Thinking of flying with your dog? Many airlines allow dogs, but you’ll want to be prepared to make the flight as easy as possible for you and your dog. If you’re flying with your dog, always communicate with the airline in advance, ideally at the time of purchasing tickets.
The airlines will walk you through their pet policies. They will also confirm if there is room for your dog on the flight, as most airlines only allow a small number of dogs in the cabin. Dogs must either fly in a carrier under the seat in front of you, or in a crate in cargo. As much as you might love your dog, it’s not possible to purchase an airline seat for your dog.
The only dogs permitted to fly openly in the cabin of commercial airlines are trained service dogs assisting people with disabilities. As of 2021, emotional support animals are considered pets, and aren’t permitted to fly with their owners unless they’re in a carrier.
Ever found yourself wondering if your little furball can join you on that flight to visit grandma or your beach vacation? Good news! The answer is yes you absolutely can take a small dog on an airplane – but there are some important things you need to know first.
As a frequent traveler with my tiny Yorkie, Bella, I’ve navigated the sometimes confusing world of pet travel policies across multiple airlines. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about flying with your small dog in 2025, from airline policies to carrier requirements and helpful tips for a stress-free journey.
Quick Answer: Yes, You Can Take a Small Dog on an Airplane!
Most major airlines allow small dogs to travel in-cabin as long as they
- Fit in an airline-approved carrier under the seat in front of you
- Meet the airline’s weight restrictions (typically under 20 lbs including carrier)
- Have required health documentation
- Have a reservation (airlines limit the number of pets per flight)
Which Airlines Allow Small Dogs in Cabin?
Here’s a breakdown of major airlines that welcome your furry friend on board in 2025:
| Airline | Max Weight | Carrier Size Limit | One-Way Fee | International? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 20 lbs | Varies by aircraft | $125 | Yes (restrictions apply) |
| Delta | No specific limit* | Varies by aircraft | $95-125 | Yes (restrictions apply) |
| United | 20 lbs | 46 x 28 x 28 cm (soft) | $125 | Yes (restrictions apply) |
| Southwest | Must fit carrier | 43 x 34 x 21 cm | $95 | No (except service animals) |
| Alaska Airlines | 20 lbs | 43 x 28 x 24 cm | $100 | Yes |
| JetBlue | 20 lbs | 17″ x 12.5″ x 8.5″ | $125 | Yes (with restrictions) |
*Dog must fit comfortably in carrier under the seat
Other airlines that allow small dogs in cabin include:
- Air Canada
- Air Europa
- Air France
- Aegean Airlines
- Lufthansa
- TAP Air Portugal
- TUI
- Turkish Airlines
- Vueling
Requirements for Flying with a Small Dog in Cabin
Before you book those tickets, here’s what you’ll need to consider:
1. Weight and Size Limits
Most airlines have a combined weight limit of around 20 lbs for your dog and carrier together. Your pup needs to fit comfortably in the carrier, being able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally.
2. Carrier Requirements
Airlines are strict about pet carriers. Generally, they must:
- Fit under the seat in front of you (dimensions vary by airline and aircraft)
- Be leak-proof and well-ventilated
- Have secure closures
- Allow your pet to move comfortably
- Be free of tears, cracks, or breaks
Soft-sided carriers are often recommended as they can compress slightly to fit under different seat configurations.
3. Health Documentation
Most airlines require some form of health documentation:
- Health certificate issued by a vet within 10 days of travel
- Proof of vaccinations (especially rabies)
- For international travel: additional documentation like pet passports or import permits
4. Booking and Fees
✅ Book early! Airlines limit the number of pets allowed in cabin (usually 4-6 per flight).
✅ Expect to pay between $95-$125 each way for your pet to fly in cabin.
✅ Your pet carrier counts as either your carry-on bag or personal item on most airlines.
Airline-Specific Policies for Small Dogs
Let’s look at some specific airline policies for flying with your small dog:
American Airlines Pet Policy
American Airlines allows small dogs in the cabin if they:
- Weigh no more than 20 lbs including the carrier
- Are at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel
- Stay in their carrier at all times
- Have appropriate health documentation
The fee is $125 each way, and you can’t bring small dogs in the premium cabins on certain Boeing aircraft due to space limitations.
Important: AA doesn’t allow brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers due to breathing concerns.
