Dog Travel to USA: EU-to-US Pet Import Requirements
Successfully transport your dog from Europe to the United States while meeting strict federal regulations. This guide covers CDC import forms, airline crate specifications, and mandatory veterinary documentation.
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Initial Compliance and Eligibility
Confirm the dog is at least 6 months old
The CDC strictly prohibits the entry of dogs under 6 months of age into the United States. This age limit applies regardless of the dog's country of origin or purpose of travel.
Verify ISO-compliant microchip
Ensure the dog has a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip (11784/11785) implanted before the final rabies vaccination. If the chip is not ISO-compliant, provide your own universal scanner at the port of entry.
Check CDC rabies risk classification
Most European countries are considered low-risk for rabies, but rules change frequently. Consult the CDC website 3 months before travel to confirm your departure country is not on the high-risk list.
Review airline-specific breed restrictions
Many carriers refuse to transport brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs in the cargo hold due to respiratory risks. Check the airline's 'Animal in Hold' policy for specific breed bans.
Assess dog's health for long-haul flight
Schedule a preliminary vet check to discuss sedation risks and heart health. Avoid sedating pets for air travel as it interferes with their ability to regulate body temperature at high altitudes.
Vaccinations and Paperwork
Administer rabies vaccination
The vaccine must be administered after the microchip is implanted and at least 28 days before entry if it is the dog's first shot. Ensure the vet records the chip number on the vaccination certificate.
Complete the CDC Dog Import Form
Submit this online form via the CDC website at least 2-10 days before arrival. You must carry the printed receipt during travel; it is valid for 6 months for a single entry.
Obtain EU Pet Passport
Keep the passport updated with all current vaccinations and the microchip date. This document serves as primary proof of health for most European departures but must be paired with the CDC receipt.
Secure a USDA-equivalent health certificate
Request a 'Health Certificate for the Export of Dogs' from a government-authorized veterinarian in your country. This document usually needs to be issued within 10 days of your flight.
Verify screwworm requirements
If traveling from specific regions like Greece or southern Italy, a vet must certify the dog is free of screwworm within 5 days of departure. Check the current APHIS list for applicable European regions.
Booking and Equipment
Purchase an IATA-compliant travel crate
The crate must be large enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally. Use a rigid plastic crate with a metal grate door and secure bolt fasteners rather than plastic clips.
Book a direct flight whenever possible
Direct flights reduce the risk of the dog being left on the tarmac during transfers. If a layover is necessary, ensure it is less than 4 hours to avoid mandatory kennel boarding fees.
Register the dog with the airline
Call the airline immediately after booking your own seat to reserve space for the dog. Most planes limit the number of animals in the cabin and cargo hold to 2-5 per flight.
Attach dual water and food bowls
Fix two separate bowls to the inside of the crate door so they can be filled from the outside without opening the door. Freeze water in the bowl the night before to prevent spills during loading.
Apply 'Live Animal' labels
Place bright green or red 'Live Animal' stickers on all four sides of the crate. Include arrows indicating the 'This Way Up' position and a waterproof pouch containing your contact details.
Acclimate the dog to the crate
Start crate training 4-6 weeks before the flight by feeding the dog inside the crate. Gradually increase the time the door is closed to reduce flight-day anxiety.
Pre-Flight Preparation
Prepare an absorbent crate liner
Use a specialized pet travel pad or a thick layer of shredded newspaper. Avoid loose blankets or towels which can bunch up and become uncomfortable or hazardous if the dog shreds them.
Pack a 48-hour food supply
Tape a clear plastic bag containing two portions of dry food to the top of the crate. Include written feeding instructions in English for airline staff in case of delays.
Trim the dog's nails
Short nails prevent the dog from getting caught in the crate's metal mesh or scratching themselves during turbulence. Perform this 2-3 days before the flight.
Exercise the dog vigorously
Provide a long walk or intense play session 2 hours before heading to the airport. A tired dog is more likely to sleep through the vibration and noise of the aircraft.
Withhold food 6 hours before check-in
Travel on an empty stomach prevents vomiting and reduces the need for the dog to soil their crate. Continue providing water until the moment of check-in.
Airport and Arrival
Check in at the oversized baggage or cargo desk
Arrive at least 3-4 hours before departure for international flights. Airline staff must inspect the crate, paperwork, and dog's physical condition before acceptance.
Declare the dog at US Customs
Mark 'Yes' on the Customs Declaration form (CBP Form 6059B) regarding the importation of animals. Failure to declare can result in fines starting at $300 and potential pet seizure.
Present the CDC Dog Import Form receipt
Show the printed receipt to the CBP officer at the first port of entry. They will verify the microchip number against your paperwork using a scanner.
Locate the animal relief area
Search the airport map for 'Pet Relief Areas' immediately after clearing customs. Most major US airports now have indoor relief stations with artificial grass and drainage.
Inspect the dog for injuries
Check paws, nose, and mouth for any signs of stress or injury before leaving the airport. Report any crate damage or pet health issues to the airline's cargo office immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my dog need to be quarantined upon arrival in the US?
Generally, no. Dogs arriving from Europe (low-risk rabies countries) do not require quarantine if they have the CDC Dog Import Form receipt and appear healthy. Hawaii and Guam are exceptions and have their own strict quarantine laws.
What happens if my flight has a layover in a high-risk rabies country?
If your dog stays on the plane or remains in a secure transit area, it is still treated as coming from a low-risk country. If you leave the airport or the dog is boarded overnight in a high-risk country, you must meet the more stringent 'High-Risk' import requirements, including a rabies titer test.
How much does it cost to fly a dog from Europe to the USA?
Expect to pay between $200 and $400 for a small dog in the cabin. For larger dogs in the cargo hold, prices range from $800 to $2,500 depending on the crate size, dog weight, and the airline's specific pet cargo rates.
Can I use a soft-sided carrier for the flight?
Soft-sided carriers are only permitted for dogs traveling in the cabin under the seat in front of you. They are prohibited for cargo travel; cargo dogs must use a rigid, hard-shelled crate meeting IATA Container Requirement 1 standards.