Moving Abroad with a Dog — Complete Relocation Guide

Last updated: 2026-04-19

Moving abroad with your dog is one of the most logistically complex parts of an international relocation. Unlike a vacation, you have one chance to get the documents right — and some destination countries have waiting periods up to 6 months that you cannot shortcut.

This guide gives you a practical timeline, documents checklist, and guidance on choosing between cabin and cargo travel for your dog.

Planning Timeline

6+ months out

Research destination requirements. Check if your destination requires a rabies titre test (Japan, Australia, NZ, Singapore require 180+ day waiting periods). If so, start the vaccination and titre test process immediately.
3–4 months out

Apply for import permits. Many countries require advance import permits. Book cargo space if your dog is too large for the cabin — live animal cargo spots are limited. Order an IATA-approved travel crate and start crate training.
1 month out

Schedule vet appointments. Book the accredited vet visit for the health certificate (must be within 10 days of travel for most countries). Arrange government endorsement if required (USDA APHIS, CFIA, etc.).
1 week out

Final preparations. Get the health certificate. Confirm cargo booking. Attach documentation to the crate. Do not feed your dog 4–6 hours before flight.

Documents Checklist

Health certificate — from accredited vet, within 10 days of travel
Government endorsement — USDA APHIS (US), CFIA (Canada), APHA (UK), etc.
Microchip documentation — ISO 11784/11785 standard
Rabies vaccination records — must be current, sometimes with 21+ day waiting period
Rabies titre test results — if required by destination
Import permit — if required by destination
Parasite treatment records — required by some countries
Airline health certificate — some airlines require their own form

Cabin vs Cargo: How to Choose

Cabin travel

Only possible for dogs under ~8–10 kg (including carrier). The carrier must fit under the seat. Cabin travel is the safest option — your dog stays with you, temperature-controlled, no cargo handling.

Checked baggage / cargo

Required for medium and large dogs. Modern temperature-controlled cargo holds are safe on reputable airlines. Use an IATA-compliant crate (IATA Container Requirement 1 or higher) and follow airline-specific crate labeling requirements.

What about sedation?

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends against sedating dogs for air travel. Sedation can impair a dog's ability to balance and regulate body temperature. Discuss with your vet before travel.

Related destination guides

Moving to the UK with a dog Moving to Germany with a dog Moving to Australia with a dog Moving to Canada with a dog Moving to France with a dog Moving to Japan with a dog

Related breed guides

Golden Retriever cargo travel Labrador Retriever cargo travel German Shepherd airline policy

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I start planning my dog's international move?

Start at least 6 months before your move date. Some countries (Japan, Australia, New Zealand) require a rabies titre test at least 6 months before arrival, plus a waiting period after the test.

Should my dog travel in the cabin or as cargo when moving abroad?

Small dogs (under 8–10 kg with carrier) can usually travel in-cabin. Large dogs must travel as checked baggage or air cargo. Cargo is generally safe on reputable airlines but requires an IATA-approved crate and advance booking.

What documents does my dog need to move internationally?

Core documents: health certificate (within 10 days of travel), rabies vaccination records, microchip documentation (ISO 11784/11785), and often an import permit. Some countries require a rabies titre test, parasite treatment records, and endorsement by your national veterinary authority (e.g. USDA APHIS in the US).

Ready to check your specific route? Use our full requirements tool to look up import rules, airline policies, and documents for any country pair and pet type.

Check full requirements →

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Traveling with a Cat Internationally Snub-Nosed Dogs & Airlines — Brachycephalic Breed Restrictions