Jet-setting with your four-legged canine companion may sound like a dream, but not all dog breeds are built for takeoff. Whether you’re flying across the country or heading to a tropical getaway, bringing your pup along requires more than just booking a ticket. Understanding how your dog handles the stress of air travel and whether they fit cabin regulations is key to ensuring a smooth and safe journey for both of you.
Airlines differ in their pet policies, but one rule of thumb holds true across the board: smaller dogs have a much better shot at flying in the cabin. Not only does this spare them from the stress and potential risks of cargo travel, but it also means you can keep a close eye on them mid-flight. With size and weight limits typically ranging around 15–20 lbs, toy and small breeds often make the cut, especially when tucked into a cozy, airline-approved carrier.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the top dog breeds that stay calm and comfortable at 30,000 feet. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your pup’s first big adventure, these laid-back breeds could be your perfect co-pilot in the skies.
Dog Breeds That Stay Chill on Flights
1. Chihuahua
When it comes to in-cabin travel, few breeds are as flight-friendly as the Chihuahua. Weighing in at under 6 pounds, these compact companions easily meet airline size restrictions and fit snugly into travel carriers, sometimes even with space for a cozy blanket or heating pad.
Their small stature makes them one of the most convenient breeds for pet parents hoping to keep their furry friend close by during flights, especially on airlines with strict cabin weight limits.
Temperament
Chihuahuas pack a bold personality into their petite frame. Known for their alertness and terrier-like spirit, they’re brimming with charm and loyalty. According to the AKC, Chihuahuas are delightful, elegant, and full of attitude. With their iconic “apple” heads, expressive eyes, and erect ears, Chihuahuas are highly responsive to their surroundings.
While they thrive on affection and make excellent lap dogs, they do best with consistent training to curb bossy tendencies. Their adaptability and preference for staying close to their humans make them especially well-suited for frequent flyers who enjoy calm companionship at cruising altitude.
Fun Fact:
The Chihuahua is one of the oldest dog breeds in the Americas, with roots tracing back to the ancient pre-Columbian civilizations of Mexico.
2. Pomeranian
They have fluffy coats and petite frames. Weighing between 3 to 7 pounds, they easily meet most airlines’ cabin pet demands, and their plush double coat helps keep them warm in chilly airplane cabins. Their compact size, combined with their social nature, makes them comfortable travel companions, especially when nestled close to their favorite human.
Temperament
Pomeranians may be small, but they’re bursting with personality. Purina notes that the delicate Pomeranian is full of charm and friendliness. Often likened to tiny foxes for their alert expressions and feathery fur, they are lively, affectionate, and deeply loyal, often forming a strong bond with just one person.
These dogs enjoy attention and don’t mind being pampered, but they still have a sturdy spirit and love to play. Known for their vocal nature, they’ll happily alert you to anything they find curious. Despite their outgoing energy and cheerful demeanor, they are delicate under their dense coat, so gentle handling is a must.
Fun Fact:
This affectionate dog breed is the tiniest of the spitz breeds, characterized by a thick undercoat and long, upright guard hairs that give it a trademark fluffy “ball of fur” appearance.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers have a weight of up to 7 pounds and a height of just 7–8 inches. PetMD states that the small Yorkshire Terrier, lovingly called the Yorkie, is a lively and entertaining pet. Their petite build allows them to settle comfortably into most airline-approved carriers, making air travel a relatively stress-free experience.
Their signature silky coat and composed demeanor also give them an air of elegance, ideal for the jet-setting dog owner seeking both convenience and charm.
Temperament
Yorkies may be small in stature, but they have a bold spirit that rivals dogs twice their size. Historically bred to chase rodents in textile mills, they still carry that alertness and spunk today. These little dogs are affectionate with their humans and often warm up quickly to strangers.
While some Yorkies are gentle around children and other pets, their tiny frame means supervision is key during playtime. Despite their sometimes bossy nature, with proper socialization and attention, they become confident, loving companions who adapt well to travel routines.
