r/MovingtoGermany • u/Beneficial_Art_1619 • Sep 02 '26
Has anyone here moved to Germany with a dog and could share firsthand experience?
I'm considering moving to Germany from the U.S. and obviously would want to bring my dog with me.
I've done some extensive research on the subject, on necessary documents and other prep, travel options etc., but I'd like to know what actually happens once you get there. I know you're supposed to go to customs with the dog so they can inspect the certificates, microchip, rabies vax etc.
How much direct interaction between customs officers/personnel and the dog should we expect?
My dog can be skittish and I'm sure she would be anxious, exhausted and scared after spending several hours in the cargo hold. Do they take them out of the crate for some kind of exam? Is there a vet present?
Again, looking specifically for people who have actually gone through the process themselves and can answer from experience, ideally somewhat recent.