog into the country, maybe you find your destination region to be one of the states that allow the breed of dog to run wild.

Since 2001, Germany has banned certain kinds of dogs from entering the country.

• American Pitbull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• English Bull Terrier

Reservation

Before taking a dog to Germany you must make a reservation for your dog beforehand. Not in time can lose you the precious seat on the plane.

So, make sure to acquire everything you need first, then hit the reservation button in time.

If you are taking an alternative mode of transportation, then you must follow all the basic rules of bringing a dog to another country.

Either way, you will be responsible for the dog’s wellbeing in other countries and for its actions. But if you want to take the dog to Germany on a plane, then getting a reservation is the only way to do it.

Each individual is allowed to carry in at least 5 pets with them. All of them have to be registered under family pets.

If you are taking your dog from one EU country to another, then you don’t have to follow all the rules necessary for pet travel.

In normal circumstances, the dog has to be vaccinated to avoid quarantine.

If you are bringing a dog from an EU authority country, then you can just completely bypass this rule. The EU has an approved list to prove if the dog has the right condition for travel.

By being under the personal household item does bring in some minor rules to follow for the owner of the pets.

If you are renting a place then you must have the landlord’s permission.

Unlike cats, dogs, on the other hand, need to get licensed. There is a tax on the dog, that has to be paid monthly. You might see a change in the tax price in different states of Germany.

Some states might force the dogs to wear a muzzle on the face, this also keeps the dog safe from getting new bacteria.

Dogs in Germany are not allowed to go inside of the butcher shop, market store, or any place that sells fresh food.

If there is a sign hanging on the wall saying ‘Wir müssen leider daraussen warten’, then it is a sign that says keep your dog outside.

Some restaurants may allow the dog inside, but that wouldn’t be for all the cases. You are going to get a more prohibited experience if the dog behaves abnormally on the street or in general.

If the dog is relaxed in the environment. Then there wouldn’t be any problem bringing the dog inside.  

Taking a dog to Germany may sound like an easy and fun thing to do.

In a way, it is fun seeing your favorite dog by your side along the journey but for that to happen, you must follow all these rules for the safe journey of you and your dog.

Some of these rules may take a lot of your time, but the result would be more memorable compared to the stress they had to make earlier.

So, remember these rules and follow them while you are over there. 

Related Posts

How to Recognize a Happy Dog? 15 Signs and Insights

Modern Dog Crates: How to Choose Them?

How Do You Transport A Large Dog To A Boat? 10 Tips

Ultimate Guide: Bringing Your Dog to Europe from US in 2024

• August 3, 2023
• Dog Travel Tips , Europe Pet Friendly Guides , Uncategorized

You can bring your dog to Europe from the US in 2024. It’s easier in 2024 than before but it still requires careful preparation and adherence to each European country’s specific regulations . Generally, you will need a valid pet microchip for identification, up-to-date vaccinations (including rabies), and a pet health certificate from a veterinarian. Some countries may also impose quarantine periods or have breed-specific restrictions but that is very rare. 

Additionally, you must check with your chosen airline for their pet travel policies and fees. By meeting all the necessary requirements, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your furry companion.

Disclaimer: All views and opinions expressed in this blog article are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

How to Bring Your Dog to Europe From US

Step 1: you must decide where you want to go (which european country) and when.

The first thing is deciding where to go and when. This, we believe, is the first step because it determines the rest of how you plan and go about obtaining the required documents.

If you decide to go to Europe during the off-season (November – March), then plane tickets and accommodations will be much more affordable than during high season (late May – August). Shoulder season (April – mid June; late September – October) would be a great in-between option in terms of prices and crowds.

As a general rule of thumb, you should give yourself at least 3 months of planning before you leave for Europe with your dog.

Once you choose the country you plan on going to and when, then you can move onto the next step…

Step 2: Book a vet appointment as soon as possible

First, it is mandatory that your pet is microchipped and has their up to date vaccinations in order to travel to Europe. Please double check with your vet about this before booking any appointments. Note that previous vaccinations won’t be valid if given before the microchip.

After ensuring your pet is microchipped and has the necessary vaccines you will need to book an appointment with an accredited vet who can issue you an USDA-endorsed pet health certificate . Not all vets are able to do this. We recommend calling your vet’s office first and confirming before booking an appointment. You can also search this database as well to find an accredited vet.

Below is a script you can use when calling the vet:

“Hello, I plan on traveling to [European Country] on [Date you plan on traveling]   and need a pet health certificate done for my pet. Does your office have any vets that are accredited and able to issue this for me?”

To clarify, an USDA-endorsed   pet health certificate is a document that is given to you and your pet from a vet, after the vet has deemed your pet healthy enough for travel. You will need the hard copy of this form, embossed and signed by the USDA endorsement office when you fly. Meaning this document can not be shown electronically through your phone or computer. When you are checking into your flight, the airline will required the hard copy of this document. You may also need to show this document upon arrival at your designated country as well.

It is also important to note that if you do not have an European Union pet passport for your dog or pet then you will need to visit the vet and get your pet health certificate done within 10 days of your departure date (your flight date). 

More Information About the USDA-Endorsed Pet Health Certificate

To meet your designated country’s requirements for an USDA-endorsed pet health certificate you must obtain this from an accredited veterinarian. They will assist in completing, signing, and dating the necessary certificate. Your veterinarian can then submit the certificate directly to the USDA Endorsement Office through the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS) or provide you with the paperwork for you to submit to the office yourself. The USDA Endorsement office will then emboss and sign the hard copy and send it back directly to you so you can bring it to the airport. Please note that you will have to pay for shipping.

Step 3: Book your flight and check airline requirements

Next is making sure you book flights for you and your pet! This step can be done simultaneously with Step 2; however we find that if you get your vet appointment date booked and figure out all that business with the USDA-endorsed pet health certificate then booking your flight becomes more seamless. 

We are based in California so flying into a major European city such as Paris, Milan, etc would be the most efficient because they tend to have direct flights. We flew French Bee and loved it! Very straight to the point, cost efficient and we have not experience any delays or cancellations with them.

We listed below the airlines you can bring your dog and fly in cabin with them to Europe from US in 2023. You can click on the links to each airline to be taken directly to their pet policy page.

• Aegean Airlines
• TAP Air Portugal (We do not recommend flying with them. We experienced a lot of issues with this airline.)
• United Airlines

It is also important to note that you will need to buy a soft carrier for your pet if you plan on traveling in cabin with them. We rated the top 5 best dog carriers for 2023 here if you want to check that out!

We recommend you review your airline’s pet policy in detail and understand the following:

• their maximum weight allotment (usually has to be under 17-22 pounds, including the carrier)
• their maximum carrier size & carrier requirements
• the cost to fly your pet in cabin with you
• if there are any additional paperwork needed to check your dog into the flight

Step 4: Ensure your pet and you are ready for travel

Lastly, once everything is squared away you can relax! Well, sort of. We recommend you train your pet for airline travel. Getting your pet used to the carrier, making sure they relieve themselves before the flight, and watching their food and water intake are all things you must do to ensure a smooth journey.

