Taking Your Dog From the US to Canada

A valid rabies certificate does most of the work.

DogsUS → CanadaRabies certificate

Taking a personal pet dog from the US into Canada is one of the simpler international moves: there's no quarantine and no titer test. What Canada wants is a valid rabies vaccination certificate that clearly identifies your dog and the vaccine. The bigger thing to plan for is actually the trip back — US re-entry rules changed in 2024 and 2025. Here's what to have ready.

The checklist, step by step

Valid rabies vaccination certificate

🗓 Before travel

A rabies certificate in English or French, signed by a licensed vet, identifying the dog (breed, colour, weight) and the vaccine (name, manufacturer, serial number, dates). Required for dogs 3 months and older.

Microchip (recommended)

🗓 As early as possible

A microchip isn't mandatory for entry to Canada, but it's strongly recommended for identification and to tie the rabies certificate to your dog.

CDC Dog Import Form (for the return)

🗓 Arrange before you fly back

To return to the US, submit the CDC Dog Import Form online and carry the receipt; a US-vaccinated dog also needs the Certification of US-issued Rabies Vaccination form from a USDA-accredited vet.

Good to know

Puppies under 3 months are exempt from the rabies requirement. Requirements differ for commercial imports and for assistance dogs.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a quarantine for dogs entering Canada from the US?No. There is no quarantine and no rabies titer test for a personal pet dog entering Canada from the US — a valid rabies vaccination certificate is the key requirement.

What do I need to bring my dog back into the US?A CDC Dog Import Form receipt, and for a US-vaccinated dog, the Certification of US-issued Rabies Vaccination form completed by a USDA-accredited vet before you leave the US.

Official sources

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This guide is for general information and is kept in step with official sources, but requirements change and can vary by case. Always confirm the current rules with the official authority for your route before you travel.

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