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Canada
Pet Types
dog Regulations
Vaccinations
Description: Dogs over 3 months of age must be vaccinated against rabies. Rabies certification requirements vary based on the country of origin.
- Dogs from the United States must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.
- Dogs from Mexico must arrive with a valid rabies certificate and may be subject to inspection. Puppies younger than 3 months may be allowed but may still undergo inspection.
Certifications
Description: While not required for dogs from the U.S., a rabies certificate must clearly identify the dog and include vaccine manufacturer, serial number, and date of vaccination.
- Certificate must be in English or French
- Must include the name of the licensed veterinarian
- Issued by a government authority or licensed vet
Microchip
Not required for dog import into Canada, but recommended for identification and proof of vaccination linkage.
More Info
Canada Dog Import Requirements by Country and Age
| Country Category | Less than 3 Months | 3–8 Months | 8 Months and Older |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | No rabies vaccination required. Subject to inspection. Not for resale or commercial purposes. | No rabies vaccination required. Subject to inspection. Not for resale or commercial purposes. | Rabies vaccination certificate required. Subject to inspection. If for commercial use, microchip and veterinary certificate required. |
| Rabies-Free Countries | No rabies vaccination required. Veterinary certificate confirming rabies-free status and residence. Inspection required. | No rabies vaccination required. Veterinary certificate required. Must prove country is rabies-free. Inspection required. | No rabies vaccination required. Veterinary certificate required. Inspection required. |
| Rabies-Controlled Countries | May be allowed with proof of age and inspection, but rabies vaccine recommended after 3 months. | Rabies vaccination required. Certificate must include ID and be issued in English or French. | Rabies vaccination required. Must be given at least 30 days before entry if first vaccine. Certificate required. |
| High-Risk Rabies Countries | Entry generally restricted. Rabies titre test and import permit likely required even if young. | Rabies vaccination and titre test required. Microchip mandatory. Import permit needed. Entry through designated ports only. | Strict requirements: rabies vaccination, titre test, import permit, microchip, designated ports. May face quarantine or refusal. |