If you want a free guide on how to best prepare your dog for in cabin airplane travel then just sign up to our newsletter below & get it instantly.

Email Address*

First Name*

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can i take my dog to europe from the us without flying.

In 2023, flying to Europe from the US is one of the fastest ways to travel with your pet. However, there are other options if you prefer not to fly.

Ferry travel with pets is available on many large ships in US and Europe. You can sail for several hours or even days, with accommodations for both you and your pet. The ferries make stops in various countries during the journey.

You also have the option to charter a private yacht as well — but we believe this to be unnecessary and extremely pricey.

Can you bring a dog on a plane to Europe from US?

Yes! You can bring a dog on a plane to Europe. We’ve listed the airlines that allow in cabin pets to fly with their owners above. However, you must meet all the requirements and have the appropriate paperwork in order to do so.

An accredited vet needs to sign the form, and then the USDA endorsement office must endorse it within 48 hours before your pet arrives in Europe. The hard copy of the form must be on hand while traveling. If your pet is just passing through the EU, you don’t need to follow this rule.

Can dogs fly in the cabin from US to Europe?

Yes! In 2023 there are plenty of options if you want to bring your dog to Europe from the US via airplane. When flying to Europe from the USA with your dog, it’s best to choose European flag-carrier airlines as they are more likely to allow pets in the cabin with you. We’ve listed the 2023 airlines that allow pets in cabin above!

How much does it cost to fly a dog internationally?

It really all depends on when you’re traveling and where you’re traveling to. However, bringing your dog on a flight in the cabin usually costs around $125 to $250. Whereas transporting them in the cargo hold can usually be well over $1,000. For international pet shipping, licensed companies usually charge between $1,000 and $6,000. We’ve heard some destinations you have to pay upwards of $10,000 to transport your pet.

How hard is it to bring a dog to Europe?

We would say it’s not hard but it takes work. Before bringing your dog, cat, or ferret to any European Union country, your pet needs to have a microchip. Note that previous vaccinations won’t be valid if given before the microchip. Even if your pet’s rabies vaccination is still valid, it must be re-vaccinated for rabies after getting the microchip. Please also double check with the official USA website  here  as well as the EU official website  here  for up to date regulations, updates and changes.

Do dogs need a passport to fly internationally to Europe?

You do not need an EU pet passport for your dog unless you are traveling in Europe with your dog for more than 90 days. However, the European Union EU dog pet passport makes it easier for your dog to travel across Europe.

How much does it cost to travel with a dog in Europe?

It depends! If you are flying into Europe with your dog from the US then it can usually cost $100-250 extra.

However, if you’re traveling around Europe when you are already in Europe then the price can be much cheaper. Sites like Omio are pet friendly and offers affordable prices for pet friendly train rides. Dogs even get to ride for free on most trains (if your pet is in a pet carrier).

Also, if you have an European Union pet passport this allows your dog, cat, or ferret to travel effortlessly within the EU and even to non-EU countries (like UK, Switzerland, Iceland, etc). We highly recommend getting a European Union pet passport for your pet!

What is the weight limit for dogs to fly in cabin?

This will vary across different airlines. So make sure you double check with each airline’s pet policy. We link each airline and their pet policy above to make it easier for you to check! 

Generally, however, we have found the weight limit for dogs/pets in the cabin to be 17-22 pounds or less. This includes the carrier’s and your pet’s weight.

Do dogs have to quarantine in Europe?

Good news! Pets traveling between Europe and the US do not need to go through quarantine, so you can bring your pet to your hotel or destination right when you land. The rules are simple: ensure your pet has a rabies vaccine, a microchip, and a health certificate from a USDA vet. That’s all you need to worry about!

We hope you found this article helpful! 

Travel Dog Bodhi 🐶

Did this post help you sniff out some useful info for your furry friend?

If so, don’t be shy, give us a bark in the comments section! We love hearing from our fellow dog lovers on the go.

Share this:

8 thoughts on “ultimate guide: bringing your dog to europe from us in 2024”.

Pingback: Flying with a Dog 2023 - The Dog Vacation

Pingback: 8 Unique Things You'll Do in Europe With Your Dog if You Really Love Them -

Any arliner that permits my dog coffee in cabin even if weight in at 22kg ?, i am willing to purchase additional seat to travel to stockholm, sweden , since traveling in the cargo area seems like a big misstake.

i am travelin from Nuevo Laredo and if easier i take him over to laredo Texas, help would be appreciated ..

For dogs that weigh 22kg, we believe that is over the weight limit to fly in cabin for most airlines. You may have to consider flying your dog in the cargo/hold or through private/semi private airlines.

Great article, but I do have a question about American Airlines. When I checked on their website, it said no pets in cabins on international flights from US to Europe/UK. Can you clarify if I misread something?

Hello Carly! It seem that American airlines has updated their policy and will not allow pets in cabins for any US to Europe flights anymore. We are working to update our page to meet 2024 changes, thanks!

Hi, is it possible to buy my dog a seat? I have a 29lb frenchie. I travel to Europe every year and want to take him with me. I’d be willing to get business class or first class tickets so he has more space and whatnot. 0% chance he’d stay Under a seat for that long. Any tips on if this would help? I’ve checked some of the airlines and there’s nothing specific about this from what I saw.

Hello Saba! That’s really awesome to hear you travel to Europe every year and you’re looking to bring your frenchie with you – traveling is not the same without our furry friends by our side 🙂 To answer your question, we know some airlines allow you to buy a seat, however the conditions do vary for each airline. We’ve had real great success just calling the customer service and they should be able to help you out.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Social Media

Most popular.

Top 5 Instagrammable Things To Do With Your Dog in London 2024

How to Bring Your Dog to the UK using the Le Shuttle Eurotunnel 2024

Bring Your Dog Around Greece Easily & For Free With Blue Star Ferries

6 Paw-some Instaworthy Things to Do in Lake Como with Your Dog

Subscribe to our newsletter.

No spam, we promise. J oin us for insider info & new products  updates. Also get a FREE guide on flying with your dog instantly! 

Additional Links

Related posts.

Tail wags guaranteed! Unleash your pup’s inner influencer at London’s top 5 Instagrammable dog spots in 2024!

Traveling through the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is the best option when traveling with your dog to England.

Dogs ride for free on Blue Star Ferries! Best way to travel around Greece with your dog is on Blue Star Ferries.

Visiting Lake Como with your dog will be an unforgettable experience that will strengthen your bond.

Discover more from

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

New Locations Now Open

[email protected]

• Dr Gemma Nash

Taking a dog to Germany and back in 2024: Everything you need to know

Taking a dog to Germany from the UK is easy, but it's important to plan ahead so you have enough time to get the vaccinations and paperwork required. In this post, we run through all the steps to take your dog to Germany and back to the UK again, including the rabies vaccination, the Animal Health Certificate and the tapeworm treatment requirements.

