Bringing a dog from Canada to Spain: rules 2026

Prepared by the Animals Productions editorial team. See about us and our editorial standards.

Taking a dog from Canada to Spain is one of the more accessible transatlantic routes into the EU. Canada's EU-listed status means no titer test, and Spain has no additional requirements beyond the standard EU entry rules.

Destination requirements

1. ISO microchip — before the rabies vaccination.
2. Rabies vaccination — ≥12 weeks; wait ≥21 days.
3. 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.
4. Certificate — non-EU: EU Animal Health Certificate (10 days, authority-endorsed; USDA APHIS from the USA). EU / return: EU pet passport.
5. Tapeworm treatment — not required.
6. Breeds — no import ban. Spain regulates “potentially dangerous dogs” (PPP) via a licence (RD 287/2002): Pit Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Akita Inu and crosses — municipal licence, insurance, muzzle and a lead under 2 m. (Reform under Ley 7/2023 — verify current municipal requirements.)
7. Quarantine — none if met; under 15 weeks not admitted; enter via an authorised point (PEV) with a declaration.

EU 2026: new Regulation (EU) 2026/131 applies from 22 Apr 2026; old-format Animal Health Certificates are valid only if issued before 1 Oct 2026.

Official sources

• MAPA — Viajar con perros, gatos y hurones ↗
• European Commission — Bringing a pet from a non-EU country ↗
• BOE — RD 287/2002 (potentially dangerous dogs) ↗

FAQ

Do I need a titer test to bring a dog from Canada to Spain?

No. Canada is EU-listed, so no titer test is needed. Microchip, rabies vaccination and CFIA-endorsed EU AHC are the main requirements.

How do I get the CFIA-endorsed EU AHC?

A Canadian vet issues the EU AHC, and the CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) endorses it. Valid for 10 days to entry into Spain.

Are there breed restrictions in Spain?

Spain has breed restrictions at the national level for 'potentially dangerous dogs' (PPP). Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino and others may require registration, muzzle and liability insurance. Check local rules.

Is there quarantine in Spain for dogs from Canada?

No quarantine for compliant pets.

Related

We provide information only and do not offer relocation services. Rules change — always confirm with the official source above.