Lufthansa Pet Travel Policy
LH • Germany • Star Alliance
Complete guide to flying with your pet on Lufthansa. Cabin and cargo rules, crate requirements, breed restrictions, and required documents. Last verified: 2026.
⚠️ Snub-Nosed Breed Restrictions
Lufthansa restricts brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds from cargo transport. Affected breeds include: Affenpinscher, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffon, Bulldog (all types) and others.
Banned from cargo hold year-round. Cabin only for qualifying pets.
Cabin Travel
Note: Pet must fit in carrier under seat. Carrier counts as hand luggage.
Cargo / Hold Travel
Crate Requirements (IATA Compliant)
⚠️ Common Rejection Reasons
- • Crate dimensions incorrect
- • Ventilation insufficient
- • Plastic clips instead of metal bolts
- • Brachycephalic breed booked in cargo
Breed Restrictions
Banned / Restricted Breeds
German dangerous dog regulations
Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breeds
Banned from cargo hold year-round. Cabin only for qualifying pets.
Don't Risk Rejection
Get your crate checked by AI before you get to the airport. Know in minutes if you'll pass Lufthansa's inspection.
Documents Required
- EU Pet Passport or equivalent
- Rabies vaccination (21+ days old)
- Veterinary health certificate
- Microchip documentation
- Import permits as required by destination
Official Policy
Always verify with Lufthansa directly before travel.
Lufthansa Pet PolicyLast verified: 2026
Flying with Your Pet on Lufthansa
Lufthansa (LH) is a German carrier and member of the Star Alliance alliance.The airline allows small pets to travel in the cabin under your seat, as well as offering cargo transport for larger animals.
Understanding Lufthansa's Pet Policy
Lufthansa's pet travel policy follows IATA (International Air Transport Association) Live Animals Regulations, with some airline-specific additions. All crates must be IATA-compliant with rigid construction, adequate ventilation, secure metal door, and proper labeling. Pets must have current health certificates and rabies vaccinations.
Brachycephalic Breed Restrictions
Like most major airlines, Lufthansa restricts snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds from cargo transport. These breeds have compromised respiratory systems that make them vulnerable to heat stroke and breathing difficulties in the cargo hold environment. Affected breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and similar flat-faced dogs and cats. If you have a brachycephalic breed, you may only transport them in the cabin (if they meet weight requirements) or consider alternative transport methods.
How to Avoid Rejection at Check-In
The most common reasons for pet crate rejection at Lufthansa check-in include: incorrect crate sizing, plastic clips instead of metal bolts, insufficient ventilation, missing or expired health certificates, and attempting to fly restricted breeds in cargo. Using our AI pre-check service can identify these issues before you arrive at the airport, giving you time to make corrections.