How To Fly With a Dog, from Prep to Landing

Are you planning a trip and wondering how to fly with your dog? You’re not alone—over 2 million pets travel by air in the UK each year, thanks to a growing number of airlines embracing pet-friendly policies.

While many airlines allow dogs to travel, each airline has different policies regarding dog size, breed, and travel requirements. For example, snub-nosed breeds, such as Bulldogs, may face restrictions due to respiratory issues, and dogs typically need to travel in the cargo hold unless they are service animals. To ensure a smooth journey with your pup, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with these policies in advance and prepare accordingly.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or planning your first trip together, this guide aims to minimise the stress of flying with your dog. ​​To learn more about the potential risks, which breeds usually handle air travel better, and which dogs might need to skip the journey, we spoke with Dr. Michael Yazbeck, Veterinary Director at Greencross Vets in Campbelltown & Narellan, Australia.

Is My Airline Pet-Friendly?

Pet travel policies vary by airline. Some airlines have specific breed restrictions, while others don’t allow dogs in the cargo hold at all. It’s crucial to understand these differences before booking a flight. No commercial flights in the UK allow dogs in the passenger area of the plane.

Here’s a breakdown of pet policies for eight major airlines.

Airline	Dogs allowed in cargo?	Dogs allowed in the cabin?	Breed Restrictions
British Airways	Yes	No, except for recognised assistance animals.	No bulldogs, pugs, or Pekingese. Flatter-faced breeds, such as the Shih Tzu, Bullmastiff, Boxer, or Boston Terrier, require a kennel that is 10% larger than usual for adequate ventilation.
Emirates	Yes	No, except for recognised assistance animals.	None advertised, but contact a local Emirates SkyCargo station before travel, as transporting some breeds, like brachycephalic breeds, requires that you meet specific conditions.
Virgin Atlantic	Yes	No, except for recognised assistance animals.	No brachycephalic dogs are allowed in cargo. However, cross-breeds with part-brachycephalic parentage may travel with Virgin. Dogs included in the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, including American Staffordshire Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Braziliero, Japanese Tosa, and Pit Bull Terrier, may also not travel.
Jet2	No	No, except for registered assistance dogs	None
Qantas	Yes	No	Pit Bull and American Pit Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, Brazilian Fila and Mastiff, and Presa Canario are restricted as dangerous animals. Active racing greyhounds aren’t permitted, but retired racing greyhounds are allowed on specific routes and must be booked through a pet travel specialist. American Staffordshire Bull Terriers require an airline-approved guard dog cage.
KLM	Yes	Yes, in some European departures and only for dogs or cats under 8 kg when combined with a bag	American Bully, Boston Terrier, Boxers, Bulldogs, Bull Mastiff, Cane Corso, Pugs, Chow-Chow, Great Dane, Certain breeds of Spaniel (Tibetan, Japanese, English, King Charles), Brussels Griffon, Lhasa Apso, Mastiffs, Neapolitan Mastiff, Pekingese, Small Brabant, Shih Tzu, Shar Pei, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
TUI Airways	Yes	No	No brachycephalic breeds (both cats and dogs) are allowed. In some countries, like Belgium, for example, snub-nosed dogs are allowed in the passenger cabin so long as they weigh under 8 kg. However, from the UK, all pets travel in the cargo hold, meaning that brachycephalic breeds cannot travel.
EasyJet	No	No, except for registered assistance animals.	None

How much does it cost to fly with a dog?

As dogs travel on commercial UK flights in cargo, transporting them can be expensive. Costs generally vary based on the dog’s weight and the distance of your flight. However, the price may range from £2,600 to £8,000 for international flights.

Contact your airline directly to determine the cost of transporting your dog.

Breed restrictions

Many airlines have specific breed restrictions in place to ensure the safety of pets during travel. Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats, such as Pugs, Pekingese, and Persians, may be prohibited from travelling in cargo because their unique facial structures can lead to breathing difficulties. The stress of flying can worsen these respiratory issues. Some airlines may also limit these breeds from travelling in the cabin, especially in extreme temperatures.

Unfortunately, when flying from the UK, this may mean that brachycephalic dogs can’t travel at all, given that commercial aircraft only allow dogs to travel in the hold. Typically, larger dogs cannot fly in the cabin unless they are trained service animals. Some airlines may also require strong or large breeds to be transported in reinforced crates when in the cargo area.

Certain airlines even ban specific breeds from flying altogether, such as those listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991. To prevent travel complications, always check the airline’s policies on breed restrictions ahead of time.

Cabin Rules for Flying With a Dog

In the UK, dogs travelling on commercial flights will be required to do so in the cargo hold. Only charter (or private) flights allow dogs in the cabin.

Cargo Rules for Flying With a Dog

On UK flights, dogs will need to fly in cargo. Here’s how to prepare.

Carrier regulations

Many airlines outline precise carrier guidelines for dog travelling in cargo. Generally, you’ll want to choose a durable, hard-sided carrier that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines. It should have strong handles, good ventilation, and a leak-proof bottom.

Be sure to label the carrier clearly with “Live Animal” and arrows indicating which way is up. It’s also a good idea to attach your contact information, destination details, and a recent photo of your dog to the carrier. Include a small bag of food in case of delays.

Behavior requirements

Dr. Yazbeck emphasises that dogs flying in cargo must be able to tolerate being alone in a crate for long periods. They also need to be safe for airline staff to handle.

Many airlines require that pets be non-aggressive and non-destructive, both to themselves and to their carrier. Additionally, pets should need minimal attention during transit. If your dog tends to be anxious or restless, it may be best to reconsider whether cargo travel is the best option.

Where do dogs go to the bathroom?

