Flying with Pets to Germany: The Ultimate Guide to Pet Travel, Import & Relocation (2025)
February 26, 2025 | by grcirva
Traveling with your furry friend? Whether bringing pets into Germany for a vacation or permanently moving to Germany with pets, you must follow the country’s strict regulations to ensure a smooth journey. This guide covers everything about pet transport to Germany, including German pet entry requirements, quarantine rules, necessary health certificates, and the best pet shipping companies in Germany.
Germany Pet Entry Requirements: What You Need to Know
Before you book a flight, you must understand the German pet import requirements to avoid any delays or refusals. Here’s what you need:
- Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785-compliant 15-digit chip.
- Rabies Vaccination: At least 21 days before travel, your pet must be vaccinated against rabies.
- Germany Pet Health Certificate: Issued by an accredited veterinarian, it must be signed within 10 days of departure.
- APHA/APHIS Pet Travel to Germany: If traveling from the U.S., your health certificate must be endorsed by the USDA APHIS.
- Tapeworm Treatment (For Dogs Only): If arriving from certain countries like the UK or Ireland, dogs must receive an approved tapeworm treatment within 24-120 hours before entry.
Failure to meet these German pet travel requirements could result in your pet being quarantined or denied entry.
2. Pet Transport to Germany: Best Methods for Travel
There are several ways to handle pet relocation to Germany, depending on your pet’s size, health, and personal preferences.
A. Flying with Your Pet
Pet flights to Germany are the most common way to transport animals. Airlines have different rules depending on the pet’s size and breed:
- Cabin: Small pets (under 8kg, including carrier) may fly in the cabin.
- Cargo: Larger pets fly in the aircraft’s cargo hold.
- Excess Baggage: Some airlines allow pets to travel as checked baggage.
Always check with Pet Air Germany providers to find the most pet-friendly airline.
B. Hiring Pet Shipping Companies in Germany
If you prefer a stress-free experience, pet shipping to Germany through a professional service is ideal. These companies handle all documentation, flight bookings, and customs clearance.
Popular pet shipping companies in Germany include:
- PetAir
- Gradlyn Petshipping
- Animal Airways
Try our AI app now and make Pet travel to Germany effortless!
3. Germany Pet Import & Quarantine Regulations
Germany does not have a mandatory quarantine for pets entering from most countries, as long as they meet all health and vaccination requirements. However, pets arriving with incomplete paperwork may be quarantined at the owner’s expense.
To avoid pet quarantine in Germany, ensure:
- All documents are correctly filled out.
- Your pet has a valid German pet health certificate.
- Vaccinations are up to date.
If you’re unsure, hiring a pet relocation to Germany specialist can help ensure compliance.
Moving to Germany with Pets: Step-by-Step Process
1: Check Germany Pet Import Requirements
Each country has specific pet transport Germany regulations. Use an official source like the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture to verify current rules.
2: Book a Pet-Friendly Flight
Find an airline that accommodates pet travel to Germany with policies that suit your needs.
3: Obtain the Necessary Health Documents
- Microchip & Rabies Vaccine
- Germany Pet Health Certificate
- APHIS Pet Travel to Germany Approval (For U.S. Travelers)
4: Prepare Your Pet for Travel
- Acclimate them to the carrier.
- Pack essentials like food, water, and comfort items.
5: Arrive and Clear Customs
Upon arrival, present all paperwork to customs officials. If everything is in order, your pet can enter Germany hassle-free!
Costs of Pet Transport to Germany
Pet shipping to Germany varies in cost depending on airline fees, pet size, and chosen service providers.
Estimated Costs:
- Flight Tickets for Pets: $200 – $1,000 (varies by airline and pet size)
- Germany Pet Health Certificate & Vet Fees: $50 – $300
- Pet Shipping Companies in Germany: $500 – $3,000 (full-service pet relocation)
Tips for Stress-Free Pet Travel to Germany
- Book flights early and choose direct routes to minimize stress.
- Ensure your pet gets accustomed to its travel crate.
- Keep food and water available before departure.
- Consult a vet for anxiety-relief options if necessary.
Final Thoughts on Pet Travel to Germany
Whether you are taking a pet to Germany for a short stay or moving pets to Germany permanently, planning ahead is essential. Following Germany pet entry requirements, working with professional pet shipping to Germany companies, and ensuring your pet’s comfort will make the journey stress-free.
For the most accurate and up-to-date Germany pet travel requirements, always check with your airline and the German government before your trip. Safe travels!
FAQs About Taking Your Dog to Germany
1. Can I bring my pet to Germany without a microchip?
No, a microchip is mandatory for bringing a pet to Germany. Without it, entry will be denied.
2. Is there a quarantine period for pets entering Germany?
If all Germany pet import requirements are met, quarantine is not required.
3. What are the airline policies for pet flights to Germany?
Most airlines allow small pets in the cabin, but larger pets must travel in cargo.
4. Can I move my exotic pet to Germany?
Certain species have special German pet travel requirements. Check with the German Ministry of Agriculture for details.
5. How do I get a German pet health certificate?
Your veterinarian must issue it, and it must be endorsed by APHIS (for U.S. travelers).
6. What happens if my pet does not meet Germany's import requirements?
Your pet may be quarantined, returned to its country of origin, or even euthanized in extreme cases.
7. Are there pet relocation services in Germany?
Yes, many companies specialize in pet relocation to Germany and can handle everything for you.
8. Do I need to register my pet in Germany?
If you are staying long-term, yes. Some cities require pet registration and dog taxes.
9. Can I take my pet on public transport in Germany?
Yes! Most trains and buses allow pets, though some require a ticket.
10. What documents do I need when traveling with my pet to Germany?
You need:
- Microchip proof
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Germany pet health certificate
- Endorsed APHIS certificate (for U.S. travelers)
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