Flying with your dog can feel overwhelming, but careful planning can help ensure a smooth, stress-free journey for you and your pet. From choosing the right airline to getting your dog comfortable with travel, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you fly confidently.

Some situations can get tricky, especially on long-haul flights or with certain dog breeds, so we’ll include tips to navigate those obstacles, too.

Main Ways for Dogs to Fly

There are three main ways for dogs to fly:

Manifest Cargo: Pets fly on a unique itinerary in the cargo hold of the plane.
Checked Luggage: Pets fly in cargo on the same itinerary as their owner.
In-Cabin: Pets small enough to fit under the seat fly with their owner.

Let’s take a closer look at each one, starting with the air travel option that we recommend most often for the safest, most efficient travel.

Manifest Cargo

Dogs flying as manifest cargo fly in the climate-controlled cargo hold of the plane. In most cases, it means you won’t be traveling with your pet. That’s OK. At Tailwind, we recommend manifest cargo as the safest, most reliable way for pets to fly.

Manifest cargo prioritizes the most direct, efficient routing, reducing stress and unnecessary layovers for traveling pets. It’s also the best option for families with multiple pets, since airlines can keep them together.

If you work with a professional pet shipper, you can arrange to have your pet picked up and dropped off to simplify the process and relieve the stress of getting pets to and from the airport.

Checked Luggage

Dogs flying as checked luggage, or excess baggage, are booked on the same ticket as their owner. That means you and your pet will be on the same flights. Just like manifest cargo, they fly in a pressure-controlled environment in the cargo hold of the plane. While this may sound good, it can become complicated in the case of flight delays or on bookings with multiple layovers.

Most importantly, some countries like Australia or New Zealand won’t allow dogs to arrive as excess baggage, but they will allow pets flying in as manifest cargo. This is to make sure that all pets meet those countries’ strict import and quarantine requirements. Many airlines have followed suit, accepting pets only as manifest cargo for flights to these and other destinations.

In-Cabin

For some service animals and small dogs, you may choose to have your dog fly in the main cabin with you, but there are important caveats.

Most airlines only allow one small pet per passenger and limit the total weight of the carrier and pet to no more than 15-20 pounds. Pets are never allowed in an exit row, and most airlines have strict limits on pets in first class. The bulkhead is generally off-limits, but it depends on the airline.

Pets must remain in their carrier underneath the seat in front of you at all times. Airlines may restrict in-cabin pets on certain aircraft or routes, like those we mentioned already, with strict rabies requirements.

If you’re traveling with a larger dog, they must travel in cargo. The only exception is a service animal. Most airlines recommend purchasing an extra seat for large service dogs so they have more room at your feet for the entire flight.

Airline Policies

Rules and regulations for pet travel vary by airline. Some airlines don’t allow pets at all, and others, like Delta Airlines, limit pets in cargo to U.S. military personnel only.

Generally, airlines that allow dogs require that pet owners obtain a health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian. If your pet is flying domestically, there may be other requirements that vary by destination state.

Pets traveling internationally may face additional requirements depending on the origin and destination countries, especially for pets flying from countries with a high risk for rabies.

We have a detailed guide to airline policies on the most common options for travelers, but it’s important to keep in mind that airlines adjust those policies often. Before assuming you’ve found the ideal route on what you think is a pet-friendly airline, check directly with that airline to make sure they’re still flying dogs like yours.

Working with a professional pet shipper is also a great way to ensure your pet’s journey is as efficient as possible, even to the most complex destinations.

Planning an international flight for your pet? We can help.

Learn More

Weight, Size, and Breed Restrictions

Weight, size, and breed restrictions vary by airline when you’re flying with a dog. Size and weight allowances are generally more flexible for pets traveling in cargo. Most airlines set an upper weight limit, including the crate, of around 165 pounds.

Crate restrictions also differ by airline and aircraft type, but for jumbo pets on long-haul flights, the maximum is typically 48 x 32 x 35 inches, with a kennel weight of around 50 pounds. For domestic flights, larger dogs may face additional restrictions due to limited cargo space, even if the airline allows pets.

Certain breeds are also restricted. Brachycephalic dogs, like French and English bulldogs or pugs, are often prohibited because of breathing risks in the air. Airlines that allow snub-nosed breeds may require extra health certificates from your vet, limit travel to certain times of year, and require larger crates to accommodate breathing challenges.

Some airlines also restrict strong-jawed breeds. These are dogs frequently found on “dangerous” dog breed lists and often include pit bull-type dogs, rottweilers, and most mastiff breeds. Airlines may restrict these breeds for safety reasons or a perceived escape risk.

