How Big Can a Dog Be to Fly in the Cabin of an Airplane – Dog Size Requirements for Flying in the Main Cabin

How Big Can a Dog Be to Fly in the Cabin of an Airplane?

If you’re planning to take your furry friend flying with you, one of the most common questions pet owners have is how big a dog can be allowed in the cabin of an airplane. In this article, I’ll break down the size requirements for in-cabin pets on major airlines and provide tips to help make flying with your dog a smooth experience.

Airline Size Restrictions for In-Cabin Pets

Most domestic U.S. airlines allow dogs and cats that can sit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you. The specific size limits vary by airline, but here are some general guidelines:

1. American Airlines: Dogs and cats must fit within a carrier no larger than 18 x 14 x 9 inches. This excludes pot-bellied pigs, rabbits, and other animals.
2. Delta: Pets must be able to fit within a carrier no bigger than 17.5 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches, including any protruding edges like a water bowl. Larger pets must be checked as cargo.
3. United: Pets must be able to fit comfortably on your lap in an FAA-approved container no larger than 16 x 9 x 7 inches. Pets too big for the cabin are considered as cargo.
4. Southwest: Pets fly in carriers no larger than a travel-friendly soft-sided carrier like Petmate Sky Kennels. However, there is no strict size requirement. The pet just needs to be able to remain on owner’s lap.

How Big Is Too Big?

As a general rule, a big dog that fully sits or stands taller than 18 inches is likely too large for cabin travel on most airlines. However, some airlines may allow dogs up to 20 lbs that can still sit on your lap comfortably. From my experience as a veterinarian, a medium-sized breed like a Beagle or Cocker Spaniel is usually an ideal size for cabin travel.

Larger breeds over 30 lbs such as Labs, Golden Retrievers, or German Shepherds are usually considered too big for airplane cabins, even in a carrier under the seat. However, there are always exceptions, so it’s best to check with your specific airline first before assuming your large dog must fly as cargo.

Other Considerations When Selecting a Cabin-Sized Dog

Besides just height and weight restrictions, here are a few other factors to keep in mind when deciding if your dog is suitable for cabin travel:

1. Temperament: Flying can be stressful for dogs. Your pooch should be relaxed, non-destructive, and comfortable being confined for long periods around strangers.
2. Health: Puppies under 16 weeks and dogs traveling without current vaccinations may be denied cabin entry. Check health cert requirements for your destination.
3. Size of Crate: The crate should allow your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably but still fit under the seat. Measurements matter more than weight alone.
4. Bathroom Breaks: Most flights are too long for dogs to “hold it.” Consider boarding or driving for flights over 3 hours if your pup isn’t fully house trained.

There are also some large or unusual breeds like Siberian Huskies that airlines will not allow in cabins for safety and space reasons, even if they meet size criteria.

Tips for a Smooth Flight with Fido

Making the right preparations can help ensure cabin travel with your dog goes smoothly:

1. Book early flights when possible so you have pick of seats near emergency exits with more legroom for your pet’s crate
2. Practice crate training well in advance and desensitize your pup to noises like turbulence before the flight
3. Bring water, treats, pee pads, and any medications in your carry-on in case of travel delays
4. Consider calming supplements to reduce anxiety if your dog is nervous flier
5. Talk to vet about non-prescription aids like CBD or pheromone therapy for stress
6. Have up-to-date vaccination records on hand to prove your pet’s health status

With some preparation and understanding of airline rules, you can take many well-behaved dogs or cats flying safely in the passenger cabin. Just be sure measurements stay within carrier and size limits to avoid cargo holds.

Let me know if you have any other questions! Safe travels to you and your four-legged companion.

Dog Size Requirements for Cabin Travel

Breed	Maximum Weight	Maximum Height
Beagle	18 lbs	15 inches
French Bulldog	25 lbs	11 inches
Labrador Retriever	85 lbs	22 inches
German Shepherd	85 lbs	26 inches
Great Dane	Not Allowed	Too Tall
Mastiff	Not Allowed	Too Heavy
Saint Bernard	Not Allowed	Too Heavy
Great Pyrenees	Not Allowed	Too Heavy

FAQ

1. What is the maximum size a dog can be to fly in the cabin of a plane?

   Most airlines allow dogs under 20 pounds to fly in the cabin as carry-on. However, some allow larger dogs too if they can fit safely under the seat. Basically, if your pup is too big to comfortably fit on your lap or under the seat, they might need to travel in cargo instead.

2. Are there weight limits for dogs on planes?

   Yeah, there are usually weight limits. The limit is around 20 pounds for most major airlines. I guess anything bigger could pose problems if it tries to escape from its carrier or something. Nevertheless, each airline has its own rules so check with them directly to be certain.

3. Do I need to buy my dog its own seat?

   Not always. Many airlines let you bring a small dog into the cabin as your “personal item” as long as it stays under your seat or on your lap. However, some carriers require dogs over a certain size to purchase their own ticket and fly in a particular bulkhead seat. Basically, it depends on the airline and dog’s size.

   

4. Is there a size limit for emotional support animals?

   Surprisingly, no – at least not according to federal law. Emotional support animals are supposed to provide comfort to people with disabilities. As such, the animal doesn’t technically have to be small. However, airlines surely have safety concerns about huge dogs in the passenger cabin. Perhaps the animal just needs to behave well regardless of its dimensions.

5. What paperwork do I need to fly with a service or support animal?

   You’ll need a letter from your mental health professional stating your need for the animal. The letter must be dated within one year of your flight. You also need to contact the airline in advance, show them the letter at check-in, and keep the dog under control during the flight. But I found one airline’s website and it sort of contradicts the experts. Is that fair?

6. Can I bring a puppy on a plane?

   It depends on the puppy’s age. Most airlines require dogs to be at least 8 weeks old before flying due to health reasons. Also, since young puppies can’t always hold their bladder for long, you’ll likely need to bring a pee pad just in case. Above all, make sure Fido is comfortable, happy, and won’t freak out from engine noises. Then your littlefurry friend should be able to join you at 35,000 feet!