A PCS to Germany is exciting. New culture, new travel opportunities, new experiences. But if you’re bringing pets, that excitement can quickly turn into stress.

For many military families, moving pets overseas is the most expensive and emotionally overwhelming part of the entire PCS process. Questions start piling up fast…

How many pets can we bring?
Can they fly on the Patriot Express?
What if there’s no space available?
How much will this cost?
What paperwork do we need?

The good news, with proper planning and realistic expectations, PCSing to Germany with pets is absolutely doable. Thousands of families successfully do it every year. The key is understanding your options early and building a plan around them.

How to PCS to Germany with Pets

Since 2001, military families PCSing to Germany are authorized to bring up to two pets (cats or dogs only) at government expense unless you receive an Exception to Policy waiver. Other pet types are not authorized under DoD guidance.

There are three primary ways to get your pets to Germany:

1. Patriot Express
2. Commercial Airlines
3. Professional Pet Shippers

Each option comes with different costs, risks, and availability limitations.

Need more information about PCSing to Germany? Check out my FREE arrival checklist!

Step 1: Confirm Breed Eligibility & Mandatory Veterinary Requirements

Before you even start looking at flights, you need to confirm two things:

1. Your dog is legally allowed to enter Germany
2. You complete mandatory veterinary requirements

These apply no matter how your pet travels. The only difference is that if you hire a professional pet shipper, they will usually coordinate the veterinary paperwork for you.

Breed Restrictions in Germany

There are no restrictions on cat breeds, but Germany does restrict certain dog breeds and crossbreeds.

Category I (Prohibited from Entry)

The following breeds and their mixes are not permitted to enter Germany:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Bull Terrier

If your dog falls into one of these categories, it will not be authorized to enter the country.

In addition, individual German states can have their own restrictions. What may be allowed in Bavaria could differ in another region. Always verify with your gaining installation and local German authorities.

Category II (Conditional Entry with Restrictions)

These breeds may be allowed to enter Germany but must pass a temperament test after arrival (see video below). Even if they pass, additional rules typically apply, such as muzzle requirements or leash restrictions.

Category II breeds include:

• Alano
• American Bulldog
• Bullmastiff
• Bull Terrier
• Cane Corso
• Dogo Argentino
• Dogo Canario
• Dogue de Bordeaux
• Fila Brasileiro
• Mastiff
• Mastino Napoletano
• Mastin Espanol
• Rottweiler
• Perro de Presa Mallorquin

If you own one of these breeds, do not assume approval. Confirm requirements early and prepare for additional compliance steps after arrival.

Step 2: Schedule a Veterinary Appointment Immediately

Once you’ve confirmed your pet is eligible to enter Germany, your next move is contacting a veterinarian.

If you’re using a pet shipper, they will typically guide you through this process and coordinate required documentation.

If you are handling the move yourself, this part is completely on you.

Microchip Comes First

If your pet is not already microchipped, this must be done before updating rabies vaccinations.

The sequence matters.

If your pet needs a rabies shot, there is a mandatory 21-day waiting period after vaccination before entry into the European Union is allowed.

This waiting period catches many families off guard.

USDA Accredited Health Certificate

Your pet must have a USDA-accredited health certificate issued within 10 days of departure.

Not every clinic understands overseas PCS requirements. Some may tell you it’s unnecessary or that they don’t provide it.

You need it.

If your current clinic cannot issue a USDA-accredited health certificate, find one that can. Do not delay this step.

Military veterinary clinics are often more familiar with PCS requirements and can save you time and money compared to civilian providers.

Pro Tip: Contact Your Gaining Installation’s Vet Clinic

Before you depart, contact the veterinary clinic at your gaining installation in Germany.

They can:

• Confirm state-specific breed rules
• Explain post-arrival registration requirements
• Prepare you for any temperament testing
• Walk you through local leash or muzzle laws

Planning ahead reduces surprises after arrival.

Pet Travel Expenses are now reimbursed for Active Duty! (a/o Jan 2024) Up to $2000 for an OCONUS move. Learn more here!

