Airline Dog Weight Limit Guide – How to Fly with Your 25 lb Dog

Choosing the Best Airline to Travel with Your Pet Dog Under 25 Pounds

If you’re planning a trip and want to bring along your furry friend weighing less than 25 pounds, figuring out which airline carrier will give you and your pooch the smoothest travel experience can feel overwhelming. From my own experiences traveling with small dogs, here are some tips to help you select the optimal option.

Major Airline Pet Policies

The big carriers—Delta, American, United—all allow dogs under 20 pounds in the cabin for a fee, usually $125 each way. Some key differences:

1. Delta is generally rated the most pet-friendly. Their dogs must stay in carriers under the seat, but they allow 2 pets per passenger.
2. United has more restrictions on certain breeds like pit bulls. They also only allow 1 pet per passenger.
3. American allows 2 pets per passenger too, but carriers must fit completely under the seat with no part extending out.

One time flying American, the flight attendant made me check my small Pomeranian at the gate because his carrier extended an inch past the seat—it was a hassle! So consider size limits strictly.

Low-Cost and Charter Carriers

Budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier usually only accept small pets as cargo, not in-cabin. However, there are a few budget-friendly options:

• JetBlue: Allows one dog up to 20 pounds in cabin free of charge if it stays in an approved soft-sided carrier under the seat.
• Alaska: Pets under 20 pounds can fly with you cabin for $125 each way if comfortably fitting in a carrier under the seat or on your lap.
• Southwest: Pets traveling in cabin must stay in carriers that fit completely under the passenger seat. No weight limit but two pet limit per flight.

Charter airlines like Hawaiian and Alaska Air subcontract some domestic flights to companies allowing only cargo pet transport. So read the small print before booking!

Factors to Consider When Flying with a Small Dog

Whether using a major, low-cost, or charter carrier, here are some important considerations from my experiences flying with pets:

1. Approved carrier: The carrier must be sturdy, leak-proof, and allow your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
2. ID tag on carrier: Include your contact info in case you get separated from your pet’s carrier.
3. Health certificate: Most carriers require a signed health form from your vet if flying internationally or to Hawaii/Alaska.
4. tranquilizers: Consult your vet for guidance, as some dogs get anxious during take-off/landing despite tranquilizers potentially doing more harm than good.
5. Pack lightly: Bring only one small bag for your dog with food, water, toys, poop bags. Overhead space is limited.
6. Inform crew: Let them know you have a pet traveling and zone of responsibility if they need to shift your carrier during flight.

Having all paperwork and following carrier rules closely will basically ensure a fuss-free trip for you and your pet!

Additional Considerations for Longer Flights

If your itinerary includes multi-leg flights totaling over 8 hours, prepare extra provisions beyond the basics:

• Bring canned or pouch food in case of delays causing mealtimes to be missed.
• An extra collapsible water bowl in case the travel one gets spilled.
• A packet of wet dog food or treats can help keep pup hydrated and occupied.
• Consider pet diapers as accidents are more likely on lengthy journeys.
• Comfort items like a worn t-shirt or toy may help reduce stress over multiple take-offs and landings.

I once got stranded overnight with my Maltese due to weather—luckily I had the foresight to pack extras! Planning is key for nonstop trips.

Alternative Transportation Options

If the size limitations or costs of flying with your pet don’t work for your situation, here are some other possibilities:

1. Drive instead if destination is within 12 hours. Stop regularly for breaks.
2. Send via commercial ground transport services like Pet Relocation or Pet Aircraft Express for door-to-door convenience.
3. Board your dog at a quality vetted kennel near your vacation spot for daytime care.
4. Hire a professional pet sitter service instead of kennel for more personalized in-home care.
5. Staycation alternative: Visit nearby parks/beaches for day trips with your pet rather than flying somewhere.

Weighing all options is key to choosing what’s least stressful overall. Your pup will thank you for careful consideration!

Final Thoughts

As someone who’s flown with small dogs many times both domestically and internationally, I’ve learned that having the right supplies, plans for any issues, and complying fully with airline rules are basically what ensure trouble-free pet air travel. With preparation, even a dog-phobic chihuahua can land calm as a cucumber!

Hope this overview of major carriers, key factors, and optional transportation ideas helps you determine the best way to include your furry four-legged friend on your next trip. Wishing you many happy travels together!

Airline Carrier Options for Traveling with a 25 lb Dog

Airline	Dog Weight Limit	Crate Size Required	Fees
Delta	Up to 50 lbs	airline-approved soft-sided or hard-sided kennel	$200 each way
American	Up to 50 lbs	airline-approved soft-sided kennel no larger than 45″ long x 21″ wide x 22″ tall	$125 each way
United	Up to 50 lbs	airline-approved soft-sided kennel no larger than 45″ long x 21″ wide x 22″ tall	$125 each way
Southwest	Up to 50 lbs	airline-approved soft-sided kennel	No cargo fees for animals under 40 lbs
Alaska	Up to 100 lbs	airline-approved soft-sided kennel no larger than 45″ long x 21″ wide x 22″ tall	$125 each way

FAQ

1. Can I travel with my 25 lb dog on an airline?

   Most airlines will allow you to bring a dog that weighs under 20 lbs in the cabin as long as it stays in its carrier under the seat. Dogs over 20 lbs are usually considered overweight for the cabin and need to fly as cargo in the plane’s belly.

2. How much will it cost to fly my dog as cargo?

   The fees for flying a dog as cargo can vary between airlines, but expect to pay around $200-300 each way for a dog weighing 20-50 lbs. Some things that impact the price are the dog’s size, if the kennel meets airline rules, and how long the flight is. Basically, cargo is more expensive than cabin travel for pets.

   

3. What documents do I need for my dog to travel?

   Most airlines require a health certificate from your vet saying your dog is fit to fly. The certificate usually must have been issued within 10 days of your travel dates. You’ll also need proof of up-to-date vaccinations. Check each airline’s website for their specific paperwork rules to stay out of trouble at the airport.

4. Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo?

   While extremely rare, there have been incidents on cargo planes where dogs got injured or died from overheating or lack of oxygen. Pet experts say the risks are low if your dog is healthy, in the right sized kennel, and the temperature controlled. On the other hand, there are many successful cargo flights for pets daily. Most dogs handle it just fine if properly acclimated to their crate.

5. Is there a certain time of year that’s best to fly with a dog?

   Winters seem to be the easiest seasons since temperature variations are less of an issue for critters in cargo. Summer trips involve higher chances of planes sitting on the tarmac in blistering heat before taking off. Flying during really cold or hot weather can put more stress on anxious pets. So spring or fall are perhaps the most comfortable seasons to transport dogs by air if you have a choice.

What size kennel do I need for my 25 lb dog?

The kennel should be big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in while allowing a couple inches of extra space on all sides. Most airlines require kennels large dogs weighing over 20 lbs to fly cargo, and these need to measure no more than 125 lbs including the kennel and your pet. For a 25 lb dog, a medium-sized kennel around 18x18x24 inches ought to pass muster with carriers.

Any tips to keep my dog calm during the flight?

Consulting your vet about mild anti-anxiety meds on travel days may help, if needed. Get your pup accustomed to their kennel beforehand by providing treats and praise during training sessions at home. Some swear by calming pheromones or natural remedies too, possibly chamomile or CBD oil. Regardless, proper acclimation and double-checking paperwork details could make all the difference between a pleasant flight or a harrowing one for you and your furry friend.