Pet travel FAQ – Answers for travelling with dogs and cats in Europe

Yes — you can fly with a dog, cats and ferrets on most European airlines as long as you meet their rules. Small pets usually travel in the cabin, bigger dogs in the hold or cargo. The key is proper paperwork and booking your pet’s spot early.

You can. Airlines have their own restrictions, but dogs and cats travel by air every single day. Just make sure your dog fits the size rules and that your destination allows pets.

Most airlines allow small dogs in cabin if they fit in a soft carrier under the seat and stay under the weight limit (usually 8 kg including the bag). It’s the most comfortable option for both you and your dog.

It’s the standard weight limit for dogs and other animals travelling in cabin with European airlines. The 8 kg include both your dog and the carrier. Some airlines have slightly different limits, so always check their exact dimensions and weight rules.

Quite strict. At check-in they often weigh the dog together with the carrier, and if you’re over the limit, they can refuse cabin travel. A lightweight carrier really helps if you’re close to the edge.

They can feel slight pressure changes just like humans do. A small chew or lickable treat during takeoff and landing helps them equalise the pressure. Most dogs cope with it really well.

For most dogs, yes. Cabin travel is usually very safe and comfortable. Larger dogs flying in hold need a well-ventilated, IATA-approved crate and suitable weather conditions — that’s the biggest factor airlines monitor.

No — airlines require dogs to stay inside their carrier for the whole flight. During the cruise phase some crew members are more relaxed, but officially the carrier must stay closed.

Yes, and it’s recommended — just small amounts. “No-spill” bottles or small lickable water breaks work well. Avoid overhydrating right before takeoff.

Plan to arrive earlier than usual — around 2 to 2.5 hours before departure. Check-in takes longer because staff will look at your dog’s documents, weigh the carrier, and sometimes inspect it.

For EU travel you’ll need a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and an EU Pet Passport. That’s the basic trio. Some countries also require a tapeworm treatment, so always double-check the rules before you book your ticket.

Airlines usually ask for a microchip, a valid rabies vaccine, and the correct travel document (EU Pet Passport or AHC, depending on where you’re flying from). Your dog must fit the airline’s size and carrier rules too. If your dog is flying in the hold, the crate must meet IATA standards.

Yes — microchipping is mandatory for any dog travelling internationally. The chip has to be ISO-compliant so airport scanners can read it. Airlines and border controls will check it, so make sure your vet has recorded the number correctly.

Rabies is the one vaccine every dog must have, and it needs to be at least 21 days old. Some countries may ask for additional treatments (like tapeworm for the UK, Ireland or Malta). Your vet will tell you exactly what’s needed for your destination.

If you’re based in the EU and travelling within the EU, then yes — the EU Pet Passport is the easiest way to travel. It’s valid for multiple trips as long as the rabies vaccine stays up to date. If you’re coming into the EU from outside, you’ll need different paperwork.

You get it from an EU-licensed veterinarian. Your dog will need a microchip and a valid rabies vaccine first. Once issued, the passport can be used again and again as long as the rabies shots never lapse.

Prices vary by country and clinic, but most vets charge somewhere between €20 and €60 for the passport itself. If your dog needs a microchip or a rabies shot, those are extra. It’s usually a one-time investment.

The EU Pet Passport is reusable — you can travel with it many times as long as the rabies vaccine stays valid. The Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is single-use and is required mainly when entering the EU from the UK or non-EU countries. The AHC expires after the trip.

You must visit an official vet (often called an “OV vet”) who is licensed to issue the document. They’ll check your dog’s microchip and vaccination record and then prepare the AHC. The timing is strict: it must be issued within 10 days before entry into the EU.

Expect to pay anywhere from €80 to €300 depending on the country and the vet. The price usually includes a health check and the paperwork. Some clinics charge extra for urgent appointments.

Some countries require it — most famously the UK, Ireland, Malta, and Finland. It must be done by a vet and recorded in the passport or AHC. The timing is usually strict: between 24 and 120 hours before arrival. Learn more about it here.

Most airlines require puppies to be at least 8–12 weeks old, depending on the airline. They also need to be old enough for a rabies vaccine — and that adds another 21 days. Always check both airline and destination rules for exact age requirements.

Yes — a few countries have breed restrictions or outright bans (for example Denmark or the UK). Some airlines also have their own restrictions on “strong” or brachycephalic breeds. Always check both the country rules and the airline’s policy before booking.

Absolutely. At check-in they normally check your dog’s passport or AHC, vaccination dates, microchip number, and sometimes even the dog itself. In-cabin dogs often can’t check in online — you must go to the desk.

Most airlines don’t let you book a pet online directly — you usually book your own ticket first, and then you add your dog either by calling customer service or using their “add service” form. Some airlines confirm it instantly, others send the confirmation a bit later. Always wait for the official confirmation before you assume your dog has a seat.

Yes, dogs always need their own paid reservation. It’s not a “seat ticket,” but a pet transport fee that the airline charges for carrying your dog in the cabin or in the hold. Prices vary a lot between airlines.