This guide is frequently updated by our vets to ensure our advice is up to date. If you think that something is incorrect or needs updating date please do contact us so we can update our guide.

6 Steps to Travel with your Dog from the UK to Germany and Back

Ensure your dog is microchipped and has a valid rabies vaccination

Arrange your travel to Germany

Book an Animal Health Certificate appointment with an Official Veterinarian for within 10 days of your trip

Travel to Germany

Visit a vet in the EU to get tapeworm treatment administered between 1 and 5 days before you return to the UK

Return to the UK

1. Ensure your dog is microchipped and has a valid rabies vaccination

The first thing to do is to check your dog has been microchipped and has a valid rabies vaccination .

All dogs in the UK are required to be microchipped by 8 weeks old, so this should already have been done.

Rabies vaccinations are not routine vaccinations in the UK so unless your dog has travelled before, it is unlikely that they will have had one.

If they haven't, you'll need to book your dog in at your vets for a rabies vaccination (the minimum age a dog can be vaccinated against rabies is 12 weeks). The vaccination needs to be administered at least 21 days before a vet can issue you an Animal Health Certificate (more on this later), so it's vital that you get this booked in at least a month or so before you plan on travelling. Most brands of rabies vaccinations administered in the UK last for 3 years, so it's worth ticking this off your list early.

At the rabies vaccination appointment the vet should either update your dog's existing vaccination card with the details of the rabies vaccination, or they'll issue you a new vaccination card or certificate. You'll need to keep hold of this, as the vet that issues your Animal Health Certificate will need to see proof of the rabies vaccination in order to issue a certificate.

The routine, annual vaccinations are not required for travelling to the EU with your dog, however it's advisable to keep this up to date anyway.

2. Arrange your travel to Germany

The next step is booking (or being ready to book) your travel plans to Germany. The reason you need to have a departure date in mind before you get the Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is that the AHC needs to be issued by an Official Veterinarian no more than 10 days before you go . If you end up travelling more than 10 days after you get the AHC, you'll need another one issuing.

Most people travel to Germany via France, either through the Eurotunnel or by Ferry from Portsmouth, Dover or Plymouth.

Flying with a dog is much more difficult, as very few airlines take dogs, and the ones that do often require them to be in the hold rather than the cabin. That said, if you are planning on travelling by plane, the airlines that do take pets include Eurowings and Lufthansa.

If your dog is going to be travelling with a friend/family member or with a pet transport company, you (the owner) must be travelling within 5 days of your dog's departure date. If you are travelling more than 5 days outside your dog's departure date, an Export Health Certificate would be required instead.

3. Book an Animal Health Certificate appointment with an Official Veterinarian for within 10 days of your trip

All dogs entering the EU from the UK are required to have an Animal Health Certificate (a 9+ page document) issued by an Official Veterinarian (a vet that has done the extra qualifications to issue pet travel documents). Animal Health Certificates replaced GB pet passports when the UK left the EU in 2021.

The key requirements to get an Animal Health Certificate is that your dog must be microchipped and your dog must have had a rabies vaccination at least 21 days before the AHC can be issued. Up to 5 pets can go on the same Animal Health Certificate and the certificate is valid for 4 months from the date of issue. However, they are single-use only, so you need a new certificate each time you travel from the UK to the EU.

The Animal Health Certificate needs to be issued no more than 10 days before you depart on your trip , so you'll need to book an appointment with an Official Veterinarian to get this within 10 days of your departure date. Not all vet practices have an Official Veterinarian, so you'll need to find a vet practice or pet travel clinic that does.

Prices for an AHC vary by vet practice but most normally charge between £100-300 per dog, so it's worth calling a few different vets to ensure you aren't paying too much.

At PassPets , we are one of the leading providers of Animal Health Certificates in the UK, and we charge £99 for the first pet plus £50 per additional pet . You can find more information about our service on our home page .

At the appointment the Official Veterinarian will scan your dog's microchip to ensure it matches the microchip number on your rabies vaccination document, and they will issue the Animal Health Certificate in English as well as the language of your country of entry into the EU. So if you are travelling to Germany via France it would need to be in English and French, but if you are travelling directly to Germany via plane, then it would need to be in English and German.

It is very important that the vet issues the AHC in the correct language otherwise you may be refused entry into the EU.

To learn more about Animal Health Certificates please see our AHCs Explained page .

4. Travel to Germany

As soon as you have the AHC in your hands, you can travel to the EU with your dog. You need to have travelled within 10 days of the date the AHC was issued .

At the Eurotunnel, or ferry port they'll check the Animal Health Certificate to ensure it is filled in correctly and they'll scan your dog's microchip to check it matches the one on the AHC.

If you're travelling via ferry it's worth checking their pet policy, as some companies require dogs to be muzzled at all times.

Once you've entered the EU, the AHC is valid for travelling to any county in the EU for a period of 4 months . However, if you leave the EU (for example to return to the UK), then you would need another AHC in order to re-enter.

5. Visit a vet in the EU to get tapeworm treatment administered between 1 and 5 days before you return to the UK

All dogs entering the UK are required to have tapeworm treatment administered and recorded in the AHC by a vet between 24 hours (1 day) and 120 hours (5 days) before the dog's scheduled arrival time back in the UK .

So you'll need to find a vet somewhere in the EU to do this for you and record it in the Animal Health Certificate (normally at in the table at the bottom of page 4).

Most vets in the EU are very familiar with having to do this, so you shouldn't have trouble finding a vet whilst you are out there, but some people prefer to organise this in advance.

The below image shows how the tapeworm treatment table needs to be filled out on the Animal Health Certificate:

6. Return to the UK

Once your dog has had a tapeworm tablet administered in the correct timeframe (24 to 120 hours before arrival in the UK), you are free to return to the UK.

At the border they'll want to check the AHC again to ensure the tapeworm treatment part has been filled out.

We hope our guide helps when planning your trip to Germany with your dog.

If you would like any more information or clarification on the above please don't hesitate to contact us. One of our team will be happy to help.

Recent Posts

Animal Health Certificates: Everything you need to know in 2024

Taking a dog to Spain and back in 2024: Everything you need to know

Taking a dog to France and back in 2024: Everything you need to know

Official websites use .gov

A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

A lock ( ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Bringing a Dog into the United States

Starting August 1, 2024 at 12:01AM ET, new rules go into effect. Use the DogBot below to determine what rules apply to your dog based on the dates of travel and where your dog is traveling from. Launch DogBot

CDC issues regulations to control the entry of dogs into the United States from other countries. These rules apply to all dogs, including puppies, service animals, and dogs that left the United States and are returning. They also apply whether you are a U.S. citizen, legal U.S. resident, or foreign national.

If you don’t follow CDC’s rules, your dog won’t be allowed to enter the United States . If denied entry, your dog will be sent back to the last country of departure at your expense. Country of departure is where the last trip originated—not where the dog was born or where it lives.

In addition, you must comply with  U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) and your U.S. destination’s regulations . Please be aware that dogs imported for commercial (resale or adoption) purposes have  additional requirements from USDA .

