Bringing Your Pet to France

France is an EU member, so the same pet travel rules that apply across the bloc apply here. For pets arriving from within the EU: valid EU pet passport, ISO microchip, and current rabies vaccination. For pets from non-EU countries: an AHC in EU format, issued within 10 days of arrival.

Where France gets specific is breed legislation. France uses a “Category” system for dogs. Category 1 dogs (attack dogs, resembling banned types) are prohibited from import. Category 2 dogs (guard and defence dogs, including American Staffordshire Terriers and Rottweilers) can be imported but must be muzzled and on a lead in public, must be neutered, and owners must hold a certificate of training. This is enforced.

For everything else, France is a pet-friendly destination. Most routes into France through major airports are well-established for pet cargo.

Category 1 vs Category 2 dogs

France uses a category system for dogs, created under French law. Category 1 covers attack dogs: Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers not registered with a pedigree club, and Boerboels. These cannot be imported into France. Category 2 covers ‘guard and defence dogs’: registered American Staffordshire Terriers, Rottweilers, Mastiff types, and Tosa.

Category 2 dogs can enter France but face restrictions: they must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public spaces, must be sterilised, and owners must hold a certificate from a certified trainer. These rules are actively enforced.

The EU travel system in practice

For most dogs and cats entering France from EU countries: a valid EU pet passport and matching microchip is all you need at the border. From non-EU countries, present the AHC, valid within 10 days of issue. EU-format health certificates are available from official vets in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia.

For ferry crossings into France from the UK, check the specific crossing for approved pet travel. Not all ferry routes are approved, and Eurostar does not accept pets in the passenger carriages.