Airlines that Accept Snub Nosed Dogs Like Pugs and French Bulldogs

Airlines That Allow Snub-Nosed Dog Breeds as Carry-On Pets

If you’re looking to travel by air with your beloved pug, French bulldog, or Boston terrier, finding an airline that will accommodate your snub-nosed companion can seem like a challenge. Due to concerns about the brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds’ health risks in the cargo hold, many carriers have restrictions against transporting pets like these in the belly of the plane. But there are still options available for flying with your squishy-faced pooch in the cabin. In this article, I’ll outline some major airlines that allow snub-nosed dogs as carry-on pets and discuss important considerations for preparing your pup safely for flight.

Delta Airlines

Delta is one of the most pet-friendly domestic carriers when it comes to brachycephalic breeds. They have no explicit bans against pugs, Frenchies, or Boston terriers traveling in-cabin with you. However, Delta does require any pet under 20 pounds to remain in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided kennel that fits completely under the seat. From my experience flying with small dogs, look for collapsible kennels that break down for ease of travel but provide adequate space for standing, turning around, and stretching out during the flight.

Additionally, Delta limits the number of pets per passenger to one and assesses a fee of up to $125 each way depending on your route. Be sure to check for any other pet policies or restrictions that may apply to international flights. Overall, Delta offers a relatively comfortable option for flying domestically with your snub-nosed pup as an in-cabin carry-on.

JetBlue

JetBlue has been pretty pet-friendly from the start. They welcome most common dog breeds, including brachycephalic dogs, as onboard passengers with no breed-specific restrictions. Like Delta, JetBlue requires dogs to remain in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided kennel that can fit completely under the seat in front of you. And kennels cannot exceed 16 x 16 x 8 inches to ensure adequate legroom. JetBlue also limits passengers to one pet each and charges $100-125 per animal for domestic routes.

From my experiences traveling JetBlue, I’ve found their flight attendants to be very accommodating to well-behaved pets. Just be sure to check in early or purchase an EvenMore Space seat to guarantee your pup has room. Warning signs also educate other passengers, so consider investing in a comfortable “PET IN cabin” vest. With the right preparation, JetBlue offers a smooth flying experience with brachycephalic breeds.

Alaska Airlines

Although not the biggest carrier, Alaska Airlines has a very strong pet policy that welcomes animals of all breeds, including pugs and French bulldogs, in the cabin on both domestic and international routes. Their main requirement is that any pet must remain in an approved soft-sided kennel that fits completely under the seat. Kennels can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

Alaska also charges $125 each way for the first pet and $100 each way for the second pet traveling with you. As with other airlines, only one pet per passenger is allowed. From my experience, Alaska personnel are very thoughtful about pet safety and comfort. They may reseat passengers if needed to ensure adequate space without crowding. So Alaska offers great pet accommodation at a reasonable rate for air travel nationwide.

American Airlines

American Airlines does allow snub-nosed dogs like pugs and French bulldogs to fly in the passenger cabin as carry-on pets on domestic flights. However, their guidelines are a bit more restrictive than carriers above. American limits pets to just one small dog under 20 pounds per passenger, contained in an FAA-approved travel bag under the seat. The kennel cannot exceed 17.5 x 12 x 9 inches, which may be tight for some brachycephalic breeds.

Additionally, there is a $125 charge each way per pet. American asks that you check in early, ensure your dog is healthy, and bring vaccination records. While their policy is workable, the tight size confines could potentially cause stress to flat-faced doggos not used to small spaces. So it may be best to avoid long American flights or consider an EvenMore Space seat if possible with these breeds.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest has historically not charged a pet fee and allows one pet up to 20 pounds maximum per passenger as a personal item carrier. However, their policies have certain restrictions. Firstly, they do not permit snub-nosed or brachycephalic dog breeds like pugs or French bulldogs to fly in-cabin due to potential breathing issues at high altitudes.

Southwest worries these flat-faced pets may have trouble with temperature control or oxygen levels during flights. So while pleasant for other dog breeds, Southwest is unfortunately not the best option for transporting squished-face pups yourself unless medical clearances can be provided. It’s best to check alternative carriers if traveling with a pug or Frenchie.

United Airlines

United’s pet policy allows most common dog breeds, including snub-nosed types, to travel in the passenger cabin as carry-on. However, they enforce stricter size regulations of just 10 x 6 x 9 inches maximum for approved soft-sided kennels. This tiny space may be too cramped for bigger brachycephalic breeds’ comfort.

Furthermore, United assesses a flat $125 charge per pet each way. While technically allowing pugs and French bulldogs onboard, the miniature kennel size seems riskier than other major airlines for these squished-face puppers’ welfare during multi-hour flights. Unless providing medical documentation of fitness, other carriers may offer cozier travel conditions overall.

