Bringing a dog from the USA to Italy: rules 2026

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

Italy is a welcoming EU destination: no breed restrictions and, because the USA is EU-listed, no rabies titer test. Here's the exact, short process.

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 (valid for life while vaccinations stay current).
5. Tapeworm treatment — not required.
6. Breeds — no restrictions. Italy abolished its dangerous-breed list (Ordinanza 03.03.2009). No import ban.
7. Quarantine — none if met; enter via a designated point.

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

• Ministero della Salute — Viaggiare con animali ↗
• European Commission — Bringing a pet from a non-EU country ↗
• USDA APHIS — US to another country (export) ↗

FAQ

Does Italy restrict any dog breeds?

No. Italy abolished its dangerous-breed list (Ordinanza 03.03.2009) and has no import ban.

Do I need a titer test from the USA to Italy?

No — the USA is EU-listed, so no titer test is required.

Is there quarantine in Italy?

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.