Restricted Dog Breeds: 2026 Global Travel Map & Country Bans

Is your dog breed banned? Use our interactive 2026 map to check global dog breed restrictions, country bans, and travel rules for Pit Bulls, XL Bullies, and more.

Your Questions About Breed Bans and Travel

What does it mean if my dog is on a restricted breed list?

Think of a restricted list as a “yellow light” for travel. It doesn’t always mean your dog is banned, but it does mean there are extra hoops to jump through. Depending on where you are headed in 2026, this might mean your dog needs to wear a muzzle in public, you might need a specific type of liability insurance, or you may need to apply for a special permit before you even book your flight.

Which breeds usually run into trouble at the border?

While every country has its own rules, certain breeds are flagged more often than others. This typically includes “bully” breeds like Pit Bull Terriers and the XL Bully, but it can also include Rottweilers, Dobermans, and even some Mastiff types. Some countries even have rules for “snub-nosed” breeds because of the health risks associated with flying, so it is always worth checking the specific list for your destination.

How do authorities decide what breed my dog is?

This is where it gets tricky for owners of mixed breeds. In many cases, officials look at “visual characteristics” rather than DNA tests or official papers. If a dog looks like a restricted breed—even if they are a total mutt—they might be treated as one. This is why having clear photos and a vet-certified breed letter can be a lifesaver when navigating customs.

Can I still fly with a dog that is considered “dangerous” in some countries?

Yes, but your choice of airline will be your biggest hurdle. Even if a country allows your dog, an airline might refuse to fly them. Many carriers have their own internal lists of breeds they won’t transport. You’ll need to coordinate between the country’s laws and the airline’s safety policies, which often involve using a reinforced travel crate.

Are these laws actually changing in 2026?

Absolutely. Breed legislation is incredibly fluid. For example, the UK has recently tightened rules significantly, and the EU is introducing new traceability requirements in April 2026. We built this map because a rule that applied last year might not exist today. Always double-check the “Last Updated” date on our map before you start your paperwork.

What should I do if my dog’s breed is banned at my destination?

If a country has a total ban on a breed, there is usually very little wiggle room, and attempting to “sneak” a dog in can lead to them being seized or deported. Your best bet is to look for “pet-friendly” alternatives nearby. For example, if one country in Europe has a strict ban, a neighboring country might have no restrictions at all, allowing you to settle nearby and still enjoy your move.

Useful Tips for Traveling with Restricted Breeds in 2026

• Secure a Breed Certification Letter: Ask a veterinarian to provide an official letter on letterhead describing your dog’s breed, temperament, and physical characteristics. This can help if an official at a border or airline gate questions your dog’s lineage.
• Invest in an IATA CR82 Crate: Many airlines require breeds labeled as “aggressive” or “powerful” to travel in reinforced CR82 wooden or metal crates rather than standard plastic ones.
• Check the “April 2026” EU Rule: If your travel plans include Europe after April 2026, ensure your dog’s microchip is registered in a database that is compatible with the new EU traceability requirements.
• Check Layover Rules: Even if your departure and arrival countries allow your dog, your layover country might not. Verify that your dog can safely transition through a hub airport before booking.