Are there breed restrictions?

Question

Accepted Answer

Pet Air Valet does not apply breed restrictions for our in-cabin journeys. Some destinations do apply breed restrictions, and these rules can change. If a destination restricts a breed or type, we must follow that destination’s official requirements. ## The simple answer - No breed restrictions from Pet Air Valet. - Country rules always apply, and some countries restrict specific breeds or types. - Every dog must be well controlled by their owner and manageable around other dogs and people on board. ## Country-specific restrictions Import and entry rules sit with the destination authorities. These rules can include: - Breed or type restrictions - Purpose of travel rules for dogs (for example, working, assistance, or security categories) - Permit requirements and pre-approvals - Handling requirements on arrival If you are travelling to a destination with stricter rules, tell us early so we can guide you on the correct process. ## Saudi Arabia example Saudi Arabia is one destination with breed restrictions and formal import requirements. You can review official information here: - [Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture (MEWA) – Pet Import Mechanism (PDF)](https://www.mewa.gov.sa/en/InformationCenter/DocsCenter/RulesLibrary/Docs/Pet%20import%20mechanism.pdf) - [MEWA – Importing “Fierce” Animals (Dogs) and Restricted Breeds (PDF, Arabic)](https://www.mewa.gov.sa/shareddata/Naama/Documents/%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%AA%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AF%20%D8%AD%D9%8A%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%AA%20%D8%B4%D8%B1%D8%B3%D8%A9%20%28%D9%83%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%A8%29.pdf) If you are unsure how these rules apply to your dog, contact Assistance before you reserve your space. ## Behaviour and safety expectations on board For the safety of the flight, every dog must be: - Well controlled by their owner at all times - Comfortable being near other dogs and people - Able to settle calmly for most of the journey - Manageable on a lead in a shared cabin setting If a dog shows persistent aggression, uncontrolled reactivity, or repeated attempts to disturb other dogs, that dog may not be suitable for a shared cabin journey. ## How to tell us what we need When you contact Assistance, share: - Breed (or best estimate if mixed) - Age and approximate weight - Whether your dog has travelled before - Any history of reactivity, guarding, or anxiety triggers - Whether your dog is comfortable around unfamiliar dogs at close distance This information helps us guide you to the right journey and set expectations early. ## If your dog is a mix or you are unsure about breed labels Some authorities apply restrictions to mixes that resemble a restricted breed or type. If you are unsure, speak with a concierge before you reserve your space so you can plan with confidence.