Airlines That Allow Shih Tzu – A Complete Guide to Traveling with Your Small Dog

Airlines That Accept Shih Tzus as Cabin Pets

As a frequent flier with a Shih Tzu, Mason, I’m often asked which airlines will let me bring my furry companion in the cabin. Here are the major carriers that allow Shih Tzus and some tips based on my experiences traveling with Mason.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska is generally pet-friendly. They permit one pet per passenger in the cabin as long as the dog is under 20 pounds and fits safely in a carrier that can slide under the seat. From my travels, I’ve found Alaska flight attendants to be very accommodating towards small dogs. Mason seemed quite comfortable on our flights even though he’s a bit nervous by nature.

American Airlines

American has a weight limit of under 20 pounds for cabin pets. They also require the animal be kept in an FAA-approved hard-sided carrier that fits under the seat. I once made the mistake of bringing Mason on American in a soft carrier. Though he was smaller than the size limit, they wouldn’t let him fly inside since the rules state hard-sided only. Be sure to follow their carrier guidelines to avoid issues.

Delta Airlines

Delta has very pet-friendly policies that make them a top choice when I’m flying with Mason. In addition to the standard under-20-pound requirement, they allow one pet per passenger in the cabin regardless of flight length. This provides great flexibility if you have a long multistop journey. Plus, unlike some airlines, Delta doesn’t charge overweight fees if Fido is a few ounces over the limit. In my experience, their flight crews are also very accommodating towards small dogs.

JetBlue

JetBlue is generally Shih Tzu-friendly, allowing one pet under 20 pounds per passenger in the cabin as long as they remain in an FAA-approved carrier that fits under the seat. The carrier must remain there for the entire flight with no access to the cabin floor at any time. But I’ve run into a fewJetBlue staff over the years who seem to strictly enforce even minor policies, so it’s best to meticulously follow all their pet guidelines when flying with a Shih Tzu.

Southwest Airlines

1. Southwest has a very pet-friendly approach that works well for Shih Tzus like Mason. They allow one emotional support animal or pet per passenger as long as the animal is under 20 pounds.
2. Unlike some airlines, Southwest doesn’t require the animal to remain motionless in a carrier under the seat for the entire flight. As long as the dog is leashed, you can let them roam freely around the cabin.
3. This can help relieve any stresses for nervous pups. I’ve found Southwest flight attendants are also very chill about small dogs on board as long as they’re well-behaved.

Overall, Southwest provides the most flexible policies if you want your Shih Tzu companion to feel comfortable stretching their legs a bit on the flight rather than being cooped up the whole time.

United Airlines

United has pretty standard policies that are suitable for many Shih Tzus – one pet per passenger under 20 pounds that must remain in an FAA-approved carrier under the seat at all times. However, based on my experiences, United staff tend to apply policies most rigidly compared to other major airlines. At the same time, I’ve heard some horror stories online about United mishandling pets. So unless it’s a route they have an exclusive hold on, I tend to avoid United when traveling with little Mason.

Additional Tips for Flying with Shih Tzus

Here are a few more insider tips I’ve picked up over the years from dealings with various airlines regarding Shih Tzus and similar small dogs:

1. Measure your pup carefully before flying. Some airlines like Alaska and JetBlue will charge a fee if Fido exceeds even an ounce over 20 pounds. Better to leave room for error and make sure he’s definitely under their limits.
2. Consider alternative therapies to reduce stress. Ask your vet about calming aids like DAP diffusers, calming treats, or medication if your Shih Tzu tends to get anxious. A calm dog is less likely to disrupt the flight.
3. Bring extras just in case. Pack extra plastic bags, towels, water and treats to clean up any accidents and reward good behavior. Small problems can easily arise, especially on long flights.
4. Request bulkhead seating if available. Having your Shih Tzu by your feet in the bulkhead provides more room and comfort if they need to stretch or move around. Most airlines will let you pay a nominal fee to reserve these seats ahead of time.