Determining What Is Needed to Bring a Dog into the United States

The requirements to bring a dog into the United States depend on:

• when your dog will arrive in the United States
• where your dog has been in the 6 months before arriving in the United States
• where your dog received its rabies vaccination (if required)

To enter the United States, your dog will be required to meet specific criteria. Use the DogBot to determine what rules apply to your dog based on the dates of travel and where your dog is traveling from.

Why Entry of Dogs to the United States Is Controlled

Rabies is over 99% fatal and is 100% preventable . The United States eliminated dog rabies in 2007, but dog rabies is not controlled in over 100 countries—creating a risk to the United States in imported dogs. Through regulations, CDC strives to protect America’s families, communities, and pets by preventing the reintroduction of dog rabies into the United States. Preventing infected dogs from entering the United States is a public health priority. Each dog imported with rabies could infect people and other animals and could cost more than half a million dollars to contain.

Why it’s important now:  CDC updated its dog and cat importation regulation in 2024 to protect the health and safety of people and animals and prevent the reintroduction of dog rabies to the United States. The updated regulation will help keep Americans and their pets safe. It addresses recent challenges seen with international dog importations, including the challenges posed by fraudulent documentation.

Standardization of the dog importation process , including standard requirements for the minimum age of imported dogs, microchips, the CDC Dog Import Form , and other documentation, will streamline the importation process and allow for safer and more efficient entry of dogs into the United States.

• Travelers' Health
• Healthy Pets Healthy People
• Southern Border Health and Migration
• Port Health
• Division of Global Migration Health

To receive email updates about this page, enter your email address:

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Language selection

• Français fr

Important notice

Temporary website updates are in progress to fix technical issues. For assistance, visit our Contact Us page.

Non-commercial export of dogs, cats and ferrets to the European Union

This page is part of the guidance document repository (gdr)..

Looking for related documents? Search for related documents in the Guidance Document Repository

Please note changes

Please note that the animal health certificate for pets (dogs, cats and ferrets) travelling to the European Union (EU) has changed. These changes are effective December 1, 2019 and apply to pets travelling for non-commercial purposes. Any certificates signed by an official CFIA veterinarian dated November 30, 2019 or before will be accepted by the EU until December 31, 2019.

The changes are:

• References to applicable EU Regulations have been updated.

General information

The animal health requirements applicable to the non-commercial movement of dogs, cats and ferrets exported to the European Union (EU) Member States are laid down in the EU regulations.

What qualifies as a non-commercial movement

The EU regulations stipulate that dogs, cats and ferrets are considered pets, and the non-commercial certificate is to be used, if the following conditions are met:

• spatially ( i.e. the animal travels as cargo on the same flight as the owner), or

The EU regulations require that documentary evidence (in the form of a boarding pass or flight ticket) be presented to support the claim that the movement of the animal is the result of the movement of the owner.

• they are not intended to be sold or transferred to another owner;
• the owner or natural person designated by the owner must declare the conditions (found in a) and b) above), in the appropriate section of the certificate; and
• shall not exceed five (5), or
• the non-commercial movement is for the purpose of participating in competitions, exhibitions or sporting events or in training for such events; and
• the owner or the authorised person submits written evidence that the pet animals are registered either to attend an event referred to in point 1, or with an association organising such event; and
• the pet animals are more than six (6) months old.

If any of these conditions are not met, the commercial certificate should be used. Animals travelling to exhibitions and fairs would be considered a "non-commercial movement" as long as they are not for sale on-site.

Certification requirements

Note 1: Step-by-step instructions on filling out the new veterinary health certificates are available. Once completed by your veterinarian, the certificate must be endorsed by a veterinarian of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Please contact your local Animal Health Office to schedule an appointment for endorsement, or to ask any remaining questions you may have. A checklist is available to ensure you have the required document and details needed to qualify your pet for movement to the EU .

Note 2: The instructions below are for all EU Member States.

Note 3: The veterinary health certificate for dogs, cats and ferrets entering the EU in non-commercial movements of five or fewer animals is available in several languages. The certificate must be completed in English and the official language of the Member State of the first point of entry into the EU . ( e.g. , if a pet destined for Poland arrives via an airport in Germany, the English/German certificate should be used.). View the list of EU Member States , including their respective official languages.

Note 4: Every attempt has been made to ensure that the information on this site is up-to-date; however, countries can change their import requirements without notifying the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). It is strongly recommended that you contact the embassy or official veterinary authorities in the country of destination to confirm that there are no changes, additional requirements, or prohibitions related to certain breeds of dogs or cats. Information about the Movement of Pets (Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) – Non-Commercial Movement From Third Countries is also available on the European Union website.

Pet identification

Identification is mandatory for all Member States. Before any other procedure is carried out ( e.g. rabies vaccination), your pet must be identified with a microchip (or transponder) or a clearly readable tattoo. A tattoo is not accepted in the Republic of Ireland or Malta. Please note that if a tattoo is used, it must have been applied before July 3, 2011.

The microchip should comply with the ISO standard 11784. If it does not, the owner is responsible for providing a suitable microchip reader. For easy reference, the National Companion Animal Coalition has listed companies that manufacture ISO -compatible microchips . If the microchip is not ISO -compliant and the owner cannot provide a suitable microchip reader, the EU encourages the owner to contact the officials at the EU Port of Entry to inquire if they have a reader capable of reading other microchips. It is understood that some readers are able to read both ISO and non- ISO microchip but there is no guarantee that the point of entry will be equipped with such reader.

Vaccination against rabies

Rabies vaccination is required for entry of pet animals to all EU countries. Please note that according to EU regulations, a rabies vaccination is not considered valid unless the animal was properly identified at the time it was vaccinated. The microchip or tattoo number must also appear on the rabies vaccination certificate in order for it to be considered valid.

The animal must have been vaccinated against rabies with an approved inactivated vaccine or a recombinant vaccine administered by an authorized veterinarian. According to EU regulations, a primary vaccination is considered valid if the vaccine is administered according to the manufacturer's protocol and at least 21 days have elapsed between the date of administration of the vaccine and the arrival of the animal in Europe. In the case of a primary vaccination, the validity date as recorded on the health certificate should be 21 days after the vaccination. A revaccination (booster) administered during the period of validity of the previous vaccination is valid on the day it is administered, and the date can be recorded as such on the export certificate.

A revaccination (booster) administered during the period of validity of the previous vaccination is valid on the day it is administered.

However, if a revaccination is not carried out within the period of validity of the previous vaccination, or if the previous vaccine was administered before official identification, this revaccination will be considered a primary vaccination and may require a booster within one year.

Furthermore, if for any reason an animal has been re-microchipped, this most recent identification will be considered the "official identification" and a revaccination for rabies must follow. This would then fall under the EU 's definition of a primary vaccination and a resulting 21-day wait period would be required.

