If you're travelling internationally and returning to Canada with your dog, you must follow important steps to ensure your dog can enter both the country you are visiting and Canada.
Many countries, including Canada, have strict requirements for dogs entering from abroad, to prevent the spread of diseases
You must complete certain dog import requirements within specific timeframes. As the dog owner, it is your responsibility to make sure that your dog meets all requirements and that all necessary documents are ready before travelling to or from Canada. Failure to do so may result in your dog being denied entry.
Make sure your dog meets the requirements for the country you are visiting
If you are taking your dog from Canada to another country, your dog must meet that country's import requirements. In most cases, you will need to get an export certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian and then have the certificate endorsed by an official Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) veterinarian.
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Bringing your dog into Canada
There are specific requirements for visiting or returning to Canada with your dog that must be met and depend on various factors, such as:
- the country of origin (where your dog is travelling from)
- the age of your dog
- the purpose of the import
- whether your dog is travelling with its owner
Before you plan any travel arrangements, check the requirements for your situation.
If your dog does not meet Canada's import requirements
If a dog arrives at the border and does not meet Canada's import requirements, the situation will be reviewed, and a decision will be made on the animal's eligibility to enter Canada.
Depending on the situation, your dog may:
- be ordered removed from Canada
- result in fines or legal actions
Talk to your veterinarian
Travel can have a serious impact on your dog's health and well-being. Talk to your veterinarian about:
- the risks of travelling
- whether your dog is healthy to travel
- getting all the tests, vaccinations and treatments required to enter Canada and the country you are visiting
- making sure all your dog's records are complete and accurate
Getting ready for air travel
Check with your airline for additional documentation and requirements for travelling with a dog.
You should also prepare in advance, such as:
- find an appropriately sized crate
- train your dog to be comfortable in the crate and new surroundings
For more details, see the International Air Transport Association's guide for pet travel by air.
If you are travelling by other methods, check out information on: Transporting pets.
Have copies of all your documents
Print hard copies and keep digital versions of all documents and records that show your dog meets the requirements.
It is your responsibility to make sure all information is accurate before you travel.
Adopting or buying a dog from another country
If you're getting a dog from outside of Canada, import requirements apply. It is your responsibility to make sure your new dog meets the requirements.
Make sure to research and ask the right questions before you commit.
Related resources
Bringing animals to Canada
Find out what you need before travelling with your pet or importing an animal.
Requirements for dogs travelling to the United States
Meet the requirements for dogs travelling from Canada to the U.S.
