Pet travel guide · reviewed 2026-09-25

Taking your dog from the US to Canada

Everything CFIA expects before your dog arrives, in the order you need to do it.

Entry requirements

• Rabies vaccination certificate

  Proof of current rabies vaccination. Dogs older than 8 months do not need a health certificate.

  Valid on the date of entry

• Certificate identifies the pet

  The certificate should describe the pet (breed, sex, colour, weight) so it can be matched at the border.

  At travel

Step-by-step timeline

1. 1

   6 months out

   • Check the rabies vaccine won't expire before your trip.
2. 2

   1 month out

   • Get a copy of the signed rabies certificate from your vet.
   • Puppies 8 months or younger have extra rules — check CFIA.
3. 3

   48 hours out

   • Keep the rabies certificate with you, not in checked luggage.

Official sources

• USDA APHIS: US to Canada
• CFIA: Travelling with pets

Other routes