Air Travel for Your Puppy: Is It OK?

There are many things to consider when you’re getting a puppy. Will you be getting one from the shelter? A rescue organization? A breeder? If it’s the latter, you’ll want to make sure that the breeder is ethical and reputable. You also want to consider how you’ll be getting them home. For example, shipping a puppy may be necessary, depending on their location. Is it bad to ship a puppy? How much does it cost to ship a puppy on a plane?

The short answer is yes, puppies can fly on planes if they’re at least 8 weeks old and meet airline requirements. Flying with a puppy costs $70-$175 in the cabin or $500-$1,000 in cargo. However, ground transport is often safer and less stressful for puppies, especially brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs and pugs. Let’s go through all the specifics below!

Can You Fly With a Puppy? Current Airline Rules

The process has become a little more difficult due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For one thing, only two airlines in the United States are currently accepting pets in the cargo area; other companies will only allow them in the cabin. In other words, you’ll have to fly to the breeder, pick up the puppy, and fly back.

Keep in mind, however, that there are restrictions for dogs who’ll be flying in the cabin. As a general rule, they must be able to fit in a carrier or kennel that can be placed safely under the seat in front of you; they must not disturb other passengers in any way.

How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Puppy?

Shipping a puppy by air can cost anywhere from $70 to $1,000. At the end of the day, it depends on various factors such as the airline, size of your dog, and distance traveled. For example, it usually costs between $70 to $175 to fly a dog in the cabin (under the seat). Larger dogs, on the other hand, must be flown as air cargo and that can cost between $500 and $1,000. Some companies may also charge a “special handling fee” due to the pandemic.

In addition to their travel costs, you’ll also have to provide your pup with an airline-approved carrier, and that can range anywhere from $60 to $200, depending on the size. And don’t forget, you’ll also need to visit the veterinarian for a health certificate before traveling and that can cost another $100.

At What Age Can You Ship a Puppy? 

Generally speaking, puppies must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before domestic travel. If they’re entering the United States from an international flight, they must be at least 16 weeks old and vaccinated against rabies. Keep in mind, however, that different airlines have different restrictions. For example, some may require your pup to be a little older (10-16 weeks) before flying across the U.S.

Are There Any Breed Restrictions?

Brachycephalic breeds of dogs (e.g. bulldogs, pugs) may not be allowed to fly unless they’re small enough to fit in a carrier that can fit underneath the seat in front of you. This is due to the fact that they’re more vulnerable to changes in temperature, and their shortened noses make them prone to respiratory problems. Not only that, but some airlines have also banned ‘bully breeds’ such as boxers, pit bulls, and mastiffs.

Flying With a Puppy for the First Time: What to Expect

Flying with a puppy for the first time can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation it can be a smooth experience for both of you. Most airlines allow small puppies to fly in the cabin as long as they fit inside an airline-approved carrier placed under the seat. Before your trip, check your airline’s pet policies, book your puppy’s spot in advance, and schedule a quick vet visit to ensure your puppy is healthy and has any required documentation. Getting your puppy comfortable with their carrier a few weeks before the flight can also help reduce anxiety during travel.

On the day of the flight, arrive early to allow extra time for check-in and security procedures. Exercise your puppy beforehand so they’re more relaxed, and avoid feeding a large meal right before the flight to prevent motion sickness. Bring essentials like a small blanket, puppy pads, and water for the journey. While some puppies may feel nervous in a busy airport environment, calm reassurance and a familiar scent in the carrier can help keep them comfortable throughout the trip.

How to Ship a Puppy via Plane: An Overview

Step 1: Call the airline and make a reservation for your pup—it doesn’t matter whether he’ll be traveling with you or alone. Airlines only accept a certain amount of pets on each flight so it’s important that you do this well ahead of time. You’ll also have to pay to hold their spot.

Step 2: Make sure that their pet kennel meets the airline’s requirements. As a general rule, it must be rigid and leak-proof. Size-wise, it should be large enough so that your pup can stand and turn around comfortably.

There should also be food and water bowls inside, as well as your contact information (you’ll also have to provide a bag of food if they’re traveling in the cargo area).

Step 3: Visit the veterinarian and get a health certificate for your dog; it should be issued no more than 10 days before their flight. Certain airlines may not require one if they’re traveling with you in the cabin, but some destinations might. If you’re not sure, call and ask.

Step 4: Feed your dog no more than 3-4 hours before arriving at the airport. It’s also recommended that you take him for a walk before placing him in the kennel at check-in (be sure to arrive at least two hours early).

If he’s flying as air cargo, take him to the air freight office. If he’s riding with you in the cabin, take him to the bag counter.

Other Things to Consider When Shipping a Puppy

Some destinations may require that you quarantine your pup (sometimes in a vet or government-based facility) before traveling. This is to ensure that they won’t spread infectious diseases such as rabies to local pets and native wildlife. For example, you may need to quarantine your dog for at least 10 days if they’re coming from overseas.

Another thing to consider is temperature—this is especially important if your pup is flying in the cargo area (it isn’t usually temperature-controlled). Generally speaking, pets can only travel on a plane if the actual or forecasted air temperature is between 45F and 85F.

Is Flying Safe for Puppies? Understanding the Risks

Flying is generally safe for healthy puppies, but there are a few important risks pet owners should understand before booking a flight. Puppies can experience stress from unfamiliar environments, loud airport noise, and long periods inside a carrier. Changes in cabin pressure, temperature shifts, and travel fatigue may also affect very young or sensitive puppies.

Most airlines require puppies to be at least 8 weeks old, though many veterinarians recommend waiting until 10–12 weeks when possible. Smaller puppies that can fly in the cabin with their owner typically experience less stress than pets traveling in cargo. However, puppies with breathing issues, very small breeds, or brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds may face higher risks during air travel.

To keep your puppy safe:

• Schedule a pre-flight vet check
• Use an airline-approved carrier
• Choose nonstop flights when possible
• Ensure your puppy stays hydrated and comfortable

With proper planning and veterinary guidance, most puppies can travel safely by air.

How Can CitizenShipper Help?

Depending on the situation, shipping a puppy by air may not be the best option. In cases like that, it may be better to pick them up by car instead. Don’t have time to drive across the country? CitizenShipper connects you with drivers who specialize in puppy transport, avoiding cargo hold risks. Basically, how it works is that they’ll pick up the puppy for you and drive them to your home.

If anything, it’ll be much less traumatic for them; this is especially true for larger pups, which would otherwise be placed in the plane’s cargo hold.

Should I Ship a Puppy by Air?

There are many things to keep in mind when you’re shipping a puppy by plane. Given all that’s involved, especially with the ongoing pandemic, you must do your research beforehand. Did you recently buy a pup? Looking for a pet transporter? We’ve got you covered. Simply fill in this form to get started!

Frequently Asked Questions