Some member States may allow entry of animals less than 12 weeks of age which have not received an anti-rabies vaccination or between the age of 12 and 16 weeks old that have received a rabies vaccination but do not yet meet the validity requirements (21 days). In all cases, this authorisation can only be granted if one of the following conditions are met:

• the owner or authorised person provides a signed declaration that, from birth until the time of the non-commercial movement, the pet animal has had no contact with wild animals of species susceptible to rabies; or
• the pet animals are accompanied by their mother, on whom they still depend, and from the identification document accompanying their mother it can be established that, before their birth, the mother received an anti-rabies vaccination which complies with the EU requirements.

It is the owner's responsibility to obtain the information from the Member State of destination and to show evidence of the lesser/different requirements to the CFIA endorsing veterinarian.

If the movement of the animal involves transit to another Member State before arrival in the Member State of destination, both countries must authorise this type of movement. The EU has provided a listing of National Rules Applying to Entry of Pet Dogs, Cats and Ferrets of Less Than 3 Months (Non-Vaccinated Against Rabies) .

Echinococcus treatment

Dogs travelling to Finland, Malta, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom require treatment for echinococcus within a period of not more than 120 hours and not less than 24 hours before the time of scheduled entry of the dogs into the EU .

Dogs must be treated against Echinococcus multilocularis using an approved/licensed veterinary product whose active ingredient is Praziquantel, or an equivalent product (an equivalent product is a product authorized in Canada that bears a label claim against Echinococcus multilocularis ). A qualified vet must carry out the treatment and record it in the Veterinary Certificate. You must not administer the treatment yourself. Ensure that the veterinarian rescans the microchip to confirm that the number is correct and that the chip is readable.

Contrary to previous requirements (prior to February 29, 2012), this treatment must be administered before the certificate is presented to the CFIA District Veterinarian for endorsement.

Additional specific country requirements

It is important to note that at any moment, any country can request that additional requirements be met. It is the exporter's responsibility to verify the import requirements in place in the country of destination.

Malta requires a Pre-Notification Form for Arrival or Transit of Live Animals to be submitted for all animals before they travel. This authorization must be obtained by the exporter from the Maltese authority and has to accompany the animal upon arrival, in addition to the health certificate.

Actions in case of non-compliance following arrival in the EU

The EU Regulations state that when an inspection conducted upon arrival reveals that a pet animal does not comply with the established conditions, the decision can be made to:

• return the pet animal to its country of dispatch; or
• isolate the pet animal under official control for the time necessary for it to comply with the conditions; or
• as a last resort where the return is not possible or isolation not practical, put the pet animal down.

The measures in case of non-compliance are applied at the expense of the owner and without the possibility of any financial compensation for the owner or the authorised person.

For EU animals returning

Please note that only an authorised EU veterinarian can enter information into the EU pet passport. All tests and vaccinations are to be completed before the animal leaves the EU . If a pet animal stays in Canada (or another third country) longer than the validity of the anti-rabies vaccination, a veterinary certificate must be completed with the passport serving as supporting documentation.

Completion of the veterinary certificate

Please refer to the detailed instructions for the completion of the certificate by a licensed veterinarian. After completion, it must be endorsed by a CFIA Veterinarian ( local Animal Health Office ).

When presenting the certificate for endorsement to a CFIA Veterinarian please take all the supporting documentation along with you: original or certified copy of rabies vaccine certificate, documentary evidence of travel, etc. (A certified copy of a rabies certificate is a photocopy of the original rabies certificate that is authenticated by an original signature of a veterinarian.)

The certificates required are available in the following languages and are available from your local District Office

• Bulgarian - PDF (255 kb )
• Croatian - PDF (207 kb )
• Czech - PDF (175 kb )
• Danish - PDF (71 kb )
• Dutch - PDF (72 kb )
• English - PDF (47 kb )
• Estonian - PDF (70 kb )
• French - PDF (73 kb )
• German - PDF (73 kb )
• Greek - PDF (296 kb )
• Hungarian - PDF (215 kb )
• Italian - PDF (104 kb )
• Latvian - PDF (261 kb )
• Lithuanian - PDF (179 kb )
• Polish - PDF (182 kb )
• Portuguese - PDF (72 kb )
• Romanian - PDF (258 kb )
• Slovakian - PDF (176 kb )
• Slovenian - PDF (165 kb )
• Spanish - PDF (74 kb )
• Swedish - PDF (71 kb )

Please note that Finland and Malta accept the English only certificate.

Once all the above steps have been successfully completed, and the certificate has been signed by your veterinarian, you may take it to your local CFIA Animal Health office to obtain an official endorsement by a CFIA veterinarian.

13 German Dog Breeds That Make Great Companions

Guten Tag , fans of German dog breeds ! While we love dogs from all over the world (a cute face is a cute face, after all), we've noticed that many of the most popular dog breeds happen to have originated in Germany. There's the iconic German shepherd (No. 4 on the American Kennel Club's list of the most popular breeds), the muscle-bound Rottweiler (staying strong at No. 7) and the s hort-legged dachshund (No. 9). Germany is responsible for creating upwards of 50 dog breeds of various sizes and personalities, so one—or more—of these cuties are bound to catch your eye.

Our list includes dog breeds that originated in Germany or regions now known as modern Germany. We asked Sara Ochoa, DVM, a veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of West Monroe in Louisiana, and Lindsay Butzer, DVM, a veterinarian at Clint Moore Animal Hospital in Florida, to dig up the inside info on the German dog breeds that will steal your heart—and quite possibly your pretzels and sausages.

Get  Reader's Digest ’s  Read Up newsletter for more pets, humor, travel, tech and fun facts all week long.

German shepherd dog

Whether the German shepherd is a family dog, a fellow soldier or a service dog for the visually impaired, it's undeniably one of the most loyal dog breeds   around. These pups are calm and collected, with an unparalleled dedication to love and protect their human or the entire family unit (including kids and feline siblings). If that doesn't knock your socks off, know that they're wicked smart and eager to please.

"Training is a breeze with their focus and loyalty. They're awesome for police, military, anything requiring serious discipline," says Dr. Ochoa. But that doesn’t mean they’re always in “work mode.” German shepherds love playtime and snuggling with their humans too, albeit with an ever-watchful eye on their surroundings. 

Over 300 years ago, dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers. ( Dach means "badger" and hund means "dog.") Like other long-nosed dog breeds , they use their cute sniffers t o investigate. Dachshunds are enthusiastic explorers and use their sharp claws and powerful short legs to excavate. They're also clever and loath to give up, whether they’re waiting for a squirrel to emerge from under the deck or going that extra inch to retrieve a toy rabbit from under the sofa. They’ll keep barking until they successfully capture their “prey.”

Weiner dogs, as they are affectionately known, come in two sizes: miniature and standard. Both are ideal sizes if you’re looking for an apartment dog suitable for small spaces.

Doberman pinscher

Kudos to Louis Dobermann for creating this beautiful and noble German dog breed. As a tax collector in 19th-century Germany, Dobermann wasn’t well-received when it was time to collect taxes, so he developed a dog to protect him from other breeds. (The extra n was dropped at some point.) Even though the Doberman is considered a guard dog , it is actually affectionate and sweet with its family, though it usually bonds with just one family member.

