Everything You Need to Know About Bringing Your Dog on an Airplane Cabin
Have you ever wondered if Scooby could join you in the main cabin for your next flight? As a frequent traveler with pups, I’ve faced this question plenty of times. From my experience, the airline’s size restrictions for cabin dogs can be kind of confusing. So in this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know – from measurements and paperwork to tips for making it a positive experience.
Size Limitations
- Most domestic carriers in the US allow one pet per passenger in the cabin, as long as the pooch fits under the seat in a carrier.
- The maximum size is typically around 20 inches or less from nose to tail. So if your pup is any bigger, they’ll have to ride in cargo instead.
Basically, the pet carrier should be able to slide completely under the passenger seat in front of you with the leg room fully extended. Kind of a tight squeeze, if you ask me! The airlines are pretty strict on this size limit too, so make sure to get an official measurement of your dog before booking those cabin tickets.
Approved Carriers
In addition to the size cap, your furry friend also needs to stay secured in an FAA-approved hard-sided carrier with proper ventilation throughout the entire flight. Soft-sided baskets or bags are a big no-no for safety reasons. I’d recommend a carrier like the Petmate Sky Kennel – it’s sturdy, roomy, and tons of pilots I know swear by it. Some discount options on Amazon have iffy reviews about breaking or collapsing, so it’s worth spending a little more for peace of mind, in my opinion.
Health Certificate & Vaccination Records
Most countries also require an international health certificate and proof of certain vaccinations for any animal traveling abroad. The regulations vary a lot between destinations, so be sure to check well in advance with your vet and the airline. I booked a spontaneous trip to Paris once and totally spaced on getting Fido’s paperwork sorted – big mistake! Ended up having to leave him with friends. Learn from my silly mistake and plan ahead.
Pre-Flight Prep
The night before flying, it’s a good idea to limit food and water intake so accidents are less likely during take-off and landing. I usually feed a small meal around 6pm, then nothing after. Bring along some familiar toys or treats to help keep them calm in the carrier too. A snuggly shirt with your scent can provide comfort as well.
As stressful as it may seem, try to get your pup used to their carrier before the big day. Practice short training sessions where they go inside for treats and praise. On the day of, arrives at the airport extra early to check-in, especially if it’s an international flight. And be prepared for the carrier to go through the x-ray machine for security screening.
In-Flight Tips
Once boarded, keep your puppy’s carrier secured under the seat or on your lap for take-off and landing when there’s turbulence. The constant movement can terrify them otherwise. Bring along cleaned-up accident supplies like puppy pads, paper towels and baggies just in case. And don’t forget water! My Aussie got so stressed one flight that she gulped down almost an entire bottle. Yikes!
Can your energetic Lab last the whole trip cooped up? Consider asking your vet about a light calmative like Trazadone if they tend to get anxious. I had one bonkers border collie who definitely needed the help to chill out. Basically, exercising your pup before the flight and keeping them as comfortable as possible will make yours and their experience much more pleasant.
Cargo Logistics
If Rover is too big for cabin travel, cargo is still an option – but comes with some additional considerations. First, be aware that temperatures can fluctuate more dramatically below deck. So talk to your vet about any medications or protective measures needed. Secondly, the airline requirements are even stricter because workers rather than owners are handling the animals.
For example, American Airlines has a ton of rules around the size/type of kennel allowed, food/water fasting times before the flight, and health documents needing courier submission within a certain timeframe before departure. Who knew traveling by air could be so complicated, right? Basically, when booking cargo, READ ALL THE FINE PRINT CAREFULLY. Miss one small detail and Fido could end up flying standby!
A Smooth(ish) Experience
So in summary – measure twice, plan ahead, prepare properly, and keep calm. From my experience those are the keys to making airline travel with dogs a lot less stressful for everyone involved. Will your pooch still probably cry and stink up the whole cabin? Probably, sorry ’bout it! But with a little TLC they’ll survive. And honestly, sometimes the looks I get from other passengers kind of make up for it.
Of course, every pup is different – and many simply do not do well flying period. If yours has shown extreme anxiety even with meds before, it may be kinder to board them or travel without. But for the moderately nervous doggos out there, with some extra effort cabin travel can absolutely be doable. Kind of a hazard of being such a cute travel buddy, I guess! Maybe we’ll cross paths with our pups someday – skies are friendly skies, after all. Bon voyage!
Airline Cabin Approved Dog Sizes
| Dog Breed | Maximum Weight | Maximum Height |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Retriever | 50 lbs | 17 inches |
| Labrador Retriever | 50 lbs | 17 inches |
| French Bulldog | 20 lbs | 11 inches |
| Pug | 20 lbs | 13 inches |
| Corgi | 30 lbs | 11 inches |
| Chihuahua | 6 lbs | 9 inches |
FAQ
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How big can dogs on airlines be?
Most major airlines in the US allow dogs weighing 20 pounds or less and fitting comfortably in an airline-approved carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. However, some airlines like Alaska Airlines and JetBlue let dogs weighing up to 25 pounds fly in cabin as long as the carrier meets the size criteria.
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Do all airlines allow dogs in the cabin?
Basically not all airlines allow pets in the passenger cabin. Certain smaller or budget carriers like Frontier Airlines do not let dogs or cats on flights. But the largest airlines including American, Delta, United and Southwest should allow pets in cabin if they’re under 20 pounds or so. It’s always best to check the rules for your specific airline before booking travel with a furry friend.
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What size crate is required?
Most airlines require the dog crate or carrier to fit completely under the seat in front of you kinda like a carry-on bag. So the maximum dimensions are around 17-19 inches tall and less than 24 inches long. This allows the carrier to slide all the way forward without sticking out into the aisle. Can you imagine if every passenger brought a huge dog crate? There would be no room to walk down the aisle!
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Do larger dogs have to be in cargo?
Yes, unfortunately dogs over the size and weight limits have to ride in the airline cargo hold, not the cabin. This is for safety reasons since big dogs wouldn’t really fit under a seat. However, many pet owners think putting dogs in cargo is not basically a pleasant experience. Temperatures can vary a lot down there and dogs can get frightened without their owners. Is that fair to the pup?
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Are emotional support animals treated differently?
Indeed, emotional support animals or ESAs have some more lenient rules compared to regular pets. They are not considered service animals like seeing-eye dogs, but a note from a doctor or mental health professional may allow larger sizes on flights. Airlines must make “reasonable accommodations” for ESAs. But there has been some abuse of the ESA label. So airlines are pushing back and restrictions may get tighter.
Can I get comforting advice on flying with my pet?
If you feel nervous about flying with your fuzzy companion, don’t worry – many other pet parents have faced this same stressful situation! I’d suggest practicing getting your pet used to its carrier well before your trip. Consider calming supplements or distraction treats onboard. And remember, professionals fly pets all the time. Maybe ask a flight attendant for reassurance if you get worried. Your pup will be fine as long as it’s with you ❤️