🐶 Bringing a dog from Italy to Australia
Entry requirements for 2026
Italy
AustraliaImportant
Entry Requirements
ISO 11784/11785
Required from non-Category 1 countries. Not required from NZ, UK, Ireland, Hawaii, Cocos Island, Norfolk Island.
Minimum 0.5 IU/ml · 180-day wait after test · Required unless from a Category 1 country (NZ, UK, Ireland, Hawaii, Cocos Island, Norfolk Island). Must be conducted at an approved laboratory.
Valid within 10 days of travel · Government endorsement required · Must be issued by a government-accredited vet and endorsed by the competent authority of the exporting country.
Treatment for external parasites (ticks, fleas) required within 10 days before travel. Dogs from hydatid-affected countries require additional tapeworm treatment.
10 days · Facility quarantine only · Mandatory 10-day quarantine at DAFF-approved facility. Costs approximately AUD 1,500–4,000.
Apply 90+ days in advance · ~$200 · Apply to Australian DAFF at least 3 months before travel.
Official source ↗Banned: Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, American Pit Bull Terrier · These breeds cannot be imported into Australia.
Official source ↗Cargo/baggage only · All dogs must travel as checked cargo or unaccompanied air freight to Australia. No in-cabin pets on international flights.
Preparation Timeline
Day 1 (start)
Implant microchip
ISO 11784/11785 — must come before all vaccinations
Day 1–14
Complete rabies vaccination
Required from non-Category 1 countries. Not required from NZ, UK, Ireland, Hawaii, Cocos Island, Norfolk Island.
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
90+ days before
Apply for import permit
Submit application to official government authority
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.
Breed Restrictions in Australia
Banned breeds (cannot enter):
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Japanese Tosa
- American Pit Bull Terrier
These breeds cannot be imported into Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to bring a dog from Italy to Australia?
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 Australia?
Yes. Australia requires mandatory quarantine of 10 days at an approved facility.
How much does it cost to bring a dog to Australia?
Estimated costs range from $1000 to $5000 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 Australia?
Yes. The following breeds are banned or restricted in Australia: Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, American Pit Bull Terrier.
Do I need a microchip for my dog to enter Australia?
Yes. A microchip (ISO 11784/11785) 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 Australia before travel. · Last verified: 2026-05-15