Which Dog Breeds Are Allowed on Airlines — and Which Are Banned?

Are you thinking of taking your beloved pet with you on your next trip? Flying with a pet can be a stressful and challenging experience, with many airlines having strict regulations on the types of pets they will allow onboard. To make sure your furry friend is allowed on the plane, it is important to research which dog breeds are allowed and understands the associated airline regulations.

In this article, we’ll outline the breeds that, unfortunately, cannot go on aircraft. We will also go over some tips you should follow so that your beloved pet has a stress-free flight (whether it is in the main cabin or the cargo hold).

Size, Weight, and Health Requirements for Flying With a Dog

Before booking a flight for your pet, there are several factors to consider. Many airlines have size and weight restrictions, so it’s important to check with the airline first to make sure your pet is within the size and weight limits. Additionally, some airlines may require additional paperwork or health certificates from a vet in order to fly, so make sure you’re prepared with the necessary documents.

Dog Breeds Banned From Airlines

Unfortunately, not all breeds of dogs are allowed on airlines. Most airlines will not accept large and giant breeds such as:

• Akita
• Alaskan Malamute
• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Bullmastiff
• Doberman Pinscher
• German Shepherd
• Great Dane
• Irish Wolfhound
• Mastiff
• Newfoundland
• Rottweiler
• Saint Bernard
• Siberian Husky
• Weimaraner

When it comes to snub-nosed breeds, you may ask why they are banned. The reason is health-related. Snub-nosed breeds (both dogs and cats) pose health risks that can be harmful or even lead to death if they are in aircraft.

Dog Breeds Allowed in the Cabin

Many small dog breeds can travel in the cabin on commercial flights as long as they meet airline size and weight requirements. In most cases, airlines require the dog and carrier combined to weigh under approximately 20 pounds. The carrier must fit underneath the seat in front of you, with common maximum dimensions around 18″ x 11″ x 11″ depending on the airline and aircraft type.

Some of the most common dog breeds that typically qualify for in-cabin travel include:

• Chihuahua
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Pomeranian
• Maltese
• Toy Poodle
• Shih Tzu
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Miniature Dachshund
• Papillon
• Havanese

Even if your dog meets the weight requirement, airlines generally require pets to remain fully inside the carrier throughout the flight. Soft-sided carriers are usually preferred because they compress slightly to fit under the seat more easily.

Smaller companion breeds are often considered the best dog breeds for plane travel because they adapt more comfortably to cabin environments and avoid the risks associated with cargo transport. However, every airline has slightly different pet policies, breed restrictions, and carrier size limits, so it’s important to verify requirements before booking your flight.

Why Are Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breeds Banned?

Many airlines restrict or completely ban brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs from cargo travel because these breeds face significantly higher respiratory risks during air transport.

Common brachycephalic breeds include:

• English Bulldog
• French Bulldog
• Pug
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer
• Pekingese
• Shih Tzu
• Lhasa Apso
• Japanese Chin
• Brussels Griffon

These breeds have shortened nasal passages and compressed airways that make breathing more difficult under stress. Air travel can worsen these issues because of temperature fluctuations, altitude pressure changes, anxiety, and prolonged confinement.

Medical risks may include:

• Soft palate obstruction
• Difficulty regulating body temperature
• Reduced oxygen intake
• Heat stress
• Respiratory distress during cargo transport

Because of these risks, many pet owners choose professional ground transportation instead of airline cargo for snub-nosed breeds.

Dogs That Fit Under an Airplane Seat

For in-cabin airline travel, dogs must fit comfortably inside a carrier that slides completely underneath the seat in front of the passenger. Most major airlines allow carriers approximately 18″ long x 11″ wide x 11″ high, although dimensions vary slightly by aircraft.

Dogs commonly small enough to fit under an airplane seat include:

• Chihuahua
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Maltese
• Pomeranian
• Papillon
• Toy Poodle
• Havanese

Most airlines also enforce combined pet-and-carrier weight limits of roughly 15–20 pounds. The dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally inside the carrier. Soft-sided carriers are typically recommended because they fit more easily beneath seats while still providing adequate ventilation and comfort for smaller pets.

Can Dobermans Fly on Planes?

Doberman Pinscher dogs are generally not allowed in airplane cabins because of their size, and many airlines restrict or refuse large breeds in cargo programs as well. Most adult Dobermans exceed airline cabin weight limits by a substantial margin and require oversized crates for cargo travel.

Some airlines also place restrictions on powerful working breeds due to crate size limitations, temperature embargoes, and handling concerns. Even when permitted, cargo travel for large breeds can become expensive and stressful, especially on long-distance routes.

Because of these limitations, many Doberman owners choose professional ground transportation instead. Ground transport avoids cargo hold stress, allows regular exercise and bathroom breaks, and offers direct supervision throughout the trip.

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Can Rottweilers Fly on Planes?

Rottweiler dogs face similar airline limitations due to their large size and breed-specific restrictions. Most airlines do not allow Rottweilers in the cabin because they exceed in-cabin weight and carrier size requirements.

Cargo transport may be possible on certain routes, but airline availability is limited. Some carriers impose additional restrictions on large guardian breeds, particularly during periods of extreme heat or cold.

Large crates, cargo fees, and breed-specific policies can make airline shipping expensive and difficult for Rottweiler owners. Professional ground transport is often the more practical option because dogs travel in climate-controlled vehicles with direct supervision and scheduled rest breaks.

