Can Shih Tzu Fly on Planes and What to Expect

Traveling with your Shih Tzu can be a breeze, but it's essential to know the rules and what to expect.

In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows dogs, including Shih Tzus, to fly in the cabin or as checked baggage.

Most airlines consider Shih Tzus to be small dogs and permit them in the cabin, as long as they fit in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you.

To ensure a smooth flight, it's crucial to check with your airline for their specific pet policies and requirements.

British Airways has specific rules for traveling with pets, and it's essential to know them before booking a flight. They only allow recognized service dogs in the cabin, while all other pets must travel as cargo.

If you're planning to travel with your Shih Tzu, it's good to know that British Airways has a list of approved breeds, and Shih Tzu is one of them. However, they also have a list of breeds that are not allowed, including Bulldog, Pug, and Pekingese.

If you're planning to travel with your Shih Tzu, here are some approved breeds you can consider: Cats: Exotic Longhair or Shorthair, Himalayan, PersianDogs: Bull Mastiff, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffon, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Chow Chow, Tibetan Spaniel, Shar Pei, English Toy Spaniel, King Charles Spaniel, Cavalier Spaniel, Japanese Spaniel, Japanese Chin

American Airlines has a specific policy when it comes to traveling with pets. They welcome flat-faced dogs and cats in the cabin, as long as they meet the requirements.

If you're planning to travel with a pet, it's essential to know that American Airlines doesn't allow brachycephalic or snub-nosed breeds to travel as checked pets or cargo.

Some breeds that American Airlines considers to be brachycephalic include cats like Burmese, Persian, Himalayan, and Exotic Shorthair. These breeds can still travel in the cabin, but not as checked pets.

Dogs in the following breeds are also considered brachycephalic: Affenpinscher, American Staffordshire Terrier, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffon, Bulldog, Cane Corso, Chow Chow, Dogue De Bordeaux, English Toy Spaniel, Japanese Chin, Lhasa Apso, Mastiff, Pekingese, Pit Bull, Presa Canario, Pug, Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Here's a list of some of the brachycephalic breeds mentioned:

Remember to check with American Airlines directly for the most up-to-date information on traveling with pets.

British Airways has a clear policy when it comes to service animals and pets in the cabin. They only accept recognized service dogs.

If you're planning to travel with a pet, you'll need to check if it's a recognized breed. British Airways won't allow Bulldogs, Pugs, or Pekingese to travel with them.

The airline does allow certain breeds to travel with restrictions, including cats and dogs. Here are some of the breeds that are accepted:

Before your Shih Tzu's flight, make sure to give him food and water within four hours of check-in. You can give him water right up to the time of travel, but feed him four hours beforehand to avoid discomfort during the flight.

It's a good idea to exercise your pet before leaving for the airport, so take a walk with your Shih Tzu before you check in and after you arrive at your destination.

Arrive at the airport early, but not too early – most airlines recommend arriving two hours before your flight when traveling with your pet. Passengers traveling with pets must check in at the ticket counter, not at curbside or self-service.

To prepare your Shih Tzu for the flight, start getting him ready weeks in advance by acquainting him with traveling in a crate or pet carrier.

If your Shih Tzu is small enough, he may be allowed to fly in the cabin with you, but he'll need to remain in his crate. The crate must fit under the seat in front of you, and the airline may have specific size requirements – for example, United's maximum crate size is 18 inches X 11 inches X 11 inches.

To book your Shih Tzu's spot in the cabin, communicate with your airline before your flight and be prepared for any additional fees or requirements.

If your Shih Tzu can't travel in the cabin, make sure he's prepared for a period of separation, as the cargo area can be stressful for some dogs.

To ensure your Shih Tzu's health and safety during air travel, it's essential to meet the USDA's requirements. Your pet must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned before traveling.

Only pets in good health are permitted to fly, so it's crucial to have your Shih Tzu checked by a veterinarian before the trip. Airlines won't transport animals that are violent, ill, or in physical distress.

A valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 30 days of travel is required for all pets crossing state borders, except guide dogs. This certificate ensures your Shih Tzu is healthy enough for travel.

If you're traveling via cargo or are a breeder, dealer, or research facility transporting a dog, the health certificate must be issued no more than 10 days before departure.

On a similar theme: Shih Tzu Health

If your Shih Tzu can't travel in the cabin, they'll have to go in the cargo hold, which can be a stressful environment if they're not comfortable with separation.

Many airlines offer kenneling services that allow your pet to travel as cargo in a secure and temperature-controlled environment during transit.

You'll need to get all the necessary paperwork and requirements from your airline and vet before booking your flight to ensure your pet's safety and security.

Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have short muzzles and squished faces, making them more prone to respiratory issues.

Flying can be particularly challenging for them due to changes in air quality and temperature control on airplanes.

You should consult with your vet before flying to discuss precautions and make the trip easier on your dog.

It's recommended to visit your vet 10 days before flying to get the necessary paperwork and advice.

Smaller dogs like Shih Tzus can fly in the cabin with you, but they must remain in their crate, which must fit under the seat in front of you.

The crate size allowed varies by airline, so be sure to check with your airline before booking.

For example, United's maximum crate size allowed in the cabin is 18 inches X 11 inches X 11 inches.

Book your dog's spot in advance and communicate with your airline about flying with your dog.

For your interest: Information about Shih Tzu Dog

The cargo area can be stressful for dogs who aren't comfortable with separation, so it's best to prepare your dog for the flight in advance.

Start getting your dog used to traveling in a crate or pet carrier weeks before the flight.

Acquainting your dog with the crate will help reduce stress and make the flight easier for both of you.