Regulations for importing dogs into the USA
May 19, 2025 0Pet Import & Export Regulations Worldwide
To bring a dog into the USA, it must be at least 6 months old, have a microchip, appear healthy upon arrival, and have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Specific requirements vary based on the dog’s country of origin and rabies vaccination status.
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Age and Microchip:
All dogs must be at least 6 months old and have an ISO-compatible microchip.
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Health:
Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival and may not be carrying a contagious disease.
- CDC Dog Import Form:
- Rabies Vaccination:
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Country of Origin:
Requirements vary based on whether the dog is coming from a dog rabies-free, low-risk, or high-risk country.
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High-Risk Country Requirements:
If coming from a high-risk country, dogs must meet specific requirements, including having a reservation with a CDC-registered Animal Care Facility and, in some cases, rabies titer results.
- Rabies-Restricted Country Requirements:
- Documentation:
- Ports of Entry:
Dogs entering the U.S. must arrive at authorized ports of entry.
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Airline Policies:It’s crucial to check with the airline regarding their policies on live animals as they may vary.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) (.gov) and CDC Requirements:
Dogs imported for commercial purposes have additional USDA requirements, according to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/live-animal-import/commercial-dog-import
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Zoonotic Disease Prevention:The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can require quarantine, isolation, re-exportation, or destruction of an animal to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases.
