Dogs in Georgia: rules, tax and travel

Owners must identify and register dogs in a unified database run by the National Food Agency. From 1 July 2026 a person can be registered as an owner only if they are at least 16 and have no conviction for animal cruelty (Criminal Code Article 259). Animals already identified must be entered in the database by 1 January 2027.[2]

Identification is by microchip or ear tag as part of registration; a lost or damaged chip must be redone. The law sets no separate chip date beyond the registration deadline of 1 January 2027.[2]

No dog tax was found in the Law on Pet Animals.[2]

Owners of a potentially dangerous dog must submit a mental health certificate. There is no general dog licence.[2]

The law does not require liability insurance. Owners must compensate damage caused by their animal under the Civil Code.[2]

In public places such as parks and boulevards dogs must be leashed or muzzled, except in designated areas, and the same applies on public transport. Keeping a dog permanently on a leash is prohibited. Municipalities may set further rules.[2]

Sterilisation or castration is compulsory under government-set rules, with exceptions such as registered exhibition animals. Pedigree breeders must sterilise animals they bred.[2]

Ear and tail cropping, abandonment, combat training (other than service dogs) and animal fights are prohibited.[2]

The law provisions take effect in stages: 1 January 2026, 1 July 2026 and 1 July 2028.[2]

A pet needs a 15-digit ISO microchip, a rabies vaccination given 30 days to 12 months before entry, and a veterinary certificate for Georgia endorsed by the origin country's authority. Pets must enter at Tbilisi airport.[3]

Same as from the EU: microchip, rabies vaccination 30 days to 12 months before entry, endorsed veterinary certificate; no permit for an accompanied personal pet.[3]

Not required to enter Georgia. (Titre tests are needed when taking a pet from Georgia to the EU.)[3]

Not required.[3]

No quarantine if the requirements are met.[3]