Flying With a Dog: The Practical Guide

Taking your dog on a flight can be a great experience — or a logistical nightmare if you haven't done your homework. Airlines vary wildly in what they allow, documentation requirements differ by destination country, and the wrong crate size can get you turned away at check-in. Here's what you actually need to know.

Cabin, Checked Baggage, or Cargo?

• In-cabin: Small dogs (combined weight of dog + carrier typically under 8–10 kg, depending on airline). The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Most comfortable option for small breeds.
• Checked baggage: Some airlines allow dogs in the pressurised, temperature-controlled hold on the same flight. Cheaper than full cargo.
• Cargo: Larger dogs, usually booked as a separate freight shipment. Can travel on the same flight or a different one.

Documentation: EU Travel

Within the EU, you need an EU pet passport containing:

• Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
• Valid rabies vaccination
• Vet's signature and stamp

Documentation: International Travel

Rules vary enormously by destination. The US, UK, and Australia have their own import requirements — often including:

• Official veterinary health certificate endorsed by your country's national authority (USDA APHIS in the US, APHA in the UK)
• Timing is critical — certificates typically valid for only 10–14 days
• Some countries require a rabies antibody titre test and a waiting period of months
• Anti-parasite treatments within specific timeframes

Which Airlines Allow Dogs?

• Lufthansa: in-cabin up to 8 kg, cargo for larger dogs, some routes restricted
• British Airways: cargo only (no in-cabin pets)
• United / Delta / American: in-cabin up to ~10 lbs under-seat, limited spots per flight — book early
• Ryanair / EasyJet: no pets in cabin (assistance animals only)

Preparing Your Dog for the Flight

• Crate train weeks in advance — start with the crate open as a sleeping spot, progress to closed periods
• No large meal 3–4 hours before departure (but always offer water)
• Final long walk just before check-in
• Familiar item in the crate — your worn T-shirt is one of the best calming tools
• Sedatives: discuss with your vet only — tranquillisers can impair balance and thermoregulation at altitude, making them riskier than they sound

At the Airport

Always check in at the counter (not online-only). At security: remove your dog from the carrier and carry them through the metal detector while the carrier goes through the X-ray. Arrive early — with a dog, things take longer.

Keep all your dog's documents in Purzi: chip number, vaccination dates, expiry dates on health certificates. Next time you fly, everything is already there, searchable in seconds.