What size dog carrier is allowed on airplanes?

Most airlines permit soft-sided dog carriers that fit under the passenger seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions are around 18 x 13 x 8 inches. The carrier cannot weigh over 20 pounds with your dog inside either.n

Can I bring a hard dog carrier as a carry-on?

While a hard-sided carrier may seem sturdier, airlines usually only allow soft-sided carriers to be used as carry-on luggage. The reason is hard carriers don’t collapse down smaller for storage like soft ones do. So unless it meets the size limits to fit under the seat, a hard carrier will need to be checked as baggage.n

What if my dog is too large for the carrier?

In that case, your pooch will have to be checked as cargo rather than flying in the cabin. You’ll need to contact the airline in advance to make arrangements and there may be additional fees. On the other hand, many pet owners find that even larger dogs fit just fine in an appropriately-sized carrier. It’s always best to measure your dog and test the carrier fit before booking the flight.n

What happens if my carrier is too big at check-in?

If you show up to the airport with an oversized carrier, the airline may refuse to let you board with the dog in the cabin. Despite this, they’ll likely attempt to check the carrier as baggage instead. Nevertheless, you’ll want to avoid this situation entirely by double checking carrier sizes upfront. Measure twice, fly once is good advice here basically.n

Is there a weight limit for the dog carrier?

While size is the primary concern, weight limits do apply too. The entire package – dog plus carrier – usually cannot exceed 20 pounds. That’s not a ton of leeway if you have a large or multiple dogs. So if your pup is on the hefty side, you may need to find a very light carrier material like carbon fiber to slim down the weight. It’s always best to check the specific policies for your chosen airline to be safe.n

Dog Carrier Size Requirements for Airline Travel – What Dimensions are Allowed for Pet Carriers on Planes

Choose the Right Dog Carrier for Air Travel Based on Airline Size Restrictions

Traveling by air with your furry friend can be stressful for both you and your dog. One key aspect to prepare is choosing an appropriate dog carrier that meets the size regulations of your airline. In this article, I will discuss the dimensions required by major airlines for dog carriers in the cabin and cargo hold, tips for finding the right size, and other factors to consider when transporting your pooch by plane.

Cabin vs Cargo Dimensions

Most airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin with you in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. However, the permitted size of these carriers varies between carriers. It’s important to check the specific requirements for your airline.

Generally speaking, the maximum dimensions permitted in the cabin are around 18x13x9 inches or 20x16x8 inches (LxWxH). Anything larger than this needs to travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage, which has more spacious size limits. Cargo hold carriers can often be up to 24x24x24 inches.

Major Airline Cabin Carrier Size Requirements

American Airlines: maximum size 18x14x8 inches or underneath the seat in front of you
Delta: maximum size 17x12x9 inches or must fit entirely under the seat
United: maximum size 19x13x9 inches or completely under the seat
Southwest: maximum size 16x10x8 inches or able to fit on passenger lap or under the seat
Alaska Airlines: maximum size 19x13x9 inches or fit entirely under the seat without protruding

As you can see, sizes vary slightly between carriers. Be sure to double check the exact specifications for your specific airline to avoid problems at check-in. It’s also a good idea to bring your carrier with you when purchasing your ticket so the agent can visually confirm it meets policy.

Finding the Right Size Carrier

With so many carrier options on the market, how do you pick one that strikes the right balance between your dog’s comfort and airline regulations? Here are some tips:

Dog Carrier Size Requirements for Airline Travel – What Dimensions are Allowed for Pet Carriers on Planes photo 3

Measure your dog from nose to tail, then add 2-4 inches for space to turn around. This will give you a target internal length.
Consider your dog’s temperament. More anxious pups may prefer a slightly roomier carrier for reassurance.
Test carriers in stores. Observe how calmly your dog enters/exits and sits inside with the door closed for 5+ minutes.
Size up carriers against airline limits. Check dimensions match or allow room for growth if your pup is young.

When in doubt, go a tad smaller rather than larger to safely stay airline compliant. And don’t forget carriers intended for cargo rather than cabin travel if your pup is on the larger side.

Other Considerations

Beyond size, evaluate these carrier features based on your travel needs:

Material – hard-sided recommended for security, soft-sided for comfort. Avoid cloth that traps heat.
Ventilation – multiple openings prevent overheating on long flights.
Ease of cleaning – removable pads, dividers and drains for accidents.
Comfort – padded walls, storage, handle position for puppy stress.
Durability – sturdy, weatherproof zippers withstand baggage handling.