As guard dogs, some Dobermans may have behavioral issues. "Some can struggle with issues like aggression with strangers, separation anxiety or resource guarding," says Dr. Ochoa. "Proper training and socialization from a young age can help prevent these behaviors, though." It varies a lot between individual dogs, however.

With an intimidating size and powerhouse body, this guard dog breed hardly seems like the warm and fuzzy type that might spend quiet evenings at home cuddled up on the sofa. Yet these dogs are super affectionate and chummy with their family unit. With strangers, however, they can have a standoffish vibe. It's not that they are mean dogs. The Rottweiler will be dedicated and devoted to its human pack, and being reserved is this smart dog 's way of safeguarding its family.

The boxer is an intelligent, fun-loving German dog breed that loves to be busy, preferably with its family. Home life will be much more pleasant for a boxer and its humans if it isn’t left alone for too long . With too much time spent solo, the boxer will find ways to entertain itself—by tipping over the garbage, for instance, or destroying sofa cushions. 

This breed's popularity peaked in the 1950s, when a Westminster-winning boxer named Bang Away became a celebrity. In 2019 and 2020, a boxer named CinniBon’s Bedrock Bombshell wowed judges and spectators, taking home first-place honors in the working dog group.

Known as the "gray ghost," mainly for its color, stealth hunting skills and speed, the Weimaraner is one of the dog breeds we commonly mispronounce . Try this: “y-mar-honor.” Now that you're all set with the pronunciation, the Weimaraner would like you to know it thrives on human companionship so much that “me time” is a foreign concept.

These pups aren't looking to join you for long sessions on the sofa, though. "They are extremely athletic dogs that are known for speed, stamina, courageousness and intelligence and have a great sense of smell for hunting and working," says Dr. Butzer. Weimaraners will be happiest with people who enjoy spending a lot of time with them while being physically active together.

What could be cuter than a fuzzy-wuzzy, pint-size dog that looks like a fox ? This tiny German dog breed is ever so perky, friendly and curious. Pomeranians' curiosity also drives their desire to learn and perform tricks, and it makes them alert watchdogs. These pups have kept company with some notable figures of history, including owners Marie Antoinette, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Queen Charlotte, who passed on her love of the breed to her granddaughter, Queen Victoria.

Possibly the tallest dog breed in the world, the Great Dane towers over four-legged friends—and most humans when it stands on its hind legs. While other giant dog breeds might appear big and clumsy, the Great Dane’s elegant and regal gait rivals the top models on the catwalk. A gentle giant, this German dog breed’s heart is as big as its legs are tall.

Fun fact: Pennsylvania founder William Penn had a Great Dane, and in 1965, it became the state dog of Pennsylvania. There's even a portrait of Penn and his Great Dane in the governor’s reception room in the Pennsylvania Capitol.

Schnauzers come in three sizes, and they’re all spirited and lively with a zest for adventure. All schnauzers need to expend their energy and put their keen intelligence to work with daily walks and playtime. Dog puzzles and toys go a long way toward keeping them mentally engaged (and out of mischief). Though eager to please, they are also a bit independent and may have their own way of doing things from time to time. As family dogs, they are sweet, get along wonderfully with children  and get along with other dogs.

German spitz

The German spitz is a versatile little fireball. "People love them for their ability to excel at agility, conformation showing and companionship," says Dr. Butzer. This is truly a happy-go-lucky breed that loves the whole family, including other family dogs. "They are a hardy and healthy dog breed originally bred to work on farms for herding smaller livestock until they became more known as companion dogs," she says. That's probably why they make good watchdogs. But heads up: Their built-in alarm system can be excessive, so this isn't the breed for you if you can't tolerate a lot of barking.

Did you notice how much the German spitz looks like the Pomeranian? These are two dog breeds that everyone confuses . Both are spitz breeds, known for their thick double coats, fox-like faces and bushy, curled tails.

If you're looking for fluffy, larger-than-life German dog breeds to snuggle with, let us introduce you to the Leonberger. These pups were bred to look like lions , according to Dr. Butzer. But after World War I, they were on the brink of extinction, with only five Leonbergers in all of Germany. Thankfully, the breed was reestablished by Deutscher Club für Leonberger Hunde , and in 1991, the Leonberger made its way to the United States. We're sure glad they made the trip because they are exceedingly patient and lovey-dovey with their family, and they make friends easily with those outside the family circle.

German shorthaired pointer

If you would rather hike, run, swim and explore the great outdoors instead of spend your downtime on the couch, the German shorthaired pointer is an adventure companion worthy of your consideration. As a hunting breed, it’s naturally inclined to be a curious and enthusiastic explorer. These dogs form solid bonds with their humans and love to scout the backyard with the kids or spend the day at the lake with the whole family.

Of note: A recognized trait of the German shorthaired pointer is that it takes a little longer to mature than other breeds. It's like having a full-grown dog that acts like a puppy, so you'll want to avoid common puppy-training mistakes from the get-go.

You've heard about "French" poodles and have probably seen artwork portraying dogs with the quintessential fancy hairdos and aristocratic demeanor strolling the streets of Paris. Here's something shocking: "Poodles were originally duck-hunting dogs and came from Germany, not France," says Dr. Ochoa.

They are loving and intelligent, as well as first-rate family dogs with lots of pep. "All that energy and [those] smarts make them natural athletes and circus performers," she says. "They love showing off their mad skills." Heck, poodles love just about everyone they meet and are even one of the dog breeds that get along with cats .

Why trust us

At  Reader's Digest , we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece on German dog breeds, Lisa Marie Conklin tapped her experience as a reporter who has covered dogs and pets for seven years, then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science,  gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. For this piece, we relied on reputable primary sources and experts, including two veterinarians. We verified all facts and data and backed them with credible sourcing, and we will revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team , our contributors and our  editorial policies .

• Sara Ochoa , DVM, veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of West Monroe in West Monroe, Louisiana, and senior writer at HoundGames ; email interview, Jan. 23, 2024
• Lindsay Butzer , DVM, veterinarian at Clint Moore Animal Hospital; email interview, Jan. 15, 2024

The post 13 German Dog Breeds That Make Great Companions appeared first on Reader's Digest .

Guide-dog owners say new U.S. rules complicate border crossings

Rules going into effect aug. 1 say all dogs must be microchipped, vaccinated for rabies and 'appear healthy'.

Social Sharing

New entry requirements for dogs travelling from Canada to the United States could make life more difficult for people who use service or guide dogs, advocates fear.

Under updated guidelines to reduce the spread of rabies announced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there's a slew of new requirements for dogs crossing the border that vary based on a dog's age, country of origin and travel history.

The rules apply to service dogs as well as pets.

Dogs that live in Canada and haven't been to a "high-risk" country in the past six months must be microchipped and have comprehensive proof of rabies vaccination. The dog's owner or guardian must also fill out an entry application form that includes two photos of the dog, and the dog must "appear healthy on arrival."

