Is My Dog Too Large to Fly In-Cabin? Dog Size Requirements for Airlines Explained

Is Your Dog Too Big to Fly In-Cabin?

One of the most common questions dog owners have when planning air travel is whether their furry companion is allowed in the cabin or needs to fly as cargo. As many airlines enforce size restrictions for in-cabin pets, it’s important to understand the regulations and consider your dog’s dimensions before booking tickets. In this article, I will answer all the key questions regarding flying with an oversized dog and provide tips to help determine if Fido fits or not.

Airline Size Limits for Dogs

Most domestic airlines in the U.S. allow one pet per passenger to travel in the cabin, provided the dog is small enough to fit under the seat in a carrier. The maximum dimensions airlines impose are typically:

• Length – Under 20 inches from nose to tail
• Width – Under 16 inches
• Height – Under 9 inches

These restrictions are in place to ensure larger animals do not block aisles or exit rows. From my experience working as a pet transport coordinator, dogs exceeding one or more measurements will likely need to be checked as cargo.

What Happens If My Dog Is Too Big?

If upon measuring your pup you discover she does not comply with the size policy, there are a few options:

1. Fly as cargo in the belly of the plane: Most airlines will accept dogs slightly oversized as cargo for an additional fee. However, cargo holds are not temperature controlled and cannot be accessed during the flight.
2. Check alternate airlines: Some carriers have more lenient policies, so it’s worth shopping around. Southwest for example allows up to 50 pounds.
3. Drive instead of fly: For very large dogs, driving may be the safer choice so they can be with you the whole trip.

Accurately Measuring Your Dog

Getting an exact measurement is crucial. From my experience, pet parents often underestimate Fluffy’s true proportions. Here are some tips to get it right:

• Use a flexible cloth tape measure and have a helper hold your pup still
• Lay your pup on her side to take length and width
• Measure height at the shoulder blades while standing
• Double check – it’s easy to misread a tape the first time!

If uncertain, I’d error on the side of caution and plan to ship as cargo. Oversized dogs denied cabin entry must be checked last minute at a much higher rate.

Special Circumstances for Emotional Support or Service Dogs

If your dog provides emotional support or performs tasks to aid a disability, different rules may apply. Under the Air Carrier Access Act, civil rights protections allow service dogs to fly in-cabin regardless of size. However, airlines can still set reasonable policies, so familiarize yourself with the carrier’s specific policies for ESA/PSA documentation requirements.

Preparing for Takeoff and Landing Stress

For nervous fliers – whether two legs or four – takeoff and landing induces the highest stress. From my experience as a vet, keeping pups calm during these periods helps ensure a positive travel association is formed. Some strategies to soothe anxiety include:

• Anxiety medication prescribed by your vet
• Calming supplements like CBD or calming treats
• Soothing pheromone sprays or diffusers
• Distraction like toys or peanut butter kongs

It also helps to practice desensitization training with the carrier before your flight. With a bit of preparation, most dogs – big or small – can travel by air with minimal suffering.

Final Considerations Before Booking

As the journey involves many unknowns for man’s best friend, my advice is only fly your oversized pup if absolutely necessary. Otherwise, driving may be kinder on their nerves. I’d also strongly recommend pet health insurance in case of any injuries or illness while traveling. At the end of the day, prioritizing your dog’s comfort level should guide your transportation decision.

Hope this break down of airline policies and my tips from years of pet experience has helped shed some light on whether Fido fits or needs different travel arrangements. Please let me know if you have any other questions! Safe travels to you and your furry companion.

Requirements for Flying With Your Dog In-Cabin

Airline	Max Size	Weight Limit	Crate Required
American Airlines	Up to 18 inches	20 lbs or less	Yes
Delta	Up to 18 inches	20 lbs or less	Yes
United	Up to 18 inches	20 lbs or less	Yes
JetBlue	Up to 15 inches	6 lbs or less	Yes
Alaska Airlines	Up to 18 inches	15 lbs or less	Yes

FAQ

1. Is my dog too big to fly in the cabin?

   Most domestic dog breeds can fly in the cabin as long as they meet the airline’s size and weight restrictions when traveling in a carrier under the seat in front of you. However, really large dogs like Great Danes or mastiffs may not fit. It depends on how big your pup is. So you’ll need to check the specific rules for the airline you’re traveling with.

   

2. What are the usual size limits for cabin pets?

   Many airlines allow dogs in carriers that are no bigger than around 18 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches. The weight limit is often around 20 pounds. But some airlines only accept smaller pets that can fit completely under the seat. Measure your dog’s crate and check the rules to be sure. Despite size limits, every pup deserves to fly!

3. Can an emotional support animal be larger?

   potentially. Airlines are required to allow emotional support animals in the cabin regardless of size, but they still must fit safely without blocking the aisle or exits. You may need travel documentation from your mental health professional stating your medical need for the larger animal. At the same time, being honest about your pet’s actual size is important for safety.

4. What else do I need to travel with a pet?

   In addition to properly sizing and securing your pup’s carrier, you’ll want documents like veterinary records, a health certificate if traveling internationally, and any training records or certifications if they are a service or emotional support animal. Masking your pet’s stress with calming treats is a good idea too. Basically, be prepared to prove your pooch is safe, healthy and under control.

5. Can I hold my small dog on my lap instead of in a carrier?

   Maybe, depending on the airline. Pets must stay in carriers under the seat for their safety and yours during takeoff, landing and turbulence. However, some allow well-behaved little lap dogs. Your best bet is contacting the airline ahead of time to double check what’s allowed. In the end, following all rules is key for a smooth flight for everyone! But is it worth risking your pup’s health and safety to save a few bucks?

   

6. What if my dog is too big to fly in the cabin?

   No worries – there are still options if your pup doesn’t meet size restrictions. Many airlines offer a “pet in the hold” service where animals fly in a climate-controlled pressurized cargo compartment. Although it’s not ideal to be apart, it’s safer than driving long distances. You can also explore multi-leg ground transportation or flying on an airline with more generous size allowances. Just be sure little Frisky has adequate food, water, exercise and potty breaks along the way.