What Ontario requires when a dog arrives — whoever you are arriving from. These rules hang off the arrival, not the trip type: a flight from Frankfurt and a flight from Los Angeles are treated the same here. Requirements can change — always confirm with the authority before you travel.
These requirements come on top of the country's — they can only tighten or add, never loosen.
Ontario prohibits importing pit bulls into the province. The ban attaches to arrival, not merely to keeping: bringing such a dog into Ontario is importing it within the meaning of the Act. Grandfathering covers only dogs already owned by an Ontario resident in 2005 or born there within the following 90 days; if such a dog leaves Ontario and returns within three months, that is not importing.
⚠️ This is PROVINCIAL law and applies in Ontario only — not in British Columbia, Quebec or Alberta. Whether other provinces have entry rules of their own has not been checked. Which dogs count as a "pit bull" is decided by a description of type, not by pedigree; when in doubt, ask the province before booking.
🗓️ Read at the state authority on 01/08/2026.
Arriving from Germany/the EU, the national entry requirements of Canada apply on top. Arriving from another part of the same country means crossing no international border — then only the section above applies.
Yes – valid rabies certificate (EN/FR)
Rabies certificate suffices (dog >8 mo.); airline often requires one
No permit for personal pets
Not required (recommended)
Puppies under 3 months allowed without rabies vaccination (proof); from 3 months vaccinated.
No
No additional tests
Not required (recommended)
None – dogs are not subject to quarantine
None federal (provincial/municipal)
These apply on the ground in the destination country — to everyone, not as an entry condition — and depend on the breed and situation (e.g. public transport, listed breeds).
No federal breed bans (provincial/municipal, e.g. Ontario pit bull)
Provincial/municipal rules
EU pet passport is only valid for EU-resident pet owners. If residing outside the EU (e.g. Canada), border officials may question its validity and require an AHC instead. Clarify with your vet before travel.
Border inspection (CBSA)
Authority: CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency)
🗓️ Read at the responsible authority on 20/07/2026.
Check your specific route & airlines →For informational purposes only. Regulations change frequently — verify with the relevant authorities before travel.