Your pet’s safe trip

Learn how to move your dog or cat to Germany from the USA. Discover costs, vaccinations, microchip and health certificate requirements — with expert guidance from Starwood Pet Travel.

Bringing your beloved pet to Germany requires careful planning but doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you're relocating with a dog or cat, understanding the specific requirements for pet transport to Germany will save you stress and ensure your furry family member arrives safely. The process involves several important steps including microchipping, vaccinations, and proper documentation.

To successfully transport your pet to Germany, you'll need an ISO-compliant microchip, an up-to-date rabies vaccination administered after microchipping, and an EU Health Certificate endorsed by the appropriate authorities within 10 days of travel. These requirements apply to both dogs and cats and help ensure that your pet meets Germany's strict import regulations designed to protect animal and public health.

Professional pet shipping services can simplify the process considerably, handling everything from paperwork to booking pet-friendly flights. While costs typically range between $4,000-$7,000 depending on your pet's size and your specific circumstances, the peace of mind knowing your four-legged companion is being transported safely is invaluable for most pet parents planning their move to Germany.

Understanding Pet Shipping to Germany

Moving pets to Germany requires understanding specific regulations, proper documentation, and careful planning to ensure a smooth transition for furry family members. Professional pet transport services can simplify this process significantly while ensuring compliance with all requirements.

Germany follows EU pet import regulations, requiring specific documentation and procedures. All pets entering Germany must have an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.

A valid rabies vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before entry. The vaccine must be current according to manufacturer guidelines. For pets coming from high-risk rabies countries, a blood titer test is required at least 3 months before travel.

An EU Health Certificate must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 10 days of departure. This certificate requires USDA endorsement and must accompany the pet during travel.

Germany restricts certain dog breeds, including Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers. Some German states (Länder) have additional breed restrictions.

Pets must be at least 15 weeks old to enter Germany due to rabies vaccination timing requirements.

Essential Requirements for Dog and Cat Transport

Transporting pets to Germany requires careful preparation and adherence to specific regulations. Pet owners must complete several mandatory steps before their furry companions can legally enter the country.

All dogs and cats entering Germany must have an up-to-date rabies vaccination. The vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before travel and after the microchip has been implanted. This timing is critical for the vaccine to be considered valid by German authorities.

For dogs, additional recommended vaccinations include DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) and Bordetella (kennel cough). Cats should have FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia) vaccinations.

Health certificates are mandatory and must be issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 10 days of travel. This EU Health Certificate confirms the pet is fit to travel and free from signs of contagious disease.

Important timing requirements:

• Rabies vaccination: Valid for 1-3 years (depending on vaccine used)
• Health certificate: Valid for 10 days from issuance
• USDA endorsement: Must be obtained after vet visit but before travel

Every dog and cat must be implanted with an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip before entering Germany. This electronic identification is the foundation of all pet travel documentation.

The microchipping must occur before the rabies vaccination. If the pet was vaccinated before being microchipped, the vaccination must be repeated after chip implantation.

Non-ISO compliant microchips (like some older 9-digit versions used in the US) are not acceptable on their own. Pet owners with non-compliant chips have two options:

1. Bring a compatible microchip scanner on the journey
2. Have a second, ISO-compliant chip implanted

All identification information must match exactly across all documentation. Any discrepancies between the microchip number and travel documents can result in entry delays or rejection at the border.

Pet Passport and Travel Documentation

An EU Pet Passport is the most convenient document for pets regularly traveling within Europe. For first-time entry from the US, the EU Health Certificate serves as the primary travel document.

Required documentation includes:

• Original EU Health Certificate (USDA endorsed)
• Proof of rabies vaccination
• Microchip certification
• Import permit (if applicable)

For pets coming from high-rabies countries (not including the US), a rabies titer test performed at an EU-approved laboratory is mandatory. Results must show adequate antibody levels at least 3 months before travel.

All documentation must be presented in either German or English. Translated copies may be necessary if original documents are in other languages.

Proper preparation is essential for pets traveling to Germany. The right training, health checks, and stress-reduction techniques can make the journey significantly more comfortable for your furry companion.

Crate Training for Comfort

Crate training should begin several weeks before travel. Place your pet's favorite toys and treats inside the crate to create positive associations.

Initially, leave the door open and allow your pet to explore the crate freely. This helps them see it as a safe space rather than a confined area.

Gradually increase the time your pet spends in the closed crate, starting with a few minutes and working up to several hours. Feed meals inside the crate to reinforce positive associations.

For travel day, add familiar-smelling items like a t-shirt or small blanket with your scent. This provides comfort during the journey.

Make sure the crate meets IATA regulations for air travel, with proper ventilation, secure door latches, and enough space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Pre-Travel Health Check

Schedule a veterinary appointment 10-14 days before departure. This timing allows for any necessary treatments while ensuring the health certificate remains valid for travel.

The vet will check for parasites, assess overall health, and ensure vaccinations are up-to-date. Be sure to bring your travel itinerary and any airline-specific health requirements.

Request a copy of your pet's complete medical history to carry during travel. This can be invaluable if emergency care is needed abroad.

Consider discussing mild sedation options if your pet experiences severe anxiety, though most vets and airlines discourage sedation for air travel.

Ensure your pet's microchip is ISO-compliant (15-digit) and functioning properly. The vet should scan it during the check-up to verify it's working.