Usually by calling the airline or filling out their pet request form. Each airline handles this differently, so follow their specific instructions. Once the request is processed, they’ll email you the confirmation — keep that email safe.

Yes, almost all of them do. It’s often something like 2–5 pets in cabin per flight, depending on the aircraft. That’s why booking early is super important — pet spots go fast, especially on popular routes.

In cabin, the fee usually ranges from €40 to €100 per flight. Larger dogs travelling as checked baggage or cargo are more expensive — often €120 to €600 depending on size and destination. Every airline sets its own prices.

Unfortunately, no. Airlines always charge a fee for transporting animals. The only exception are certified assistance dogs, which usually travel free of charge and have different rules.

In Europe, airlines like KLM, Lufthansa, Finnair, Air France, and Vueling tend to be the easiest to fly with. They allow small dogs in cabin, have clear rules, and handle pets regularly. But the “best” airline also depends on the size of your dog and the route.

It changes all the time, but Vueling, Iberia, and Finnair often have some of the most affordable cabin pet fees. For large dogs, check airlines like Lufthansa or KLM, as their hold/cargo prices are usually the most reasonable.

No — not in Europe. Dogs in cabin always travel under the seat in a carrier. Only service dogs can be outside the carrier, but even then they don’t get a separate seat.

Most are not refunded unless the airline cancels the flight. Some airlines allow changes for a fee, but pet reservations are generally considered non-refundable extras. Always read the rules before booking.

Usually not. Most airlines require you to check in at the counter because they need to see your dog, documents, and carrier. Even if your boarding pass appears online, expect to stop at the desk anyway.

See also

Flying with petsCargo travelIn hold travel

When not to fly with your dog and cat | Risks and tips

Start with a carrier your dog already knows — ideally one they’ve slept in at home. Add something familiar inside, like a small blanket or a T-shirt that smells like you. A long walk before heading to the airport helps them settle much faster once you’re in the air.

Let your dog explore the carrier weeks before the trip: open-door naps, treats inside, and short practice sessions. Do a few “airport rehearsal days” where you visit busy places so they get used to noise and movement. And always check their paperwork early so you’re not stressed on the day of the flight — they really feel your mood.

A calm, confident owner is the biggest relaxer. Give your dog a cosy setup inside the carrier and a chew they love, and cover the carrier slightly if the lights or movement bother them. Once the plane takes off, most dogs settle surprisingly quickly — the constant hum works like white noise.

No — sedation is not recommended for flying. It can affect breathing, balance and temperature regulation, especially in cabin pressure changes. If your dog struggles with anxiety, talk to your vet about safer calming options (like natural supplements or training-based desensitisation).

Yes, but small bites only. A few tiny treats or a lickable snack can help calm nerves, especially during takeoff and landing. Avoid heavy meals right before flying — it can cause nausea.

It can be a bit overwhelming at first — new noises, movement, people — but most dogs relax quickly once the plane levels out. What really helps is keeping the carrier familiar and giving them a good walk before the airport. Dogs take a lot of cues from us, so staying calm works wonders.

Most dogs manage 2–4 hours in a carrier without issues, especially if they’re used to it. For longer flights, comfort depends on their size, anxiety levels, and how well they handle confined spaces. A familiar scent and a calm pre-flight routine help a lot.

Dogs don’t need much, but the right basics make the flight a lot smoother. A comfy carrier, a small blanket or T-shirt that smells like home, a few tiny treats, a water bottle, and one absorbent pad usually cover everything. Keep it simple — the less clutter in the carrier, the better your dog settles.

Most airlines require a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. It has to be well-ventilated, escape-proof, and big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around. Every airline has its own size limits, so always check before you buy.

The carrier must fit under the seat — that’s the golden rule. Sizes vary (for example 40 × 25 × 23 cm or 45 × 30 × 20 cm), so look up the exact dimensions for your airline. If your dog can comfortably curl up inside without being squished, the carrier is probably the right size.

Yes — airlines expect dogs to be able to stand and turn around naturally. If your dog can only lie down or is touching the top with their head, the carrier may be considered too small. Choosing the right fit avoids problems at check-in.

For cabin flights, soft carriers are almost always required because they flex and fit under the seat. Hard crates are used for larger dogs flying as checked baggage or cargo. A soft carrier is also comfier and feels more like a cosy den for your dog and cat. You can check out TOP 5 here.

Think: practical and lightweight. A water bottle, collapsible bowl, wipes, a small towel, extra puppy pads, poop bags, a calming chew, documents, and maybe a spare carrier liner. These few items cover most travel scenarios without weighing you down.

It’s a hard crate built for safe air transport in the hold. It must be ventilated on all sides, have metal bolts, leak-proof flooring, and secure doors. Only bigger dogs or certain breeds need these — cabin dogs don’t.

Put your name, phone number, destination address, and flight number. Many owners also attach a small “Live Animal” sticker and a photo of the dog — it helps staff identify them quickly. For hold travel, labels are usually mandatory.

Yes — strollers are allowed in most airports and can be a lifesaver for small dogs. You’ll need to fold it at security and check it at the gate, just like a baby stroller. They make long airport walks much easier on both of you.