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Hand-picked deals by our pirate teamTips and Tricks for Flying with Pets
Dogs are man’s best friends. Many of you probably have a four-legged companion who brightens your day with a cold nose and loyal eyes. And what’s especially difficult? That’s right — having to fly off on a beach vacation and leave your furry friend behind, whether with friends, family, or at a dog boarding facility.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that putting a dog on a plane for every short trip is not an option. No matter how well-trained the animal is, air travel is always a significant source of stress. However, sometimes there’s no other choice, and when that happens, you and your furry companion should be as well-prepared as possible! That’s why today’s article is all about flying with dogs and traveling with cats or pets.
What does it mean to travel with a dog? What do you need to consider if you want to take your pet on vacation with an airline that allows pets in the cabin? What are the entry requirements? And what costs should you expect? We provide you with tips and tricks to ensure your beloved pet arrives at your destination safely.
The Dog-Gone Facts
First things first — the dog-gone facts. What size dog is allowed in the cabin? From what size must dogs travel in the cargo hold? What are the maximum dimensions for transport carriers in the aircraft cabin? And what do you need to consider when bringing a pet to a vacation destination?
These are crucial questions to ensure that there are no last-minute issues preventing Waldo, Benno, or Frieda from boarding the flight. So, grab a pen and paper, and take notes to avoid any surprises when traveling with dogs!
Flying with a Dog in the Cabin
Small dogs weighing up to 20 pounds (including the carrier) are often allowed in the cabin.
Some airlines make exceptions and allow dogs up to 25 pounds in the cabin.
The transport carrier must be less than the airline’s maximum size.
Dogs over 20 pounds usually have to travel in the cargo hold.
Most airlines have a limited number of pets allowed in the cabin, so book early and register your pet’s transport in advance.
Check entry requirements: Contact the embassy of your destination country to confirm their pet import regulations.
You will need a health certificate and a valid vaccination record with all required vaccinations.
Avoid traveling to countries where pets are subject to quarantine upon arrival, as this can complicate your trip.
Which Dogs Are Not Allowed on Flights?
Of course, as with everything, there are exceptions. Some dog breeds are not permitted on airplanes due to safety concerns — both for the airline and for the well-being of the animal. No one wants to receive devastating news while on vacation, like arriving at the airport and being told that their beloved pet is unwell or, even worse, has passed away.
Certain breeds are particularly at risk due to their anatomy and breeding history. Dogs with short snouts and compact skulls are prone to breathing difficulties, especially under stress, making air travel especially dangerous for them. Senior dogs should also avoid flying whenever possible.
Breeds Often Restricted from Air Travel
Dogs with short noses (brachycephalic breeds), which are at higher risk of respiratory distress, include:
Boston Terrier
Boxer
Bulldogs (English, French, etc.)
Pug
Pekingese
Shih Tzu
Chihuahua
Additionally, restricted dog breeds — commonly classified as “dangerous breeds” or “list dogs” — are often banned from flights due to airline regulations. These may include:
Mastiff
Mastino
Rottweiler
Business Class & Budget Airlines: Special Restrictions
Dreaming of flying Business Class with your furry companion? Unfortunately, that’s not an option. Most airlines do not allow pets in Business Class, primarily due to seat design and safety regulations.
However, if your pet meets the cabin size and weight requirements, you can purchase an extra seat in Economy Class. Keep in mind:
The carrier must remain on the floor, not on the seat, for safety reasons (it’s more stable in case of an emergency landing).
You’ll have extra legroom, which also means more space for your pet to breathe comfortably.
Lastly, if you’re considering low-cost carriers, be aware that not all budget airlines accommodate pets — they simply aren’t equipped for animal transport.
Finding the Right Transport Carrier for Air Travel
A high-quality transport carrier is the most important factor when flying with your dog. Imagine boarding a plane with flimsy, poorly constructed walls, sharp edges, and an overall unstable structure. Now, put yourself in your dog’s paws — flying for the first time, not understanding what’s happening, and being confined to a cold, uncomfortable box with no comforting presence like your owner nearby.
Wouldn’t you feel much safer and more comfortable in a luxurious, well-designed space where everything is warm and cozy, and the starry ceiling above makes sleeping easier? That’s exactly what your dog needs — a first-class experience in their travel carrier. If you’re taking Waldo or Frieda along, invest in a high-quality crate rather than settling for a cheap $50 option that won’t provide comfort or security.
Key Requirements for a Flight-Approved Transport Carrier
No collapsible crates: The crate must be sturdy, and your dog should not be able to escape.
Cabin carriers: Airlines typically allow soft-sided carriers, but it’s essential to get your dog used to the crate before the trip to minimize stress (more on this later).
IATA Standards: The carrier must comply with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations:
Height: Your dog must be able to stand up comfortably without ears or head touching the top.
Width: Your dog must be able to turn around freely and find a comfortable lying position.
Air: Adequate ventilation is crucial to ensure a steady supply of fresh air. (Sounds obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing!)
Cargo hold requirements: If your dog is flying in the cargo hold, the crate must include a water and food dish to keep them hydrated during the flight.
Plastic vs. Aluminum Crates
Plastic: Plastic crates are widely used due to their easy cleaning and lightweight nature.