If breed or size limits pose an issue, especially for domestic travel, it’s worth exploring ground transport options as an alternative for getting your pet safely to their destination.

We’ve worked with all kinds of breeds, including those with strict limitations on airlines, and can help you come up with the best options for your pet.

Crate and Carrier Regulations

Requirements for cargo crates and pet carriers can vary by airline, but there are some general rules to consider as you plan for your pet’s travel.

Pet Crates

For pets in cargo, airlines have specific rules to ensure the safety and comfort of live animals on board. All crates must be International Air Transport Association (IATA)-approved. This means they meet certain standards regarding size, ventilation, and sturdiness.

Most airlines will check whether a crate is the appropriate size by asking owners to have their pets stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably at the ticket counter.

The IATA provides the following formula for measuring crate size:

Container length: Combine the length of the dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail with half of the height from the ground to their elbow joint. This ensures enough space to lie comfortably.
Container width: Multiply the dog’s width across the shoulders or the widest point (whichever is the greater) by 2. This amount of space allows your dog to turn around.
Container height: This is the height of the dog in a natural standing position from the top of the head or the ear tip to the floor (whichever is higher) plus their bedding.

Hard-sided crates must have leak-proof bottoms that are either lined with absorbent material or designed to contain spills, and be free of any objects that could harm the pet. Water and food containers should be attached inside and accessible from the outside without opening the door.

Identification and contact information, including the pet’s name and owner’s details, should be clearly marked on the crate. The airline may provide any additional paperwork to attach to your pet’s crate, depending on the origin and destination. This may include “live animal” stickers.

Making sure your crate meets all of these requirements ensures that your pet is ready to fly. If this feels overwhelming, we offer IATA-compliant crates for all pet sizes and breeds. All crates come with the hardware, bedding, pads, and other accessories needed for a comfortable flight.

We also provide custom-built CR82 crates for breeds that require them, including strong-jawed breeds that may not be allowed to fly otherwise.

Pet Carriers

Generally, a pet carrier for small dogs flying in-cabin should be around 20 inches or less in length. Most airlines limit the combined weight of the pet and carrier to between 15 and 20 pounds, but many won’t weigh your dog if they fit comfortably inside their posted carrier dimensions.

Pets flying in-cabin must be able to stand up and turn around inside their carrier. Carriers must fit underneath a standard seat and count toward your carry-on bag allowance. Materials vary, but approved carriers are typically soft-sided carriers with adequate ventilation.

Pre-Flight Requirements

Preparations before a flight can vary depending on your origin point, destination, and even the size and breed of your pet. Generally, here is what dog owners should expect to navigate once they’ve found an airline to transport their dog:

Flight itinerary: Choose a route that limits the amount of time your pet is in the air. This often means flying separately to reduce connections and long layovers for your pet. Be flexible when you fly, as some routes limit pets due to temperature restrictions.
Flight reservations: Book early and directly with the airline and ensure your dog is listed on your booking. All airlines limit the number of pets that can travel on each flight.
Health checkup: Your dog must be healthy enough to fly, up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations, and have an ISO-compatible microchip for international travel.
Health certificate: All pets traveling internationally and many pets traveling domestically need a health certificate from a USDA-accredited veterinarian with the information above.
Airline-specific documents: You may need to fill out additional required documentation from the airline at booking or check-in. Some airlines ask for breed attestations, health verifications for snub-nosed pets, and service animal documentation.
Destination-specific requirements: These may include a rabies titer test (a blood draw measuring for antibodies) if you’re traveling to places like Hawaii, and CDC requirements for dogs coming from a high-risk country for rabies.

Appropriate crates and carriers: For dogs flying in cargo, crates must be large enough, sturdy, and well-ventilated. Some may require a custom crate, depending on their size and breed. Pets flying in-cabin must meet airline-specific pet carrier requirements.

Need support shipping your pet within the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii? We can help.

Learn More

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) and Service Dogs

Airlines must allow service dogs on flights within the U.S. or on flights returning to the U.S. from abroad, but ESAs don’t legally count as service animals. American airlines flying to foreign countries must follow the laws of that country, and not all countries allow service dogs on flights.

All airlines are permitted to deny transport to a service dog if they aren’t safe to fly. If they’re too big for the cabin, a safety threat to others, or disruptive, they may not be allowed to fly in-cabin.

Service dogs may also be denied boarding if they don’t have the necessary paperwork detailing their training and certification. Most airlines no longer allow ESAs in-cabin, and they are not legally obligated to do so as per the most recent changes to the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). That means ESAs must travel as pets, and are subject to standard pet fees and restrictions.

