Which dogs can fly in the cabin?

Most airlines allow dogs in the cabin only if the animal + carrier together weigh no more than 8–10 kg (17–22 lbs). Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldog, Pug, Boxer, Shih Tzu) are banned by many airlines due to breathing risks under stress and pressurisation. Always check your specific airline's policy.

What documents does my dog need to fly?

Within the EU: EU pet passport with a valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days after the first jab). For destinations outside the EU: official health certificate, possibly a rabies antibody titre test (up to 3 months' lead time) and in some countries a quarantine period. Use TRACES for up-to-date import requirements.

Is it safe for a dog to fly in the hold?

Hold transport carries more risk than the cabin: less controlled temperature and a more stressful environment. If your dog is too large for the cabin, consider driving, train travel or a professional pet transport service. If flying in the hold is unavoidable, choose direct short flights, avoid extreme summer heat, and never use sedatives without vet advice.

How much does it cost to fly with a dog?

In-cabin fees: £25–70 per leg with most European airlines. Hold: £50–200 depending on weight and airline. Long-haul flights can be £200–500+. Add the cost of an approved carrier if you don't have one.

Flying With Your Dog: Airline Rules, Documents and Essential Tips

Before Booking: Check Whether Your Dog Can Fly

Not all airlines accept pets, and those that do have very different rules. These are the key factors to verify before purchasing:

Cabin weight limit: most European airlines allow up to 8 kg (animal + carrier), some up to 10 kg.
Banned breeds: brachycephalic breeds and breeds classified as dangerous under local legislation.
Number of pets per flight: many airlines limit to 2–4 animals. Book early.
Hold policy: some routes or destinations do not allow animals in the hold.

Approximate airline policies (always check the official website before flying):

British Airways: no pets in the cabin; hold transport to selected destinations.
easyJet: assistance dogs only — no pets in cabin or hold.
Ryanair: assistance dogs only.
Jet2: no pets.
Vueling: cabin up to 10 kg, ~£40/leg. Brachy breeds banned.
Lufthansa: cabin up to 8 kg, ~£65/leg. Hold also available.
KLM: cabin up to 8 kg, ~€55/leg.

Documents You Need

Flights within the EU / Schengen area

EU pet passport with microchip and valid rabies vaccination.
The vaccination must have been administered at least 21 days before the first entry if newly vaccinated.
Up-to-date worming treatment (required by some countries).

Flights outside the EU

UK: tapeworm treatment 24–120h before arrival + Animal Health Certificate (AHC).
USA: health certificate issued by an accredited vet within 10 days of travel + rabies vaccination.
Australia / New Zealand: mandatory quarantine + months of preparation. Extremely complex.
UAE / Southeast Asia: requirements vary by country — check the embassy.

Always use the TRACES platform (EU) for the most up-to-date import requirements for your destination.

Choosing the Right Carrier

Must fit under the seat in front (max ~55×35×25 cm / 22×14×10 in for most airlines).
Ventilation on 3–4 sides.
Waterproof floor (accidents happen).
The dog must be able to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
Introduce the carrier weeks before travel — it should feel like a safe den, not a trap.

Preparing Your Dog for the Flight

Carrier training: start at least 3–4 weeks before. Feed meals inside, add a favourite toy, let the dog nap in it.
No sedatives without vet guidance — sedation affects thermoregulation and can be dangerous with pressure changes.
No food 3–4 hours before the flight to reduce nausea (your vet may recommend an anti-nausea tablet).
Long walk before departure — a tired dog is a calm dog.
A piece of clothing with your scent in the carrier reduces separation stress.
No water bowl in the carrier (it spills with turbulence) — offer water just before and after the flight.

At the Airport and on Board

Allow extra time — check-in with a pet can take longer.
The carrier counts as your personal item and goes under the seat in front, not in the overhead locker.
Keep the carrier closed at all times on board.
Talk quietly to your dog — your calm is contagious.

Keep all your dog's documents saved in Purzi — passport, vaccinations, health certificates. If you run into a problem at the airport or at your destination, everything will be on your phone.