Pets (Dogs) → United States

CDC import rules tightened in 2024

Details

The CDC tightened dog import rules effective August 2024. All dogs must be at least 6 months old, microchipped, and appear healthy. Dogs from high-risk rabies countries require additional documentation including serology. CDC Dog Import Form required for all entries. Import through approved ports only. Enforcement in United States carries fines from USD 300 to USD 10,000 under 19 USC § 1497 (failure to declare); 19 USC § 1592 (fraudulent entry) (ordinary personal cases are handled as civil infringements). Leaving United States with pets (dogs) is a separate question — restricted: Taking a dog out of United States requires an export health certificate, microchip, and rabies vaccination — with destination rules driving the timeline.

Quantity limit

Personal pets

Documentation required

• CDC Dog Import Form
• Microchip
• Rabies vaccination
• Health certificate

Legal reference

CDC Interim Final Rule 2024

Leaving with this item

Taking a dog out of United States requires an export health certificate, microchip, and rabies vaccination — with destination rules driving the timeline.

Practical advice

United States restricts import of Pets (Dogs). Personal-use retail-packaged quantities may clear with declaration and inspection but home-prepared, loose-packed, or above-personal-use quantities typically require a Phytosanitary Certificate (plants) or Export Health Certificate (animal-origin). Verify current rules with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before travel — biosecurity rules change frequently on specific commodities.

Customs authority

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) · https://www.cbp.gov