Can Mixed Breed Dogs Travel to New Zealand?
Hi PetRelocation,
Can I bring my dog to live with me in New Zealand? She is a boxer mix according to the animal shelter where I got her. We think she is a boxer bulldog mix, so would she be considered a hybrid species, which are not permitted?
I really want to move to New Zealand and would be devastated if I couldn't take her with me! She is microchipped and has all of her shots.
Thanks,
Gigi
Hi Gigi,
Thanks for the question! Confusion can arise around the pet import requirements for New Zealand since they are so strict and detailed (as New Zealand is a rabies free island country), so we're happy to help.
Here's what the New Zealand government website says:
When the website mentions a ban on "hybrids" they are talking about hybrids of different species (so a domestic dog crossed with a wolf or coyote, for example). Mixed breed dogs are fine as long as they are not on the banned breed list, which as you can see includes breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier and Japanese Tosa.
In other words, you should be good to go! The only issues you may encounter are related to the fact that your dog sounds like she may have a snub-nosed shape to her face. Snub-nosed pets are more likely to encounter airline restrictions, and at the very least you may need to fly her in a larger than usual travel crate. Read more about snub-nosed pet travel for more information.
Finally, take a look at the official New Zealand pet import rules and let us know if we can be of service as you go about arranging your dog's trip. We've helped many pets travel safely to New Zealand and would be happy to assist you, too.
Hope this helps! Thanks again for your inquiry and good luck with everything.
Pet Travel Question Details:
Name: Gigi
Number of Pets: 1
Pet Type: Dog
Pet Breed: Boxer Bull dog mix
From: United States
To: New Zealand