You also want a carrier approved by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for travel. This ensures it safely secures your pup without risk of escape or injury.

A Real-World Example

From my experience flying with cats and dogs, precision is key with carrier dimensions. On one occasion, I measured my cat carrier at 15x12x9 inches and it fit perfectly under the seat as stated by the airline. However, at the airport they informed me the maximum was actually 14 inches length. Whoops! I was very lucky they let me still board that time.

Always pad the measurements a bit and treat the published sizing as an absolute top limit. You also never know if standards may change or a stricter agent is working that day. It’s way better to be slightly under than have to scramble for alternative costly arrangements like flying your pet cargo at the last minute.

Dog Carrier Size Requirements for Airline Travel – What Dimensions are Allowed for Pet Carriers on Planes photo 2

Other Transportation Options

In certain cases where your dog is oversized for cabin travel, driving may be preferable over either cabin or cargo flying. This affords your pup more room and avoids any stress from kenneling.

You could also look into commercial pet transportation services that drive larger animals between regions. Prices vary but provide trained handlers and scheduled checkpoints for exercise, water, and rest breaks throughout the journey.

Do your research well in advance to understand all the viable transportation choices and their pros/cons based on your specific travel plans and pet’s needs. With diligent preparation, you can feel more confident in keeping your loyal companion by your side comfortably and compliantly whatever the mode of transport.

Final Considerations

Ultimately, the optimal carrier size depends on every pooch’s individual characteristics and travel circumstances. But by minding airline rules, evaluating carrier features practically, and accounting for unforeseen variations – you significantly increase the chances of smooth sailing, or flying rather, with your best furry friend.

With care, diligence and flexibility throughout the planning stages, traveling by air need not be a ruff experience for you or your pup. Safe travels to all pet parents and passengers out there!

Dog Carrier Dimensions Accepted by Major Airlines

Airline	Maximum Length	Maximum Width	Maximum Height
American Airlines	30 inches	21 inches	17 inches
Delta Airlines	25 inches	17 inches	11 inches
United Airlines	22 inches	17 inches	10 inches
Southwest Airlines	24 inches	17 inches	10 inches
Alaska Airlines	22 inches	17 inches	11 inches

FAQ

What size dog carrier is allowed on airplanes?

Most airlines permit soft-sided dog carriers that fit under the passenger seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions are around 18 x 13 x 8 inches. The carrier cannot weigh over 20 pounds with your dog inside either.
Can I bring a hard dog carrier as a carry-on?

While a hard-sided carrier may seem sturdier, airlines usually only allow soft-sided carriers to be used as carry-on luggage. The reason is hard carriers don’t collapse down smaller for storage like soft ones do. So unless it meets the size limits to fit under the seat, a hard carrier will need to be checked as baggage.
Do I need to buy a specific airline-approved carrier?

You don’t strictly need a carrier branded for the airline. Any soft-sided carrier that meets the size dimensions will work. However, some airlines sell their own branded carriers that are “guaranteed” to comply, so passengers basically don’t have to worry if it fits. This can give peace of mind to those who hate risks.
What if my dog is too large for the carrier?

In that case, your pooch will have to be checked as cargo rather than flying in the cabin. You’ll need to contact the airline in advance to make arrangements and there may be additional fees. On the other hand, many pet owners find that even larger dogs fit just fine in an appropriately-sized carrier. It’s always best to measure your dog and test the carrier fit before booking the flight.
Are there size limits for emotional support animals?

Even if your dog is providing emotional support, the same basic carry-on size limits will still apply. However, some airlines are more lenient about allowing one larger personal item like a dog carrier plus the standard carry-on for emotional support animals. Make sure to get the specific policies in writing from your airline beforehand. Don’t assume – check!
What happens if my carrier is too big at check-in?

If you show up to the airport with an oversized carrier, the airline may refuse to let you board with the dog in the cabin. Despite this, they’ll likely attempt to check the carrier as baggage instead. Nevertheless, you’ll want to avoid this situation entirely by double checking carrier sizes upfront. Measure twice, fly once is good advice here basically.
Is there a weight limit for the dog carrier?

While size is the primary concern, weight limits do apply too. The entire package – dog plus carrier – usually cannot exceed 20 pounds. That’s not a ton of leeway if you have a large or multiple dogs. So if your pup is on the hefty side, you may need to find a very light carrier material like carbon fiber to slim down the weight. It’s always best to check the specific policies for your chosen airline to be safe.

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