Pet Import to Germany

Germany uses the EU pet travel system, which is well-designed and consistent across EU member states. For pets coming from within the EU, the process is simple: a valid EU pet passport, microchip, and up-to-date rabies vaccination.

From outside the EU, the requirements are similar but with one extra step: the health certificate. It needs to be issued by an official veterinarian in your country of departure and use an EU-approved format. The certificate is valid for 10 days from the date of issue for entry into the EU.

Germany does not have a federal breed ban, but individual German states (Lander) have their own breed-specific legislation. Bavaria, Lower Saxony, and North Rhine-Westphalia all have restrictions on certain breeds. If you’re bringing a dog that might be considered a “dangerous breed” in German legislation, check the specific regulations for the state you’re moving to before finalising travel.

Within the EU vs from outside

If your pet is coming from another EU country, the process is straightforward. A valid EU pet passport, microchip, and current rabies vaccination covers you. The EU passport system was designed to make intra-EU pet travel easy and it mostly succeeds.

From outside the EU, the requirements are similar but you need an official AHC instead of a pet passport. The certificate must be in EU format and issued within 10 days of travel. USDA, APHA, and other national veterinary authorities issue these certificates through an accredited vet and official endorsement process.

State-level breed restrictions

Germany has no federal breed ban, but the Lander (states) each have their own legislation. Bavaria’s regulations differ from North Rhine-Westphalia’s, which differ again from Hamburg’s. Generally, Pit Bull types, Staffordshire types, American Staffordshire Terriers, and several other breeds face restrictions in multiple German states. Some states require registration, a behavioural assessment, and muzzle requirements in public.

If you’re bringing a breed that might be considered ‘gefaehrlich’ (dangerous) under German law, research the specific rules for your destination state and register the dog promptly on arrival.