Five dog breeds that may face UK pet passport issues according to vet

Five dog breeds that may face UK pet passport issues according to vet Dog owners have been urged to think ahead and not jump to plan anything without considering these issues Five dog breeds could face challenges if their owners apply for pet passports, according to a vet. The alert comes as UK pet passports could make a comeback, making it easier to travel with pets. Under proposals, pets would be able to move between Great Britain and the EU without needing a new Animal Health Certificate for each trip. Reports suggest the scheme, if approved, could be introduced in 2028. Government guidance online says: "Travelling to the EU with pet dogs, cats and ferrets is expected to become easier and cheaper. Pet owners will be able to get a multiuse pet passport valid for EU travel, rather than obtaining a new animal health certificate for each trip. " During a UK Parliament question time on the Pet Travel Scheme and its fees, a response was given on the subject by Stephen Morgan on October 12 2026. He is the Labour MP serving as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). He said: "This Government remains committed to concluding the SPS [Sanitary and Phytosanitary] agreement ahead of the next UK-EU Summit on November 20, 2026. Instead of getting an Animal Health Certificate each time they travel, pet owners will be able to get a multi-use pet passport valid for travel to the EU. "All fees for Animal Health Certificates are set by veterinary surgeons or veterinary practices and are a private matter between individual practices and their clients and neither the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), the UK regulator of the veterinary profession, nor Defra intervene in the level of fees that are charged." Some owners should leave pets at home While some owners may be eager to take their pets on holiday, Dr Linda Simon, resident vet at Pooch & Mutt, says travelling abroad won’t be equally easy for every dog. Certain breeds come with extra legal, health or welfare considerations - something owners should factor in. "While the return of pet passports could make international travel much easier for many dog owners, it's important to remember that travel suitability goes beyond paperwork alone," says Dr Linda. "Certain breeds may face additional hurdles due to health conditions, breed-specific legislation or the challenges associated with long journeys and unfamiliar environments. Before travelling, owners should always check the latest regulations and consider whether the trip is appropriate for their individual dog." 5 dog breeds that may face pet passport issues The five breeds Dr Linda says owners should think carefully about before travelling abroad are: 1. XL Bully While exempt XL Bullies can legally be kept in England and Wales if owners comply with strict requirements, travelling abroad can be more complicated due to varying breed-specific legislation across Europe. "Owners of XL Bullies should thoroughly research the rules in both their destination country and any countries they may travel through," says Dr Linda. "Some nations have breed-specific restrictions in place. This could affect travel plans regardless of whether the dog has the correct paperwork." 2. French Bulldog French Bulldogs are among the UK's most popular breeds, but their flat-faced anatomy can make travel more challenging. Dr Linda warns: "French Bulldogs are what's known as a brachycephalic breed. "This means they have shortened airways, which can make breathing less efficient. Long journeys, warm temperatures and stressful environments may be more difficult for them to manage compared to other dogs." 3. Pug Pugs can face similar challenges due to their shortened muzzle and increased risk of breathing difficulties. "Because Pugs can sometimes struggle to regulate their body temperature effectively, owners should take extra care when travelling to warmer climates," says Dr Linda. "Keeping them cool, comfortable and hydrated throughout the journey is essential." 4. English Bulldog English Bulldogs can also be vulnerable to overheating and respiratory issues, particularly during periods of stress. The veterinary expert stresses: "Before travelling abroad, I would recommend owners speak with their vet to ensure their Bulldog is healthy enough for the journey and destination. A pre-travel health check can help identify any potential concerns before they become a problem." 5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel While generally wonderful travel companions, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are predisposed to certain heart conditions that may warrant additional consideration. "Many Cavaliers can travel without any issues at all," says Dr Linda. "However, because the breed has an increased risk of heart disease, owners should seek veterinary advice before embarking on long journeys, especially if their dog is older or has a pre-existing condition." What are the signs that my dog hates travelling? Regardless of breed, Dr Linda says owners should look out for signs that their dog may be struggling with travel-related anxiety. These can include: - Excessive panting - Pacing or restlessness - Trembling - Excessive drooling - Vocalisation - Refusing food or treats - Difficulty settling during or after a journey Some dogs naturally adapt well to travelling. But other dogs can find the experience overwhelming, Dr Linda reminds owners. "It's important not to force dogs into situations that cause significant distress. Gradual exposure, positive reinforcement and plenty of preparation can often help build confidence over time." For dogs that become anxious when travelling, owners could consider calming supplements as one element of a broader behaviour and travel-preparation plan. The expert suggests: "For more anxious dogs, taking gradual steps to build confidence ahead of a trip is key. Alongside positive training and careful preparation, some owners find calming nutritional support helpful during periods of change." While pet passports are expected to simplify European travel, Dr Linda stresses that owners should focus on their dog's welfare as much as the paperwork. "Every dog is an individual," she says. "Before booking a trip, make sure you're not only meeting the legal requirements, such as ensuring your dog is microchipped, has a valid rabies vaccination and receives any necessary tapeworm treatment, but also considering whether the journey is likely to be safe, comfortable and enjoyable for them. "A conversation with your vet beforehand can help ensure you're making the best decision for your pet."