Delta Air Lines Pet Policy
Delta allows small dogs in cabin with these rules:
- Dog must fit comfortably in carrier under the seat
- Must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic travel
- Fee is $95-125 depending on your destination
- Not permitted in bulkhead or emergency exit rows
Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
Southwest allows small dogs with these requirements:
- Carrier must fit under the seat (no specific weight limit)
- Only domestic flights (no international except for service animals)
- Fee is $95 each way
- Only 6 pets allowed per flight, so book early!
Tips for a Stress-Free Flight with Your Small Dog
After flying with Bella multiple times, I’ve learned a few tricks that can make the experience much better for both of you:
Before Your Flight
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Visit the vet – Make sure your dog is healthy enough to fly and get any required documentation.
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Practice with the carrier – Get your dog comfortable with their carrier weeks before the flight. Place treats inside and gradually increase the time they spend in it.
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Exercise before flying – A good long walk or play session before heading to the airport can help your dog be calmer during the flight.
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Book a direct flight – Fewer takeoffs and landings mean less stress for your pup.
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Check carrier dimensions – Double-check that your carrier meets the specific dimensions for your airline and aircraft.
Day of Travel
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Limit food and water – Feed your dog a small meal about 4 hours before the flight to prevent accidents.
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Arrive early – You’ll need extra time for check-in with a pet.
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Visit pet relief areas – Most airports have designated pet relief areas. Use them right before boarding.
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Bring familiar comforts – A favorite toy or blanket with your scent can help keep your dog calm.
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Consider calming aids – Talk to your vet about natural calming treats or supplements if your dog is anxious.
What About Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals?
Service dogs are different from pets and can fly for free in the cabin regardless of size. However, emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer given special privileges by most airlines as of 2021 policy changes. ESAs now must follow the same rules as pets.
Restricted Breeds and Special Cases
Be aware that many airlines restrict certain dog breeds, particularly brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like:
- French Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Boston Terriers
- Shih Tzus
- Boxers
These restrictions exist because these breeds are more vulnerable to respiratory issues at altitude.
International Travel with Small Dogs
If you’re traveling internationally with your small dog, the requirements become much more complex:
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Research country-specific requirements – Every country has different entry requirements for pets.
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Timing matters – Some countries require vaccinations to be given within specific timeframes.
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Microchips – Many countries require ISO-standard microchips.
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Rabies titer tests – Some countries require blood tests to prove rabies immunity.
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Quarantine – Some destinations (like Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand) have mandatory quarantine periods.
When Your Dog Can’t Fly in Cabin
If your dog doesn’t meet the requirements for cabin travel, you have options:
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Cargo travel – Larger dogs may need to travel in the temperature-controlled cargo hold (though many airlines have suspended this option).
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Pet shipping services – Companies like PetRelocation specialize in pet transport.
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Alternative transportation – Consider driving, train travel, or even private pet-friendly charter flights.
Final Thoughts
Taking your small dog on an airplane is absolutely doable with proper planning. The key is understanding airline policies and preparing well in advance.
I still remember the first time I flew with Bella – I was so nervous! But after researching the requirements and preparing her properly, she slept through most of the flight. Now we’re seasoned travelers together.
Remember that each airline has its own specific policies, so always check directly with your carrier before booking. With the right preparation, you and your furry friend can have a smooth journey to your destination.
Safe travels to you and your four-legged companion!
Key Takeaways
- Small dogs under 20 lbs can fly in-cabin on most major airlines
- Expect to pay $95-$125 each way for in-cabin pet travel
- Book early as airlines limit the number of pets per flight
- Health certificates and proper carriers are essential
- Practice with the carrier before your trip
- Be aware of breed restrictions and international requirements
Have you flown with your small dog? Share your experiences in the comments below!
What to Bring When Flying with Your Dog
When getting ready to fly with your dog, it’s important to pack everything they’ll need for the flight and your trip. Things to pack for your dog include:
- Proof of vaccinations: Check to see if you’ll need to have a health certificate signed by your veterinarian. Even if it’s not required, it can be useful to have these documents with you, just in case. Be sure to check the entry requirements, including information about quarantines for any destinations where you and your dog will be flying.
- Airline-approved carrier: Confirm if your carrier meets the size requirements of your airline and your specific flight. Airline carriers should be waterproof and provide your dog with as much room as possible. Dogs must be able to sit, stand, lay down, and turn around inside the carriers.
- Portable water bowl for your dog
- Portable food bowl for your dog and a small amount of food in a baggie inside your carry-on luggage: This is especially important in case your flight gets delayed.
