21 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In Cabin [2023 Pet Policies] - Pets That Travel (2024)

Traveling with our furry companions has become increasingly popular, and many airlines have recognized the importance of accommodating passengers’ beloved dogs. Instead of leaving them behind or entrusting them to a pet sitter, more and more pet owners are seeking airlines that allow flying with dogs in the cabin. Most airlines will only allow flying with small dogs in cabin, however there are some semi-private airlines that will allow larger dogs on board.

This article will explore several airlines that go the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for both humans and their four-legged friends. From pet policies to cabin requirements, let’s dive into the top airlines that warmly welcome dogs on board.

The following airlines allow flying with dogs in-cabin:

  1. Aegean Airlines
  2. Air Canada
  3. Air Europa
  4. Air France
  5. Alaska Air
  6. American Airlines
  7. Delta
  8. French Bee
  9. JetBlue
  10. Lufthansa
  11. Southwest
  12. TAP Air Portugal
  13. TUI Fly
  14. Turkish Airlines
  15. United Airlines
  16. Vueling
  17. Aero (semi-private)
  18. BLADE (semi-private)
  19. JSX (semi-private)
  20. Surf Air (semi-private)
  21. Tradewind Aviation (semi-private)

Related post:
Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe?
Airlines that Allow Flying with a Large Dog in Cabin [Pet Policies]

Which airlines allow flying with dogs in cabin?

Aegean Airlines Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8 kg (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
  • Cost: 30 EUR domestic and 60 EUR international (prices differ depending on time of year)
  • International: Yes

Additional information:

  • In case you are travelling with an infant, you are not allowed to fly with a dog in cabin as well.
  • Each passenger is allowed to travel with only one (1) dog in cabin, carried within a special box/container.
  • Dogs must have a valid anti-rabies vaccination and microchip.

Dog Age / Breed Restrictions:

  • Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old.
  • The following breeds are not permitted:
    • American Bully ▪ Cavalier king Charles Spaniel ▪ Pinscher ▪ Boston Terrier ▪ Affenpinscher ▪ Boxer (All breeds) ▪ Brussels Griffon ▪ Bulldog (All breeds) ▪ Cane Corso ▪ Chow Chow ▪ Dogue De Bordeaux ▪ English Toy Spaniel (King Charles Spaniel) ▪ Japanese Spaniel (Chin) ▪ Lhasa Apso ▪ Mastiff (All breeds) ▪ Pekingese ▪ Pit Bull ▪ Presa Canario ▪ Pug (All breeds) ▪ Staffordshire Bull Terrier ▪ Shar Pei ▪ Shih Tzu ▪ Tibetan Spaniel

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Dogs must remain in their travel carriers at all times, with the door securely closed.
  • 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.
  • The carrier must be free of tears, cracks or breaks.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • You may not occupy an exit or bulkhead row.
  • You may not sit in the first row or the emergency exit row and the adjacent ones.
  • Dogs are not permitted in the cabin on flights to the UK.

Visit Aegean’s websitefor more information.

Air Canada Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight:22 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 27 x 40 x 55 cm (soft-sided crate) & 23 x 40 x 55 cm (hard-sided crate)
  • Cost: $50-59 CAD within Canada & USA and $100-118 CAD international
  • International allowed: Yes

Additional information:

  • Your dog in its carrier will count as one standard item toward your carry-on baggage allowance.
  • Only one dog or small dog per passenger is permitted.
  • Your dog cannot travel with you if you:
      • Are an unaccompanied minor
      • Are seated in an exit or bulkhead row
      • Require use of a medical device that will be stowed under the seat
      • Are travelling in Premium Economy

Dog Age Restrictions:

  • Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old and must be fully weaned.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Dogs flying in cabin must remain in their travel carriers at all times.
  • At no point are dogs allowed to sit on a seat itself.
  • Your dog’s travel carrier must fit under the seat directly in front of you.
  • The carrier must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
  • The carrier must be free of tears, cracks or breaks.
  • Up to 2 dogs may travel in the same carrier, provided no body parts protrude from the carrier and the animals are not in distress.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • You may not occupy an exit or bulkhead row.
  • On flights operated by their Aribus fleet, pets may not travel in the First Class cabin.
  • On Boeing 789and 788 aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H20 x W40 x L43 cm
  • On Boeing 777-300ERand777-200LR aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H21 x W38 x L43 cm

For more info, visitAir Canada’s website.

