✈️ Flying with Fido: Airline Pet Policies Compared

 

Planning to fly with your dog? Whether you’re relocating, vacationing, or traveling for the holidays, knowing the ins and outs of airline pet policies is essential for a stress-free journey. But not all airlines treat your furry companion the same — fees, restrictions, and procedures vary widely.

We’ve broken down the key pet travel policies from major U.S. airlines to help you find the most dog-friendly option.

 

---

 

 

🧳 What to Know Before Booking

 

Here are a few universal pet travel basics:

 

• Health certificates may be required, especially for cargo travel or international trips.

• Carrier size matters: your dog must fit comfortably and be able to stand, turn, and lie down.

• Advance reservations are usually required for in-cabin and cargo space.

• Breed restrictions are common, especially for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs.

 

 

---

 

 

🐶 Major U.S. Airlines Pet Policy Comparison

 

 

🟦

Alaska Airlines

 

 

• In-cabin pets allowed: Yes (dogs, cats, rabbits, household birds)

• Fee: $100 each way

• Weight limit: Must fit under seat in soft-sided carrier

• Cargo: Yes, for larger pets

• Notes: One of the most pet-friendly airlines overall

 

 

---

 

 

🔵

American Airlines

 

 

• In-cabin pets allowed: Yes (dogs and cats only)

• Fee: $125 each way

• Weight limit: Carrier must fit under seat

• Cargo: Available as “American PetEmbark” (not for all breeds)

• Notes: Breed restrictions for cargo apply

 

 

---

 

 

🔴

Delta Air Lines

 

 

• In-cabin pets allowed: Yes (small dogs, cats, and birds)

• Fee: $95–$125 each way

• Weight limit: Carrier must fit under seat

• Cargo: Available through Delta Cargo (advance booking needed)

• Notes: In-cabin pets not allowed on international flights in some cases

 

 

---

 

 

🟡

Southwest Airlines

 

 

• In-cabin pets allowed: Yes (small cats and dogs only)

• Fee: $95 each way

• Weight limit: Carrier must fit under seat

• Cargo: Not available

• Notes: Great for domestic travel, but no international flights with pets

 

 

---

 

 

🟠

United Airlines

 

 

• In-cabin pets allowed: Yes (dogs and cats)

• Fee: $125 each way

• Weight limit: Carrier must fit under seat

• Cargo: PetSafe cargo program suspended and under review

• Notes: Previously had safety concerns; reworking policies

 

 

---

 

 

✍️ Questions to Ask Before You Fly

 

 

• Does the airline allow pets on the specific route you’re taking?

• Is your dog small enough for cabin travel, or will they need to fly cargo?

• Are there seasonal weather restrictions for cargo pets?

• Do you need vet documentation or a USDA health certificate?

• What breeds are restricted or banned?

 

 

---