Have you ever wondered which dog breeds are chill enough to handle the subway, quiet enough for a train ride, and small enough to snooze in your lap at 30,000 feet?
Before grabbing your carrier and leash, it’s important to know the rules, especially when it comes to public transport. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), service animals are always permitted on buses, subways, and trains, thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
These dogs are specially trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities and must remain under the handler’s control at all times. But when it comes to regular pets, each city and transit system may set its own restrictions, usually requiring dogs to be carried in a bag or airline-approved kennel.
That’s why we’ve rounded up seven compact, calm, and confident dog breeds that don’t just tolerate travel, they thrive in it. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion for cross-country road trips or a cool little commuter for city life, you’ll find your perfect match below. And if you aren’t already picturing one in your travel bag… You will be soon.
Dog Breeds You Can Carry on Public Transport
Whether you’re flying, riding the train, or commuting by bus, these seven small, affectionate breeds are perfectly suited for life on the go and easy to carry wherever you travel.
1. Maltese
With their elegant coat and travel-sized build, the Maltese is one of the most popular dog breeds you can carry on public transport. Weighing under 7 pounds, this little dog fits easily into under-seat carriers, making them ideal for flights, trains, or city commutes.
A Historic Companion Breed
According to PetMD, the Maltese originated on the island of Malta and have served as a loyal companion since ancient times, mentioned in Greek and Roman literature.
Their affectionate, people-oriented nature hasn’t changed in centuries. Today, they’re beloved for staying calm during car rides and handling public transport with grace.
Low-Energy, High-Adaptability
Maltese dogs don’t need much exercise and often rest quietly for the entire journey. Just remember to keep them cool, carry fresh water, and brush regularly to prevent matting. As companion animals, they bond closely with their person and prefer to stay by your side, whether in a bag or on your lap.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the epitome of a lapdog, making it one of the most travel-friendly dog breeds for city dwellers and vacationers alike.
Ideal Personality for Transport Settings
This breed thrives on affection and adapts well to stress, especially in enclosed environments like planes or crowded trains.
Most people are surprised at how quiet and content these dogs are in carriers. They don’t need much space and are content to rest, making them well-suited for public transport and longer road trips.
Tips for Air and Ground Travel
Although not as tiny as other dogs, Cavaliers generally meet airline weight limits and cabin requirements. Many airlines allow them as checked-in pets, but they’re often small enough to stay in the cabin with you.
Just be sure to comply with pet-specific requirements, especially for longer flights and international destinations.
3. Chihuahua
Tiny, bold, and packed with personality, the Chihuahua is the ultimate small dog for on-the-go lifestyles. Thanks to their petite frame—often under 6 pounds—they’re among the easiest dog breeds you can carry on public transport, from subway platforms to airplane cabins.
A Hollywood Star with Travel Cred
Recognized by the AKC since 1904, the Chihuahua has long been a favorite among city dwellers and jet-setters alike. As WebMD notes, this breed has gained popularity worldwide, not just for its size, but for its fame in films like Beverly Hills Chihuahua.
Whether you’re catching a train or heading on a long flight, these little dogs handle tight spaces well, especially when close to their person.
Travel Tips for Tiny Companions
Chihuahuas are loyal and alert but don’t need much exercise, making them great for car rides and air travel. Acclimate them early to carriers, and always pack food, water, and a soft bag for maximum comfort.
4. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs (or “Frenchies”) are small, muscular dogs known for their adaptability, and they’ve earned their spot as one of the best dog breeds for travelers.
Compact, Calm, and Built for Comfort
Weighing under 28 pounds, French Bulldogs are commonly accepted by many airlines and are ideal for trains or buses. They’re quiet, affectionate, and rarely hyperactive, which makes them suited for public transport. French Bulldogs don’t need much exercise and are happy lounging in a well-ventilated carrier or crate.
What to Watch When Flying
Due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, Frenchies are not recommended for cargo hold travel or high altitudes. Many airlines have restrictions, so always check in advance.
Stick to cabin travel if possible and avoid long flights in warm climates. If you’re planning a road trip, keep the vehicle cool and offer water often to prevent overheating.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier—often called a “Yorkie”—is more than just a cute face. This breed is one of the best dogs to bring on public transport or longer flights.
Travel Perks of a Pocket-Sized Pup
Yorkshire Terriers are loyal, alert, and love to stay close to their owner. Their tiny frame and love for small spaces make them excellent travel companions, especially for city commuters and frequent flyers. They also don’t require much space, which helps when transport rules are strict.
Grooming and Emotional Needs
Yorkshire Terriers need regular brushing to maintain their silky coats, especially after a long journey in a carrier. They can be sensitive to new environments, so bring familiar items to reduce stress. These little dogs do best when their person stays calm—they’ll mirror your energy on the journey.
6. Toy Poodle
Elegant, clever, and easy to carry, the Toy Poodle is one of the most travel-friendly breeds you’ll find. Their compact size and calm demeanor make them a great fit for air travel, public transportation, and long car rides alike.
A Breed Refined for Portability
As Purina explains, the Toy Poodle was distinguished from the Miniature Poodle in 1907, when even smaller dogs under 28 cm gained popularity due to selective breeding. That refined size makes them perfect for bags, under-seat kennels, or lap travel on planes and trains.
Despite their dainty frame, they’re incredibly smart and thrive with structure, ideal traits for adapting to the stress of trips and transport.
Making Travel Comfortable and Safe
Toy Poodles do have energy, but they’re also trainable enough to stay calm in transit. Keep them entertained with chew toys, hydrated on long journeys, and brush their coat regularly to manage their low-shedding, allergy-friendly fur. They’re the ultimate travel companion for someone who values brains and beauty.
7. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu was bred for companionship, and it shows, especially when you’re navigating planes, trains, or public transport.
Calm Nature for Public Travel
Shih Tzus are among the best dogs for travel thanks to their calm demeanor and low energy levels. They enjoy cozying up in carriers and are content to rest for hours, making them perfect for long car rides or city commutes. They’re often accepted as companion animals and even service animals in some cases.
A Few Travel Considerations
Although they’re suited for transport, Shih Tzus are flat-faced like French Bulldogs. That means extra care must be taken in hot weather or on long flights.
Many airlines require a health certificate, so always plan ahead. With the right preparation, these loyal little dogs can be your ultimate furry friend on any journey.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog for public transportation is about its temperament, health, and how well they handles stress. Most public transport systems allow small pets if they’re in a carrier, while many airlines have specific requirements regarding weight limits, kennel size, and breed restrictions.
Among all dog breeds, the 7 listed above offer the best mix of portability, personality, and practicality for travel. Whether you’re commuting to work or flying across the world, a well-socialized small dog can make an excellent travel companion. Just remember to check local transport rules, keep your pet cool and comfortable, and never forget to pack their essentials, from food to comfort items.
So if you’re searching for the best dog for a long journey, or simply need a loyal companion for short trips, these breeds are ready to ride by your side, quiet, cool, and curled up in a bag
