Flying with my pet: cabin or hold, and what should I watch out for?
On most airlines, cats and dogs weighing up to 8 kg including the carrier can fly in the cabin; heavier animals travel in the hold. Space is limited, so tell the airline about your pet as soon as you book.
In the cabin: On many airlines, including Turkish Airlines, cats and dogs can fly in the cabin if they weigh no more than 8 kg including the carrier. On Turkish Airlines the carrier can be at most 23 cm high, 30 cm wide and 40 cm long and must fit under the seat in front of you. The animal stays in the carrier for the whole flight.
In the hold (cargo): Animals heavier than 8 kg travel in a temperature- and pressure-controlled hold. The crate must be big enough for the animal to stand up and turn around comfortably. Some airlines don't carry animals in the hold during very hot periods.
Booking: Each flight has limited space for animals, and carrying a pet costs extra; it's not part of your free baggage allowance. Tell the airline about your pet when you book or call them straight away.
Restrictions: Some airlines don't carry snub-nosed breeds (e.g. French Bulldog, Pug, Persian cat) or certain dog breeds. Always check your airline's rules.
Documents: At check-in, the passport, vaccination records and, where needed, the rabies antibody test and health certificate are checked. These documents are mandatory when coming from Turkey.
Preparation: Get your pet used to the carrier a few weeks in advance. Only give sedatives if your vet recommends them.
Where you can get help
- Turkish Airlines: Reisen mit Haustieren
Rules for carrying pets in the cabin and the hold, including weight limits and carrier sizes.
- Zoll: Regelungen für Heimtiere
Official information from German Customs on microchips, rabies vaccination, antibody tests and documents when bringing a pet from outside the EU.
This information is based on community experience and is not legal advice. Rules can change; check important things with the responsible office.