Bringing a dog from the Netherlands to the USA: rules 2026
Taking a dog from the Netherlands to the USA is a simple route. The Netherlands is a CDC-approved country, so no titer test, no import permit, and no quarantine are required. A valid rabies vaccination and appearing healthy are the key requirements.
Destination requirements
Dogs — always
- appear healthy;
- ≥6 months old;
- ISO microchip (15 digits), implanted before the rabies vaccination;
- CDC Dog Import Form (free, online; the receipt is valid 6 months).
From rabies-free / low-risk countries (EU, UK, Canada, etc. — NOT on the CDC high-risk list): the CDC Dog Import Form receipt is enough. Any airport/port/border. No titer, certificate or quarantine.
From a HIGH-risk country, vaccinated in the USA: also a Certification of US-Issued Rabies Vaccination (CDC-endorsed); via an approved port.
From a HIGH-risk country, vaccinated abroad: also a Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip + EITHER a valid titer (CDC-approved lab; vaccine ≥30 days before the blood draw) OR a booked 28-day quarantine. Arrival by air only to 6 ports with a CDC-registered facility: JFK, LAX, MIA, SFO, ATL, IAD. Booking required.
Cats
CDC — no mandatory requirements, must appear healthy; USDA APHIS — no requirements; microchip not federally required (recommended). The destination state may require a rabies vaccination.
Breeds & health
No federal breed restrictions (state/city rules may apply). Extra USDA vet inspection (within 10 days of departure) for dogs from countries with New World screwworm or foot-and-mouth disease.
Official sources
- CDC — Bringing a dog into the United States ↗
- CDC — Dogs vaccinated abroad from high-risk countries ↗
- USDA APHIS — Another country to the US (import) ↗
- CDC — High-risk countries for dog rabies ↗
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FAQ
Do I need a titer test to bring a dog from the Netherlands to the USA?
No. The Netherlands is CDC-approved, so no titer test is required.
Is there quarantine for dogs from the Netherlands entering the USA?
No quarantine for healthy, vaccinated dogs from the Netherlands.
Is a microchip required for a dog from the Netherlands entering the USA?
Yes — microchip is required since the dog was vaccinated outside the US.
How long before travel should I prepare?
A few weeks is usually enough if your dog's rabies vaccination is already current. Bring all vaccination records and a vet health certificate.