10/31/2025
Importing a pup into Canada
If the buyer goes to the US and brings the PET pup (min age is 8wks) back (pup is traveling with the Canadian Importer), you need
* a bill of sale (date, seller details, buyer details, animal description, price with currency, signatures) - make sure to tell the truth here and have the paperwork to back up your claim. They will go through your phone, research online, and call both the seller and buyer. Getting caught in a lie will result in thousands in fines and can even land you in jail.
* proof of payment
* vaccine records
* rabies cert (12+ wks)
If the pup is traveling with the seller, you are supposed to also declare at the border because you aren't taking the pup back with you, and since you aren't the Canadian Importer, you are supposed to clear the pup with a Canadian Customs Broker to represent the buyer.
If the pup is being transported by a Transporter, they need all of the above and a Health Cert issued within 72hrs of when the pup is to cross the border - it is advisable to get this anyway as they often ask for it and it will make the crossing simpler.
NOTE - there are additional rules for a pup being imported for "Commercial" purposes and under 8mo old. Commercial includes breeding, exhibition, resale, and special training. Exhibition is often interpreted to include any kind of dog sport from flyball, mushing, agility, etc, so beware. Google the Importer name and if they come up with any of those activities, your import will get tagged Commercial and get turned back because you haven't gone the Commercial route.
If you want help, I'm happy to assist - Tamara MacLaren, owner of Best Choice Pet Services