Related post:
Requirements for Taking Pets to Canada [Pet Passport Guide]

Air Europa Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8kg (10kg including carrier) or 6kg on flights operated by ATR
  • Maximum carrier size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
  • Cost: 27-55 USD within Europe and 165 USD long-haul
  • International: Yes

Additional information:

  • Prices subjects to possible surcharges for taxes in certain countries.
  • You must arrive at the airport early enough to complete the necessary paperwork.

Dog Age Restrictions:

  • Dogs must be at least 3 months old to travel on medium and long haul flights.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Dogs flying in cabin must remain in their travel carriers at all times.
  • Your dog’s travel carrier must fit under the seat directly in front of you.
  • The carrier must be leak-proof and well ventilated.
  • The carrier must be free of tears, cracks or breaks.
  • Up to 3 dogs may travel in the same carrier, provided they do not exceed the permitted dimension/weight restrictions.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Passengers are not permitted to bring pets in the Business cabin.
  • Pets in the cabin may not fly in an emergency or XL seat.

VisitAir Europa’s websitefor more information.

Related post: How to get an EU Pet Passport

Alaska Air Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 9kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size:43 x 28 x 24 cm (soft) / 43 x 28 x 19 cm (hard)
  • Cost: 100 USD each way
  • International: Yes

Additional information:

  • Passengers must be at least 18 years old to travel with a dog in the cabin.
  • Your dog will count as your carry on item, so you aren’t permitted to carry any other item.
  • A customer may travel with a maximum of 2 dog carriers in the main cabin, only when the adjacent seat is purchased by the same customer.
  • Dogs with offensive odours or those that create a noise disturbance must travel in the climate-controlled baggage compartment.

Dog Age Restrictions:

  • Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and must be fully weaned.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Dogs flying in cabin must remain in their travel carriers at all times.
  • At no point are dogs allowed to sit on a seat itself.
  • Your dog’s travel carrier must fit under the seat directly in front of you.
  • The carrier must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
  • The carrier must be free of tears, cracks or breaks.
  • Up to 2 dogs may travel in the same carrier, provided no body parts protrude from the carrier and the animals are not in distress.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • You may not occupy an emergency exit row, or any seat with an airbag safety belt.
  • On flights operated by their Aribus fleet, pets may not travel in the First Class cabin.

VisitAlaska Air’s websitefor more information.

American Airlines Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (call the airline for specific restrictions)
  • Cost: 125 USD each way
  • International: Yes, but no in-cabin dogs on transatlantic flights or flights longer than 12 hours

Additional information:

  • You won’t be permitted to bring on any additional items, as your dog and it’s carrier count as your one carry-on bag.
  • American Airlines will only accept 7 kennels on American flights, and 5 kennels on American Eagle flights.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Your dog’s travel carrier must fit under the seat directly in front of you.
  • The carrier must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
  • Dogs flying in cabin must remain in their travel carriers at all times.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Due to the lack of under-seat storage space, carry-on dogs are not permitted in First or Business on the following Boeing planes:
    • 777-200
    • 777-300
    • 787-8
    • 787-9

For more info on additional restrictions, visitAA’s website.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

Air France Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 24 cm (soft carriers recommended)
  • Cost: 40 EUR domestic and 30-125 EUR international
  • International?: Yes, but note that this airline does not accept dogs in the business cabin on intercontinental flights. The dog must travel in the hold.

Additional information:

  • Each passenger may travel with only 1 animal.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Dogs flying in cabin must remain in their travel carriers at all times.
  • Only 1 animal is permitted per container.
  • The container must fit under the seat in front of you.
  • The kennel must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.

Dog Age restrictions:

  • The following age restrictions apply:
    • Generally your dog must be at least 10 weeks old and have all required vaccines.
    • On flights within metropolitan France and between metropolitan France and Guadeloupe, Martinique and Reunion Island, the minimum age is 8 weeks.
    • On flights between metropolitan France and French Guiana, your dog must be at least 15 weeks old.

Destination Restrictions:

  • Passengers are not permitted to travel with dogs on intercontinental flights, if they are flying in the Business cabin.

For more info, visitAir France’s website.

