International dog relocation

The dog’s history matters as much as the destination.

An international dog relocation plan needs more than a route and a weight. Share the breed or known mix, age when discussing travel, approximate size, identification status and the countries the dog has lived in or visited. The relevant authority may use travel history as well as the place of departure.

Do not treat one country’s dog rules as worldwide requirements. For example, US entry guidance depends on where the dog was vaccinated and recent travel history. Other destinations follow different pathways. The documentation guide helps you map the actual authority for your journey.

Read the primary guidance: CDC: Bringing a Dog into the U.S., European Union / Your Europe: EU rules on travelling with pets and other animals. Rules apply only within each source’s stated jurisdiction or airline scope. Reviewed 3 November 2026; reconfirm before travel.

Breed, body shape and airline acceptance.

Ask the operating carrier about breed restrictions, flat-faced dogs, large or strong dogs, seasonal conditions and the proposed travel method. Acceptance by one airline or for one sector does not confirm a connecting itinerary. A breed name alone is not a fitness assessment.

Ask your veterinarian to assess travel suitability and any individual concerns. Do not make an irreversible travel booking until the carrier’s current acceptance conditions and destination entry pathway have been checked.

Read the primary guidance: IATA: Traveling with Pets, Lufthansa: Transporting animals in the aircraft. Rules apply only within each source’s stated jurisdiction or airline scope. Reviewed 3 November 2026; reconfirm before travel.

Measure before selecting a container.

Prepare the dog’s standing height, body length and width, plus its weight. Ask how the intended container will allow natural standing, sitting, turning and lying down, and how the airline will review the construction and fit. Large containers can change available flights, handling needs and cost.

IATA publishes container guidance but does not certify or endorse a particular crate or relocation service. Carrier and state variations still apply. Do not purchase a container solely because a seller labels it “IATA-approved”.

Read the primary guidance: IATA: Container Requirement 1, 52nd edition, January 2026. Rules apply only within each source’s stated jurisdiction or airline scope. Reviewed 3 November 2026; reconfirm before travel.

Make the review useful.

• Record the dog’s identification and vaccination status for discussion, without uploading records in the first enquiry.
• Explain the intended timing and whether it is flexible.
• List any connections and ask who is responsible at transfer and handover.
• Ask about suitable container familiarization and the carrier’s feeding and water instructions.
• Keep identification and emergency contact arrangements available for the agreed handover process.

A travel plan should be individualized. This guide does not replace veterinary advice or confirm that a particular dog can travel.