The new rules, announced in early May, come into effect on Aug. 1. 

• Why Vancouver's common 'no-pets' clause presents particular challenges for tenants with disabilities

Darryl Stickel, a consultant who is legally blind, says travelling internationally for his work is already challenging for him and his guide dog Drake, and these requirements create new opportunities for things to go wrong.

"As someone with a disability, the more hurdles and steps you put in place, the more opportunities there are for me to make a mistake," he said.

Stickle also said the language in the requirements about whether a dog appears to be healthy is vague, creating room for border guards to deny a person and their dog entry.

Guide dogs are not pets: advocate 

B.C. and Alberta Guide Dogs CEO William Thornton said his organization has been scrambling to gain a full understanding of the new requirements. 

While Thornton said he understands preventing the spread of rabies is important, he doesn't think service dogs should be lumped in with pet dogs. 

• Paralympic rower denied hotel reservation because of guide dog
• Vancouver cafe ordered to pay visually impaired woman $12K for discrimination

As a rule, service dogs are vaccinated, microchipped and receive yearly health checks, he said. 

But of particular concern to Thornton is the requirement, under certain circumstances, for dogs to have a blood test that checks for disease immunity in the 30 days prior to travel.

"The impact on service dogs would appear, at this stage ... it's going to be a little bit dramatic and a bit of a setback," he said.

"A guide dog or a service dog is really an extension of an individual, and it needs to be able to go wherever and whenever an individual wishes to travel."

Thornton is also the chair of the International Guide Dog Federation, which has 100 organizations in 37 different countries and represents 25,000 working dogs globally. As far as Thornton is aware, the CDC did not reach out to the federation when drafting the new measures or after publication.

"I think that you're going to see a lot of pushback by the [guide dog] industry. ... We have to represent our guide dog users because the whole idea of getting a guide or a service dog is freedom of access, freedom of travel," he said.

CBC News asked the CDC whether it consulted service-dog groups over the rule changes, but has yet to receive a reply.

• A mysterious respiratory illness is affecting dogs, but tests show no new pathogens: U.S. officials

According to the CDC, the rabies virus carried by dogs was eliminated in the U.S. in 2007 and the new measures aim to prevent its reintroduction.

The regulation, it says, builds on what it learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, when the centre temporarily banned the importation of dogs from countries with a high risk of rabies.

The CDC told CBC News that service dogs are subject to the same requirements as all other dogs entering the country, but accommodations and exceptions can be made. 

For dogs arriving by air, the CDC-registered animal care facility where the passenger's dog has a reservation should transport passengers and their dogs to the facility for the dog's examination and revaccination — which would, in theory, expedite the process. The CDC says these requests need to be made during the reservation process. 

There is also an exception for foreign-vaccinated service dogs that arrive at a sea port if the dog meets all other requirements, including having a valid rabies test from a CDC-approved lab before arrival.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tessa Vikander is a CBC News reporter covering local and national news. Previously she reported for Toronto Star, Reuters, IndigiNews and CTV News. You can contact her at [email protected].

Related Stories

• Top stories from British Columbia
• B.C. art teacher, students displaced by wildfire paint mural to thank host community
• B.C. imposes new rules on boaters to stop spread of parasite
• 3 B.C. school districts to launch fully integrated, daylong child care

'Breaking up families': CDC announces strict rules for traveling to the US with your dog

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced new restrictions Wednesday on dogs traveling to the U.S., which some say will make it harder for families returning to the country with their pets or adopting pets internationally.

The new regulation, which goes into effect August 1, bans all dogs under six months from entering the U.S. Dogs over six months must show proof they have not been in a country identified as high-risk for rabies. Without proof, the dog faces potential quarantine. Dogs must also be microchipped.

The tighter restrictions are meant "to protect the health and safety of people and animals by making sure any dog arriving in the United States is healthy and doesn’t present a risk to our communities," the CDC said in a press release Wednesday.

The U.S. eliminated rabies in 2007, and the new rules are meant to prevent the re-introduction of the viral disease, which is transmitted through biting. The agency has identified 131 countries as high risk for rabies as of Aug. 2023.

The CDC also said it has seen "recent challenges with international dog importations," such as fraudulent documents or dogs kept in unsafe conditions.

Traveling with a pet can be difficult. Download these helpful apps

However, some say the restrictions will negatively impact families and those wanting to rescue pets overseas from legitimate organizations because it can be “especially challenging” to provide proof of a dog’s whereabouts," according to the Humane Society Legislative Fund in a press release on Wednesday. “Far fewer dogs will be able to find loving homes in the U.S.," the release said.

“The CDC’s job is to maintain public health, but these new requirements may needlessly delay Americans – including government personnel and military families – from returning to the United States with their pets, creating great anguish and breaking up families in the process,” said Tracie Letterman, vice president of federal affairs at Humane Society Legislative Fund, in a statement in the release. 

Airlines may also struggle to implement the new restrictions.

“Airlines will be left to their own discretion to enforce these rules, and if they err, it’s up to the airline to export the dog back to the dog’s country of origin,” the Humane Society Legislative Fund said. “To avoid confusion or difficulties, some airlines may opt out of allowing customers to travel into the U.S. with dogs.”

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

General election latest: PM laughs off washout election launch; Starmer on why he wants to lower voting age

Rishi Sunak has met with veterans before discussions with key advisers, as Conservatives deny he's taking a day off. Meanwhile, Keir Starmer is campaigning in the West Midlands - where he has doubled down on previous promises to lower the voting age.

Saturday 25 May 2024 18:28, UK

• General Election 2024

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

General election called for 4 July

• Starmer confirms support for extending voting age to 16
• 'No pneumonia yet': PM laughs off election launch deluge
• Tories deny Sunak taking 'duvet day' on first campaign weekend
• Housing Secretary Michael Gove to stand down at general election
• Sunak doesn't rule out Johnson joining Tory campaign
• PM agrees to take part in Sky News leaders' event on one condition
• Live reporting by Brad Young

Expert analysis

• Beth Rigby: Starmer launched in Scotland but he needs to keep his base
• Tamara Cohen: What the Mail's front page means for the campaign
• Sam Coates: Gove stepping down shows the political winds are shifting
• Sophy Ridge: This is what the Tories don't want to talk about

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Subscribe to Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: What happens next? | Which MPs are standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency's changing | Sky's coverage plans

We can now bring you footage of the prime minister's breakfast with veterans in Northallerton, North Yorkshire.

On a sunny morning, he met the group of eight veterans and sat in The Buck Inn, a Wetherspoon's pub on the High Street in his Richmond constituency, where the group were sipping tea and some tucked into breakfasts.

But it was the wet weather in which Mr Sunak called the general election that was the subject of conversation...

Flight logs appear to show Rishi Sunak used a Tory donor’s helicopter to travel from his Yorkshire home to campaign in London this afternoon.

Online route data shows a helicopter believed to be owned by millionaire businessman Richard Harpin landing in grounds next to Rishi Sunak’s mansion this morning after previously taking off from an airfield 15 minutes’ drive away in Bagby.

