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Bringing a dog from the USA to Italy: rules 2026
Italy is a welcoming EU destination: no breed restrictions and, because the USA is EU-listed, no rabies titer test. Here's the exact, short process.
From the origin country. From the USA: no titer test. As an EU-listed country, the USA is exempt from the titer requirement for Italy. You need an ISO microchip, rabies vaccination (21-day wait) and a USDA APHIS-endorsed EU Animal Health Certificate (10 days).
Destination requirements
- ISO microchip — before the rabies vaccination.
- Rabies vaccination — ≥12 weeks; wait ≥21 days.
- Titer test — only from an “unlisted” country (≥30 days after vaccination, ≥90 days before travel, ≥0.5 IU/ml). Not needed from the EU / listed countries.
- Certificate — non-EU: EU Animal Health Certificate (10 days, authority-endorsed; USDA APHIS from the USA). EU / return: EU pet passport (valid for life while vaccinations stay current).
- Tapeworm treatment — not required.
- Breeds — no restrictions. Italy abolished its dangerous-breed list (Ordinanza 03.03.2009). No import ban.
- Quarantine — none if met; enter via a designated point.
Official sources
- Ministero della Salute — Viaggiare con animali ↗
- European Commission — Bringing a pet from a non-EU country ↗
- USDA APHIS — US to another country (export) ↗
Get ready for the trip
Travel essentials — handpicked for international pet moves.
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FAQ
Does Italy restrict any dog breeds?
No. Italy abolished its dangerous-breed list (Ordinanza 03.03.2009) and has no import ban.
Do I need a titer test from the USA to Italy?
No — the USA is EU-listed, so no titer test is required.
Is there quarantine in Italy?
No quarantine for compliant pets.
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Updated 2026-07-25