🐶 Bringing a dog from Canada to Japan
Entry requirements for 2026
Canada
JapanImportant
Entry Requirements
ISO 11784/11785 (15-digit) — Must be implanted BEFORE rabies vaccination. If vaccinated before chipping, the vaccination does not count and must be repeated.
Minimum 2 doses required, given AFTER microchip. Animal must be at least 91 days old at first vaccination.
Minimum 0.5 IU/ml · 180-day wait after test · Blood drawn at MAFF-designated lab. The 180-day wait starts from the blood sampling date showing ≥0.5 IU/ml. Advance AQS notification mandatory at least 40 days before arrival. NOT required from designated regions: AU, NZ, IS, FJ, Hawaii, Guam, IE, GB, SE, NO, TW.
Valid within 10 days of travel · Government endorsement required · Specific Japanese Ministry of Agriculture format. Must be endorsed by national competent authority.
0–180 days · 12-hour inspection at port of entry if all documents comply. Non-compliant animals face up to 180 days at a government detention facility at owner's expense.
No import permit required, but advance AQS notification is mandatory — submit at least 40 days before arrival.
No breed restrictions
Varies by airline · In-cabin allowed on some carriers. Entry only permitted at designated airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and others).
Preparation Timeline
Day 1 (start)
Implant microchip
ISO 11784/11785 — must come before all vaccinations
Day 1–14
Complete rabies vaccination
Minimum 2 doses required, given AFTER microchip. Animal must be at least 91 days old at first vaccination.
Day 14–30
Blood sample for titer test
At approved lab — minimum 0.5 IU/ml required
Day 30 → Day 210
Wait 180 days
Mandatory waiting period after titer test passes
10 days before
Vet exam & health certificate
Official health certificate valid for 10 days
Day of travel
Travel day
All documents ready. Contact airline 24h before for pet cargo confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to bring a dog from Canada to Japan?
You should start preparing at least 210 days before travel. The rabies titer test requires a waiting period after a passing result.
Is quarantine required to bring a dog to Japan?
Yes. Japan requires mandatory quarantine of 180 days at an approved facility.
How much does it cost to bring a dog to Japan?
Estimated costs range from $500 to $3000 USD, including veterinary fees, health certificates, and any quarantine costs. Actual costs vary significantly based on your specific situation.
Are any dog breeds banned in Japan?
Japan has no federal breed bans for pet imports. Check with local authorities for regional rules.
Do I need a microchip for my dog to enter Japan?
Yes. A microchip (ISO 11784/11785 (15-digit)) is required.
⚠️ This information is for reference only and may not reflect recent regulatory changes. Pet import requirements change without notice. Always verify with the official government authority of Japan before travel. · Last verified: 2026-05-15