Bringing a dog from Canada to Italy: rules 2026
Taking a dog from Canada to Italy is a practical EU route for Canadian expats and travellers. Canada is EU-listed, so no titer test is required, and Italy has no additional restrictions beyond the standard EU entry requirements.
Destination requirements
- ISO microchip — before the rabies vaccination.
- Rabies vaccination — ≥12 weeks; wait ≥21 days.
- Titer test — only from an “unlisted” country (≥30 days after vaccination, ≥90 days before travel, ≥0.5 IU/ml). Not needed from the EU / listed countries.
- Certificate — non-EU: EU Animal Health Certificate (10 days, authority-endorsed; USDA APHIS from the USA). EU / return: EU pet passport (valid for life while vaccinations stay current).
- Tapeworm treatment — not required.
- Breeds — no restrictions. Italy abolished its dangerous-breed list (Ordinanza 03.03.2009). No import ban.
- Quarantine — none if met; enter via a designated point.
Official sources
- Ministero della Salute — Viaggiare con animali ↗
- European Commission — Bringing a pet from a non-EU country ↗
- USDA APHIS — US to another country (export) ↗
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FAQ
Do I need a titer test to bring a dog from Canada to Italy?
No. Canada is EU-listed — no titer test required. The essentials are a microchip, rabies vaccination and a CFIA-endorsed EU AHC.
How do I get the EU AHC endorsed by CFIA?
Your Canadian vet issues the EU Animal Health Certificate, then the CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) endorses it. Valid for 10 days to entry into Italy.
Are there breed restrictions in Italy?
Italy removed its national breed ban list in 2009, but some municipalities may still enforce local restrictions. Airlines may restrict brachycephalic dogs.
Is there quarantine in Italy for dogs from Canada?
No quarantine for compliant pets from Canada.