Patriot Express (Most Affordable, Most Limited)

The Patriot Express is usually the cheapest route because it is a government-contracted rotator flight. However, pet space is extremely limited.

Important realities:

• There are strict kennel size requirements
• There are seasonal heat restrictions
• Spots fill up quickly
• Not every PCS flight allows pets

If you want this option, you must coordinate with your transportation office as early as possible. Sometimes pet authorization is written directly on your orders. Always verify.

Commercial Airlines (More Flexible, More Expensive)

If Patriot Express is full or not available, commercial airlines become your next option.

Pets can travel:

• As checked baggage
• As excess cargo
• In cabin (small pets only)

Example scenario:

If you have two large dogs and one cat, the two dogs may need to travel cargo on one ticket, while the cat could fly in cabin with your spouse or another command-sponsored dependent.

In some cases, families split pets across separate tickets or even separate flights.

It’s not ideal. But it’s sometimes necessary.

Hiring a Pet Shipper (Most Expensive, Least Stress)

If your schedule is tight or you want minimal logistical headaches, you can hire a professional pet shipper.

They handle:

• Airline coordination
• Veterinary paperwork
• Customs clearance
• Travel logistics

This is the most stress-free option, but also the most expensive. Depending on size and location, costs can reach several thousand dollars per pet.

Pro Tip: A common commercial flight for Americans and their pets is a United Flight operated by (or code shared) by Lufthansa.

The right pet shipper will relieve so much stress for you and your family. As you may have seen in my video (above), many military families are turning to Feathers & Fur Express to take care of their fur baby transportation needs.

This Georgia based company can help you with just about all things pet related. 

Learn how to measure your pet as well as all kennel/crate requirements in our pet shipper videos!

Some of their included services:

• Measuring your pet & crate recommendations 
• Pet relocation and air cargo charges
• Meeting at the airport for flight check in
• All coordination and communication for health requirements
• Military discounts and raffle drawings to save big bucks
• And they even have optional add ons such as customs clearance and home pick up/delivery 

If you want to weigh your options, I suggest requesting a free quote and taking advantage of their military raffle drawing!

Watch my FULL length interview with a Pet Shipper!

Prepare to Travel with your Pet

Airlines (including the Patriot Express) have varying restrictions for how to travel with pets. For example, as of 2020, Lufthansa no longer transports snub-nosed animals in the cargo hold.

Not sure which airline to go with? See a list of current commercial pet carriers.

One of the first things you need to do is buy an IATA (International Air Transport Association) certified crate that fits the requirements for your companion’s weight and measurements. Do this early so you have time to crate train your pet in preparation for the long flight.

Small animals will more than likely go in the cabin. Most airlines treat in cabin pet kennels/carriers like carry-on baggage and will be stowed under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight.

For travelers taking the Patriot Express, your in cabin kennel size must not exceed 20″l x 16″w x 8.5″h. Kennels must be large enough for you pet to stand up, sit down, turn around, and lie down with normal posture and body movement.

All kennels need to provide adequate ventilation on at least three sides.

Soft sided carriers are accepted in cabin only (for Patriot Express), and need to have leak proof padded nylon with mesh ventilation on at least two sides.

For the Patriot Express, the combined weight of your pet and kennel must not exceed 150lbs. You can see all the associated weight fees (pet + kennel) for the Patriot Express here.

If you have a 2 piece kennel, make sure it’s bolted by metal nuts/bolts as plastic clips are not authorized by many airline carriers. It’s also recommended to secure the kennel door with a zip tie for additional safety.

The bottom of the kennel needs to have several layers of newspaper, shredded paper, cardboard or absorbent material (do not use any hay, grass, wood shavings, sand or soil). And make sure to give your pet proper exercise and potty breaks right before the flight.

A blanket inside the kennel with your scent also goes a long way for anxious pets (and anxious parents ☺️).

