How Big Can Your Dog Be to Fly on an Airplane? Dog Size Requirements for Flying

How Big Can Your Dog Be to Fly?

If you’re thinking of taking your furry friend on your next trip, you may be wondering about size restrictions for dogs on airplanes. In this article, I’ll break down the dimensions and weight limits set by major airlines so you know if Fido can fly. I’ll also share some tips and tricks from my own experiences traveling with canines over the years.

Weight and Size Limits

All airlines impose size and weight limits for pets traveling in-cabin rather than as cargo. Let’s take a look at the general guidelines:

1. Most airlines allow dogs under 20 pounds to fly in-cabin in a carrier that fits under the seat.
2. Some smaller carriers like JetBlue and Alaska Airlines permit pets up to 25 pounds.
3. For dogs between 20-50 pounds, you’ll need to purchase an extra plane ticket so your pet has its own separate space.
4. No airline allows dogs over 50 pounds to fly in the passenger cabin for safety and space reasons.

Keep in mind individual carriers have slightly varying cutoffs. For example, United’s weight limit for in-cabin pets is lower at 18 pounds versus Delta’s 20 pounds. Always check the specific airline’s website or give them a call to confirm pet policies before booking your trip. You don’t want any unpleasant surprises at the airport!

Measuring Your Pup’s Space Requirements

In addition to weight, your dog’s carrier must fit compactly underneath the seat in front of you when it is stowed. Sizes generally top out at around 18x13x8 inches. So get out a tape measure and make sure Fido’s crate abides by the linear dimension specs too. From my experience, medium and large dog crates that meet airline standards are a bit of a tight squeeze, so it’s best if Rover is on the smaller side.

One mistake I made early on was underestimating just how little vacant floor space is available. Unless your pup is decidedly petite, squeezing his kennel into the foot well area can crowd your own legs uncomfortably. So measure twice to avoid bumping elbows with your pup for three hours!

Special Circumstances for Emotional Support or Service Animals

If your dog provides emotional support or disability assistance, you have a bit more leeway in terms of size. Airlines must permit ESAs and service animals to fly regardless of size as long as they can be accommodated without posing health/safety risks or causing disturbances. Meaning a larger canine may travel cabined with its owner by purchasing an extra seat versus being stowed in a carrier. Of course, proper training and documentation is necessary to prove the animal’s support purpose.

From my experience dealing with emotional support dog waivers, airlines will still request proofs like veterinary records, vaccination paperwork and a letter from your mental health provider. So be thorough with your qualifications if transporting an assistance pup outside standard pet limits.

Preparing for Takeoff

No matter how well-behaved your pup is at home, flying can stressful for both of you. Some tips I’ve found helpful in getting man’s best friend acclimated to air travel:

1. Start crate training well in advance so the carrier feels safe and comfortable rather than a punishment.
2. Slowly get Rover used to airport noises with videos or sound machine to desensitize before the big day.
3. Bring along toys, treats and water to keep him occupied during taxi, takeoff and landing when ears may pop.
4. Consider calming supplements or natural remedies under vet guidance to ease any anxiety.
5. Book extra time at the airport so you aren’t rushing through security with a squirmy pup.

Special Considerations When Flying

Even when strictly following guidelines, realize flying with animals is subject to delays, cancellations and last-minute changes kind of like, well, the airline industry itself. Here are some other aspects to be aware of:

• Flying during hot summer months requires extra water and rest breaks so your pup doesn’t overheat.
• Winter storms could potentially divert or delay plans, leaving Rover cooped up longer than expected.
• Some airlines have “pet hold areas” at airports during connections since pets must stayCabined.
• Seating near bulkheads offers more floor space but you may have less legroom.
• Snacks, leash law policies and health certificates vary per destination country.

Basically, just expect the unexpected and pack tons of patience when air transporting animals. Flexibility will serve you well on any travels with furry family members.

Alternative Transportation Options

If your pup is over size/weight limits, don’t fret – alternative pet-friendly modes of transport do exist. Here are a few ideas to get Fido to granny’s without flying:

• Drive yourself and break up the journey with rest stops to let energy out.
• Book ground shuttle services that accommodate larger dogs in kennels.
• Check if your destination is accessible by passenger train permitting pets in seating areas.
• As a last resort, ship Rover as air cargo with an IATA-certified pet transport company.

Sure, driving adds time versus flying but preserving the family bond may be worth it, kind of like those epic roadtrips of days gone by. So don’t rule out wheels if air travel won’t work logistically.

Final Woofs of Advice

In summary – aim to keep your furry friend small enough to meet airline size/weight constraints. Anything over 50 pounds for in-cabin travel will be a non-starter. Beyond that, advance planning, stress-proof preparation and flexibility are key to conquering the skies with your canine co-pilot. Safe travels!

Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions after reading my overview on how sizable your dog can be and still fly. Wishing you and Fido many fun adventures ahead, whether your transportation of choice has wings or wheels.

Dog Size Requirements for Flying

Airline	Maximum Weight	Maximum Height
American Airlines	20 lbs	15 inches
Delta Air Lines	20 lbs	9 inches
United Airlines	20 lbs	9 inches
Southwest Airlines	20 lbs	10 inches
JetBlue	15 lbs	10 inches
Alaska Airlines	15 lbs	10 inches

FAQ

1. How big can my dog be to fly in the cabin?

   Most airlines allow dogs under 20 pounds to fly in the cabin as carry-on, but the rules can vary by airline. Basically, if your pup is kind of small and will fit under the seat, there’s a good chance they can join you in the main cabin. At the same time, always check the specific policies for your airline.

   

2. What size crate is required?

   The crate needs to be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Generally, the dimensions should be less than 18 inches high by 16 inches wide by 23 inches long. However, different airlines have diverse requirements for the exact size limits. It’s best to measure your pup’s crate before your flight to ensure it complies with the rules.

3. Are there age restrictions?

   Most airlines will not accept puppies younger than 10-12 weeks on flights due to health reasons. The maximum age restriction is typically around 8 years old, even though some dogs over 8 live long, healthy lives. Questions have been raised about whether age alone should determine flyability, but airline policies focus on passenger safety.

4. Can I bring more than one dog?

   The number of pets allowed in the cabin varies by airline. Some will only let you bring one animal per passenger for safety and space concerns. Others may permit two pets traveling together if you purchase extra tickets. It’s a good idea to ask the airline directly about their multiple pet policies.

5. What paperwork is required?

   All dogs must be leashed, harness or travel in an approved hard-sided crate. You’ll also need an overnight bag with food, leash, poop bags, and proof of up-to-date vaccines. Basically, come prepared with all important dog travel documents like veterinary health records to satisfy the paperwork part. Reread the airline’s rules carefully to avoid surprises.

6. Is there a separate fee?

   Yes, most airlines charge an extra “pet transportation fee” anytime an animal travels in the cabin. The cost can range from $75 to $125 or more per direction. On the other hand, emotions can run high when separating from a furry family member mid-flight. Perhaps the fee seems worth the companionship and reassurance pets provide! But check with your carrier for accurate rates.

   

7. What if my dog is too big?

   If Fido exceeds the size limit, you’ll need to check him in a dog-proof crate as cargo. The crate goes in the belly of the plane, not the main cabin. Transporting animals as baggage poses higher risks than cabin travel. Still, experienced pet shippers report good success rates when all T’s are crossed and I’s dotted on documentation. As with any major decision, consider the pros and cons.