Shipping a dog from Germany to the United States requires careful planning, proper documentation, and coordination with airlines and regulatory authorities. Whether you are relocating, purchasing a puppy from a German breeder, or reuniting with a pet, this guide covers everything you need to know.

1. Understand US Import Requirements

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regulate pet imports. Dogs entering the US must meet the following requirements:

Rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before departure (if the dog is older than 3 months)
Health certificate (Veterinary Certificate) issued by an accredited veterinarian within 10 days of departure
USDA endorsement may be required depending on the state of arrival
Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival at the US port of entry
Tapeworm treatment (if transiting through the UK or certain EU countries)

NextDay Drop coordinates with veterinarians and the German Veterinary Authority (Veterinäramt) to ensure all paperwork is correct before the flight.

3. Choose the Right Airline

Not all airlines accept live animals, and policies vary significantly. We work with airlines known for reliable pet transport:

Lufthansa — Extensive experience with live animal cargo from German airports
KLM — Excellent pet-handling facilities at Schiphol Hub
United Airlines — PetSafe program for US-bound flights
Delta — Seasonal embargo restrictions apply (summer and winter)

4. Select the Correct Crate

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) sets strict crate standards. Your dog's crate must:

Be large enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
Have ventilation on at least three sides
Include a leak-proof bottom with absorbent material
Feature secure locking mechanisms (no bungee cords or tape)
Include food and water containers accessible from outside

NextDay Drop provides IATA-approved crates as part of our transport service, sized and configured specifically for your dog's breed.

5. Plan for Temperature Embargoes

Airlines impose temperature restrictions for animal safety. Most carriers will not transport pets when ground temperatures exceed 30°C (85°F) or fall below -5°C (23°F). Summer months (June through August) and winter months (December through February) are the most affected periods. We recommend booking during spring or autumn for the smoothest experience.

6. Customs and Arrival Procedures

Upon arrival in the US, your dog will be inspected by a customs officer. If documentation is complete and the dog appears healthy, clearance is typically immediate. If arriving in certain states (such as Hawaii or Guam), additional quarantine requirements may apply.

7. How NextDay Drop Helps

We manage every step of the process from door to door:

Veterinary appointment coordination in Germany
All documentation preparation and verification
Airline booking and crate provision
Pickup from your home and delivery to the airport
Real-time tracking throughout the journey
Pickup and delivery at the US destination

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