Fun Fact:
Yorkshire Terriers were originally bred by Scottish weavers in the mid-1800s to control rodents in English textile mills before earning their place as fashionable lapdogs.
4. Maltese
Graceful and compact, the Maltese is tailor-made for air travel. Weighing between 2 and 8 pounds, they easily meet most airline cabin requirements and tuck neatly into travel carriers. With their flowing white coats and dainty frames, Maltese dogs bring a touch of elegance to any journey.
However, their tendency to bark at unfamiliar sounds can pose a challenge on longer flights; early training in commands like “quiet” is essential for a peaceful trip.
Temperament
Lively and alert, the Maltese is more than just a lapdog. Hills Pet describes the Maltese as a sweet-natured, loving, smart, attentive, and trusting breed. This small breed has a spirited energy and often surprises with its boldness. They enjoy interactive play, learning tricks, and being the center of attention.
While affectionate with their humans, they may react sharply to rough play or loud environments, making them better suited to calmer households or experienced travelers. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them responsive to training, which is especially useful in public or enclosed settings like airplanes.
Fun Fact:
In the 1500s, one Maltese dog reportedly sold for the equivalent of $2,000, highlighting the breed’s long-standing appeal and value throughout history.
5. Miniature Dachshund
They have an average weight of 8 to 11 pounds. Their small size allows for easy crate placement under airline seats, but their natural wariness of strangers may trigger barking during a flight. To ensure a peaceful journey, covering their carrier with a breathable cloth and reinforcing “quiet” commands in advance can make all the difference.
Temperament
Miniature dachshunds may be small, but they come with a big, bold personality. Playful and spirited, they thrive on daily activity and mental stimulation. While they can be a bit headstrong, they respond well to consistent, positive training, especially when socialized early.
These pint-sized hounds also have a keen watchdog instinct, often staying alert to their surroundings. That said, their affectionate side shines brightest when curled up beside their favorite human, making them ideal for long flights with familiar company.
Fun Fact:
Miniature dachshunds were originally bred in Germany and are a smaller version of the standard dachshund, maintaining the breed’s iconic long-backed body and charmingly short legs.
6. Toy Fox Terrier
Lightweight and full of spunk, the Toy Fox Terrier makes air travel look easy. With a weight range of approximately 3.3 to 8.8 pounds, this petite pup comfortably fits under most airline seat requirements, making it a breeze to bring along for flights.
Whether you’re hopping on a short domestic trip or flying across the globe, their small stature and love of companionship make them a practical and entertaining travel buddy.
Temperament
Blending the best of both worlds, the Toy Fox Terrier embodies the energy of a classic terrier with the affectionate nature of a toy breed. They’re alert, intelligent, and surprisingly sturdy for their size, standing under 12 inches tall but overflowing with confidence. Their expressive eyes, perky ears, and sleek satin coat only add to their charm.
These little dogs are quick learners and eager to please, which makes keeping them calm during flights much easier with a bit of preparation and training. Their playful yet cuddly nature ensures they’re happy snuggling in your lap or quietly observing the world from their carrier.
Fun Fact:
Originally bred as barnyard ratters, Toy Fox Terriers have evolved into beloved companions without losing their spirited terrier roots.
7. Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle has a petite size and a preference for close companionship. Weighing between 4–6 pounds and standing no taller than 10 inches, they comfortably fit within most airline cabin requirements.
Their desire to stay near their humans makes them far more relaxed when tucked into a carrier under your seat than stashed away in cargo, where separation anxiety might kick in.
Temperament
Highly intelligent and eager to please, Toy Poodles are quick learners and genuinely enjoy training sessions filled with praise and rewards. Their clever minds crave stimulation, so a flight with a mentally engaging toy can keep them calm and occupied.
Early socialization ensures they get along well with kids and other animals, and their gentle disposition makes them easy to manage in confined spaces like airplane cabins. Despite their refined reputation, Toy Poodles have a lively, fun-loving side and thrive on interaction and attention.
