CDC Dog Import Form: What to Check Before Bringing a Dog to the U.S.

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Last checked: June 1, 2026. Travel rules change often. Always confirm the current rule with the airline, border agency, or official government page before booking or flying.

Quick answer: CDC says a CDC Dog Import Form is required for each dog brought into the United States. For dogs that have been only in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries during the previous 6 months, CDC says this may be the only form needed, but the dog must still meet other requirements. Dogs that have been in high-risk countries need additional checks.

This page helps travelers avoid the most common CDC dog import mistakes. It does not replace CDC’s official Dog Import Form or the Dog Importation Navigator. Use the official CDC page for the final answer for your dog.

CDC dog entry checks

Check What to confirm Why it matters
One form per dog Submit a CDC Dog Import Form for each dog. A receipt is tied to the dog and entry.
Rabies risk history Whether the dog has been in a high-risk country for dog rabies in the last 6 months. This answer changes the remaining requirements.
Microchip The microchip number is readable and matches records. CDC asks for the microchip number on the form.
Age and health The dog meets age and health requirements for entry. CDC FAQs note dogs must appear healthy and be at least 6 months old.
Airline receipt check If traveling by air, show the CDC receipt to the airline before boarding. CDC states air travelers must show the receipt to the airline before boarding.

Before you fill out the form

  • Confirm the dog’s full travel history for the last 6 months.
  • Check the CDC high-risk countries list before answering the risk question.
  • Prepare the importer’s identification information.
  • Prepare the U.S. address where the dog will be located after arrival.
  • Confirm the recipient or consignee information if it is not the same as the traveler.
  • Have the dog’s microchip number and clear photo ready.
  • Use an email address you can access immediately because CDC sends a receipt after email confirmation.

Low-risk or rabies-free countries versus high-risk countries

The biggest decision point is whether the dog has been in a country considered high-risk for dog rabies in the 6 months before U.S. entry. CDC says the form question determines the remaining information you must enter. For high-risk country histories, check CDC’s current rules and the Dog Importation Navigator because additional documents may apply.

Important: do not answer the high-risk question from memory. Check the official CDC high-risk list for the exact country and current date.

Airport day checklist

  • Print the CDC Dog Import Form receipt or save it offline on your phone.
  • Keep the receipt available for airline staff before boarding.
  • Keep the receipt available for U.S. Customs and Border Protection on arrival.
  • Carry vaccination and veterinary documents even if you believe the form is the only required form.
  • Make sure the microchip number in your documents matches the dog.

Common mistakes

Mistake Risk Better check
Using one receipt for multiple dogs CDC requires a form for each dog. Submit separately for every dog.
Forgetting a transit country The 6-month country history can change requirements. List every country the dog was in.
Assuming airline staff can fix it Airlines check documents before boarding. Have the receipt and documents ready before check-in.
Using an old saved rule CDC rules and forms can update. Check CDC again before travel.
Official sources to check

FAQ

Do I need a CDC Dog Import Form for a returning U.S. dog?

CDC guidance applies to dogs entering or returning to the United States. Use the CDC Dog Importation Navigator for your exact situation.

Is the CDC Dog Import Form the only document I need?

It depends on where the dog has been in the previous 6 months and other factors. CDC says dogs from rabies-free or low-risk countries may need only the form, but high-risk histories can require more.

Can I show the receipt on my phone?

CDC says you can print the receipt or show it on your phone. Save it offline in case airport internet is poor.

Does this apply to cats?

No. This article is about CDC dog import requirements. Cats can have separate airline, state, or destination rules.