Important tip: You can reserve your Patriot Express flight for you and your pets up to 90 days before your report date (RNLTD)

Outside the crate, you’ll need to provide “Live Animal” & “This Way Up” stickers (commercial airlines usually has extras, but ask ahead of time to make sure), a copy of the health certificate, general info about your pet (name, pic, last time fed, feeding instructions, etc), and a ziplock with food.

You must also provide food/water bowls which can be zip-tied to the door. If you’re using a reversible drinking water bottle, make sure your pet is familiar with using it.

Pro Tip: Use metal/stainless steel food & water bowls (instead of plastic) so your pet doesn’t have the opportunity to chew the plastic out of frustration during the flight. Check out the detachable bowls with clamps or the bowls with hooks.

In order to make sure you have purchased everything for your pet before travel, here’s my “Pet Starter Kit” to keep you organized:

• Dogs: These crates are very popular for military PCSers going overseas.  They are IATA certified, they come with “live animal” stickers, food bowl, and also removable wheels for easy transport.
• Intermediate Dogs: 31 – 50lbs IATA 300 series.
• Large Dogs: 51 – 70lbs IATA 400 series.
• Extra Large Dogs: 71 – 90lbs IATA 500 series.
• Giant Dogs: 91 – 125lbs IATA 700 series.
• Cats: These carriers are great for cat carry-ons and meet IATA standards.  It can be opened on three sides, includes a bowl, and can be carried or used as a backpack. 
• Metal bolts to secure 2 piece kennels
• Metal feeding bowls with clamps, and/or with hooks
• Zip ties
• Absorbent pads for accidents in the kennel/carrier
• Stickers: “Live Animal” & “This Way Up” Arrows

And, of course, don’t forget to buy a pet ticket! The Patriot Express charges anywhere between $100 to 400, and private airlines may charge anywhere between $400 to 2,000.

If pet slots are NOT available for your Patriot Express flight, you have a couple options.

• Your dependents can wait behind until there’s a slot available on a later date.
• You can search for pet shipper options, which is a little more expensive, but some can ship door to door.
• You can fly commercial with an Exception to Policy letter (in order to get reimbursed). Make sure you reference page 19 of the Defense Transportation Regulation (DTR) I-103-19 section d.

Get Our FREE Checklist! ✅

Arriving in Germany with Your Pets

Once you land, you and your pet will be desperate to reunite (and probably have a bathroom break). But you’ll have to pay the fees first.

Before you collect your pets, a vet should inspect them. Afterwards, you may need to pay a fee up to €200 before you can take your furry friend with you.

Especially if you’re flying into Frankfurt…

In this video, I go over a real life example of what your first day in Germany *may look like when picking your pets.

Expect a long day.

Expect an even longer day if flying with Patriot Express and getting on the free Ramstein shuttle bus to your next duty station. Keep in mind, per German law, pets must get back in the crate while on the bus (which is why I always recommend getting a ride from a sponsor or private shuttle.

As for all the pet fees in the video, I’m not quite sure why this was the case. The family used a pet shipper, both pets flew cargo through United (operated by Lufthansa).

After paying fees, they called the pet shipper back to verify that they do NOT cover these Frankfurt fees. If your pet is flying in-cabin, you may not have to go through all of this.

Registering your Pet

Once you arrive in Germany, you need to register your pet with the veterinary clinic on post within 14 days. If you don’t, you *may not be able to secure government-leased or on-post housing.

Starting a pet sitting service is a great way to make money. Learn more about how to start a business as a spouse in Germany!

If you have a Category II dog, you will also need to register with your local Rathaus (town hall) once you have housing. Plus, they must wear a leash and muzzle in public areas. The municipality may also have a tax on your dog (Hundesteuer).

Additionally, the German government requires that you register your pet with TASSO. Whether you have a cat or a dog, TASSO can help you find your pet in case they get lost!

Adopting a Pet in Germany

Unlike the U.S., Germany doesn’t have many animal shelters, probably because they have such rigorous regulations for owning a pet!

They don’t take pet ownership lightly, and neither should you.

Be sure to discuss the costs and responsibilities with your family before adopting a new furry member.

