Rabies rules for dogs entering Finland
Finland applies specific rabies-related rules for dogs entering the country.
These rules depend on the puppy’s age and on who is responsible for transporting the dog.
This page explains the legal scenarios in detail, based on European Union regulations
and practical experience with Finnish requirements.
Rabies regulations in Finland
Rabies-related requirements for dogs entering Finland are administered by the Finnish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto) and follow EU pet travel legislation.
Different legal options exist depending on:
- the age of the puppy
- whether the owner or a third party transports the dog
- whether rabies vaccination has been completed
Option 1: owner pickup from 8 weeks (without rabies vaccination)
Finnish residents may personally collect a puppy from the age of 8 weeks
without rabies vaccination.
This option is permitted when:
- the puppy is transported directly by its future owner
- all other EU veterinary requirements are met
In this scenario, the puppy must not have been in contact with wild animals susceptible to rabies.
A special written declaration confirming that the puppy has had no contact with wild animals is provided in printed form, in accordance with EU and Finnish regulations.
Option 2: owner pickup at 12 weeks (with declaration)
Another legal option is owner pickup at approximately 12 weeks of age,
before rabies vaccination becomes effective.
In this case, the same EU-compliant declaration confirming no contact with wild animals
is provided.
This option allows Finnish owners to collect the puppy earlier, while remaining fully compliant with current regulations.
Option 3: breeder or third-party delivery from 15 weeks
If the puppy is transported by the breeder or by a third party
(not the future owner), rabies vaccination is mandatory.
In this scenario, the following steps are applied:
- rabies vaccination administered at no earlier than 12 weeks of age
- a mandatory waiting period of 21 days after vaccination
- minimum age for entry: approximately 15 weeks
Once these conditions are fulfilled, the puppy may legally enter Finland
with the breeder or a professional transporter.
Veterinary procedures and certification
Rabies vaccination is administered by a licensed veterinarian within the European Union.
All details are officially recorded
in the EU veterinary passport,
including:
- date of vaccination
- vaccine details
- stamp and signature of the veterinarian
All documentation is prepared in accordance with EU and Finnish requirements.
Practical experience with Finland
At Dognik Bulls, we are thoroughly familiar with all rabies-related scenarios for Finland.
Depending on the owner’s preference, puppies regularly go to Finland
both with owner pickup and via breeder or third-party delivery.
All transfers are planned individually to ensure full compliance with Finnish regulations.
Why understanding these options matters
Misunderstanding rabies rules often leads to unnecessary delays or incorrect preparation.
Clear knowledge of legal age thresholds allows Finnish owners to choose the most suitable option and plan travel accordingly.
Educational purpose
This page is intended as an informational resource about rabies rules for dogs entering Finland.
It reflects current regulations and practical experience, and does not promote impulse decisions.
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