Many dog owners don't want to be without their beloved pet when traveling. Whether it's a short weekend trip within the EU or an extended vacation overseas, traveling with your dog can be a wonderful experience. However, especially when traveling internationally, detailed entry regulations often have to be observed. These regulations have different backgrounds: Some are designed to protect against the introduction of diseases like rabies, others are intended to curb the illegal puppy trade or protect local animal populations.
Why careful travel planning with a dog is important
Failure to comply with these regulations or fully comply with them can result in serious consequences: from temporary quarantine of your dog to complete denial of entry into the destination country. In some cases, even hefty fines can be imposed. Therefore, it's worth planning thoroughly to ensure a stress-free and safe trip with your four-legged friend.
Below you'll find all the key information you need to provide a solid foundation for your travel preparations. We're focusing on three major destinations: EU countries , the United Kingdom (UK) , and the USA . These three destinations cover the majority of classic travel routes when it comes to international travel from Germany.
Overview: EU, UK and USA – similarities and differences
At first glance, one might think that traveling within the EU is the most straightforward because the guidelines are largely standardized. However, individual EU countries have special regulations, for example, regarding certain listed dogs or additional deworming requirements.
In the United Kingdom, some details have changed since Brexit, although the basic structure (e.g., microchipping, proof of rabies vaccination) has remained similar. In addition, there are stricter regulations regarding tapeworm treatment in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Rabies vaccination is particularly important for travel to the USA. Furthermore, the regulations in the US federal system are somewhat more complex, as individual states may impose additional requirements.
Similarities
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Valid rabies vaccination as a basic requirement
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Unique identification via microchip
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Documentation in the pet passport (in the EU) or official health certificates (USA, UK)
Differences
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Special regulations for certain dog breeds (e.g. listed dogs in some countries)
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Time window for vaccinations (e.g. 21 days waiting period after rabies vaccination)
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Tapeworm treatment in the UK as a special requirement
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Country-specific requirements for quarantine or further vaccinations
Legal basis at a glance
In the European Union, a corresponding regulation governs travel with pets (dogs, cats, and ferrets). This regulation establishes, for example, the EU pet passport, which is recognized as a standardized document for travel to most EU countries.
For a long time, the same EU regulations applied to the United Kingdom. However, since Brexit, you must be aware that the UK no longer fully complies with EU requirements for some documents. An additional health certificate may be required.
In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversee the import of animals. At the federal level, there are clear regulations regarding rabies vaccination, but some states set their own standards regarding quarantine periods or additional health checks.
The table below shows the most important aspects in direct comparison:
| region | Microchip required | Rabies vaccination required | Standard documentation | Additional health certificates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU countries | Yes | Yes, at least 21 days old | EU pet passport | Depending on the country, sometimes necessary |
| UK | Yes | Yes, at least 21 days old | EU ID card (older type) or health certificate | Prescribed for tapeworm treatment |
| USA | Partly prescribed | Yes, according to CDC regulations | No EU ID, but USDA forms | Yes, USDA APHIS Certificate, depending on the state |
Entry into EU countries
EU Pet Passport: Your ticket to Europe
If you want to travel with your dog within the European Union, you will need an EU pet passport . This passport is issued in Germany by authorized veterinarians and contains:
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Information about you as the owner
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Information about the dog (name, breed, gender, date of birth)
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Microchip number and date of insertion
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Rabies vaccination data (date of vaccination, validity period)
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Space for additional vaccinations (e.g. against distemper, leptospirosis, parvovirus)
This documentation enables authorities in other EU member states to reliably determine your dog's identity and vaccination status.
Important note : The microchip must comply with ISO standard 11784 or 11785. If your dog has an older chip that does not comply with this standard, you should carry your own reader when traveling, or better yet, have the chip replaced in good time.
Rabies vaccination: The heart of entry
Rabies vaccination is a key requirement for entry into almost every country. In the EU, the dog's first vaccination must be given at least 21 days before crossing the border. These three weeks are necessary for the vaccination to fully develop.
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First vaccination : For the first vaccination, the dog must be at least 12 weeks old, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. After that, the 21-day period comes into effect.
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Booster vaccination : If the dog is vaccinated regularly, this waiting period expires as long as there is no gap between vaccinations. The date on which the vaccination expires is always the one that counts. If the vaccination is administered on time, protection is maintained throughout.
Country-specific special regulations
Although the EU tries to make the regulations as uniform as possible, there are additional requirements in individual countries:
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Finland, Ireland, Malta, and Norway : Treatment for tapeworms (Echinococcus aureus) is often required. This treatment must be administered and documented by a veterinarian 24 to 120 hours before entry.
