Importation of Domestic Dogs - Section 2
Dogs three (3) months of age or older from rabies-free countries

Domestic or pet dogs may enter Canada if accompanied by an export certificate issued in either English or French, and signed by an official government veterinarian (a veterinarian who works for the government veterinary service) of the exporting country.

• Countries Recognized as Rabies Free

The certificate must clearly identify the animals and state that:

• rabies has not existed in the exporting country for the six (6) month period immediately preceding the shipment of the animals; and,
• the animals have been in the exporting country for the six (6) month period immediately preceding their shipment, or since birth.

If an export certificate is not available, dogs may enter Canada if accompanied by a valid rabies vaccination certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian (a veterinarian who is licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the country of origin) in either English or French, which clearly identifies the dogs and state that they are currently vaccinated against rabies.

The certificate should identify the animal as in breed, colour, weight, etc., and indicate the name of the licensed rabies vaccine used (trade name), including serial number and duration of its validity (up to three years). Please note that if the duration of validity is not indicated on the certificate, it will be considered to be valid for one year.

There is no waiting period imposed between the time the animal is vaccinated for rabies and the time the animal is imported into Canada.

If the animal arrives at a Canadian port of entry and does not meet these requirements, an inspector will order the owner (at the owner's expense) to have the animal vaccinated against rabies within a specified period of time and to provide the vaccination certificate to an inspector.

These requirements also apply to dogs that were originally from Canada and are being returned to Canada directly from a country designated as having been free from rabies for six (6) months. This would include dogs leaving a quarantine imposed by the exporting country before that quarantine period is completed.

Dogs less than three (3) months of age may enter Canada without an export certificate and are not required to be vaccinated for rabies.

Additional Information

• Dogs 8 months of age or younger (any country)
• Dogs 3 months of age or older (non rabies-free countries)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Inspection Fees

Comments or requests for additional information.