Can Pit Bulls Fly on Planes?

Many airlines impose restrictions on “Pit Bull type” dogs, although policies vary significantly between carriers. Breeds commonly affected may include American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and related mixes.

Some airlines prohibit these breeds entirely in cargo programs, while others restrict them based on destination country rules or local breed-specific legislation. International travel can become especially complicated because certain countries and cities ban or regulate Pit Bull ownership altogether.

Most Pit Bulls are also too large for cabin travel, meaning owners must rely on cargo or ground transportation options. Because airline policies frequently change, many owners choose ground transport to avoid denied boarding, breed restrictions, or cargo stress.

CitizenShipper’s marketplace allows owners to compare quotes from independent ground transporters who often accommodate large breeds without airline-related limitations.

Can German Shepherds Fly on Planes?

German Shepherd dogs can sometimes travel by cargo on certain airlines, but they are generally too large for in-cabin travel. Cargo eligibility depends on the dog’s size, crate dimensions, route, weather conditions, and airline-specific breed policies.

Because German Shepherds are large working dogs, they typically require oversized airline kennels that can significantly increase shipping costs. Seasonal heat embargoes may also prevent travel during warmer months.

Many owners prefer ground transportation because it offers more flexibility, door-to-door service, and reduced stress compared to cargo flights. Ground transport also avoids extended airport handling and crate confinement.

Can Great Danes Fly on Planes?

Great Dane dogs are among the most difficult breeds to transport by air because of their enormous size. Most adult Great Danes exceed standard cargo crate limits and may not fit safely within airline cargo requirements.

Even when technically permitted, transporting a Great Dane by plane can be extremely expensive due to oversized crate fees, limited route availability, and seasonal restrictions. Some airlines may refuse giant breeds altogether because of handling and safety concerns.

Ground transportation is usually the preferred option for Great Danes because it provides more room, frequent stops, climate control, and direct supervision throughout the trip. Long-distance car transport is often far less stressful for giant breeds than airline cargo programs.

Airline Pet Travel Regulations

Each airline has its own set of pet travel regulations, so make sure to check with your carrier before booking your flight. Generally, there are restrictions on the size and weight of the pet, as well as the type of carrier that’s allowed. Additionally, some airlines may not allow pets to fly in the cabin or may have restrictions on the number of animals allowed on the plane. It’s important to research the airline’s pet policy before booking your flight.

Airlines have carrier requirements for those dogs going in the cargo hold (for international flights or also domestic flights in three airlines — American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. Here are some of the crate requirements. 

• Your pet should be able to stand up, turn around in the carrier and ensure they do not touch the top.
• The carrier should have secure locking with pins that extend past the extrusions above and below the door. The pins should be hardware instead of plastic fasteners.
• The carrier should be ventilated on all sides.
• The carrier should have your pet’s name and your contact information.
• Water and food bowls need to be attached to the door and accessible from outside the carrier.

How to Prepare Your Dog for a Flight

Here are a few tips to make traveling with your pet a smooth and stress-free experience: 

• Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and has a health certificate from a vet.
  • Here are the required vaccines for your dog: Canine parvovirus, Distemper, Canine Hepatitis, Rabies
  • Here are the recommended vaccinations for your dog: Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, Influenza, Leptospira bacteria
• Get your pet accustomed to its carrier before the flight.
• Make sure to bring enough food, water, and treats for your pet.
• Book direct flights whenever possible to minimize the stress on your pet.
• Arrive early to the airport to give yourself plenty of time to check-in.
• Have your pet’s identification and vaccination records handy.
• Don’t give your pet any sedatives because they can have adverse effects. Airlines won’t accept pets if they have been given sedatives.

Why Ground Transport Is Safer for Restricted Breeds

When you have these banned breeds, it’s best to take ground transportation. Though, it’s safe to make the bold statement that ground transportation is more reliable than air travel. There are several reasons why. 

1. On most airlines, only cats and dogs are allowed.
2. Flying can stress your pet, especially if they are in the cargo hold.
3. With the recent flight cancellations over the holidays, flying can be unreliable because of weather and other factors.
4. Ground travel logistics are easier and can offer door-to-door delivery, which is impossible with air travel. 

If you want an affordable alternative to traditional transport companies, look no further than a two-way marketplace like CitizenShipper.

You can find an independent pet transporter in a matter of minutes. You can save money on transportation costs because drivers bid for your business, most often saving up to 60%-70% compared to a traditional pet transportation company. Your cherished pet will be in good hands with qualified drivers on CitizenShipper’s network. They will treat your pet as if they were their own.

2024 CDC Rules for Dogs Entering the U.S.

The CDC has recently passed new laws concerning flying with pets. These new rules are intended to limit the exposure of rabies in the United States. Due to these new rules, American Airlines has decided to embargo pets from flying into the United States from countries or territories considered “high risk” for rabies or if the pet has been in a high-risk location within the past six months.

Next Steps: Getting Your Dog Where They Need to Go

Traveling with a pet can be a stressful experience, but with proper planning, it can be a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. Before booking a flight, it is important to research the airline’s pet policy and make sure your pet is allowed onboard. Additionally, make sure to bring along the necessary paperwork and supplies for your pet. With these tips, you and your pet can have a safe and comfortable flight.

Frequently Asked Questions