The UK Chief Veterinary Officer is urging anyone considering buying a dog to source their pets responsibly, as new rules come into force requiring all commercial dog imports from Romania to undergo mandatory pre-import testing for Brucella canis (B. canis).
The safeguard measure, effective from today (October 7), applies to commercial imports only, including rescue dogs intended for rehoming, and is designed to protect both animal and public health.
The new rule does not apply to non-commercial pet movements from Romania and is in addition to existing requirements under the Approved Importer Scheme.
The move follows a steady increase in Brucella canis cases in Great Britain since 2020, with around 50% of all identified infections linked to dogs imported from Romania.
Brucella canis is a serious bacterial disease affecting dogs, causing reproductive problems such as abortion, as well as joint pain and lameness. Many infected dogs show no symptoms but can still spread the infection. There is currently no vaccine or effective treatment to eliminate the disease or prevent transmission.
UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said:
“Anyone considering getting a dog should make sure they are fully prepared for the responsibility. Importing dogs without the proper health checks or testing can increase the risk of introducing serious diseases like Brucella canis into Great Britain.
“The new rules on dogs imported from Romania are a necessary step to safeguard both animal and human health. I strongly urge prospective dog owners to do their research, choose reputable breeders or rescue organisations, and ensure all required health checks and tests are completed before bringing a dog into their home.”
Officials are advising prospective dog owners to take simple but important precautions, including sourcing dogs only from reputable breeders or trusted rescue organisations, checking all health documentation, and understanding the potential risks associated with importing or rehoming dogs from abroad.
Vets, breeders, and rehoming organisations are also being asked to remain alert to signs of disease and follow best practice when handling, testing, or managing dogs at risk.
Although the overall risk to the public remains low, Brucella canis is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from dogs to humans. Those who are immunocompromised, pregnant, or under five years old may be more vulnerable.
The government has confirmed that the safeguard measure will remain in place until the disease risk is judged to have reduced sufficiently. Officials will continue to monitor the situation closely and review the requirement regularly to ensure it remains proportionate and evidence-based.
The commercial import of dogs from other countries remains unaffected by this change.
Further public health information can be found at: Brucella canis: information for the public and dog owners – GOV.UK