And if you decide to purchase a pet from a German breeder, make sure you have a trusted third party translate the contract for you.

Ready to adopt your new furry friend? Check out our puppy checklist!

Pet Passports

You don’t necessarily need a passport for your pet before you PCS to Germany. But if you don’t fly the Patriot Express, some airlines may require it. We recommend contacting your airline to confirm their requirements.

If you plan to travel within the EU with your pet, you will need a pet passport issued by a licensed vet. We recommend contacting your local on-post clinic to find out more information.

Dog Care in Germany

As mentioned previously, the Germans take dog ownership very seriously. For example, while it may be socially unacceptable to leave your pet outside all day in the U.S., it’s against the law in Germany.

And if you leave your dog home alone all day with no one to walk them or play with them, they may develop destructive habits or bark all day. If your dog barks or howls continuously for 10 minutes, it’s considered a noise disturbance. As a result, you could have your dog taken away.

If you bring your dog out in public, they must be well-trained. It’s expected that you wouldn’t bring an untrained dog to a restaurant. If you have any doubt that your dog can’t behave in public, just don’t.

For information on pet sitters and boarding your pet when you travel (because you will definitely travel), the on-post vet is a great place to start. They have information about boarders throughout the area, as well as pet sitters.

And be sure to book your boarders or pet sitters in advance!

Like, as soon as you buy those plane tickets for the four-day weekend, book a reservation at a boarding facility.

For a list of pet services near your military base in Germany, check out our local cheat sheets:

PCS to Germany: Cheat Sheets

Grafenwoehr  –  Vilseck  –  Hohenfels  –  Garmisch  +  Edelweiss L&R – Stuttgart  –  Ansbach  –  KMC  –  Baumholder  –  Wiesbaden  –  Spangdahlem

PCS with a Pet – Out of Germany

For those looking for a little help when you PCS your pet out of Germany, you need to check out Care 4 Cargo. This company is located directly at the Frankfurt airport so there’s no third party involved.

Most pet shipping companies aren’t actually based in Germany, which means they often rely on Care 4 Cargo to handle the export process. In many cases, this results in extra costs since you end up paying two companies to manage your pet’s move.

Skip the middleman, save some money, and request a free quote directly from Care 4 Cargo. Be sure to mention “DTV” to receive a military discount.

Final Thoughts on Pet Ownership in Germany

When you PCS to Germany, seriously consider what it means to be a pet owner while you’re stationed here. If you’re not sure you can give your pet all the love it needs while you’re stationed in Germany, consider re-homing them with family or friends.

And that goes for buying a pet in Germany, too. If you don’t want to board your pet while you travel, or if you have an irregular schedule, this may not be the best time to introduce a new furry family member.

Recommendations from the Community: Check out these additional pet resources for further help – Pets with Passports, Military PCS with Pets, Pet Relocator, Pet Community of Bavaria, Pet Sitting Grafenwoehr/Vilseck/Amberg/Weiden, Trusted Pet Sitters Graf, Vilseck, Weiden, Etc

The rules in Germany are different from the U.S. It can be hard enough for adults and families to adjust to change, but imagine how your pets feel! If you don’t help them adapt, they can develop destructive behaviors.

But there is certainly no doubt how much joy they can bring into our lives!

To learn more about PCS prep, stay prepared with my Ultimate PCS Checklist, or subscribe to the channel for more local insights!

Get our OCONUS PCS Pet Checklist

We get it, moving overseas with your pet can be one of the most stressful parts of your PCS.

So after creating an entire portfolio of pet videos and blog posts, we decided to consolidate all that information into an actionable OCONUS PCS Pet Checklist.

Inside this checklist we cover checklist items for:

• Before Departure
• Health Certificate & Immunizations/Vaccines
• Flight Requirements (Patriot Express & Commercial Airlines)
• Heat Embargoes
• Crate Requirements
• International Pet Shippers
• Pet Reimbursement
• After Arrival

If you’re PCSing with a pet overseas, then take advantage of this checklist below!