How to Travel with Snub Nosed Dogs

Instantly recognizable and adorable to behold, snub-nosed dogs are amongst the most popular breeds of dogs worldwide. Named after the shapes of their short noses, snub- nosed dogs such as the French bulldog and the pug are beloved for their protective and charming nature, as well as their habit of bonding closely with their owners. Traveling with such dogs has been difficult in the past, but with the correct precautions, it can be done. Read on to find out everything you need to know about flying with a snub-nosed dog.

What are Snub Nosed Dogs?

Snub-nosed dogs are those dogs which have short noses and flat faces. Some famous breeds of snub-nosed dogs include Pugs and bulldogs. Such dogs require a little more care to transport safely, because of the changes in temperature an aircraft faces at high altitude and their smaller-than-usual noses. As a result, many airlines will refuse to fly snub-nosed breeds due to higher-than-normal risk involved. However, with a bit of preparation and planning, it can be managed. Let’s take a look at the best way you can do this for your pooch.

Making Sure Your Dog is Healthy

As an owner, you should make sure that your dog is healthy and happy, without any injuries and with all their vaccinations complete. If your fur baby is healthy, the risk of any problems while traveling is minimized, making flying with them much easier. Go for a checkup with your vet before flying and get a clean bill of health. Make sure your pup has adequate exercise daily.

Going With a Pet Friendly Airline

Sometimes you may have to travel longer distances. If you’re shifting across states, for example, you will have to travel by air, and your furry friend will have to fly with you. Travel by road or rail is possible, but these have long travel times and can be stressful for your pet. Don’t panic! Although many airlines refuse to fly snub-nosed breeds, a good animal travel company can verify if an airline has transported snub-nosed breeds previously and if their plane has a temperature-controlled cargo hold. Such a company can also make sure that your pooch has sufficient food and water before takeoff. Choosing a pet-friendly airline is important, as they will make sure all safeguards are taken and risks are minimized.

Choose the Right Crate

There are certain guidelines when it comes to crates for your pooch to fly in; you will have to choose an IATA-approved crate. These crates are specially approved by airlines for pet travel, and are strong and sturdy both on the ground and during the flight as well. They also have wired steel windows for ventilation, which is important so that your snub-nosed friend has all the air they require. Snub-nosed dogs especially need a larger crate so that they have no trouble traveling, so make sure to measure your dog and make sure you order the correct size crate. You can also train your dog to be comfortable in the crate, to reduce stress during transit. Give love and treats for willingly going in the crate and make them feel as comfortable as possible. Depending on the size of your furry friend, buy a crate that is slightly larger than them, so they have the maximum possible space during the flight. You can read all about how to choose the right crate here.

Travel During Suitable Weather

Higher temperatures during summer months are not good for snub-nosed breeds. Many airlines will not fly snub-nosed dogs during hot summers, so it is best to plan your travel to be in temperatures which are healthy for your fur baby. The risk in travel is minimized greatly if done in cooler climate and with the shortest route possible. Selecting an experienced animal travel company is very important, and helps create the safest conditions for your pooch to travel in. Make sure your dog is sufficiently hydrated before the trip, and attach a big water bowl to the crate so that your pet has plenty to drink during their flight.

Look for Expert Advice

There is a lot of paperwork and planning before you can fly your dog anywhere. A lot of safety and comfort boxes have to be ticked, especially for our snub-nosed friends, so make sure you plan ahead and take expert help, so that they can speak to an airline company and help you in arranging all the necessary facilities before traveling.

Snub-Nosed Breeds

Not sure if your dog is a snub-nosed breed? Here are some of the most recognizable snub-nosed breeds of dog: 

• French Bulldog 
• Boxer 
• Pug 
• Boston Terrier 
• English Bulldog 
• Pekingese 
• Lhasa Apso 
• Shih Tzu 
• King Charles Spaniel