Delta Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: No limit, but dog must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
  • Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (check the under-seat dimensions on your aircraft here)
  • Cost: 125 USD within North America, 200 USD international and 75 USD to Brazil
  • International:Yes

Carrier Restrictions:

  • The kennel must fit under the seat directly in front of you.
  • The kennel must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
  • Your dog must remain inside the kennel while in a Delta boarding area, a Delta airport lounge and while onboard the aircraft.
  • One adult is permitted per kennel, with the exception of a female dog traveling with her unweaned litter (as long as the litter is between 10 weeks and 6 months of age).
  • Two puppies between the age of 10 weeks and 6 months, of the same breed are permitted in the same carrier.

Dog Age restrictions:

  • The following age restrictions apply:
    • Dogs must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic travel.
    • Dogs must be at least 16 weeks old for travel to/from the U.S.
    • Dogs must be at least 15 weeks old for travel to/from the EU.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Dogs are not permitted as carry-on on the following:
    • Bulkhead, emergency exit row
    • Seats designated as “no stowage”
    • Flat-bed seats
    • Rows 30-35 on the A330-200 aircraft
    • Rows 30-43 on the A330 -300 aircraft
    • Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft

Destination Restrictions:

  • For any travel to or from the following destinations, dogs are not permitted in the cabin:

For more info on additional restrictions, visit Delta’s website.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

French Bee Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size:43x35x20cm
  • Cost: 50€ each way

Additional information:

  • Only one dog is allowed per customer, with a few exceptions.

Dog Breed Restrictions:

  • Sub-nosed animals are not permitted on their flights
    • Breeds include: pugs, bulldogs, boxers, Pekinese and shih tsus
  • Category 1 (attack dogs) and Category 2 dogs (guard and defence dogs) are not permitted to be taken by any one under the age of 18, or by adults subject to guardianship.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Your dog must remain underneath the seat in front of you during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
  • Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be well ventilated.
  • Only soft sided carriers are accepted.
  • Only one pet per carrier is permitted.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Dogs are not permitted as carry-on on the following:
    • Bulkhead seat
    • Emergency exit row
    • Mint seat
    • Any seat that is restricted for under-seat storage
    • Maxi Leg Seat
  • The airlines recommends that you sit in a window or an aisle seat.
  • Only 4 pets are permitted per flight.

For more info, head to French Bee’s website.

JetBlue Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 17″L x 12.5″W x 8.5″H
  • Cost: 125 USD each way
  • International:Yes

Additional information:

  • Only one dog is allowed per customer, with a few exceptions.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Your dog must remain underneath the seat in front of you during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
  • You may hold your dog in your lap during the flight.
  • You may purchase a ticket for the seat next to you, on which you can place your dog’s carrier.
  • Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be well ventilated.
  • Both soft sided and hard sided carriers are accepted.
  • Only one pet per carrier is permitted.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Dogs are not permitted as carry-on on the following:
    • Bulkhead seat
    • Emergency exit row
    • Mint seat
    • Any seat that is restricted for under-seat storage
  • The airlines recommends that you sit in a window or an aisle seat.
  • Only 4 pets are permitted per flight.

Destination Restrictions:

  • For any travel to or from the following destinations, dogs are not permitted in the cabin:
    • London
    • Jamaica
    • Barbados
    • Trinidad & Tobago
    • St. Lucia
    • Cayman Islands

For more info, head to JetBlue’s website.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

Lufthansa Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17.6 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
  • Cost: 50 EUR domestic, 60 EUR international within Europe and 80-110 EUR international outside Europe
  • International: Yes

Additional information:

  • Each passenger is allowed to take a maximum of two animals with them.
  • You must complete this form before boarding your flight.
  • Dogs must be trained to be obedient to your commands and must behave appropriately in public. If your pet interrupts the flight, staff or other passengers, they may be sent to the cargo hold at extra cost.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Only soft sided carriers are accepted.
  • Dogs flying in cabin must remain underneath the seat in front of you.
  • Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be lined with an absorbant material.
  • Carriers must be bite proof and be well ventilated.
  • Only one pet per carrier is permitted. Unless:
    • You have two puppies of similar size and age, who are at least 12 weeks old.
    • You have a mother dog who has a puppy who is dependent on her (0-6 weeks old).
    • 8kg restriction still applies.

Dog Age Restrictions:

  • All dogs must be at least 12 weeks old, or 16 weeks old for journeys to/from the USA.

VisitLufthansa’s websitefor more information.

