How to Ship a Puppy Safely: Air and Ground Options
Many of our families live far from Kansas, so shipping a puppy is something we do carefully and often. Moving a young puppy over long distances is not a casual decision, and I do not take it lightly. This guide explains how our shipping works so you know what to expect.
You can also read the full details on our shipping page.
Why puppies need preparation
Our puppies are prepared for travel from birth. They are acclimated to crates, handled constantly by different people, and trained to be patient and trusting. Every puppy is crate acclimated whether it is shipped or picked up, so the process is calmer for them.
Preparation also includes a vet health check and the documents needed for travel.
Air shipping
Air shipping costs $500–$600, depending on the puppy’s size and destination. That includes airfare for the puppy, the puppy crate, certificates and personal delivery to the airport. Pick up for the puppy is the same day.
As of May 2021, we only fly puppies on American Airlines and Alaskan Airlines because they meet our scheduling needs. We prefer Springfield-Branson National Airport, Kansas City International Airport and Tulsa International Airport. We take puppies to the airport ourselves.
Temperature limits and exceptions
Air shipping is only undertaken when the ambient temperature at both the origin and destination airports is between 20°F and 85°F. This protects the puppy, so in very hot or cold weather we may recommend ground shipping or a different date.
We do not offer shipping to Hawaii at this time.
Ground shipping
Ground shipping is done by a professional provider and ranges from $315 to $700 depending on distance. You will usually receive your puppy within 2 to 3 days. Ground shippers share photos and updates on the way so you always know how your puppy is doing.
Ground shipping can be a good option for families who prefer to avoid airports or when the weather does not allow air travel.
Pickup options
If you pick up your puppy directly from us in Mulberry, there is no delivery charge. If you wish to fly into the Joplin airport, we will meet you there with no additional charge. That free meeting applies to Joplin only.
Visiting in person lets you see the farm, meet the parents and take your puppy home yourself.
Before your puppy travels
We handle the paperwork, health inspections and legal requirements, and provide a professional crate. You should prepare your home before the puppy arrives. See our first week guide.
To start the process, contact us or call (620) 764-3565 and we will plan the best route for your puppy.
What to expect on delivery day
On the day your puppy travels, we confirm the flight and the arrival time with you. Plan to arrive early and bring your ID. At the airport you will pick up your puppy in its crate, and it may be sleepy or excited. Take it straight to a quiet spot, offer water and a potty break, and then head home.
Do not be alarmed if your puppy is tired. A long trip is a big day, and they usually bounce back after a nap and a meal.
Common questions about shipping
Is it safe? Puppies fly in dedicated climate controlled areas, and we only fly when temperatures are within safe limits. Will my puppy be scared? Puppies are acclimated to crates and handled by many people from birth, which helps them stay calm.
What if there is a delay? We choose flights that fit our schedule and monitor the trip. If weather makes travel unsafe, we change the plan. You can always call us at (620) 764-3565 for updates.
Choosing between air, ground and pickup
If speed matters and the weather is mild, air shipping gets the puppy to you the same day. If you prefer not to use an airport or the weather is extreme, ground shipping is calm and steady. If you can travel, pickup lets you meet the parents and see the farm.
Whichever you choose, we will help you plan it. See the shipping page for all the details.
Questions to ask any shipper
If you ever ship a puppy with another breeder, ask who handles the puppy, what airline or ground company is used, how temperature limits are managed, what is included in the price and how you will receive updates. Ask how the puppy has been prepared for the crate.
A shipper should be able to answer clearly. At F&M Corgis, we personally take puppies to the airport and handle the paperwork, so you deal with one person.
Preparing for arrival
Have a crate, water, a small amount of the puppy's food and a towel ready. Pick a quiet room for the first evening. Save our number and the airline or shipper's number in your phone.
After arrival, offer water and a potty break, let the puppy rest and schedule a vet visit within a few days. Our first week guide walks you through what comes next.
Common questions about shipping
Can I come to the airport with you? Call Michelle to talk about options. Will my puppy travel alone? Puppies fly in a crate with certificates and are met at the destination. Can you ship in summer? Air shipping is only done when temperatures at both airports are between 20°F and 85°F, so summer and winter may need ground or a different date.
Do you ship to Alaska? Call us and we will review the options.