International Pet Travel with a Shih Tzu: What the Breed Means for Your Journey
Shih Tzus are small, low-shedding dogs that adapt well to apartment living and travel – which makes them popular among internationally mobile families. The complication is their face. Shih Tzus are brachycephalic, and that affects what airlines will carry them and how safely they travel.
The Short-Face Problem in Practice
A Shih Tzu’s flat face means their airway is compressed. Under normal conditions, most Shih Tzus breathe adequately. Under the stress of travel – especially warm, pressurised cargo holds with restricted airflow – breathing becomes harder work. This is the fundamental reason for airline restrictions.
Cabin Travel: The Best Option
Most adult Shih Tzus weigh 4 to 7 kg. Combined with a carrier (typically 1 to 2 kg), total weight often falls within the 6 to 8 kg cabin limits of many airlines. Cabin travel is significantly safer for brachycephalic dogs:
- Controlled cabin temperature
- You can monitor your dog
- No isolation in a cargo hold
- Less physical stress overall
To travel in cabin, your Shih Tzu needs to fit comfortably in an airline-approved soft carrier under the seat. Measure the under-seat space for your specific aircraft type – cabin dimensions vary.
Hold Travel: When Necessary
If your Shih Tzu exceeds cabin weight limits or if the route has no cabin pet option:
- Research which airlines still accept brachycephalic breeds in the hold on your route
- Travel in cooler months
- Choose a non-stop route (shorter hold time is better)
- Get a vet fitness-to-fly assessment
- Use a larger IATA-compliant crate than the minimum size (extra ventilation helps)
US carriers (United, American, Delta) ban most flat-faced breeds from hold travel. UK and European carriers vary. Call the airline and ask specifically about Shih Tzus.
The Vet Assessment
Before any international flight, have your vet:
- Check for signs of BOAS (airway restriction, stenotic nares, elongated soft palate)
- Confirm fitness to fly in writing
- Discuss whether a heat-tolerant, well-ventilated travel option is appropriate
Some Shih Tzus that have had corrective BOAS surgery (nares widening) tolerate travel better. Document any surgery in the health certificate.
Country Restrictions
Shih Tzus are not banned in any country. Normal import requirements apply. The challenge is purely the airline, not the destination.
Check airline policies for your specific route before booking. Brachycephalic breed policies change. Information current as of May 2026.