Shih Tzus make wonderful travel companions. Their small size, adaptability, and people-oriented nature mean they can accompany you on many adventures. However, their brachycephalic (flat-faced) anatomy requires special precautions, especially during air travel. As a breeder at Delasa Forever Shih Tzu who has helped puppies travel safely to homes across the USA and Canada, I've learned exactly what works. Here's your complete guide to stress-free travel with your Shih Tzu.
Car Travel With Your Shih Tzu
Car travel is the most common and safest way to travel with your Shih Tzu – when done correctly.
Safety First: Restraints
- Crash-tested carrier: The safest option. Carriers like Gunner, Sleepypod, or Ruffland are crash-tested.
- Seatbelt harness: Look for brands crash-tested by the Center for Pet Safety (Sleepypod, Kurgo).
- Never let your Shih Tzu ride in your lap. In a crash, they become a projectile – or are crushed by the airbag.
- No riding in the front seat. Airbags can kill small dogs.
Car Travel Packing List
- 🐾 Collapsible water bowl and bottled water
- 🐾 Travel-sized food and treats
- 🐾 Leash, harness, and extra collar with ID tag
- 🐾 Poop bags and small trash bags
- 🐾 Blanket or bed that smells like home
- 🐾 Favorite toys (2-3)
- 🐾 First aid kit (tweezers, gauze, antiseptic wipes)
- 🐾 Vet records and vaccination proof
- 🐾 Medications if needed
- 🐾 Portable water bowl for rest stops
Preparing Your Shih Tzu for Car Travel
Start with short trips around the block, then gradually increase duration. Make the car a positive place with treats and praise. Never force a scared dog – go at their pace. For anxious travelers, try calming pheromone sprays (Adaptil) or consult your vet about anti-nausea or anti-anxiety medication.
During the Drive
- Stop every 2-3 hours for potty breaks and water
- Never leave your Shih Tzu alone in a parked car – even with windows cracked, temperatures become deadly within minutes
- Keep the car well-ventilated – Shih Tzus overheat easily
- Direct air vents away from your dog – direct AC can be too cold
Flying With Your Shih Tzu
Important warning: Many airlines restrict or prohibit brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds from flying in cargo due to high death rates. Shih Tzus have died on planes due to breathing difficulties, heat stress, and poor ventilation.
In-Cabin Travel is the Only Safe Option
- Shih Tzus can fly in-cabin if they fit in a soft-sided carrier under the seat
- Carrier size limits: typically 17" x 11" x 9.5" – measure carefully
- Shih Tzu + carrier must weigh under 20 pounds (airline dependent)
- Book early – only 2-4 pets allowed per flight
- Health certificate required within 10 days of travel
Airlines That Allow Shih Tzus In-Cabin
- Delta, American, United, Alaska, Southwest, JetBlue
- Fees: $95-125 each way
- Always call to confirm current policies before booking
Preparing for Air Travel
- Carrier training: Start weeks before – leave carrier open at home with treats inside
- Visit the vet: Health certificate, discuss mild sedation if needed (many vets advise against sedation for flat-faced breeds)
- Freeze water in a bowl: It will melt by the time you're in the air
- Line carrier with pee pad – accidents happen when nervous
- Arrive early – give yourself extra time for pet check-in
Hotel and Accommodation Tips
- Call ahead: Confirm pet policies, fees, and any size/breed restrictions
- Pet-friendly chains: Kimpton, La Quinta, Best Western, Red Roof Inn, Motel 6
- Use BringFido.com to find pet-friendly accommodations worldwide
- Bring a portable crate – never leave your Shih Tzu unattended in a hotel room
- Respect hotel rules: Use designated pet relief areas, keep dog quiet, clean up immediately
RV and Camper Travel
Shih Tzus can be excellent RV companions. Ensure proper ventilation and temperature control – RVs can overheat dangerously. Secure your dog with a harness during travel. Create a designated spot for food, water, and bed.
International Travel
International travel requires extensive planning:
- Research country-specific requirements months in advance
- Most require microchip, rabies vaccine, and health certificate
- Some require blood titers and quarantine periods
- UK, Australia, and New Zealand have strict 6-month quarantine prep
- Hire a pet travel agent for complex moves
Travel Anxiety Solutions
- Adaptil pheromone spray: Calming synthetic pheromones
- ThunderShirt: Gentle pressure that reduces anxiety
- Calming treats: Look for L-theanine, chamomile, melatonin (consult vet first)
- Prescription medications: For severe anxiety, ask your vet about trazodone or alprazolam
What to Do in an Emergency
- Research vets along your route before leaving
- Save emergency vet numbers in your phone
- Know signs of heat stroke: Excessive panting, bright red gums, collapse
- Pack a first aid kit with styptic powder (for bleeding nails), gauze, vet wrap, tweezers, antiseptic
Get Your Shih Tzu Ready for Adventures
At Delasa Forever Shih Tzu, we begin car ride desensitization with all our puppies. Your new puppy will arrive with a head start on travel training. View our available Shih Tzu puppies for sale or contact Carolina for personalized travel advice.