Fun Fact:
Although commonly associated with France, the Poodle breed actually originated in Germany, where it was first developed as a duck-hunting dog.
8. Italian Greyhound
Standing just 13 to 15 inches tall and weighing between 7 to 14 pounds, these refined little sighthounds meet most airlines’ in-cabin size limits with ease. Their slim silhouette allows them to stretch out comfortably in carriers without feeling confined, making long flights less stressful for both pet and owner.
Temperament
Italian Greyhounds, often lovingly called “Iggies”, are tender-hearted and affectionate, thriving on human companionship. Their calm demeanor makes them particularly well-suited for travel, as long as their emotional needs are met. They may cling to their chosen person or family and often appear reserved or distant around unfamiliar people.
While generally friendly, they shy away from loud or chaotic environments, including overly playful children. Their quiet, loyal nature and preference for peaceful surroundings make them ideal travel companions, especially for frequent flyers seeking a low-drama dog.
Fun Fact:
Though small and graceful, these calm dogs carry the same iconic curves and athletic form of their full-sized Greyhound cousins, right down to the elegantly arched back and slender tail.
9. Havanese
Havanese have a weight range of 7 to 13 pounds and a height of just under a foot. Their compact build and non-shedding coat make them especially appealing for travelers, particularly those with allergies. These fluffy companions are perfectly sized for air travel, slipping easily into carriers without sacrificing comfort or space.
Temperament
The Havanese is a cheerful and affectionate breed that thrives on companionship. They don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods and are far better suited to staying close to their owners, even at 30,000 feet. These dogs are smart, eager to please, and respond well to training, traits that come in handy during travel when routines may shift.
Their playful and curious nature keeps them engaged, and they love interactive games and learning new tricks. Because they’re so people-oriented, they adapt quickly to unfamiliar environments as long as they have their human nearby.
Fun Fact:
Havanese dogs are hypoallergenic and shed very little, making them a great option for allergy-prone travelers.
10. Norwich Terrier
At just 11 to 12 pounds, the Norwich Terrier is a compact canine that is fit for flying in the cabin while offering a spirited yet manageable energy level, making them a smart choice for calm, in-flight companionship.
Their sturdy build and wiry, weather-resistant coat help them stay comfortable in varying cabin temperatures, and with the right health screenings, they can be great travel buddies. Before flying, it’s wise to check for conditions like Upper Airway Syndrome, which some Norwich Terriers may develop, especially those with shorter muzzles.
Temperament
These little dynamos are as tenacious as they are charming. Known for their fox-like expressions and perky ears, Norwich Terriers are intelligent, lively, and surprisingly strong-willed for their size. Their independent nature calls for patient training and early socialization, especially if other small animals are around.
Though they can be stubborn, they thrive with firm, positive guidance and make affectionate, loyal companions. Their curiosity and alertness make them entertaining co-travelers, while their cheerful disposition helps them stay relaxed during new experiences, like boarding a plane.
Fun Fact:
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest terrier breeds but retains all the drive and determination of its larger dog cousins.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pup can be a joy when you choose wisely; certain dog breeds simply handle flights better than others. While small, adaptable companions like Chihuahuas and Norwich Terriers fit snugly in a pet carrier and often remain relaxed in the cabin, not every breed shares the same temperament or tolerance for air travel.
As the American Kennel Club emphasizes, it’s important to consider your dog’s size, personality, and any health predispositions before booking a flight. For those who love both flying and long car rides, preparing your dog with gradual exposure and comfort items can make a world of difference.
Though this article highlighted chill flyers, it’s worth noting that some larger breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, Great Dane, or German Shorthaired Pointer, might be better suited for family road trips or long car rides instead of plane cabins. Others like the Portuguese Water Dog or French Bulldog may face health concerns when flying. Always consult your vet to ensure your pup stays dog safe, no matter where the journey takes you.