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Listed dogs : Some countries have breed lists that may impose different requirements for "dangerous breeds." In France, for example, breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier and Tosa Inu are more strictly regulated.
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Puppies under 15 weeks : Since a dog can only be vaccinated from 12 weeks of age and then requires another 21 days for the vaccination to be fully effective, puppies can generally only be taken to many EU countries from 15 weeks of age. Some countries make exceptions (for example, transit regulations), but this should be clarified in advance.
Traveling by car or train
Many travelers choose to travel by car or train when traveling within the EU, as this is often the least stressful way to take their dog with them.
Advantages of traveling by car :
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Your dog knows the vehicle and has less stress.
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You can plan breaks flexibly, for example for walking the dog.
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There are no restrictions on the size or weight of the dog (as is often the case on airplanes).
Advantages of traveling by train :
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Your dog can stay with you, but he or she must usually be muzzled and kept on a leash.
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More environmentally friendly alternative to the car.
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Some railway companies offer cheap or even free options for small dogs (depending on the country and the conditions of carriage).
Checklist for EU entry
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EU pet passport : Completed in full and stamped by the veterinarian.
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Microchip : Check in good time whether the chip can be read.
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Valid rabies vaccination : First vaccination at least 21 days before, booster without gap.
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Possible additional vaccinations (not always mandatory, but recommended): e.g. leptospirosis, parvovirus.
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Deworming & parasite prophylaxis : Especially important in the countries mentioned above (Finland, Ireland, etc.).
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Breed lists : Check whether your dog is classified as a listed dog.
Entry requirements for the United Kingdom (UK)
Brexit and its effects
Until January 2020, the same rules applied to the UK as to all other EU countries. However, Brexit has introduced a few additional points that you should be aware of. Although the United Kingdom is no longer an EU member, it generally recognizes the EU pet passport in many cases, provided it was issued before Brexit and is still valid.
However, anyone who has received a new passport after Brexit will generally be required to present a veterinary health certificate issued specifically for entry into the UK. This document reconfirms the dog's identity and the validity of the rabies vaccination.
Important documents and vaccinations for the UK
The following documents are essential for entry into the United Kingdom:
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EU pet passport (if valid) or official health certificate (GB)
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Proof of rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before entry)
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Microchip (according to ISO standard)
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Veterinary certificate for tapeworm treatment
The latter (tapeworm treatment against Echinococcus multilocularis) is a particularly critical point : According to British regulations, your dog must be treated between 24 and 120 hours before entry. The treatment must be administered by a veterinarian and documented on the passport or health certificate.
Entry routes: ferry, Eurotunnel or plane
The most common routes to the United Kingdom are:
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Ferry (e.g. Calais-Dover) : Here dogs usually stay in the car, on some ferries there are special dog areas.
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Eurotunnel (train) : The dog's passport will be scanned at check-in and you will drive through the tunnel in your own car.
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Airplanes : Some airlines only allow dogs to be transported as cargo. A few exceptions allow very small dogs to be carried in the cabin.
When returning to the EU, EU regulations apply again. If you have a valid rabies vaccination and an EU pet passport, you shouldn't have any problems.
Listed dogs in the UK
Please note that certain breeds or similar dogs may be classified as "dangerous" in the UK. Prohibited breeds in the UK include:
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Pitbull Terrier
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Japanese Tosa
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Argentine Dogo
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Fila Brasileiro
If your dog bears a strong resemblance to one of the breeds mentioned, you may encounter difficulties upon entry. If in doubt, it's worth obtaining veterinary confirmation of the breed (e.g., genetic testing) in advance to avoid disputes.
Practical tips for traveling to the UK
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Allow time : Entry checks may be more thorough than in EU countries.
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Prepare your documents : A folder with copies and the original ID card will save you time searching.
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Check vaccination times : There is a risk of delays for puppies or expired vaccinations.
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Choose alternatives : Instead of traveling by plane (which is often complicated), the combination of car + ferry or Eurotunnel is often more convenient for your dog.
Entry into the USA
Overview of the US system
The United States has federal regulations issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) . Key points include:
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A valid rabies vaccination is usually essential, especially if you are entering from a country with official rabies cases. Germany is generally considered "rabies-free" or "low-risk," but a valid vaccination is still recommended or required.
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A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (for example, USDA-APHIS Form 7001) may be required. This health certificate confirms that your dog is healthy and free of contagious diseases.
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Some states have their own regulations. While most adhere to the CDC/USDA guidelines, states like Hawaii and California have additional rules, such as quarantine requirements or age requirements.
Travel preparation for the USA
1. USDA-APHIS form
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You can obtain this document from your veterinarian, who will issue it after a health examination of your dog. It usually has to be certified by an official veterinary authority.
