Flying with Bulldogs: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning a trip with your bulldog, you may be wondering can bulldogs fly on planes? The short answer is yes – bulldogs are allowed to travel on commercial flights as long as a few precautions are followed. In this article, I’ll address all the important considerations for flying with a bulldog and help ensure a safe and stress-free journey for you and your pup.
Are Bulldogs Okay to Fly?
- From a health perspective, bulldogs can technically fly on planes as long as they are healthy, up-to-date on vaccines, and cleared by a veterinarian for air travel.
- However, their flat faces and tendency toward respiratory issues mean bulldogs may find the cabin pressure changes more difficult than other breeds. It’s important to discuss your individual dog’s needs with your vet beforehand.
While not impossible, flying can be harder on a bulldog than smaller dogs due to their unique physiology. The good news is there are steps you can take to minimize risks. Consulting your vet is a must to get their professional opinion on your dog’s ability to withstand a flight.
Booking and Preparing for the Flight
When booking flights, look for nonstop routes to avoid connections whenever possible. Long layovers in hot/humid airports put extra stress on brachycephalic breeds. Most airlines allow bulldogs to fly as cabin passengers as long as they:
- Fit comfortably in an approved pet carrier that can stow under the seat
- Weigh under 20 lbs fully grown
- Remain calm and quiet during takeoff/landing
Some airlines may require a health certificate issued within 10 days. It’s a good idea to acclimate your dog to their carrier well ahead of time using treats and play. Consider calming aids like pheromone diffusers, calming treats or medicine prescribed by your vet.
From my experience as a veterinarian, properly preparing your bulldog makes a huge difference in how smoothly the flight goes. Taking a “test run” car ride to your vet’s can help them get used to traveling in their carrier.
During the Flight
On the day of travel:
- Arrive at least 2 hours early for check-in to allow extra time
- Bring water, pee pads, and a lightweight leash in your carry-on
- Don’t feed your dog within a few hours of the flight to avoid upset stomach/needing bathroom breaks
- Consider calming aids from your vet to help anxiety during takeoff/landing
Sit by your dog’s carrier on the plane to comfort and reassure them. Speak in a soothing tone. At the first sign of distress, contact a flight attendant who can check on oxygen or relocate you if needed. Remain calm yourself since dogs pick up on our emotions.
Having flown many pets myself, I find bulldogs often do fine as long as their humans are relaxed and they have stress-reducing aids. Staying overnight before/after long flights is also beneficial.
After Arrival
Upon arrival, exit the plane quickly once given permission to deplane with pets. Take your bulldog directly outside in their carrier for opportunities to potty, then offer water. Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours after the flight per vet advice. Watch for signs of fatigue, thirst, appetite changes. Contact your vet promptly if any concerns arise.
The key is being extra diligent about your bulldog’s needs before, during and after air travel. With proper preparation and care, most bulldogs can handle flying in the cabin from my experience. But always discuss any health risks frankly with your vet based on your individual dog. Their guidance will ease both your minds for making the best choice.
In summary, while flying requires more preparation than driving for dogs like bulldogs as air travel puts extra strain on their bodies, it is definitely possible with the right precautions. The benefits of flying such as avoiding very long car rides or relocation across countries often outweigh the challenges. But owner diligence every step of the way is essential for ensuring a safe trip. I hope this information helps give you peace of mind whether flying is a good option in your bulldog’s particular situation. Let me know if any other questions come up!
Can Bulldogs Fly on Planes?
| Airline | Weight Limit | Crate Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 70 lbs | Yes |
| Delta | 70 lbs | Yes |
| United | 100 lbs | No, but recommended |
| Southwest | No limit | No, but recommended under 20 lbs |
| Alaska | No limit | No, but recommended |
FAQ
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Can bulldogs fly on planes?
Bulldogs cannot fly by themselves on airplanes. Bulldogs need to be in carriers or crates during flights for their safety and the safety of other passengers. Their short snouts make it hard for them to breathe when pressurized in plane cabins.
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How should bulldogs be transported on planes?
It’s best to transport bulldogs in FAA-approved carriers or crates when traveling by air. The crate needs to be big enough for them to stand up and turn around in. Also make sure there is plenty of padding and give your pup some toys to keep them calm. Water should be removed before the flight to avoid accidents.
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Do airlines allow bulldogs as carry-on?
While policies can differ by airline, most will permit bulldogs under 20 pounds as carry-on as long as they remain in a small pet carrier that can fit under the seat. However, due to their size and breathing troubles, it’s not recommended to bring bulldogs as carry-on unless really necessary. It’s better to check them into the cargo hold.
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Is it stressful for bulldogs to fly?
Flying can certainly be stressful for bulldogs because of the strange environment, noises, and being confined to a small space. Bulldogs may feel increased anxiety due to their signature trait of limited airway passageways. To help reduce stress, consult with your vet and sedate your pup as needed. Focus on positive reinforcement training before travel as well.
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What precautions should be taken when flying with a bulldog?
Besides proper transportation and potential medication, other precautions for flying with bulldogs include bringing medication records, extra water and bowls, puppy pads, their favorite blanket or toy for comfort, and talking to the airline about special needs ahead of time. It’s important to carefully prepare to minimize risks and keep bulldogs as calm as possible at all points of the journey.
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Are there any airlines that won’t take bulldogs as cargo?
Major airlines like American, Delta, and United basically accept bulldogs as cargo if properly crated, though restrictions may apply like size, breed bans, or heat/weather considerations. However, some smaller airlines or international carriers may have more rules about snub-nosed dog breeds. So it requires rather a lot of research into pet policies before making travel plans involving air transport of a bulldog companion.
In summary, while bulldogs can absolutely travel by plane with the right setup, their short snouts mean some extra planning is needed compared to other dogs. With precautions taken for their well-being and medical needs, most bulldogs can handle flights OK as long as highly stress-free. Just be really diligent about all regulations and asking for assistance along the way.