How Are Dogs Transported on Airplanes? The Complete 2025 Guide

Have you ever wondered what happens when your furry friend needs to travel by air? As a pet parent who’s helped countless clients navigate the complexities of flying with dogs I can tell you it’s not as simple as buying an extra ticket! With over 4 million pets transported via plane annually (according to IPATA) understanding the process is crucial for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how dogs are transported on airplanes in 2025, from airline policies to preparation tips that’ll make the journey smoother for everyone involved.

The Three Ways Dogs Travel on Planes

When it comes to flying with your pup, there are three main transportation methods airlines offer:

1. In-cabin travel (for small dogs)
2. Cargo hold transportation (for medium to large dogs)
3. Service animal accommodations (for qualified service dogs)

Let’s dig into each option so you can figure out which one works best for your situation!

In-Cabin Dog Transportation

For small pups who meet the weight requirements, traveling in the cabin with you is usually the most comfortable option.

Key requirements for in-cabin travel:

• Weight limit: Most airlines restrict in-cabin pets to around 20 pounds (including the carrier)
• Carrier size: Must fit under the seat in front of you (typically 18″ x 11″ x 11″ max)
• Age requirement: Puppies must be at least 8 weeks old (sometimes 16 weeks for international flights)
• Fees: Expect to pay between $95-$125 per flight segment
• Limited spots: Airlines typically allow only 4-6 pets in the cabin per flight

Flying with your dog in the cabin means they’ll stay with you throughout the journey, which significantly reduces stress for both of you. Your dog must remain in their carrier under the seat during the entire flight, but at least you can check on them periodically.

Pro Tip: Book your flight early! Those limited pet spots fill up fast, especially during holiday travel seasons.

Cargo Hold Transportation

For larger dogs who can’t fit under a seat, the cargo hold becomes the only option with most airlines. Here’s what you need to know about this method:

Cargo hold transportation basics:

• Required for dogs over 20 pounds on most airlines
• Dogs must travel in airline-approved hard-sided kennels with proper ventilation
• Subject to temperature restrictions (typically no flying if temps exceed 85°F or drop below 45°F)
• More expensive than cabin travel (fees vary widely between airlines)
• Not available on all flights or airlines

It’s worth noting that as of 2025, only three major U.S. airlines still transport dogs in cargo:

• Hawaiian Airlines
• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines

Cargo vs. Checked Baggage: What’s the Difference?

These terms often get confused, but they represent different processes:

Checked Baggage: Your dog travels on the same flight as you, handled similarly to regular luggage but with special care for live animals.

Cargo: Your dog is transported through the airline’s cargo system, potentially on a different flight, requiring additional processing time and often higher fees.

Important note: No airline allows brachycephalic breeds (like French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers) in the cargo hold due to their breathing difficulties at altitude.

Airline Policies for Flying with Dogs in 2025

Each airline has its own set of rules, so I’ve put together this handy comparison chart based on current policies:

Always check the latest policies directly with your airline before booking, as these can change without notice.

The Step-by-Step Process of Shipping a Dog by Air

Let’s break down exactly what happens when your dog flies:

For In-Cabin Travel:

1. Booking: Reserve a spot for your pet when booking your ticket (additional fee applies)
2. Pre-flight vet visit: Get required health documentation (varies by airline/destination)
3. Airport arrival: Check in at the main counter (arrive 2-4 hours early)
4. Security screening: Your dog will go through security (either in the carrier or held by you while the carrier is screened)
5. Boarding: Keep your dog in their carrier under the seat for the duration of the flight
6. Arrival: Exit the plane with your pet still in their carrier

For Cargo Travel:

1. Booking: Make cargo arrangements (often through a separate cargo department)
2. Vet visit: Obtain health certificate and required vaccinations
3. Kennel preparation: Secure proper-sized airline-approved kennel with water bowl
4. Airport drop-off: Arrive 2-4 hours before flight at the cargo facility (usually separate from passenger terminal)
5. Loading: Airline staff secures the kennel in the pressurized, climate-controlled cargo hold
6. Transit: During the flight, dogs remain in their kennels in the cargo area
7. Arrival: Pick up your dog at the destination cargo facility (not baggage claim)

We’ve helped many clients through this process, and while it seems complicated, proper preparation makes everything go smoother!

