Bringing Your Dog to Ireland: Complete Requirements Guide

Yes, you can bring your dog to Ireland — but the paperwork is non-negotiable. Ireland follows EU pet movement rules strictly, with additional tapeworm requirements.

Core Requirements (All Dogs)

1. Microchip: ISO 11784/11785 compliant (15-digit), implanted before rabies vaccination.
2. Rabies Vaccination: Administered ≥21 days before entry. Must be current (within manufacturer's validity). Dog ≥12 weeks old at vaccination.
3. Documentation:
   • EU Pet Passport — if from EU/NI
   • EU Animal Health Certificate (AHC) — if from GB (post-Brexit), issued by OV ≤10 days before travel
   • Third-Country Official Veterinary Certificate — if from non-EU "listed" country (US, Canada, etc.)
4. Tapeworm Treatment (Echinococcus multilocularis): Praziquantel or equivalent, administered by vet 24-120 hours before entry. Recorded in passport/certificate. Mandatory for all dogs entering Ireland.

Travel Logistics

• Approved Routes: Only designated entry points (Dublin, Cork, Shannon, Rosslare ports; Dublin, Cork, Shannon airports).
• Carrier Compliance: Airlines/ferries enforce rules — confirm pet policy before booking.
• Commercial vs. Non-Commercial: ≤5 pets = non-commercial (owner travels with/within 5 days). >5 = commercial rules (TRACES notification, etc.).

Special Cases

Puppies <15 weeks: Cannot meet 21-day post-vaccination wait → generally cannot enter.
Unvaccinated/Non-compliant: Quarantine (at owner expense) or return/export.
Assistance Dogs: Same health rules; additional access rights under equality law.

Pro Tip

Use the DAFM Pet Travel Checker (official Irish tool) — input origin, species, details → tailored checklist. Start 3-4 months ahead for non-EU origins.