Banned Dog & Cat Breeds by Country: Airline & Immigration Rules

Traveling with your pet sounds like a fun idea. New places. New smells! Your furry buddy is right there with you. But pet travel is not always simple.

You book your flight, arrange transportation, and even plan veterinary visits. Then, suddenly, airlines’ pet policies come to the picture, and you find out your dog or cat’s breed is not allowed.

That panic? Totally real.

There are different pet rules for different countries and airlines. Some breeds are allowed with special permission, but some are completely banned, and some need quarantine. 

Let’s break all these rules down in a simple way so that you don’t have to take stress for your pets and pay extra money, and spend a lot of time at the airport immigration.

Unsure whether your dog or cat breed is allowed for your destination or airline?

Call us toll-free at +1-855-510-5187 before booking to avoid last-minute pet travel rejection.

Why Are Some Dog and Cat Breeds Banned?

Most bans exist for safety and health reasons.

Common reasons include:

• Public safety concerns
• Aggressive behaviour history
• Breathing problems during flights
• Animal welfare issues
• Protection of local wildlife

Even if one airline says yes, another might say no because these rules are enforced by airlines, immigration, and customs. 

Common Dog Breeds: Banned or Restricted

These breeds frequently appear on restricted lists:

• Pit Bull Terrier (and mixes)
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro
• Tosa Inu / Japanese Tosa
• Presa Canario
• Cane Corso
• Rottweiler (restricted in some places)
• Doberman (restricted in some countries)

Some countries allow them with permits. Others don’t allow them at all.

Cat Breeds That Face Restrictions

Cats usually face fewer bans, but some still do.

Often restricted:

• Savannah cats (early generations)
• Bengal cats (early generations)
• Hybrid or wild cat breeds
• Exotic cats

These rules usually protect local wildlife.

Country-Wise Pet Breed Rules (Popular Destinations)

United Kingdom

• Banned dogs: Pit Bull, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro
• Cats: Hybrid wild cats are restricted
• Even transit is not allowed for the banned breeds

Also, read the British Airways Baggage Policy.

United States

• No nationwide breed ban
• State and city rules vary
• Airlines may still restrict certain breeds

Also, read the United Airlines and American Airlines Baggage Policy.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• Banned dogs: Pit Bull, American Bully, Japanese Tosa, wolf hybrids
• An import permit is required
• Rules are strictly enforced

Also read Emirates Airlines and Etihad Airlines’ Baggage Policy.

Australia

• Banned dogs: Pit Bull, Dogo Argentino, Tosa Inu, Fila Brasileiro
• Quarantine is mandatory
• Some cat breeds are also restricted

Singapore

• Banned dogs: Pit Bull types, Akita, Tosa
• Breed approval is needed before travel

Also, read the Singapore Airlines and Australia Airlines’ Baggage Policy.

Germany & Canada

• Rules depend on the state or province
• Pit Bull-type dogs are restricted in some areas
• Cats are usually allowed

Airline Rules You Should Know

Even if the country allows your pet, airlines can still refuse them.

Also Read: How Carry-On and Check-In Luggage Rules Work in 2026

Airline pet rules vary widely and change often.

Call us toll-free at +1-855-510-5187 to confirm airline approval for your pet’s breed.

Airlines commonly restrict: (H3)

• Aggressive or “dangerous” breeds
• Large, muscular dogs
• Snub-nosed breeds

Also Read: Airline Baggage Fees

Dog Breeds Airlines Often Restrict

• Pit Bull types
• American Bully
• Cane Corso
• Presa Canario
• Mastiffs

Cat Breeds Airlines Often Restrict

• Persian cats
• Himalayan cats
• Exotic or hybrid cats

Most airline bans are due to health risks during flights.

Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breed Restrictions

These pets struggle to breathe during air travel.

Common examples:

• Pugs
• Bulldogs
• Boxers
• Shih Tzus
• Persian cats
• Exotic Shorthair cats

Some airlines allow them only in the cabin. Many don’t allow them at all.

Documents You’ll Almost Always Need

Before flying, make sure you have:

• Microchip
• Rabies vaccination
• Vet health certificate
• Import permit (if required)
• Breed declaration
• Quarantine booking (for certain countries)

Missing paperwork can stop your trip instantly.

What Happens If Your Pet Is Banned?

If you show up with a banned breed:

• An airline may deny boarding
• Immigration may refuse entry
• The pet may be quarantined or sent back
• You may face fines

Always double-check before booking.

Quick Tips Before Booking Pet Travel

✔ Check country rules first
✔ Check airline rules separately
✔ Get approvals in writing
✔ Avoid last-minute plans
✔ Consider professional pet movers

Breed bans differ by country, airline, and aircraft type, making early verification essential for safe pet travel.

Final Thoughts

Pet travel needs planning. A lot of it. Understanding banned dog and cat breeds by country, plus airline rules, helps you avoid stress and heartbreak.

Also Read: Traveling With Pets: Airline Rules, Documents & Tips

Check early. Confirm everything. And never assume.

Also Read: Can You Change the Name on Flight Ticket? Rules, Fees & What’s Allowed

Your pet depends on you.

Need help checking banned breeds, airline policies, or documents for pet travel?

Call us Toll Free +1-855-510-5187 for step-by-step assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)