Documents & Health Requirements for Flying with Dogs

Before your dog can board that plane, you’ll need to gather some important paperwork:

• Health Certificate: Most airlines require a vet-issued certificate within 10 days of travel
• Vaccination Records: Proof of rabies and other core vaccinations
• Pet Passport: For international travel (includes identification, vaccination history, and health status)
• Import Permits: Some destinations like Hawaii, Australia, and the UK have strict entry requirements

For international travel, requirements get more complex. Some countries require:

• Microchipping before vaccination
• Blood titer tests
• Specific timing between vaccinations and travel
• Quarantine periods upon arrival

Australia, for example, has one of the strictest pet import processes, requiring multiple vet visits, tests, and a mandatory 10-day quarantine.

How to Prepare Your Dog for Air Travel

Getting your dog ready for their flight is just as important as the paperwork!

Physical preparation:

• Schedule a vet checkup to ensure your dog is healthy enough to fly
• Make sure your dog is comfortable in their carrier (practice sessions at home help!)
• Trim nails to prevent catching on carrier doors or ventilation holes
• Exercise your dog thoroughly before the flight to help them rest during travel

Carrier preparation:

• Use an airline-approved carrier (soft-sided for cabin, hard-sided for cargo)
• Label the carrier with your contact information and destination details
• Line it with absorbent material (but nothing too thick that reduces ventilation)
• Attach secure food and water containers for cargo travel
• Include a favorite toy or item with your scent for comfort

Tip: Most airlines discourage sedation for dogs during air travel as it can affect their ability to regulate body temperature and breathing at altitude. Always consult your vet about travel anxiety solutions.

Tips for a Stress-Free Flight with Your Dog

After helping countless dog owners navigate air travel, I’ve picked up some useful tricks:

• Book direct flights whenever possible to minimize stress and handling
• Travel during moderate temperatures to avoid heat or cold embargoes for cargo
• Use pet-friendly airports with designated relief areas (Dallas-Fort Worth and Denver are great!)
• Freeze water in the dish attached to the kennel so it melts gradually without spilling
• Limit food before the flight to reduce bathroom needs
• Attach feeding instructions to the kennel for longer flights
• Place an old t-shirt with your scent in the carrier for comfort
• Never put a leash or collar inside a closed kennel (safety hazard)

What If Your Dog Can’t Fly with You?

Sometimes flying with your dog isn’t possible due to their size, breed restrictions, or your destination’s requirements. Alternative options include:

• Professional pet transportation services like CitizenShipper or Starwood Pet Travel
• Ground transportation for domestic moves (often less stressful for your pet)
• Pet sitters or boarding facilities if your trip is temporary
• Flight nannies who accompany your pet throughout their journey

For international relocations especially, professional pet transportation companies can be worth their weight in gold for navigating complex regulations.

Final Thoughts on Flying with Dogs

Flying with your furry friend requires careful planning, but it’s definitely doable with the right preparation. The most important thing is to prioritize your dog’s safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Remember these key points:

• Start planning early (at least 30 days before domestic travel, 6+ months for international)
• Choose the right transportation method based on your dog’s size and temperament
• Check and double-check airline policies before booking
• Prepare all required documentation well in advance
• Make your dog’s comfort a priority with proper carrier conditioning

Have you flown with your dog before? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below! And if you’re planning an upcoming trip with your pup, feel free to reach out with any questions.

Safe travels to you and your four-legged family members!

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This article was last updated on September 17, 2025. Airline policies may change, so always verify current requirements directly with your carrier before traveling with your pet.

Dogs can travel on planes either in a pet carrier under the seat in the passenger cabin (for small dogs) or as cargo in a pressurized, climate-controlled hold (for larger dogs). Requirements include a properly sized, secure, and ventilated carrier, health certificates, and an additional pet fee.

Shipping a dog by plane can cost $300 to $2,500 or more, depending on factors like dog size, the airline, travel method (in-cabin vs. cargo), origin, destination, and additional services like vet visits, health certificates, and specialized crates.

Yes, flying in cargo can be a stressful and potentially traumatic experience for some dogs due to the unfamiliar environment, loud noises, changes in air pressure, and separation from their owners. However, the stress levels vary significantly, with some dogs tolerating the experience well and others experiencing high stress.