- Treats for your dog
- Poop bags
- Pet wipes: These are a great option for easy cleanup if your dog gets sick while traveling.
- A chew for your dog: This can be especially helpful for dogs during takeoff and landing to help make the pressure changes more comfortable for them.
How to Prepare Your Dog for Flying
The value of familiarizing your dog with their crate prior to flying cannot be overstated when it comes to improving the quality of their travel experience. Before your trip, you’ll want to prepare your dog for the experience of flying. Expose your dog to their crate early, so they’re comfortable and familiar with being in a carrier for long periods of time. Let your dog explore their crate at home where they feel safe and pair going into the crate with praise and treats.
It can be helpful to bring your dog to loud and crowded dog-friendly places, like bus stations and dog-friendly stores. This will help your dog be more prepared for the sights and sounds of the airport. Airlines require that dogs must be well-behaved when flying, meaning that dogs shouldn’t be excessively barking, and cannot growl, or act aggressively. To prepare for a flight, it can be helpful to train and practice to earn your dog’s CGC title before your trip. The skills learned for the CGC, such as walking through a crowd or behaving politely around other dogs, will help prepare your dog for being in an airport. Training more specific to how your dog must behave on a plane can also be useful. For example, some dog trainers set up rows of chairs to simulate an airplane to teach a dog how to sit under a seat in a carrier.
How To Fly With Your Dog In The Cabin In 2025 | Our experience bringing our Westie puppy on a plane
FAQ
Can I take my Dog on a plane?
The airlines will walk you through their pet policies. They will also confirm if there is room for your dog on the flight, as most airlines only allow a small number of dogs in the cabin. Dogs must either fly in a carrier under the seat in front of you, or in a crate in cargo.
Can a dog fly with one airline?
Only certain airlines have these breed restrictions, so while you may not be able to fly with one airline, you may be able to fly with another. However, it’s important that you are confident your dog is healthy enough to fly. Related post: 21 Dog Breeds That Can Fly in Cabin Documents required for flying with dogs in-cabin.
Can a dog fly on a plane in Europe?
The majority of airlines in Europe permit dogs to fly in the cabin and in the hold as checked baggage. The main exception are some of the budget airlines, with both Ryanair and Easyjet not allowing pets to fly, only service dogs. Additionally, some airlines only permit pets to fly in the cabin, not in the hold.
Can you take a dog on a plane to Hawaii?
First-class cabins can accommodate a total of three pet carriers per flight. The main cabin can accommodate eight pet carriers per flight. For international flights or flights to Hawaii, dogs are only permitted in the cabin. You can fly with two pet carriers in the main cabin if you purchase a second ticket for an adjacent seat.
How much weight can a dog carry on a plane?
Weight Limit: Most airlines allow dogs up to 20 lbs (including the carrier) in-cabin. ✔ Carrier Size: Must fit under the seat (typically 18″ x 11″ x 11″ max). ✔ Age Requirement: Puppies must be at least 8 weeks old (some airlines require 16 weeks for international flights).
Can a dog sit on a plane seat?
At no point are dogs allowed to sit on a seat itself. If you do not have your own travel carrier, Aegean Airlines will give you a disposable one, available in domestic airports. The travel container must be placed under the seat in front of the passenger. The carrier must be leak-proof and ventilated.
What are the rules for flying with a small dog?
So to start off, most airlines will say you can bring a small dog in the cabin of the plane if the dog is small enough to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you and is less than about 15-20 pounds (varies by airline). They also need to be in a pet carrier (travel bag) — recommended to be soft-sided.
Can I buy a seat for my small dog on a plane?
Most airlines do not allow passengers to buy their dogs a seat on a plane. However, depending on the dog’s size and breed, as well as the specific airline’s rules, you may be able to pay to have your dog fly with you in the cabin. Usually, only allow small dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin.
Do any airlines allow small dogs in cabins?
Alaska Airlines and American Airlines are often considered one of the most pet-friendly major carriers, allowing a variety of pets including dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds. For larger dogs, JSX and La Compagnie offer more accommodating policies. Keep in mind that dogs cannot sit in an emergency exit row of any airline.Mar 14, 2025
What size dog can fit under an airplane seat?
American Airlines
The animal must fit at your feet, or in your lap if “smaller than a 2-year old child,” according to the airline website. If in a kennel, its size must be no larger than 18-by-8-by-14 inches and fit under the seat in front. The animal must be 4 months or older.