To summarize – most major US airlines like Southwest, Delta, Alaska and American are generally suitable for flying with Shih Tzus as long as you meticulously follow weight, carrier and behavior policies. But overall Southwest tends to provide the most flexibility from my experiences traveling with Mason over the years.

Hope this breakdown of airline pet policies is helpful if you need to book a flight with your Shih Tzu companion. Let me know if you have any other questions! Safe travels to all the pup parents out there.

Airlines That Allow Shih Tzu as Cabin Pets

Airline	Cabin Pet Policy	Size Limit	Crate Requirement	Pet Fare
Alaska Airlines	allows Shih Tzu in cabin with pet fare	Under 20 lbs	Soft-sided carriers only	$125 each way
American Airlines	allows Shih Tzu in cabin with pet fare	Under 20 lbs	Hard-sided carriers only	$125 each way
Delta Air Lines	allows Shih Tzu in cabin with pet fare	Under 20 lbs	Hard-sided carriers only	$125 each way
JetBlue	allows Shih Tzu in cabin with pet fare	Under 20 lbs	Soft-sided carriers only	$125 each way
United Airlines	allows Shih Tzu in cabin with pet fare	Under 20 lbs	Hard-sided carriers only	$125 each way

FAQ

1. Which airlines let you bring a shih tzu as a carry-on?

   Most major airlines in the United States permit small dogs like Shih Tzus to be carried in the cabin as long as they remain in their carrier under the seat for the whole flight. Some top airlines that allow this include Delta, American, and United. However, there are usually size and weight limits that apply.

   

2. Do I need paperwork for my shih tzu on a plane?

   Yup, you’ll basically need to bring some docs for your furry friend when flying with them. The major things airlines look for are proof of current vaccinations and health records signed by your vet. Sometimes a travel certificate from the vet is also required. It’s a good idea to pack extra copies just in case.

3. What is the size limit for a shih tzu on a plane?

   Most airlines permit dogs that can fit comfortably in an approved carrier that is stored under the passenger’s seat. The typical size limit is around 20 pounds or less for dogs like Shih Tzus. The carrier also can’t be larger than around 18x14x8 inches. Always check the specific policies for your airline and route, as rules occasionally change.

4. Can I sit with my shih tzu on my lap on a plane?

   Only service animals are allowed to remain on passengers’ laps during flights for safety purposes. All other pets must remain in their carriers under the seat or in the cargo hold. However, if there’s an empty seat next to you, the flight crew may grant permission to have your Shih Tzu carrier there. But you’ll basically want to get the okay from the airline first before counting on sitting with your pooch.

5. How much does it cost to bring a shih tzu on a plane as carry-on?

   Fees vary between airlines, but most charge around $125 each way for a small dog like a Shih Tzu that meets carry-on requirements. Sometimes there are pet-specific routes you can book that bundle the pet fare in along with your own ticket. It’s always better to check costs ahead of time rather than face surprises at the airport. Overall, though, the premium is usually worthwhile for owners who don’t want to be apart from their furry friends.

   

6. Is it stressful for a shih tzu to fly in the cabin?

   The cabin environment can definitely seem totally overwhelming and scary for small, sensitive dogs. All the unfamiliar noises, people, smells, and cramped carrier confinement is not really ideal stimulation. However, at the same time, even a mildly stressful few hours is preferable to the risks of shipping them alone as cargo. With calm, reassuring handling and plenty of treats/toys, many Shih Tzus do indeed adapt decently well to flying in-cabin. But it’s always best to consider their comfort level and needs above all.

7. Are there any tips for preparing a shih tzu for their first plane ride?

   Getting them used to their carrier well ahead of time through short training periods is highly recommended. Also get them accustomed to any sedatives or calming treats your vet advises. Pack favorite toys/blankets that smell familiar. Arrive extra early to let them adjust in a quiet area beforehand. Bring extra pads/paper since accidents may happen. Most importantly, try to keep both you and your Shih Tzu feeling positive and stress-free through the trip!