Southwest Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight:No limit, but must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
  • Maximum carrier size: 43 x 34 x 21 cm
  • Cost: 95 USD each way
  • International:No (with the exception of trained assistance and emotional support animals, though no animals allowed to/from Jamaica)

Additional information:

  • The dog carrier will count either as your carryon bag or personal item.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Passengers are permitted to bring 1 pet carrier only. Each pet carrier can contain no more than 2 of the same species of small dog.
  • Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are permitted.
  • Your dog must remain in the carrier, underneath the seat in front of you.
  • Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be lined with an absorbant material.
  • Carriers must be bite proof and be well ventilated.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Passengers traveling with pets may not occupy the following spaces:
    • Exit seats
    • Seats with no under-seat stowage in front of them

For more info, visitSouthwest’s website.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

TAP Air Portugal Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (including pets and carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 40 x 33 x 17cm
  • Cost: cost varies – check here
  • International: yes

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Passengers traveling with pets in the cabin may select seats that are not located in rows with emergency exit doors or infant stroller apparatus.
  • Dogs are not permitted to be carried in Executive Class on long haul flights.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • More than one dog is permitted per carrier, as long as the weight doesn’t exceed 8kg.
  • Only soft-sided carriers are permitted.
  • Your dog must remain in the carrier, underneath the seat in front of you.
  • Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be lined with an absorbant material.
  • Carriers must be bite proof and be well ventilated.

Destination Restrictions:

  • You are not able to fly into the UK.

Dog Restrictions:

Visit TAP Air’s websitefor more info.

TUI Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (excluding carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (soft-sided crates only)
  • Cost: 50 EUROS
  • International: Yes

Additional information:

  • Your dogs head must not protrude from the transport container and the animal must not leave the container during the flight.
  • All dogs must be fitted with a microchip.
  • Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old.
  • Dogs must be transported in a hygienic watertight bag or basket.
  • The carrier must be big enough so the animal can still stand up.
  • Pregnant dogs are not permitted to fly.
  • Each passenger traveling with a pet must sit by the window.

Visit TUI’s websitefor more information.

Turkish Airlines Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8kg, including pets and carrier.
  • Maximum carrier size: 23 x 30 cm x 40 cm
  • Cost: check here
  • International: depends on flight

Additional information:

  • Dogs are not permitted to travel with unaccompanied minors.
  • Customers can purchase an additional ticket for their trip in order to carry on an additional dog. The dog must remain on the floor underneath the additional seat.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Two small dogs are permitted per carrier, as long as the weight doesn’t exceed 8kg.
  • Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are permitted.
  • Your dog must remain in the carrier, underneath the seat in front of you.
  • Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be lined with an absorbant material.
  • Carriers must be bite proof and be well ventilated.

Dog Age Restrictions:

  • Pregnant animals and puppies or kittens under 10 weeks old are not permitted on Turkish Airlines flights.

Breed Restrictions:

  • Turkish Airlines do not permit transport the dangerous dog breeds such as American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Pitbull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Passengers traveling with pets in the cabin may select seats that are not located in rows with emergency exit doors or infant stroller apparatus.

Visit Turkish Airlines’ websitefor more info.

United Airlines Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight:No limit, but must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
  • Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 28 cm (soft-sided) / 44 x 30 x 19 cm (hard-sided)
  • Cost: 125 USD (+ 125 USD service charge for each stopover of more than four hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours outside the U.S)
  • International: depends on flight (contact the United customer-contact center for info on specific flights)

Additional information:

  • Dogs are not permitted to travel with unaccompanied minors.
  • Customers can purchase an additional ticket for their trip in order to carry on an additional dog. The dog must remain on the floor underneath the additional seat.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Only one dog is permitted per carrier.
  • Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are permitted.
  • Dogs flying in cabin must remain in the carrier, underneath the seat in front of you.
  • Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be lined with an absorbant material.
  • Carriers must be bite proof and be well ventilated.

Dog Age Restrictions:

  • Dogs must be at least 4 months / 16 weeks old.

Breed Restrictions:

  • Pit Bull breed dogs aren’t allowed in cabin.

