What Do I Need to Travel with My Dog Internationally?

Traveling internationally with a dog is an exciting but challenging experience. Proper preparation is essential, whether you are relocating, going on vacation, or taking your beloved dog on an exciting trip.

Knowing everything from paperwork, vaccinations, airline regulations, and pet-friendly accommodations will make the trip smooth for you and your dog.

This guide will greatly help you understand What Do I Need to Travel with My Dog Internationally? and how to make the trip safe and comfortable.

Research country-specific pet travel requirements

Each country has its own rules for pet entry. So before planning your trip, be sure to research the specific requirements of your destination country. Some common rules include:

✅ Import permits – Some countries also require special entry permits for dogs.

✅ Quarantine rules – Many destinations, such as Australia and New Zealand, have strict quarantine policies.

✅ Breed restrictions – Many countries also have restrictions on specific dog breeds.

✅ Health certificates – Most countries also require a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian.

💡 Tip: For the latest pet travel guidelines, check the USDA APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) website.

Get your dog’s vaccinations and health certificates

Many countries require proof that dog vaccinations are up to date. The rabies vaccine is the most mandatory for international travel.

Required vaccinations:

• Rabies (given at least 30 days before travel)

• Distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus (DHPP)

• Leptospirosis (may be required depending on the country)

• Bordetella (kennel cough) (if the pet is staying in boarding facilities)

Health certificate (veterinary health check)

• Issued by a licensed veterinarian a certain amount of time (usually 10 days) before travel.

• Confirms that your dog is healthy, free from infectious diseases, and fit to travel.

• It is important to have a dog approved by the USDA if you are traveling with one from the US.

📌 Pro tip: Make sure to keep multiple copies of your dog’s vaccination records and health certificates.

Choose the right travel crate

A suitable pet crate is a must for international travel. Airlines also follow International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines.

Key crate requirements:

✔ The crate must be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

✔ The crate must be ventilated on all sides.

✔ It must have a leak-proof bottom with absorbent material.

✔ The crate must have a secure door lock so the dog doesn’t escape.

✔ Label with “Live Animal” sticker and contact information.

🔹 You should know that soft-sided carriers for small dogs are allowed in the cabin, but larger dogs always have to travel in cargo in hard-sided crates.

Find a pet-friendly airline and book a flight

Keep in mind that not all airlines allow pets, so choosing a pet-friendly airline is of utmost importance. Some airlines also have breed restrictions and do not allow snub-nosed (flat-faced) breeds (e.g. bulldogs, pugs).

Types of pet travel:

✈ In-cabin: Small dogs (usually under 20 pounds) can travel in an airline-approved soft carrier.

✈ Checked baggage: Some airlines allow dogs as checked-in baggage in cargo.

✈ Cargo hold: Larger dogs must always travel in the pressurized and temperature-controlled cargo area.

💡 Pet-friendly airlines:

✔ American Airlines

✔ Delta Airlines

✔ United Airlines

✔ Lufthansa

✔ Air France

📌 Tip: Always choose a direct flight to reduce stress and avoid the risk of losing the dog during transfers.

Prepare your dog for the trip

International travel can be stressful for your dog, so it is quite essential to prepare them beforehand.

Tips to make the trip go smoothly:

🐾 Crate training: Get the dog used to being in the crate weeks before you travel.

🐾 Exercise before travel: Because a tired dog is a calm traveler.

🐾 Avoid feeding 4-6 hours before travel: This helps prevent nausea.

🐾 Carry water and treats: Keep the dog hydrated but don’t overfeed.

🐾 Calming products: Many veterinarians recommend natural calming products or mild sedatives.

🔹 Do not give medication to calm snub-nosed breeds (such as pugs, bulldogs) at all, as this can cause breathing problems for the dog.

Understand customs and arrival procedures

Once you land somewhere, you will also have to go through customs with your dog. Different countries have different inspection procedures.

✔ Declare the pet: Inform customs about the dog upon arrival.

✔ Submit documents: Provide the dog’s health certificate and vaccination records.

✔ Quarantine (if required): In some countries, dogs may be quarantined for a few days or weeks.

✔ Microchip verification: A 15-digit ISO microchip is required in some countries.

📌 Tip: Carry physical and digital copies of all dog-related documents.

Pack a travel kit for your dog

A well-packed dog travel kit will keep your dog comfortable and stress-free.

Items Needed:

✔ Travel crate and ID tag

✔ Leash and harness

✔ Food and water bowls

✔ Dog food and treats

✔ Poop bags and cleaning wipes

✔ First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, medications)

✔ Favorite toy or blanket for comfort

Find pet-friendly accommodations

Before booking your stay, make sure your hotel or Airbnb allows pets. Some accommodations charge a fee for pets or have certain breed restrictions.

🔹 Best pet-friendly hotel chains:

🏨 Marriott Hotels

🏨 Hilton Hotels

🏨 La Quinta Inns & Suites

🏨 Best Western

📌 Tip: Be sure to check reviews and call ahead to confirm pet policies.

Table: Quick Checklist for International Dog Travel

Requirement	Details
✅ Research Country Rules	Import permits, vaccinations, quarantine policies
✅ Vet Visit & Health Certificate	Must be issued within 10 days of travel
✅ Vaccinations	Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella, etc.
✅ Travel Crate	IATA-approved, ventilated, and secure
✅ Airline Booking	Choose a pet-friendly airline & direct flights
✅ Customs & Microchip	15-digit ISO microchip & import documentation
✅ Pet-Friendly Stay	Check pet policies before booking
✅ Travel Kit	Food, water, leash, toys, and first-aid sup

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Final Thoughts: What Do I Need to Travel with My Dog Internationally?

It is most important to know what I need with my dog ​​for international travel so that you and your dog have a smooth and hassle-free trip. With the right preparation and planning, you can have a pleasant and safe trip with your pet. 🐶✈🌍