International Travel with an Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds – confusingly – are an American breed with no direct connection to Australia, but they are enormously popular globally. Owners relocating internationally with an Aussie Shepherd face no breed-specific bans but do need to plan for their size and energy levels during the journey.

Breed Restrictions

Australian Shepherds are not banned in any country we know of. They do not appear on any dangerous dog legislation. International relocation for this breed is not complicated by breed restrictions.

Cabin or Hold?

Adult Australian Shepherds weigh between 16 and 32 kg. This is well above in-cabin limits. Australian Shepherds travel in the temperature-controlled cargo hold on all international routes. There is no in-cabin option for an adult Aussie.

Crate Sizing

Most Australian Shepherds need an IATA-compliant size 4 or size 5 crate. Measure your individual dog:

  • Nose-to-tail length plus 10 cm determines the minimum crate length
  • Standing height plus 10 cm determines the minimum crate height
  • Two times the shoulder width determines the minimum crate width

A well-fitted crate is safer and more comfortable than an oversized one – too much space means the dog can be thrown around during turbulence. The crate must meet IATA LAR specifications with a solid base, ventilated sides, secure spring-loaded door, and water and food dishes attached inside.

Preparing an Energetic Breed for Travel

Australian Shepherds are high-drive working dogs. A calm travel day starts with good exercise the morning before the flight and a period of rest. Avoid high-energy play in the final two hours before travel.

Crate training is particularly important for this breed. Begin three to four months before the move. Feed meals in the crate, encourage voluntary entry, and work up to multi-hour crate sessions before the travel date.

Key Routes

  • USA to UK: APHA-endorsed health certificate, microchip, core vaccinations, tapeworm treatment.
  • UK to Australia: Full DAFF process. Australian Shepherds are not related to Australian livestock lines and face no special Australian restrictions. Allow eight to ten months.
  • USA to Germany: Lufthansa hold cargo, EU health certificate requirements.
  • USA to Canada: CFIA requirements. Rabies vaccination. Simpler process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most adult Australian Shepherds need an IATA-compliant size 4 or size 5 crate. The correct size depends on your individual dog’s measurements. The crate must be tall enough for the dog to stand at full height, long enough to lie down naturally, and wide enough to turn around. Measure your dog and do not use breed averages.

Australian Shepherds are not banned or restricted in any country we are aware of. They are not included in any dangerous dog legislation. This makes them one of the more straightforward breeds to relocate internationally.

Start crate training several months before the move. Exercise your dog well the morning of travel, then allow a rest period before the flight. Avoid feeding for four to six hours before departure. Do not sedate without veterinary advice. A familiar-smelling blanket or item in the crate can reduce anxiety.

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