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Passengers traveling with pets may not occupy the following spaces:
    • Bulkhead seats
    • Emergency exit seats
    • United Premium Plus seat (the footrest limits storage space)
  • Pets are not permitted in cabin on the following aircrafts:
    • Boeing 757-200
    • Boeing 767
    • Boeing 777
    • Boeing 778

Destination Restrictions:

  • United doesn’t allow dogs to fly in-cabin on flights to and from:
    • Australia
    • Cuba
    • Guam
    • Federated States of Micronesia
    • Hawaii
    • Hong Kong
    • India
    • Ireland
    • Marshall Islands
    • New Zealand
    • Palau
    • Panama
    • Philippines
    • Singapore
    • South Africa
    • Tahiti
    • Trinidad and Tobago
    • UK

VisitUnited’s websitefor more info.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

Vueling Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 10 kg (including carrier) or 8kg on flights operated by Iberia
  • Maximum carrier size: 45 x 39 x 21 cm (soft-sided crates only)
  • Cost: 40 EUR domestic and 50 EUR international
  • International: Yes

Additional information:

  • Each passenger can only travel with 1 dog.
  • Only 3 pets are permitted per flight, or 2 on flights operated by Iberia.

Carrier Restrictions:

  • Your dog must remain in the carrier, underneath the seat in front of you.
  • You must not take your dog out of the pet carrier until you have disembarked.
  • Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be lined with an absorbant material.
  • Carriers must be bite proof and be well ventilated.

Dog Age Restrictions:

  • Dogs must be at least 3 months old.

Destination Restrictions:

  • Vueling doesn’t allow dogs to fly in-cabin on flights to and from:
    • UK
    • Ireland

Visit Vueling’s websitefor more information.

Which airlines allow flying with large dogs in cabin?

As you may have now realised, many commercial airlines will only allow flying with small dogs in cabin. However, there are some semi-private airlines that will allow flying with large dogs in cabin. These will of course be a lot more expensive than a public airline.

The following airlines allow flying with large dogs in cabin:

  1. Aero: medium and large dogs up to 65Ibs are permitted on their flights. You will need to purchase an additional seat at full price.
  2. BLADE: dogs over 25Ibs are allowed to fly in cabin as long as the owner must purchase an additional seat.
  3. JSX: You can purchase an extra seat for a large dog.
  4. Surf Air: you can fly with a dog over 20Ibs in cabin as long as you notify Surf and purchase a separate single-use flight pass. Your dog can sit on the seat as long as he or she is harnessed and you put a request in at the time of booking.
  5. Tradewind Aviation: large-breed dogs are welcome to fly in the spacious cabins of Tradewind Aviation’s Citation CJ3s and Pilatus PC-12s. There’s a limit of one party with pets per flight, and an additional seat must be purchased for dogs over 100Ibs.

For more information checkAirlines that Allow Flying with a Large Dog in Cabin [Pet Policies].

How to prepare for flying with a dog in cabin.

1. Select an appropriate, cabin-approved travel carrier.

As mentioned above, different airlines and aircrafts have different size restrictions for carriers. Be sure to check the restrictions for your specific airline, and aircraft.

For example, Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.

We would recommend using a soft sided carrier as they usually give your dog more space.

2. Get your dog used to it’s travel carrier.

When flying with a dog in cabin, they will need to stay in its travel carrier for the duration of the journey. So, it’s very important that you spend some time to get your dog used to its travel carrier.

When first introducing your dog to its carrier, take it slow. Lure your dog into their carrier with plenty of treats, and let him/her play and sleep in there as much as possible. You want to avoid forcing your dog into the carrier as this may stress him or her out and may cause a negative association to the carrier.

3. Train your dog to stay calm.

Your dog will need to be calm and well behaved when flying in cabin. If they show disruptive behaviour, they risk being sent into the cargo area of the plane.

Related post: Flying with an Anxious Dog? [15 Top Tips!]

4. Exhaust your dog before the flight.

Try to exhaust your dog a little by increasing the level of activity before your trip. A sleepy dog will be less prone to getting stressed out on the flight, and will likely be better behaved on the flight.

5. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

When flying with a dog in cabin, your dog won’t be able to go potty. So, it’s a good idea to limit your dog’s access to food before the flight. Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before. Air Canada suggest feeding your dog four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel.

Line the bottom of your dog’s travel carrier with a pee pad, just incase they do have an accident.

6. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.

7. Bring along your dog’s favourite comforts.

To maximise comfort and minimise stress, pop your dog’s favourite blanket or toy in the travel carrier with them. If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, you could even pop one of your t-shirts in the carrier.

Which dog breeds cannot fly in cabin?

Unfortunately, some airlines have restrictions on the dog breeds they permit on their flights. So, even if you are the owner of a very small dog, they may not be able to fly in the cabin with you.

