Pet Import to Canada

Canada is one of the more straightforward countries for pet imports, particularly compared to its southern neighbour. For dogs from most countries, a valid rabies vaccination certificate and a clean bill of health from a licensed vet is enough. The process at the border is quick if your paperwork is in order.

There are two things worth knowing. First, Canada in 2022 suspended commercial imports of dogs from high-risk rabies countries, but personal pets are handled differently from commercial imports. Second, Ontario has breed-specific legislation banning Pit Bull types at the provincial level. Bring a Pit Bull or similar type to Ontario and you’ll face restrictions there even if the federal import went fine.

Dogs under three months old have no vaccine requirement, but must appear healthy. Dogs between three months and one year need proof of valid rabies vaccination. The border crossing itself is usually a quick document check and visual inspection.

What you need at the border

For dogs from most countries, the Canadian border crossing requires a rabies vaccination certificate and a vet-issued health certificate confirming your dog is healthy. Dogs under three months old don’t need the vaccine but must look healthy. The certificate should be written in English or French, or translated.

Cats have even fewer requirements. No vaccination certificate is federally required for cats entering Canada from most countries. The process is quick and usually just a visual inspection and document check.

Ontario's breed ban