Aluminum: Aluminum crates offer greater durability and stability, making them a safer option for air travel.
How to Find the Right Size for Your Dog’s Travel Crate
Before purchasing a travel crate, grab a measuring tape and calculate the ideal size for your dog’s comfort and safety. Always keep IATA regulations in mind — your dog should be able to move freely without restrictions.
Step-by-Step Dog Crate Sizing Guide
Length: Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail and add half the length of the front legs. This gives you the minimum required crate length.
Width: The crate should be at least twice as wide as your dog’s body — it’s better to have extra space than too little.
Height: Measure your dog from the floor to the tip of the ears and ensure there’s enough clearance between their head and the top of the crate.
Additional Dog Carrier Considerations
Check interior vs. exterior dimensions: Most manufacturers list external dimensions, so if possible, have your dog try out the crate before purchasing.
Easy entry & exit: Your dog should be able to step in and out comfortably.
Visibility & ventilation: Ensure good airflow and a clear view, so your dog isn’t staring at a dark wall the entire journey.
Taking the time to choose the right size will make all the difference in ensuring a safe and stress-free trip for your furry friend!
How to Train Your Dog for Air Travel
First and foremost, you should consult an experienced dog trainer who can guide you through the process. While we can provide an overview of what to expect, we strongly emphasize seeking professional advice rather than attempting to train your dog on your own.
Ideally, you should begin training your furry companion about a year before your planned flight. The travel crate needs to become your dog’s favorite place — a space where they feel safe and secure. The environment inside the crate should be familiar, so placing a blanket with a known scent or their favorite toy can help. Start by allowing your dog to retreat into the crate at home and gradually close the door for short periods. Over time, increase the duration while ensuring your pet remains comfortable throughout the process. The key is to make the crate a positive and stress-free space, avoiding any negative experiences.
Once your dog can stay in the crate for extended periods without distress, start introducing training in darker environments. While the aircraft’s cargo hold is heated when animals are transported, it remains dimly lit compared to the cabin. Acclimating your dog to darker spaces in advance can help reduce anxiety on the day of travel.
Patience is essential during this training process. If you plan to bring your dog on a flight, it’s your responsibility to create the best and least stressful conditions possible to ensure their comfort and well-being.
Entry Requirements
Traveling with a dog is relatively straightforward. Your pet must have a valid rabies vaccination, be microchipped, and possess a pet passport. However, some countries have particularly strict entry requirements, making it inadvisable to bring a dog for a short vacation.
Iceland: To bring a dog into Iceland, you must obtain an import permit from the country’s Chief Veterinary Officer. Additionally, pets are required to live in complete isolation for several months after arrival. Due to these strict regulations, entry permits are generally not granted to tourists.
Australia: Your dog must remain in the export country for at least six months before departure. Additionally, a rabies vaccination, a blood sample, and a rabies antibody titer test are required to prove immunity. If you are traveling from an EU country, your dog must also undergo a mandatory 30-day quarantine upon arrival. Entry is only permitted through Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth. Certain breeds, including Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull, and Presa Canario, are entirely banned from entry.
USA: To enter the United States with a dog, you must provide a health certificate, and your pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before arrival. Puppies younger than 12 weeks can enter without a rabies vaccination but must receive the vaccine within 30 days of arrival, followed by a mandatory 30-day isolation period. However, we strongly advise against flying with a young puppy, as air travel can be extremely stressful for them.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly with a Dog?
There are only a few American airlines that travelers fully trust with their dogs, given all the horror stories you can find online. However, we want to introduce you to two airlines and the costs involved when flying with your furry companion.
American Airlines allows pets to travel in the cabin, assuming they meet the size and weight restrictions. Dogs must be able to fit comfortably in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The weight limit for dogs in the cabin is up to 20 pounds, including the crate. The cost for in-cabin transport within the continental US usually starts around $150 each way. If your dog is too large to fly in the cabin, they’ll need to travel as cargo, which comes with a different price, depending on the size of the crate and the destination. The price typically ranges from $200 to $500.
Delta Airlines also allows pets to travel in the cabin or cargo. For in-cabin travel, dogs must not weigh more than 20 pounds, including the pet carrier, which must fit under the seat. Delta charges around $100 for pets traveling in the cabin within the US. For pets traveling as cargo, fees start at around $200 for domestic flights but can increase for larger pets or longer international routes.
Final Considerations
Before taking your dog on a flight, seriously consider whether it is truly necessary. As mentioned earlier, flying is stressful for pets, no matter how well they are trained or prepared. The best course of action is to consult your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy and fit to travel. If you plan to use a sedative, make sure it is one that will actually help your dog sleep and is properly adjusted to their needs. Some sedatives only immobilize the body while the dog remains fully aware, which can cause extreme panic when confined in a crate mid-flight.
Once you’ve considered all these factors and received the green light from your vet, there’s nothing stopping you from traveling with your furry companion to Europe or even Asia. Whether it’s a pooch-friendly dog cruise or a road trip, cherish the experience. Enjoy the sun on your face, and your pup will surely do the same. Sharing adventures strengthens the bond between you and your four-legged friend like never before.
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