Bringing a dog from Canada to the USA: rules 2026
Canada is one of the easiest countries to bring a dog from into the USA. Canadian dogs are considered low-risk by CDC, and the requirements are minimal โ but have changed since 2024.
Destination requirements
- Rabies vaccination โ required for dogs 6 months and older.
- CDC Dog Import Form โ required if the dog was vaccinated outside the USA or is unvaccinated.
- Appears healthy โ dogs must be free of signs of communicable disease.
- No titer test, no import permit, no quarantine โ Canada is a CDC low-risk country.
Official sources
- โ ISO 11784/11785 microchipping before rabies vaccine timeline
- โ Rabies titer blood test (RNATT) & mandatory 90-day waiting period
- โ Airport transit zone regulations, international vet certificates & EU pet passport
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FAQ
What does a dog need to enter the USA from Canada?
A valid rabies vaccination (for dogs 6+ months) and a CDC Dog Import Form. Canada is low-risk, so no titer test or quarantine is required.
Do puppies under 6 months need a rabies vaccine to enter the USA from Canada?
No โ puppies under 6 months are exempt from the rabies vaccine requirement but still need a CDC Dog Import Form and must appear healthy.
Is there quarantine for dogs from Canada entering the USA?
No quarantine for Canadian dogs entering the USA.