It then flew via Nottingham to Central London.

Rishi Sunak has since been photographed campaigning in Wimbledon and Carshalton in South London – two Tory-held Lib Dem marginals.

It comes after Labour accused the Prime Minister of taking a day off in the first week of the election race.

Conservatives denied that saying Mr Sunak was leading "from the front".

On Thursday and Friday he campaigned in all four nations of the UK, using a plane to visit Wales, the North of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister then met veterans in his Richmond constituency this morning, but the media had not been made aware of any other visits.

A Conservative source did not deny that Rishi Sunak used a helicopter to travel from Yorkshire but said the London visits were "pre-planned".

"As with literally all campaigns, politicians do canvassing, door knocking, meeting activists and volunteers without media as well as with", the source added. 

 Rishi Sunak has hit out at Labour and said a Keir Starmer-led government would be marked by "uncertainty" and mean a "more dangerous world".

In a lengthy thread on X, the prime minister claimed that Labour "doesn't have a plan".

Expanding on what he said would be the uncertainty of a Labour government, he said: "Who knows what they would do in government? They won't tell us how they would fund any of their policies. They refused to meet our defence spending pledge." 

He argued that an "uncertain future" has consequences.

"Our enemies notice. The world becomes more dangerous as they take advantage of our weakness. This leads to higher prices of food and fuel, as well as a greater risk of attacks against our nation." 

Mr Sunak is referred to his pledge to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, at a time when Russia appears to be on the front foot in Ukraine.

Meanwhile Sir Keir, who has sought to re-establish Labour's security credentials in recent years, has said he wanted to commit to the 2.5% "when resources allow".

Earlier we brought you discussion of Richard Tice's somewhat tenuous links to Skegness in Lincolnshire.

The Reform Party leader is standing to be an MP in the seaside destination, but how well he actually knows the town is an open question.

Here's what he told Sky News:

The UK's water industry is broken, Labour's shadow environment secretary has declared.

Commenting on a potential contamination of London's drinking water, Steve Reed MP said: "Just days ago, a parasite outbreak was making people sick in Devon, now London’s drinking water may not be safe to drink. 

"The Conservatives just folded their arms and looked the other way while water companies pumped a tidal wave of raw sewage into our rivers, lakes, and seas – putting our nation’s health at risk. 

"It’s time for change. A Labour government will put the water companies under tough special measures to end this scandal. We will give the regulator new powers so law-breaking water bosses face criminal charges and see their huge bonuses being blocked until they clean up their toxic filth."

For context: Dozens of people have reported becoming unwell with stomach issues in south-east London, according to the Guardian, and Thames Water has sent samples of water for testing. 

Have rumours of Rishi Sunak's "duvet day" been greatly exaggerated?

The prime minister was spotted out and about in Carshalton in south London, meeting activists on a green and making a speech.

The news was shared by local MP Elliot Colburn and comes in the wake of one of the more bizarre rows of this nascent election campaign.

Earlier today, the Conservatives were forced to deny that Mr Sunak was taking a day off from campaigning just a few days after he announced the upcoming election.

The reports prompted Labour's Stella Creasy MP to post: "Sunak is already in need of a duvet day. Britain is already in need of a different government."

Sharing pictures of the visit on X, Mr Colburn vowed: "We are ready for the fight, and I hope I can count on your support on July 4th!" 

By Gurpreet Narwan, political correspondent

Richard Tice promised the dozen or so people at the Vine Hotel in Skegness that only he could deliver for their community. 

The Surrey-born businessman has tenuous links to the area, however. It wasn’t lost on the audience.

He was asked what he knows about Skegness. Mr Tice responded: "That’s why I’m here to learn…I’ve got lots of farming friends in Lincolnshire."

He says his favourite place to eat is the "Red Lion Wetherspoons opposite the station", although he hasn’t been spotted there just yet.

Mr Tice says he is hoping to "take a flat on the seafront," where he was today campaigning outside migrant hotels.  

 Rachel Reeves swapped spreadsheets for the supermarket earlier as she visited a Fulham branch of Iceland.

She chatted to workers about the cost of living crisis and attacked the Conservatives' approach to the economy.

Ms Reeves, who it seems did not take a turn behind the checkout desk, pitched Labour as the party of "stability and tough spending". 

Speaking to reporters on the visit, she also suggested she wanted to cut taxes for working people, saying they should be "lower," but insisted that "unlike the Tories" she would not make pledges she cannot keep.

Repeatedly pressed on whether she could rule out national insurance or income tax rising if Labour wins the election, the shadow minister said: "I have no plans to increase taxes."

"We've set out the plans that we do have to fund the immediate injection of cash into our NHS and into our schools, but we have no plans beyond that to increase taxes."

Labour has said it would use tax on wealthy non-doms and impose VAT and business rates on private schools in order to fund improvements to public services. 

 With Keir Starmer confirming earlier today that he's in favour of lowering the voting age to 16 - and that it's a Labour priority - it's worth looking around to see how other countries do it.

"Yes, I want to see both 16 and 17-year-olds," the Labour leader said. "If you can work, if you can pay tax, if you can serve in your armed forces, then you ought to be able to vote." 

So where can you vote at 16? 

Well, actually, right here in the UK - for some things.

Scotland and Wales already lowered the voting age to 16 for local elections and in those for the regional parliaments.

In 2014, 16 and 17-year-olds were able to vote in the Scottish independence referendum. 

Further afield, Nicaragua, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Ecuador, Cuba, Brazil, Argentina and Austria all have votes at 16.

A few more - North Korea, Indonesia, Greece, and East Timor - have votes at 17.

While we're on the subject of voting ages, only one country is known to have a maximum voting age.

The Vatican has a rule that the new Pope is selected by cardinals who are below the age of 80.

Why are so many Tory MPs going? Is it because they read the opinion polls and believe their party's time is up and they don't fancy the hard slog and often unrewarding grind of opposition?

There's a famous quote attributed to James Callaghan, during the 1979 general election campaign, shortly before Labour was swept from power by Margaret Thatcher.

"You know there are times, perhaps once every 30 years, when there is a sea-change in politics," avuncular "Sunny Jim" observed shrewdly to his close aide Bernard Donoughue. 

Read more: 

The Conservatives have "failed" on water pollution issues and let big companies "off the hook", Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has said.

Hitting the campaign trail in Chichester, West Sussex, the party leader said the public are "alarmed" about the damage being done to rivers and seas in the UK.

He donned a red lifejacket (safety first!) on a visit to Birdham Pool Marina alongside parliamentary candidate Jess Brown-Fuller.

In the run-up to the general election, the Lib Dems have unveiled plans to abolish the regulator, Ofwat, and introduce a new one to tackle the sewage crisis.

The party claims its analysis shows water company bosses have received some £54m in bonuses since 2019.

According to the Environment Agency, sewage spills into England's rivers and seas more than doubled in 2023 with 3.6 million hours of spills last year - equal to about 400 years - compared with 1.75 million hours in 2022. 

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free