Official Import Rules
Ecuador requires a current rabies vaccination, a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and a zoosanitary import permit from Agrocalidad. Microchip is recommended. Apply for the import permit at least 2 weeks before travel. Agrocalidad inspects animals on arrival at Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) airports.
Free route planner
Turn these rules into your dog's step-by-step planCabin/cargo call, breed check, crate size and paperwork timing.Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 microchip fitted before the rabies vaccination. The microchip number must match every certificate.
Rabies vaccination
Rabies vaccination must be valid before travel. Most routes require at least 21 days after a primary vaccination.
Health certificate or pet passport
Use an EU pet passport where accepted, or a government-endorsed animal health certificate for this route.
Travel day
Carry originals, confirm airline pet acceptance, and keep the official authority page saved offline.
Breed & Public-Space Rules
Breed restrictions
Ecuador has prohibited pit bull-type and Rottweiler acquisition/import as pets under its dangerous-dog rules — verify current AGROCALIDAD guidance before travelling with either type.
Flying In: Cabin, Hold or Cargo
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None
City & Housing Notes
Quito, Cuenca, and Guayaquil are popular expat destinations. Cuenca is particularly popular with retirees. Ecuador uses the US dollar. Vet care is affordable and improving.
Vets & Health After Arrival
Reasonable vet care in major cities. Quito and Cuenca have the best facilities. Costs are very low. Outside major cities, vet care is basic. Altitude (Quito 2,800m, Cuenca 2,500m) may affect dogs initially.
Leaving Ecuador With Your Dog
Exit requires a health certificate from an Agrocalidad-approved vet and an export permit. Processing takes 2–3 working days.
Videos & Route Walkthroughs
Use videos as lived-experience context, not as legal authority. Search for recent dog-owner route reports, airport collection walkthroughs, crate-loading examples and relocation-agent explainers, then verify every rule against the official source above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Ecuador popular with expats?
Low cost of living, US dollar economy, pleasant climate (especially in highland cities like Cuenca), and relatively easy residency visas.
Does altitude affect dogs?
Potentially. Highland cities like Quito and Cuenca sit above 2,500m. Most dogs adapt within a few days, but monitor for signs of altitude sickness.
Is Cuenca dog-friendly?
Yes. Cuenca has a large, established expat community that includes many pet owners. Vet care is available and affordable.
Community Tips & Nearby Routes
Community reports are useful for practical details such as which cargo desk answers the phone, how long collection took, or whether a landlord asked for insurance. Treat them as tips, then verify rules with the authority and airline.