As with travelling in the cabin, your dog will need to manage without bathroom breaks during the flight. Choose a crate that allows your dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably, without excessive space for bathroom use.

To prepare for potential accidents, add a waterproof liner or pee pads secured with tape. If your dog is less likely to have accidents, a thin towel can also work well. Include a dish of ice chips to limit intake and prevent water from sloshing around their crate.

Safety concerns

While plenty of animals travel in cargo without incident, there are risks to consider. A top concern is temperature regulation. Although the cargo area is usually climate-controlled, pets may sit on the tarmac before loading, where they could be exposed to extreme temperatures. For this reason, many airlines restrict certain breeds and prohibit cargo travel during particularly hot or cold seasons.

Another issue is that the cargo hold can be a stressful place for dogs. It tends to be dark, noisy, and crowded. Your dog will be handled by unfamiliar staff in a new environment, which can be unsettling for them.

When flying cargo, try to book direct flights to minimise travel time. During the warmer months, consider choosing early morning or evening flights to avoid the intense heat, and schedule midday flights in winter to escape the cold. You may also want to check an airline’s history for any incidents involving cargo pets.

Should You Fly?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this. “Each dog should be assessed individually, especially if the journey is long or involves multiple flights or layovers,” confirms Dr. Yazbeck.

We look at some key considerations.

How stressful is flying for a dog?

The unfamiliar environment of an airport, along with constant noise and a change in routine, can be very stressful for some dogs. That said, every dog reacts differently to air travel. Dr. Yazbeck notes that stress levels can be influenced by:

• A dog’s temperament
• Prior travel experiences
• Existing anxiety (such as noise sensitivity or separation anxiety)
• Whether they will be flying in the cabin with their owner or in the cargo hold

Due to the negative effects of stress on a dog’s health, you may want to avoid flying with: 

• Dogs with severe anxiety, reactivity, or aggressive behaviours
• Dogs with chronic health issues (e.g., heart disease, seizure disorders, respiratory problems)
• Dogs who are currently unwell or recovering from surgery
• Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers)
• Older dogs with mobility or cognitive problems
• Pregnant or nursing dogs

There are some dogs, however, who will have no trouble with flying. Dr. Yazbeck notes that healthy dogs with calm temperaments tend to be good candidates for air travel. Dogs who are crate-trained, accustomed to travel, and confident in new environments usually handle flying with less stress.

Cargo vs. cabin

If possible, travelling in the cabin is preferred. Dr. Yazbeck explains that being with their owner reduces a dog’s stress. You’ll also be able to keep a close eye on your pet for any issues.

Unfortunately, in the UK, cabin travel is typically restricted to trained service animals, and your dog will likely travel in the cargo hold.

Breeds and ages not suitable for flying

It’s also important to consider your dog’s age and breed traits. In order to fly, puppies must be at least eight weeks old and weaned for five days. Dr. Yazbeck notes that puppies between eight and twelve weeks, as well as geriatric dogs over the age of twelve (or as young as eight for giant breeds), often need a thorough veterinary evaluation prior to flying.

Certain breeds are not well-suited to air travel due to the risk of overheating or breathing complications, including:

• Brachycephalic breeds
• Overweight dogs
• Dogs with thick, fluffy coats

What type of behaviour and level of training is required?

According to Dr. Yazbeck, dogs who fly should be:

• Calm. Dogs should be friendly and unbothered by the presence of other people and animals.
• Non-destructive. Dogs prone to destructive behaviour or escape attempts may pose a risk to themselves and others.
• Comfortable with handling. Dogs must tolerate being handled by unfamiliar people.
• Able to settle in a travel carrier. Dogs should be able to relax and stay calm in their travel carrier or crate for extended periods.
• Respond to basic cues. Dogs should reliably respond to basic cues from their pet parent, such as sit, stay, or lie down.
• Able to tolerate isolation. For those travelling in the cargo hold, dogs must be comfortable being alone in a secure crate.

Preparing Your Dog For Flying

For smooth travels, start planning well in advance.

Two months before departure

Schedule a veterinary appointment six to eight weeks before your departure. Dr. Yazbeck explains that your vet can assess whether your dog is fit to fly and provide tailored advice based on your pet’s breed, age, medical history, and behavioural traits.

They can also help you meet airline requirements for vaccinations and travel documentation. If your dog experiences anxiety, you can ask about calming medications or pheromone products that may help with nerves.

You’ll also want to research the local laws for your destination and any stops along the way, especially if you’re travelling internationally. Some destinations may have restrictions on pets in the cabin or specific entry requirements that you’ll need time to arrange, so it’s best to plan early.

One month before departure

A key part of preparation is acclimating your dog to their travel crate. Dr. Yazbeck recommends introducing the crate in a low-pressure way several weeks ahead of travel. “Leave it open in a quiet space with soft bedding and let your dog explore it voluntarily.” You can also feed your dog in their crate and offer treats and toys inside.

Dr. Yazbeck also recommends practising short car trips with the dog inside their crate. This mimics the experience of travel, including the motion and sounds they’ll encounter on a flight.

Finally, consider desensitising your dogs to noises they might find scary during travel. You can gradually acclimate your pup to frightening sounds by playing recordings of plane takeoffs and noisy crowds.

The day of travel

On the day of your flight, ramp up your dog’s exercise with an extra-long walk and additional play sessions to tire them out. This should make them more relaxed during the journey.

Offer a light, easily digestible meal several hours before your flight. Watch your dog’s water intake, too. You want them to be hydrated, but avoid giving them too much water to prevent accidents in the crate.

Before boarding, take your dog for one last potty break. It’s a good idea to scout out dog-relief areas in advance to make the process easier.