🧳Travelling with a Pug: car, crate and rules

Pug : A harness is imperative, never a collar alone: neck pressure worsens its breathing difficulties and can contribute to eye problems. In the car, use a well-ventilated size S crate; like other flat-faced breeds, it is often refused in aircraft holds.

In short: Small dog, 25-30 cm at the withers (6-9 kg), short dense heavy-shedding coat, very short muzzle, moderate energy level. A small, affectionate, food-driven clown made for indoor family life. Despite its short coat it sheds heavily, and its large prominent eyes are prone to corneal ulcers: a grooming mitt and daily eye checks are part of the routine.

In the car with a Pug

At 6 to 9 kg, the Pug travels in a rigid crate of about 60 cm placed in the rear footwell or strapped in, or an approved carrier bag for the lightest. An unrestrained dog of this weight becomes a projectile under braking — and a possible fine for distracted driving.

Trains, planes, holidays

Too big for the cabin, the Pug flies in the pressurised hold in an IATA-approved crate — an ordeal to reserve for unavoidable trips, and one many airlines refuse for brachycephalic breeds, vulnerable to heat and respiratory stress. On trains, a muzzle and lead meet the rules. Get it used to the crate weeks before departure: left open at home with treats inside, it becomes a den rather than a trap.

Identification and good habits

Identification (microchip or tattoo) is mandatory, with vaccinations up to date for boarding or border crossings (EU passport, rabies shot). In hot weather, never leave a Pug in a parked car, even “for five minutes”: the cabin turns lethal within a quarter of an hour.

Frequently asked questions

What crate size for a Pug?

The rule: roughly 60 cm, i.e. room to stand and turn without contortion. For air travel, check the specific model’s IATA approval.

Can a Pug fly in the cabin?

No, it exceeds the cabin limit (8 kg including the bag): it travels in the pressurised hold in an IATA crate — avoid it when you can.

The guides that apply to you

The rest of the Pug’s gear

Travel & safety for related breeds and species