How do you bring a pet to Germany in 2026?

For non-commercial travel with dogs, cats, or ferrets from other EU countries, the animal needs identification (usually an ISO microchip) before the rabies vaccination, a valid rabies entry, and an EU pet passport completed by an authorised veterinarian. Travel with the owner and stay under the commercial-trade headcount thresholds. More than five pets or unaccompanied animals can flip you into stricter trade rules.

Germany does not generally add a mandatory tapeworm treatment on entry the way some destinations do, but airline crate rules and Land leash or muzzle rules still apply after landing: Dog-friendly Germany. Confirm landlord pet clauses before the animal arrives: How to rent a home.

From third countries, carry the official EU animal health certificate for pets, vaccination proof, and the owner’s non-commercial movement declaration when required. High-rabies-risk origins usually need a rabies antibody blood test timed weeks before travel. Enter through a designated travellers’ point of entry and present the animal and originals at customs for identity and document checks.

Federal rules also restrict certain dog breeds and crosses at import; Zoll publishes the dangerous-dog list separately from ordinary pet-health rules. After arrival, register municipal Hundesteuer and any state insurance or competence certificates so daily life matches the entry paperwork: Paperwork after moving. City bases differ for parks and transport: Living in Hamburg and Living in Frankfurt.