2. Do I need a dog passport for Germany?

If traveling from the EU , your dog needs an EU pet passport . Non-EU travelers need a veterinary health certificate .

3. How long is a health certificate valid for dog travel to Germany?

It must be issued within 10 days of travel .

4. Can I bring my dog to Germany without a rabies vaccine?

No. Germany requires all dogs to be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entry .

5. Are there banned dog breeds in Germany?

Yes , Germany restricts certain breeds, including Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers , in some regions .

6. How do I book flights to Germany with dogs?

Contact the airline and confirm pet travel options (cabin vs. cargo).

7. Are there quarantine rules for dogs entering Germany?

Germany does not require quarantine if all importing a dog to Germany regulations are met .

8. Can I fly to Germany with my dog as an emotional support animal?

Rules vary by airline. Some airlines no longer accept ESAs in the cabin.

9. What are the pet import rules for Germany from the UK after Brexit?

Since Brexit, UK travelers must obtain an EU Animal Health Certificate instead of an EU pet passport .

10. Do dogs need to be leashed in public places in Germany?

Yes, most cities have leash laws in public areas. Some parks allow off-leash dogs.

Blog

Taking a Dog to Germany: The Ultimate Guide for Pet Owners (2025)

February 23, 2025 | by grcirva

Table of Contents

Germany Dog Entry Requirements – What You Need to Know

It is crucial for pet owners to comply with the strict import regulations of the country before importing a dog into Germany. These are the key requirements, no matter if you are importing a dog to Germany from the USA, the UK, or any other country.

Try our AI app now and make Pet travel to Germany effortless!

1. Microchip Identification

Your dog must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785-compliant 15-digit microchip.
Tattoos as identification are not accepted unless done before July 3, 2011, with proper documentation.

2. Rabies Vaccination

Germany requires proof of valid rabies vaccination administered at least 21 days before travel.
The vaccine must be given after the dog is at least 12 weeks old.
Booster vaccinations must be up to date.

3. Dog Passport for Germany (Pet Passport & Health Certificate)

If traveling from an EU country, you’ll need an EU Pet Passport from a licensed vet.
If traveling from non-EU countries, including the USA and UK, you’ll need a Veterinary Health Certificate (Annex II form) issued within 10 days before travel.
An official veterinarian from the country of departure must endorse the health certificate.

4. Parasite Treatment (Tapeworm & Other Treatments)

Dogs from certain countries (such as the UK, Norway, and Finland) must undergo an approved tapeworm (Echinococcus) treatment 24 to 120 hours before travel.
Proof of this treatment must be recorded in the pet’s passport or health certificate.

Flying to Germany with a Dog – Travel Tips & Airline Policies

1. Can I Take My Dog to Germany on Holiday?

Yes! You can take your dog to Germany on holiday as long as you comply with Germany dog import requirements. If you’re traveling for a short period, you must ensure your dog meets the vaccination and microchipping standards.

2. Choosing the Best Airline for Dog Travel to Germany

Each airline has different pet policies. Some of the most dog-friendly airlines flying to Germany include:

Lufthansa (Germany’s national carrier, very pet-friendly)
Air France-KLM
British Airways (for UK travelers)
Delta, United, American Airlines (for US travelers)

3. Flying a Dog to Germany – Cabin vs. Cargo

Small dogs (under 8kg/17lbs): Can travel in the cabin, inside an airline-approved pet carrier.
Larger dogs: Must travel in the cargo hold in a well-ventilated IATA-approved crate.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Some airlines allow ESAs in the cabin with proper documentation.

4. Preparing Your Dog for a Flight to Germany

Get your dog used to a travel crate before departure.
Avoid feeding your dog 2-4 hours before the flight to prevent discomfort.
Bring water and a familiar blanket to reduce stress.

Steps to Travel with Your Dog to Germany

Here’s exactly what to do to fly with your dog to Germany:

Step 1: Verify Entry Requirements
Check whether your country of departure requires additional paperwork for taking your dog to Germany from the USA or taking dogs to Germany from the UK.
Step 2: Visit a Vet & Get Required Vaccinations
Ensure your dog is:
✔ Microchipped
✔ Vaccinated against rabies
✔ Treated for parasites (if required)
✔ Issued a health certificate
Step 3: Book Flights to Germany with Dogs
Choose a pet-friendly airline and confirm their regulations for dog flights to Germany.
Step 4: Travel & Pass Customs Checks
- Upon arrival, German customs may check your documents to ensure compliance.
- If all paperwork is in order, your dog will be cleared for entry.

Moving to Germany with a Dog – Long-Term Stay Considerations

1. Finding Dog-Friendly Housing in Germany

If you’re moving to Germany with a dog, look for pet-friendly apartments. Some landlords may require a pet deposit or extra paperwork.

2. Registering Your Dog in Germany

Dog Tax (Hundesteuer): Most German cities require dog owners to pay an annual dog tax (varies by region).
Dog Liability Insurance (Hundehaftpflichtversicherung): Required in some regions to cover potential damages caused by dogs.

3. Dog-Friendly Cities in Germany

Some of the best dog-friendly cities in Germany include:

🐶 Berlin – Many dog-friendly parks & cafes

🐶 Munich – Great public transport for dogs

🐶 Hamburg – Extensive green spaces

Final Thoughts

Tackling the process of taking a dog to Germany may seem complex, but by following the right steps, it’s entirely manageable. Whether you’re flying a dog to Germany for a vacation or permanently relocating, ensuring proper documentation and preparation will help your furry friend enjoy a smooth journey.

Safe travels with your pup!

FAQs About Taking Your Dog to Germany

1. Can I take my dog to Germany on holiday?
Yes, as long as you meet the Germany dog entry requirements, including vaccination and microchipping.
2. Do I need a dog passport for Germany?
If traveling from the EU, your dog needs an EU pet passport. Non-EU travelers need a veterinary health certificate.
3. How long is a health certificate valid for dog travel to Germany?
It must be issued within 10 days of travel.
4. Can I bring my dog to Germany without a rabies vaccine?
No. Germany requires all dogs to be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entry.
5. Are there banned dog breeds in Germany?
Yes, Germany restricts certain breeds, including Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers, in some regions.
6. How do I book flights to Germany with dogs?
Contact the airline and confirm pet travel options (cabin vs. cargo).
7. Are there quarantine rules for dogs entering Germany?
Germany does not require quarantine if all importing a dog to Germany regulations are met.
8. Can I fly to Germany with my dog as an emotional support animal?
Rules vary by airline. Some airlines no longer accept ESAs in the cabin.
9. What are the pet import rules for Germany from the UK after Brexit?
Since Brexit, UK travelers must obtain an EU Animal Health Certificate instead of an EU pet passport.
10. Do dogs need to be leashed in public places in Germany?
Yes, most cities have leash laws in public areas. Some parks allow off-leash dogs.

View all