Traveling With Multiple Dogs

Pet policies for traveling with multiple dogs vary by airline. Many airlines allow up to three pets per booking in the cargo hold, but it can depend on the number of pets already confirmed for that flight. Airlines typically limit how many animals they transport per flight. Once that cap is reached, no more animals can be booked.

Most airlines only allow passengers to bring one dog with them in the cabin. Some allow up to two if you buy a second seat, but you’ll likely still be limited to one pet carrier per passenger.

Additional Tips for a Great Flight

Flying with a dog can be stressful, but a little training, smart timing, and comfort measures can help keep your pup calm and safe in the air. You know what your dog needs best, but here are some tips to make the journey smoother:

Crate-train before travel. Use treats and praise to create positive associations with the crate. Gradually extend the time spent inside to acclimate your pet to their crate.
Try practice runs. Take short car rides with your dog in the crate to mimic the travel experience and reduce anxiety. Anxious dogs may benefit from extra practice.
Bring familiar scents. Pack a small personal item, like a worn T-shirt with your scent on it, as a comfort item for your dog.
Skip sedation. Sedatives are dangerous for dogs in flight and are strictly prohibited. Instead, ask your vet about safe calming options if your dog is nervous.
Exercise beforehand. Give your dog a good walk or play session the day of travel so they’re relaxed and less restless.
Adjust their feeding schedule. Avoid feeding your dog 4-6 hours before their flight to minimize bathroom needs and reduce the risk of motion sickness.
Keep them hydrated. Offer small sips of water before the flight. Water dishes should be accessible to staff from the outside of the crate.
Plan a pre-flight potty break. Use the airport’s designated pet relief area before check-in as a last-minute chance for your dog to potty before their flight.

Another expert tip is to book your flight well before travel and ensure space is available for your pet before planning an itinerary. Direct flights are always best; this is safe, even preferred, and reduces the amount of flight time for your pet.

Sadie Cornelius, an expert from Canine Journal, is a frequent flyer with her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dogs and also recommends you book flights at off-peak times if possible to avoid crowds and to keep your dog’s meal and sleep schedule into account when traveling. “Be prepared for the inevitable delays and have extra treats and a meal packed just in case,” says Cornelius.

FAQ

The “best” airline for your dog depends on your destination, your pet’s size, and their travel needs. Some airlines are known for a good experience for pets in-cabin. Others specialize in cargo travel through their cargo arms.

If you’re traveling internationally with a dog, international carriers that allow pets in-cargo are well-equipped to handle customs requirements for traveling dogs.

Here are a few options that we work with often:

Alaska Airlines: This is one of the most pet-friendly U.S. airlines. Pets and kennels in their baggage compartment can have a combined weight of up to 150 pounds, but must fly on the same ticket as their owners as excess baggage.
American Airlines: Pets flying in cargo do so on a ticket through the airline’s American PetEmbark service. The airline asks that you use pet relocation services or a broker to handle the process for international flights.
Lufthansa: Larger pets can fly as excess baggage in the passenger aircraft’s cargo hold or as air freight via Lufthansa Cargo. Lufthansa is an option for dogs on “dangerous” dog lists, but pets must fly in reinforced crates unless they’re between 3-6 months old.

The airline flying your pet is your best resource for rules and regulations at your departure airport, but here’s what the TSA asks of pets traveling with their owners:

Pets should be removed from their carriers at security. They cannot go through the X-ray machine.
Carriers should be sent through the X-ray machine along with the rest of your carry-on baggage.
Pets should remain under the control of their owner at all times. They should be leashed until they are removed for passing the metal detector. (Owners may carry small dogs at this point if they’d like.)

The cost of flying with a dog varies widely depending on factors like the airline, travel route, pet size, and whether your dog flies in-cabin or as cargo.

For small dogs in the cabin, fees typically range from $100 to $200 one-way. (The same applies to cats, too.) Fees for larger dogs traveling in the cargo hold can cost anywhere from $275 to over $1,000, depending on kennel size and weight, distance, and the airline’s policies.Where you’re going matters, too. Traveling to countries with rabies titer testing and quarantine rules all come at an added cost. At Tailwind, all of our quotes are personalized to meet your dog’s needs.

Ensure Peace of Mind With a Professional Pet Shipper

For peace of mind and expert door-to-door support, use a professional pet shipper to help you navigate every step. Whether you’re navigating breed restrictions, cargo requirements, or international regulations, we’re here for all of your pet needs.

Ready to get started? Each pet relocation situation is different. To get an idea of the costs involved, fill out a quote request.

REQUEST A QUOTE

An In-Depth Guide on How to Fly With a Dog