Importation of Domestic Dogs

Domestic or pet dogs can enter Canada for any period of time (permanent stays, temporary visits, or in transit visits) without quarantine from any country. Canada's import requirements take into consideration the rabies status of the country of export

• Information on importing dogs eight (8) months of age or younger from any country.
• Information on importing dogs three (3) months of age or older from countries Canada recognizes as rabies-free.
• Information on dogs three (3) months of age or older from countries Canada does not recognize as rabies-free.
• For all other domestic dog importations, including commercial shipments, please refer to the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS). AIRS guides users to the information needed for the specific commodity being imported. The HS classification code for dogs is 01 06 19 2083.
• Information on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's Inspection Fees.
• Frequently Asked Questions

NOTE 1: Assistance dogs that are certified in canine vision, hearing ear, or other special skills are exempt from import restrictions when the person assigned the dog accompanies it to Canada.

NOTE 2: If you frequently import dogs or import several dogs at one time, you may be asked to certify that they are your personal pets and that they are not for resale.

NOTE 3: Commercial breeders can import dogs under eight (8) months of age (without an import permit) on a temporary basis for entry in competitions if they can provide an inspector with proof that the dog is entered in a show or trial organized by a recognized association. Valid rabies certification is also required.

NOTE 4: Dog owners must not import pit bulls into the Province of Ontario in contravention of that province's ban. For information on Ontario's pit bull ban, visit the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General's web site.

Comments or requests for additional information.