2. Rabies vaccinations and other vaccinations
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The vaccination should be valid and documented in the pet passport.
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Airlines or US authorities sometimes recommend additional vaccinations (e.g. against leptospirosis or Bordetella), especially if your dog comes into contact with other animals in kennels or certain public areas in the USA.
3. Microchip
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While the US doesn't require an ISO microchip everywhere, it's still highly recommended. If your dog gets lost there, an internationally readable chip increases the chances of quickly finding him.
Special cases: Hawaii and other US territories
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Hawaii is considered rabies-free. Therefore, very strict import regulations are in place. If not properly prepared, dogs must be quarantined for up to 120 days . However, there are programs that shorten this period to five days or less, provided all blood tests, vaccinations, and documentation are strictly adhered to.
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Similar rules may apply in Guam or other U.S. territories. Check directly with local authorities.
Flight booking and transport box
Many travelers are surprised at how difficult it can be to fly to the USA with a dog. Here are some things to consider:
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Transport box or bag for the cabin :
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Must comply with IATA (International Air Transport Association) guidelines.
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Adequate ventilation, non-slip bottom, stable closure.
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Enough space for the dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
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Cabin or cargo hold :
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Small dogs (often under 8 kg including the carrier) are allowed to fly in the cabin if the airline allows it.
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Larger dogs travel in the cargo hold. Be sure to choose an airline that specializes in transporting animals to minimize the risk of heat stress or poor care.
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Stopovers :
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If possible, avoid flights with multiple connections. Each transit increases stress for your dog and may lead to further checks.
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Temperature and weather conditions :
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Cargo holds can get extremely hot in midsummer and very cold in winter. Therefore, some airlines refuse to transport dogs during certain months when extreme temperatures prevail at the departure or destination airport.
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Customs declaration and entry process in the USA
Upon arrival in the USA, you will fill out a declaration for your dog (usually a Customs and Border Protection form). Here, you must state that you are bringing an animal. Keep all documents handy so you can show them if asked.
CDC or USDA officials may conduct random screenings and may require additional testing or quarantine measures if there are doubts about the animal's health. If all requirements are met, entry is usually straightforward.
Travel preparation, transport and stress minimization
Create a schedule
One of the most common sources of error when traveling internationally with a dog is a lack of time. Many vaccinations and documents have fixed deadlines and processing times. A rough timeline might look like this:
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3–6 months before departure :
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Check your dog's vaccination history. Is the rabies vaccination due or does it need to be renewed?
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Check with authorities and embassies about current entry regulations. Regulations can change quickly, especially in times of crisis.
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Consider how you will travel (car, train, ferry, plane).
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1–2 months before departure :
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Make an appointment with your veterinarian for any blood tests (if needed) and health certificates.
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Book your flight (if necessary) and indicate that you are traveling with a dog. Many airlines have a limited number of pets.
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Get an IATA-compliant carrier if your dog has to travel in the cargo hold.
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1–2 weeks before departure :
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Check that all documents are complete (EU pet passport, vaccination certificates, USDA forms if applicable).
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Carry out tapeworm treatment if the destination country requires it (e.g. UK).
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Actively get your dog used to the transport box: put blankets or toys in it, feed small treats.
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On the day of travel :
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Feed your dog only lightly so that he does not get sick during the journey or flight.
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Pack water, a bowl, and snacks if necessary to be prepared during any waiting times at the airport.
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Stay calm so your dog can orient himself to you.
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Overview of transport options
1. By car
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Ideal for travel to neighboring EU countries.
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You remain flexible with breaks and route selection.
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No weight or size limit.
2. By train
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Many European railway companies allow dogs to be taken on board.
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Leash and muzzle requirements often apply; find out about the respective regulations in advance.
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For larger dogs you usually have to buy a child ticket or a special pet ticket.
3. By ferry
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Popular for travel to countries like Great Britain or Scandinavia.
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On some ferries, dogs stay in the car, while others offer designated dog cabins or decks.
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Check the exact requirements for accommodation and register the dog in good time.
4. By plane
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Usually the only option for intercontinental travel to the USA.
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Strict regulations for transport in the cargo hold or cabin.
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Important: Transport box must meet IATA standards.
Stress minimization for dog and owner
Getting used to the transport box/carrying bag
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Set up the box or carrier in your home several weeks before departure.
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Leave the crate or carrier open so your dog can go inside and make himself comfortable.
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Reward every voluntary stay in the crate or carrier with treats or positive words.
Quiet atmosphere
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Avoid rushing on the day of your trip. Allow enough time for the trip to the airport.
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Give your dog a familiar object (e.g. a blanket or toy with your scent).
Emergency solutions
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If your dog is very nervous or anxious, talk to your vet about herbal sedatives or pheromone sprays.