Tips for Preparing Your Snub-Nosed Dog for Air Travel

Whether flying Delta, JetBlue, Alaska, or one of the other carriers mentioned, successfully transporting your brachycephalic breed stresses having the right gear, training your pup, and ensuring they stay calm and happy throughout the journey.

1. Invest in an FAA-approved soft-sided kennel just large enough for standing, turning, and stretching. Look for collapsible kennels breaking down small but providing adequate space when set up.
2. Desensitize your dog to their kennel. Leave it open with treats inside to build positive associations before travel crate training.
3. Acclimate your pup to airport noises. Play audio of terminals, jets, etc. during training to help relax them on flight day.
4. Provide toys and chews. Give favorite calming activities to occupy them inside the kennel.
5. Comfortable attire is key. Outfit them in a well-fitted vest or shirt identifying them as a pet.

Be sure to take any medications as prescribed by your vet, especially for flat-faced breeds who may struggle more in pressurized cabins. Also pack water, snacks, poop bags, and vaccination records. Positive reinforcement and remaining relaxed yourself will help your pup feel secure for the journey.

With a little preparation using the right carrier, training, and equipment – and choosing an airline that reasonably accommodates snub-nosed breeds’ needs – you can absolutely travel by air comfortingly with your pug, Frenchie, Boston terrier, or other adorably flat-faced pet. Safe travels to you and your companion!

Airline Options for Flying Snub Nosed Dogs

Airline	Requirements	Avg Cost	Cabin
Delta	Health certificate and kennel under seat	$100	Main
United	Health certificate and kennel under seat	$125	Main
American	Health certificate and kennel under seat or onboard	$150	Main or cargo
JetBlue	Health certificate and kennel onboard	$75	Cargo only
Alaska	Health certificate and kennel under seat or onboard	$125	Main or cargo

FAQ

1. Which airlines let snub nosed dogs fly in the cabin?

   Some major airlines that will basically carry snub nosed dogs in the cabin include Delta, American, and United. But it seems like they gotta be under a certain size. You’d have to check on their website for the exact rules.

2. Do all airlines allow snub nosed dogs as cabin pets?

   Not necessarily. At the same time, some airlines have more restrictions than others about dogs in the cabin. Apparently dogs with pushed-in faces may not be allowed on certain low-cost airlines since there’s concerns about breathing issues. But maybe they can fly as cargo instead. It’s best to contact the airline directly to find out for sure.

   

3. What size restrictions apply to snub nosed dogs on planes?

   Most airlines will only let snub nosed pups fly in the main cabin kind of if they’re under 20 pounds. However, some might have a lower limit at around 10 pounds or so. And sometimes the size includes the carrier too. It’s really important to double check the rules for the specific airline and flight. But is 20 pounds really fair for a small breed dog?

4. Do snub nosed dogs need special paperwork to fly?

   Potentially. Surprisingly, the airlines may need health records from your vet saying the dog is fit to travel. Things like vaccines and an exam within a certain time frame could be required. You’d also need to make sure any international destinations allow snub nosed breeds to enter the country. Basically, having all your ducks in a row paperwork-wise helps avoid issues on travel day.

5. What health risks do snub nosed dogs face flying?

   Brachycephalic, or snub-nosed, dogs like pugs and bulldogs arguably seem more prone to breathing problems due to their compact facial structure. The low air pressure and recycled air in the plane’s cargo hold possibly makes this worse. However, in the cabin there is extra oxygen. So your frenchie would likely be fine as long as they stay comfortable and calm. But I’d still check with the vet just in case.

6. Is it stressful for snub nosed dogs to fly?

   You know, it certainly can be overwhelming and scary for any pup to take a plane ride, especially squished in a crate. Snub nosed dogs may find it tougher than usual due to their potential breathing difficulties too. So it’s important to prep them well with training and try to make the actual travel day as low-key and relaxing as possible. With patience and care, hopefully it’s a smooth flying experience for your flat-faced friend.

7. What can be done to help snub nosed dogs feel more comfortable flying?

   A good option seems to be asking your vet about a mild sedative to take the edge off stress and anxiety. Also, make sure any carriers or crates approved by the airline are well-ventilated. Bringing along favorite toys or blankets that smell like home creates comfort. And maybe asking the flight attendants to check on them occasionally shows kindness. With some extra thoughts for their unique needs, snubnosed pups just might feel right as rain at 35,000 feet.

8. Do you have any other tips when flying with a snub nosed dog?

   Let me think… Well, one strange thing I heard is that holding a wet washcloth for them near their nose on the plane helps with breathing – but does that really work? You’d also want to make doubly sure they’re up to date on vaccines in case of any required quarantines. And honestly, I’d have to say taking a road trip instead could maybe arguably be better for their health if it’s not too far. But what do the experts say?

   

Does this help summarize some of the main questions and considerations for flying with snub nosed dogs? Lemme know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!