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Bringing your dog from Switzerland to the United States

Bringing a dog to the United States from a rabies-free or low-risk country is fast: microchip, a dog at least 6 months old, and the online CDC Dog Import Form. No rabies titre, no quarantine.

⏳ Allow 1–2 months
⚠️

Two key conditions: the dog must be at least 6 months old and microchipped at entry; and you must submit the CDC Dog Import Form online (receipt valid 6 months) and show it to the airline and to US Customs (CBP). From low-risk countries there is no rabies titre test and no quarantine.

Calculate your deadlines

Enter your travel date: we work back in time to give you the deadline for each step, personalised for Switzerland → United States.

The 4 steps, in order

  1. 1. Implant an ISO-compliant microchip

    Have an ISO 11784/11785 microchip implanted that can be read by a universal scanner. It identifies your dog on the CDC form and at entry.

  2. 2. Dog at least 6 months old and healthy

    At entry the dog must be at least 6 months old and appear healthy. Keep vaccinations up to date (rabies is recommended; your airline or destination state may also ask for a health certificate).

  3. 3. Submit the CDC Dog Import Form (online)

    Complete the CDC Dog Import Form online. You receive a receipt by email, valid for 6 months. Show it to the airline before boarding and keep it for US Customs and Border Protection on arrival.

  4. 4. Travel to the United States

    The dog can enter at any airport, seaport or land border. Carry the CDC form receipt and any health documents your airline requires.

From another country?

Official sources:

Pawscleared provides preparation guidance based on official sources. Rules changed in August 2024 and may evolve; the binding conditions are those published by the CDC and USDA. Dogs that have been in high-risk rabies countries face additional requirements. Always confirm with official sources and your airline.