Bringing a Dog into the U.S.

At a glance

If you are bringing a dog to the U.S., starting on August 1, 2024, there are new steps you need to take. These steps depend on where your dog has been in the past 6 months.

Dogs looking at the camera

Background

CDC strives to protect America’s families, communities, and pets by preventing the reintroduction of dog rabies into the United States. Preventing infected dogs from entering the United States is a public health priority. CDC recommends all dogs be vaccinated against dog rabies.

Recent Changes

CDC values the feedback received from various countries, industry partners, and the public. CDC simplified the process for meeting requirements for dogs arriving from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries. This means that for dogs that have been only in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries for the last 6 months, the one form you will need is the CDC Dog Import Form, which should take a few minutes to complete.

Requirements are based on your dog's situation

What countries are high risk?‎

Review the list of high-risk countries for dog rabies. If your dog has been in any of these countries within the 6 months before arriving to the U.S., follow the requirements for dogs from high-risk countries.

In the 6 months prior to entering the U.S., your dog has been

ONLY in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries for the last 6 months
In ANY high-risk countries in the last 6 months
In ANY high-risk country and is NOT vaccinated
Your dog will NOT be allowed to enter the U.S. if they are not vaccinated against rabies and have been in a high-risk country for dog rabies in the past 6 months.

You must follow CDC’s dog importation requirements*, or your dog will not be allowed to enter the United States.

*In addition, you must comply with U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) and your U.S. destination’s regulations. Please be aware that dogs imported for commercial (resale) purposes have additional requirements from USDA.

Questions?‎

If you have questions or need more information, please contact CDC-INFO at (800) 232-4636.