How Old Does a Puppy Need to Be to Fly?

Jun 23
2 min read

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting- but if your pup needs to fly, there’s one important detail many people

Illustration of how old a puppy needs to be to fly—8-week-old puppy in a travel carrier

overlook: age requirements. Most airlines will not allow very young puppies to board a plane, even if they’re small enough to fit in a carrier.

So how old does a puppy need to be to fly- and why the wait? Let’s break it down.

How Old Does a Puppy Need to Be to Fly?

In the U.S., most airlines require that puppies be at least 8 weeks old to fly. This applies whether they’re flying in-cabin with a passenger or with a certified pet transporter like a Flight Nanny.

If you’re working with a breeder or planning transport, it’s important to confirm your puppy’s age with documentation (such as a vet record or breeder certificate) before booking travel.

Why Do Airlines Have Age Restrictions for Puppies?

It’s not just a rule, it’s about safety.

Here’s why reputable airlines and transport companies follow the 8-week minimum:

Young puppies are more vulnerable to stress, temperature changes, and travel-related health risks
Most aren’t fully weaned until 6–8 weeks, and flying too early can interfere with their development
Puppies younger than 8 weeks typically haven’t received their first round of vaccinations, making them more susceptible to illness during travel
Federal guidelines prohibit the commercial transport of puppies under 8 weeks of age

Whether you're flying with your puppy or using a pet transport service, this age rule helps protect the health and well-being of your growing pup.

What to Do If Your Puppy Isn’t Old Enough to Fly Yet

If your puppy is under 8 weeks, the best thing you can do is wait and prepare. Here’s how:

Stay in contact with your breeder and ask for weekly updates until your puppy is ready
Encourage the breeder to begin carrier training early, so your pup feels safe and secure during travel
Ensure your puppy is eating solid food and has had a vet checkup prior to pickup
Book transport in advance to lock in availability for the week your puppy turns 8 weeks old

For breeders, it’s helpful to explain this timeline to new buyers in advance so expectations are clear.

What About Driving Instead of Flying?

Even ground transport professionals follow the 8-week minimum. Whether by air or road, traveling too early can be harmful to your puppy's health. At PetCommute, we never cut corners when it comes to safe timing.