Published in 2025 / Updated in 2026
Qatar Airways is a “Checked Baggage and Cargo” specialist. While most pets won’t be sipping champagne in Qsuite with you, they travel in a climate-controlled, pressurized hold that matches the passenger cabin’s temperature.
In the Cabin: The VIPs (Falcons & Service Dogs)
Qatar Airways is world-renowned for its “Falcon Friendly” status.
- The Falcon Rule: One passenger can carry one falcon in the Economy Class cabin (up to 6 falcons per aircraft).
- Service Dogs: Permitted in the cabin free of charge on specific routes (e.g., to/from the USA, EU, Australia, etc.). All other “support” animals must fly in the hold.
- Cost (Falcons): Usually ranges from $130 to $630 USD depending on the route.
Checked Baggage: For Cats, Dogs & Birds
Most domestic pets will travel as “excess baggage.”
- Weight & Rates:
- Up to 32 kg (70 lbs): ~$200 USD (to/from Qatar) or ~$350 USD (other routes).
- 32 kg to 75 kg (165 lbs): ~$300 USD (to/from Qatar) or ~$450 USD (other routes).
- Cargo Only: Rodents (rabbits, hamsters, etc.) and pets exceeding 75 kg or 300 cm (L+W+H) must be shipped via Qatar Airways Cargo.
- The “Connection” Rule: Qatar Airways does not accept pets connecting from other airlines. You must be on a Qatar Airways-only itinerary.
🛑 The “No-Fly” List: Heat & Breed Restrictions
Doha is hot, and safety is paramount. Qatar Airways has a strict ban on “snub-nosed” (brachycephalic) breeds because they are susceptible to heatstroke.
- Banned Breeds: Pugs, Bulldogs (all types), Boxers, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, Persian cats, and many more.
- The 21°C Rule: If the temperature at any point in the journey exceeds 21°C (70°F), certain sensitive breeds may be restricted from travel for their own safety.
The “Paws-port” Paperwork
You must submit your pet travel request between 60 days and 48 hours before departure. Anything later is a “no-go.”
Your Documentation Checklist:
- Health Certificate: Must be signed by a vet within 10 days of travel.
- Vaccination Record: Proof of Rabies is mandatory.
- Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 12 weeks old (7 months for entry into Qatar).
- The “Litter” Rule: Qatar allows up to three littermates (up to 6 months old) or two adult pets (up to 14kg each) to share a single kennel if they are known to each other.
💡 Expert Tips for 2026:
- Transit Luxury: If your transfer in Doha is longer than 3 hours, your pet is moved to a dedicated live animal facility where they are walked, fed, and their kennels are cleaned.
- Kennel Specs: Use metal nuts and bolts to secure the crate halves. Qatar Airways is very strict about IATA-approved crates; plastic clips alone will result in a “denied boarding” at the counter.
- Hydration: Affix a water container that can be refilled from the outside so staff can top up your pet’s water without opening the crate.
Approved pet carrier sizes – Carrying Case Size Calculator
Restrictions
The following breeds of cats and mixes will not be accepted for carriage on Qatar Airways, including all snub or pug noses:
Exotics
Persian
The following breeds of dogs and mixes will not be accepted for carriage on Qatar Airways, including all snub or pug noses:
Affenpinscher
Boston Terrier
Boxer
Brussels Griffon
English/British Bulldog
French Bulldog
French Terrier
Greyhounds, except pets (no more than two grade dogs may be booked as pets)
Japanese Chin
King Charles Spaniel
Neapolitan Mastiff
Pekingese
Pug (all breeds)
Shih Tzu
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