Published on February 19, 2025
Last updated:
Traveling with your pet to Germany requires careful planning and adherence to strict import regulations. Whether you’re relocating or taking an extended trip, understanding Germany’s pet travel requirements is essential for a hassle-free experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of what you need to know about bringing your pet to Germany, including microchipping, vaccinations, health certificates, and breed restrictions. Short on time? The video below covers the five steps to move a dog to Germany, in order.
For a detailed explanation, please visit our Germany pet import requirements page.
Key Requirements for Bringing Pets to Germany
1. Microchip Identification
Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip (ISO 11784/11785). The microchip must be implanted before any rabies vaccination is administered. If your pet’s microchip isn’t ISO-compliant, a reader that can scan it must travel with your pet.
2. Rabies Vaccination
After microchipping, your pet must receive a valid rabies vaccination at no younger than 12 weeks of age. After a first-time (primary) vaccination, your pet must wait at least 21 days before entering Germany. Boosters given on schedule, with no gap in coverage, don’t restart the wait. If the rabies shot was given before microchipping, it will not be considered valid.
Note: The rabies vaccine can be administered at the same time as your pet’s microchip.
3. Veterinary Health Certificate
An EU animal health certificate is required for pets arriving from outside the EU. It must be completed by an accredited veterinarian and endorsed by the official veterinary authority of your country of origin. Your pet must arrive in Germany within 10 days of the certificate being issued. If your pet travels more than 5 days before or after you, it moves as a commercial shipment with different paperwork.
Note: new EU health certificate formats took effect in October 2026. The core requirements haven’t changed, but the correct version depends on your travel date.
4. EU Pet Passport (for Intra-EU Travel)
If you’re traveling from another EU country, your pet needs an EU Pet Passport, which includes details on microchipping, rabies vaccination, and other relevant health information.
You can get an EU passport for a dog, cat, or ferret from an authorized vet.
If you need any assistance with your pet’s move to Germany, please do not hesitate to contact WorldCare Pet.
Country-Specific Regulations
Entry requirements may vary depending on the country of origin:
- Unlisted countries: Pets need a rabies antibody blood test, with the sample taken at least 30 days after vaccination and tested at an EU-designated laboratory. The result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml, and your pet can enter Germany no sooner than 3 months after the sample was taken.
- Listed countries (including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia): No blood test is required, as long as all standard entry requirements are met.
Timeframe for Pet Travel Preparation
- From Unlisted Countries: Start preparations at least 3-4 months in advance to complete all tests and paperwork.
- From Listed Countries: A 4-6 week preparation period is usually sufficient.
Restricted Dog Breeds in Germany
Germany bans the import of four dog breeds and any mix of them, including crosses with other breeds:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Bull Terrier
Some German states restrict additional breeds, so check the rules in the state where you’ll live. Full details are on Germany’s official customs website.
Additional Travel Considerations
Keep Original Documents Handy
Carry all original health documents, as they serve as your pet’s “passport” during travel.
Recommended (But Not Required) Vaccinations
While not mandatory, veterinarians recommend additional vaccinations:
- For dogs: DHPP+L protects against Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough) which should be given within the last 6 months.
- For cats: FVRCP protects against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia
Check Airline Requirements
Airlines may have their own specific pet travel policies, including crate dimensions, temperature restrictions, and documentation requirements. Always confirm with your airline in advance.
Note: Ensure that your airline prioritizes pet safety and comfort. For our top 3 choices for pet-friendly airlines, click here.
Customer Experience – Moving a Pet to Germany:
Our buddy Oswald made the journey from the U.S. to Germany! Here’s what his parents said about his pet travel experience with us:
“I was extremely nervous to move my 65 lbs (30kg) dog from the US to Germany. Laurie and the rest of the team really helped alleviate many of my concerns. They were flexible and friendly throughout the entire experience from planning to execution. They checked in often as we planned, then they let me know how he was progressing from pickup to delivery. They even followed up to see how he was adjusting. While it is unlikely I will be moving with him again I would definitely use this service again and I am grateful I did. The whole team comes highly recommended! Thank you for getting my boy to our new home safely!!”
-Trail Family, U.S. to Germany
Final Thoughts
Germany’s requirements are straightforward once you know the order: microchip, rabies vaccine, waiting period, health certificate, arrival. WorldCare Pet handles every step door to door, from vet coordination to customs clearance. To start planning your pet’s move to Germany, request a quote.
Moving your pet across the world just got less stressful. Valerie Neyra, Marketing Coordinator at WorldCare Pet and devoted cat mom to Lucky, creates the guides, tools, and resources pet parents need to navigate domestic and international pet transport with confidence. Her mission? Making sure no pet owner feels alone during a global move.