The following brachycephalic and snub-nosed dog breeds are often banned from flying in both the cabin and cargo:

  • Affenpinscher
  • American Staffordshire Terrier
  • Boston Terriers
  • Boxers
  • Brussels Griffon
  • Bulldogs (all breeds)
  • Cane Corso
  • Chow Chow
  • Dogue De Bordeaux
  • English Toy Spaniel
  • Japanese Chin
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Mastiff (all breeds)
  • Pekingese
  • Pitbulls
  • Presa Canario
  • Pug
  • Shar Pei
  • Shih Tzu
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • Tibetan Spaniel

This is because of their anatomical abnormalities, short-nosed breeds may be more vulnerable to changes in air quality and temperature in the cargo hold of a plane.

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.

The documents required when flying with a dog in cabin will vary depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying from and to. If you are flying domestically, some airlines do not require any documentation. Southwest, for example. However, other airlines require your pet’s health book. Aegean Air, for example.

You will need more paperwork if you are traveling abroad, in which cases you will usually require the following:

  1. Microchip certificate
  2. Rabies vaccination certificate
  3. Animal health certificate
  4. Additional vaccination certificates
  5. Rabies titer test results
  6. Parasite treatment certificate

a) Microchip.

Many airlines require microchip documents when flying with a dog in cabin. Not only is it usually a requirement, it is in your best interest. If your dog was to go missing whilst abroad, then you are far more likely to be reunited with a microchip.

Your dog can get microchipped at your local vet or a charity, such as RSPCA.

b) Rabies vaccinations.

If you want your take dogs on flights, it is likely that he/she requires a valid rabies vaccination. Particularly if you are taking your dog on an international flight as this is a requirement for entering most countries.

Most countries require dogs to have their rabies vaccination between 30 days and 12 months prior to importing.

Related post:How Often Does a Dog Need a Rabies Shot?

c) Animal health certificate.

Most airlines will require an official animal health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian when flying with dogs in cabin.

In most cases, your health certificate will also need to be endorsed by the country’s authority responsible for the import and export of animals. For example, if you are traveling from the US, you will need your documents endorsed by the USDA. If you are traveling from Canada, you will need to have your documents endorsed by CFIA.

They are normally valid for 10 days.

d) Additional vaccinations.

Depending on where you are flying to, your dog may also require additional vaccinations or treatments.

For example, Turkey requires that all dogs are vaccinated against parainfluenza, leptospirosis, parvovirus, bordetella, hepatitis and distemper before being allowed into the country.

e) Rabies titer test.

Some countries require pets to have a rabies titer test before entering. This is usually the case when you are traveling from a country that is considered high risk for rabies.

If your dog requires a titer test the process is as follows:

  1. Your pet will have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
  2. Your vet will then send the blood sample to an approved blood testing laboratory.
  3. Your pet’s blood test results must show a rabies antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/ml.
  4. You must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before you travel.
  5. The vet will give you a copy of the test results.

f) Parasite treatment.

To enter many countries, dogs are required to be treated against internal and/or external parasites before entering. This includes treatment for tapeworm, fleas, ticks, nematodes and cestodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have to pay extra to fly with my dog in cabin?

You will yes. The amount you pay however, will differ between airlines as they charge different amounts. The charge also depends on where you are flying to and from. International flights usually costing more.

Can I fly with my dog in cabin on international flights?

You may be able to, depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying to and from. Some airlines allow dogs in cabin on international flights, such as Aegean Air. Southwest, however, do not let dogs in cabin on international flights.

Can I fly with my puppy in cabin?

This depends on how old your puppy is, and which airline you are flying with. Different airlines have different restrictions on the age of dogs that can fly in cabin. Some require puppies to be at least 8 weeks old, where others require them to be 16 weeks old.

Can I fly with a large dog in the cabin?

Unfortunately, unless your dog is an official service dog, only small dogs are permitted. Most airlines require that dogs and travel carriers must have a combined weight of no more than 8kg.

Conclusion

Traveling with your dog is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories. Thankfully, several airlines have recognized the importance of allowing flying with dogs in the cabin and have established comprehensive pet policies to accommodate furry travelers. Whether you choose Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, or JetBlue Airways, you can rest assured that your dog will be treated with care and enjoy a safe and comfortable journey by your side.

Related posts:

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  • Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe?
  • Flying with an Anxious Dog? [15 Top Tips!]
  • Dog Sedatives for Flying: Should I use them?
21 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In Cabin [2023 Pet Policies] - Pets That Travel (2024)
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