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However, only resort to strong sedatives in absolute exceptions, as these can put a strain on your dog's circulatory system.
Example: Packing list for traveling with a dog
| Object | Why important | Tip for implementation |
|---|---|---|
| EU pet passport/USDA certificate | Proof of vaccinations and identity | Keep handy in a waterproof envelope |
| Microchip scanner (optional) | Useful for older chips to read the code yourself | Not mandatory, but helpful in case of problems at the border |
| Transport box/IATA bag | Regulations for air travel, safety in cars | Pay attention to the correct size and ventilation |
| Food bowl + water bowl | For breaks, longer waiting times or delays | Foldable bowls save space |
| Leash + muzzle | Mandatory in public spaces in many countries | Also usually required on trains or ferries |
| Poop bags | Avoid fines abroad, keep places clean | Take enough pieces with you |
| Medicines/food supplies | If your dog needs special food | Plan enough for the trip plus reserve |
| Contact list of veterinarians in the destination country | Find help quickly in an emergency | Research addresses and telephone numbers, for languages: emergency notes |
On-site behavior, common problems and summary
Behavior in the destination country: From leash requirements to muzzle requirements
Once you arrive in your destination country, you should familiarize yourself with the local regulations . In many southern European countries (e.g., Italy, Spain), dogs must be kept on a leash in cities. On beaches, dogs are often only allowed at certain times of the day or in designated areas.
Muzzle requirement :
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In some countries (e.g. on public transport in France) a muzzle may be required for all dogs.
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Check this in advance so that you don’t get into an unpleasant situation.
Staying in restaurants and hotels :
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In many countries it is common practice for dogs to be tolerated in outdoor areas of establishments.
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Hotels and vacation rentals may have their own rules. Some accommodations are specifically dog-friendly and even offer extras like bowls or dog beds.
Common problems and how to respond
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Refusal of entry due to missing documents
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Please check in advance whether all fields in the EU pet passport are correctly filled out (e.g. microchip date, vaccination date).
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If in doubt, ask your veterinarian early on whether everything complies with the standards.
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Quarantine due to invalid rabies vaccination
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This can happen if the vaccination was not renewed in time.
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In some countries (e.g. UK, Hawaii) the quarantine regulations are particularly strict.
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Problems with listed dogs
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Sometimes a border guard classifies the dog as “dangerous” because of its appearance, even though it is a different breed.
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A DNA test or breed certificate is helpful to avoid mistakes.
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Health problems of dogs abroad
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Before you travel, research veterinary practices in your destination area that speak English or German.
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International pet health insurance can cover high costs in an emergency.
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Language barriers
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Carry a short text in the local language explaining your request (“My dog is vaccinated against rabies. Here are his documents.”)
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A simple, pre-created emergency card on your smartphone can work wonders.
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Summary: The essentials for your trip
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documentation
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EU pet passport for travel within the EU.
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Additional health certificate and USDA forms for the USA.
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Tapeworm treatment and special evidence for the UK.
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Vaccination and health status
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Rabies comes first.
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If necessary, further vaccinations (leptospirosis, parvovirus, kennel cough, etc.).
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Deworming and parasite prophylaxis for specific countries.
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Transport and preparation
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Choose the right means of transport for your dog.
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Get your dog used to the transport box early on.
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Pay attention to break times, especially on long car journeys.
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On site
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Respect local leash and muzzle laws.
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Find out about dog beaches, dog-friendly restaurants, and emergency numbers.
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Be flexible
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Even with the best preparation, delays or problems can occur.
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Stay calm and keep track of all documents.
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Further resources
Below you'll find some officially recommended sources of information that can help you with any questions or where you can check current regulations. Simply click on the links to go directly to the respective websites:
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Official website of the European Commission on travelling with pets
https://ec.europa.eu/info/index_de -
British Government: Information on entering the country with pets
https://www.gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain -
USDA APHIS: Traveling with pets to the USA
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel -
CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/index.html -
Federal Foreign Office Germany: Travel and safety advice
https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/ReiseUndSecurity
(Please note that regulations are subject to change at any time. Therefore, always check the information directly on the official websites or contact the relevant authorities before your trip.)
Conclusion
With this comprehensive guide, you now have the tools to successfully plan and execute your trip abroad with your dog – whether in the EU, the UK, or the US. Thorough preparation is key: Pay attention to your documentation and vaccination status, organize transport as stress-free as possible, and respect local laws and customs. This will ensure a relaxing and rewarding trip for you and your four-legged companion.
If you've carefully read through all the chapters, you'll be well informed. Pack your bags (and your dog carrier), stow your documents safely, and look forward to your adventure together!
