International Travel with a Bullmastiff: Airline Policies, Crate Sizing and Country Rules

The Bullmastiff is a powerful, calm breed that is devoted to its family. Their size and their somewhat flattened muzzle create two distinct considerations for international travel: large-dog logistics and the brachycephalic question.

How Large Is the Problem?

Adult Bullmastiffs typically weigh 45 to 60 kg and stand 60 to 68 cm at the shoulder. You are firmly in large-breed cargo-hold territory for any international flight. The crate will need to be in the Kennel 500 to 700 range depending on the individual dog’s size. Measure your dog carefully and add the required clearance on all sides.

Some Bullmastiffs are on the upper end of this weight range when combined with a suitable crate, which takes the total cargo weight to 80+ kg. This is manageable on wide-body aircraft but may require advance coordination with the airline to confirm acceptance and cargo compartment suitability.

Brachycephalic Classification

The Bullmastiff has a shortened muzzle and is considered a brachycephalic breed by most airline policies. Many airlines have either:

• A specific list of brachycephalic breeds they will not accept in cargo at any time
• Temperature embargoes that effectively exclude warm-nosed breeds in summer months

Airlines that restrict Bullmastiffs in cargo include (among others) United Airlines and Delta Air Lines under their brachycephalic breed restrictions. Some European carriers classify Bullmastiffs differently. Always call the airline directly and ask specifically about Bullmastiffs before booking – the published breed lists are frequently out of date and the carrier-specific policy is the one that matters.

A Bullmastiff with any history of breathing difficulties, snoring or exercise intolerance should be assessed for fitness to fly by a vet before any travel arrangements are made.

Country Restrictions

The UK has breed-specific legislation under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. The Bullmastiff is not on the prohibited breeds list in England and Wales (the prohibited breeds are: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Brasileiro). However, Bullmastiffs may be subject to assessment in some local authority jurisdictions that consider dogs to be “of type.”

Germany, Italy and several other EU countries do not have national legislation targeting Bullmastiffs specifically. However, individual German states have their own lists; confirm with the relevant Bundesland (state) veterinary authority.

Australia and New Zealand do not restrict Bullmastiffs.

Temperature Awareness

Given the brachycephalic anatomy and the large body size, heat management is critical. A Bullmastiff should not be transported:

• On routes that include ground holds longer than 45 minutes in temperatures above 24 degrees Celsius
• Through hub airports with high ambient temperatures in summer (Dubai, Doha in July/August can exceed 40 degrees in cargo areas)
• On aircraft types where the hold is not climate-controlled (some turboprop aircraft)

Plan the journey for cooler months or choose routes through temperate hubs.

Sources: IATA Live Animals Regulations 50th Edition; RSPCA guidance on brachycephalic breeds and flying; UK Dangerous Dogs Act 1991; US airline brachycephalic breed restriction policies.