International relocation with a pet is not just about buying a ticket and obtaining a veterinary passport. It is a complex legal process that requires a deep dive into the legislation of the destination country. For many families, moving can end in tragedy at the airport if their pets fall onto BSL (Breed-Specific Legislation) lists. The topic of which countries prohibit certain animals is currently one of the most pressing in pet logistics, as restricted dog breeds may face harsh sanctions—ranging from forced return at the owner’s expense to the seizure of the animal.
In this article, we will break down which restricted dog breeds exist, how international security protocols work, and how to prepare for a move so that your journey is smooth and legal.
What is BSL and How Does It Affect Restricted Dog Breeds?
The acronym BSL (Breed-Specific Legislation) refers to a set of laws that limit or completely ban the ownership and import of certain breeds considered potentially dangerous. The primary goal of such measures is to reduce the number of animal attacks on humans. However, in practice, owners find that restricted dog breeds are determined not by the character of a specific dog, but by its physical appearance (phenotype).
It is important to understand: if your dog visually resembles a Staffordshire Terrier or a Pit Bull, it is automatically classified as a “prohibited type dog,” even if the documents state a different breed. This is why restricted dog breedsrequire special attention during document preparation: sometimes a passport is not enough, and DNA tests are required to confirm the purity of the bloodline or the absence of “dangerous” genes.
Restricted Dog Breeds: A Detailed Overview of Regional Restrictions
Global legislation is extremely inconsistent. What is permitted in one country may be strictly prohibited in a neighboring one.
Europe: Germany, France, and the UK
In Germany, import control is considered one of the strictest in the world. According to the federal law HundVerbrEinfG, it is categorically forbidden to import American Staffordshire Terriers, Pit Bull Terriers, and their mixed breeds. If restricted dog breeds are discovered at the border, the owner faces a massive fine, and the animal is subject to immediate deportation.
France divides “dangerous” animals into two categories. Category 1 includes “attack dogs” without a pedigree—their import is completely banned. Category 2 includes guard dogs with a pedigree (e.g., Rottweilers). These restricted dog breeds can enter the country, but the owner must obtain a French license, arrange insurance, and follow strict walking rules (muzzle and short leash only).
In the UK, the Dangerous Dogs Act is in effect. Here, restricted dog breeds, such as the Japanese Tosa Inu or Dogo Argentino, can be seized by police even from a private home unless the owner has a specific court-issued Certificate of Exemption.
Middle East: UAE and Qatar Specifics
In the United Arab Emirates, the list of restrictions is regularly reviewed by the MOCCAE ministry. The “non-permitted breeds” list includes not only classic restricted dog breeds but also breeds popular in Eastern Europe, such as the Doberman, Cane Corso, and all types of Mastiffs. If you are planning a move to Dubai, remember: restricted dog breeds in the UAE can only be imported with a special permit obtained long before the flight.
USA and Australia: No Federal Bans vs. Strict Quarantine
In the US, there is no single federal list of prohibited breeds; however, restrictions may apply at the state or even city level (e.g., Pit Bulls are banned in Miami). Furthermore, US airlines often have internal rules prohibiting restricted dog breeds from boarding for safety reasons.
Australia follows a path of total biosecurity. Here, restricted dog breeds (such as the Presa Canario or Czechoslovakian Vlcak) have no chance of entry. Even permitted breeds must undergo a 10-day quarantine at a special center in Melbourne.
IATA Technical Requirements for Transporting Complex Breeds
If your pet is not on the fully prohibited list but is considered “potentially aggressive,” special technical requirements apply to its transport. According to IATA LAR standards, such restricted dog breeds (or those limited in transport) must be held in reinforced CR82 containers. These boxes are made of metal or thick wood, have reinforced locks, and prevent the dog from chewing through the wall or breaking the door during stress.
Delivery Animal Expert Opinion: How to Minimize Risks?
Specialists at Delivery Animal deal daily with cases where owners try to “bypass” the system. We categorically advise against this.
“The biggest mistake is trying to alter documents. Customs veterinarians in major hubs (Frankfurt, Istanbul, Dubai) are professionals who can determine by skull and jaw structure whether your pets belong to the restricted dog breeds category. We recommend the honest path: DNA testing, obtaining socialization certificates, and choosing the right route through countries with loyal legislation,” emphasize the leading logisticians at Delivery Animal.
Step-by-Step Relocation Plan
If you suspect your pet might fall into the restricted dog breeds category, follow this algorithm:
- DNA Testing: An official test (e.g., Wisdom Panel) will confirm that your dog does not have a critical percentage of prohibited breed blood.
- Cynological Certification: Obtain a certificate for completing a “CGC” (Canine Good Citizen) or BH (Begleithund) course. This proves the animal’s stability.
- Consult a Carrier: Contact us to check the current BSL lists for the month of your travel.
- Select the Right Crate: If the breed requires a CR82 crate, it must be ordered or custom-made in advance.
- Study the Blog: Regularly read our animal import guides, as laws change annually.
Conclusion
Moving to another country is always stressful, but it shouldn’t be a barrier to living with your four-legged friend. Remember that restricted dog breeds is a term that requires a detailed legal analysis in each specific case. With the right approach, DNA tests, and the support of experienced logisticians, even the most difficult tasks become solvable. An owner’s responsibility begins with being informed: know the laws, prepare in advance, and your pet will always be by your side, no matter where in the world you go.
