Traveling to Denmark with your dog (or cat) is no longer the hassle it used to be. As long as you keep some pet travel requirements in mind, bringing your dog to Denmark will be pretty easy. The rules for cats are the same.
Keep in mind that completing vaccinations and veterinary forms can take three to four months, so if you want to bring your dog to Denmark, plan ahead. Tattooed cats and dogs no longer qualify (unless applied before July 3, 2011) under Danish customs law and European Union (EU) customs law, in favor of requiring microchips on pets.
The most important thing to know when bringing your dog to Denmark is that there are two types of pet regulations depending on whether you are entering Denmark from an EU country or from a non-EU country. This is a major difference in requirements, so make sure you meet the correct one. The Danish Department of Agriculture also provides a guide.
From an EU country
First, obtain an EU pet passport from your vet. Your licensed veterinarian will be able to fill out the EU pet passport as required.
To bring dogs to Denmark from within the EU, the dog must have been vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before the trip, have a microchip (acceptable tattoo) and the EU passport for pets. You can enter through any Danish border crossing.
From a non-EU country
The requirements for traveling with pets are a bit stricter. Like EU travelers, you should also obtain a pet passport for your dog if possible or have your veterinarian complete the Veterinary Certificate required to bring your pet (import it) to the European Union.
In addition, you will also need to notify the Border Inspection Post of your intention to travel to Denmark with your dog (or other pet) at least 24 hours in advance.
Please note that dogs, cats and ferrets from third world countries must come to Denmark on flights to Copenhagen Kastrup Airport or Billund Airport. Other airports are not allowed and are not equipped to handle incoming travel animals.
Bringing your dog to Denmark from a non-EU country also requires the dog (or cat) to be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before traveling to Denmark.
When you arrive in Denmark with your dog, enter customs and request a pet inspection. Danish customs staff will help you with the process and review the dog’s documents.
Tip for booking your dog’s flight
When you book your flights to Denmark, be sure to notify your airline that you want to take your dog to Denmark with you. They will check the space and there will be a one-way charge. (If you want to sedate your pet for the trip, ask if the airline’s animal transport rules allow it.)
Please note that Denmark renews its animal import regulations annually. By the time you travel, there may be slight procedural changes for the dogs. Always check for official updates before bringing your dog to Denmark.
