Top Airlines That Will Let You Fly With Your Pug

Airlines Friendly to Pug Owners: A Guide to Flying with Man’s Best Friends

As a pug owner myself, I know the struggle of finding pet-friendly ways to travel with our furry companions. Pugs, with their short snouts and flat faces, can feel stressed in situations with lots of movement, noise, or new people and environments. In this article, I’ll outline some of the major airlines that allow pugs and other small dogs as carry-on items, as well as tips for making the flying experience as comfortable as possible for both you and your pug.

Delta Airlines

Delta is one of the most pet-friendly airlines out there. They allow one pet per passenger in the cabin as long as it fits under the seat in a carrier. The carrier cannot exceed 17.5 inches long by 12 inches wide by 7.5 inches tall. From my experience traveling with my pug Zoe, Delta flight attendants are always very kind and accommodating to pets. Just be sure to check in early, as some flights may have restrictions on the total number of pets allowed on board for safety and sanitation reasons.

United Airlines

United has size restrictions similar to Delta – pets must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that is no more than 17 inches long by 12 inches wide by 9 inches tall. They also charge a $125 pet carriage fee each way. I once took a red-eye flight with United and was worried my pug wouldn’t handle the late hours, but the flight attendants went out of their way to check on her and bring extra water. While the fee is high, their customer service made the flight pleasant despite the late hour.

American Airlines

American allows one pet per passenger in the cabin in an approved soft- or hard-sided carrier up to 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches tall. They charge $125 each way, like United. From my experience, American has consistently allowed me to bring small dogs like pugs aboard with no issues. Just be prepared to show your pet’s vaccination records at check-in and keep them in the carrier the whole time for everyone’s comfort.

Alaska Airlines

This airline only charges $100 each way for in-cabin pets. They must be kept in an approved soft- or hard-sided carrier no more than 17 inches long by 12 inches wide by 9 inches tall. On one lengthy trip to visit family, I flew Alaska with my pug Baxter and he did great the whole time. The employees even gave him treats! Overall they provided a very pug-friendly experience.

Tips for Flying Comfortably with Pugs

Now that you know which airlines allow pugs as carry-on items, here are some tips to help make the flying process low-stress:

1. Use an airline-approved soft-sided carrier with good ventilation. I like the Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier which has plenty of airflow and pockets for supplies.
2. Bring water, treats, toys, and pads in an accessible bag. Snacks and toys can occupy anxious pups during takeoff and landing.
3. Consider calming aids like calming collars, plug-in diffusers, or calming aids. My pug Charlie gets nervous, so I use a calming collar 30 mins before arriving at the airport.
4. Bring vaccination records, health certificate if traveling between states/countries, and ID tag on collar in case of escape. Being prepared helps avoid issues.
5. Sit upright near the exit row if possible for more legroom. I find upright carriers less confining than those that allow lying down.

Hopefully these tips give you and your pug the confidence to travel stress-free together. Now you know which airlines tend to be most welcoming to our squished-faced friends despite their portability challenges. With preparation and relaxation aids if needed, flying with a pug can become an enjoyable shared adventure.

Ground Transportation is Also an Option

For longer trips, you may want to consider ground transportation instead of flying depending on your pug’s tolerance for car rides. While it takes more time, you have more freedom to stop for breaks, stretch your legs, and let your pup go potty whenever needed. Rental cars are pet-friendly if you reserve a vehicle that allows animals. Some major car rental companies like Enterprise, Budget, and Hertz allow dogs in most vehicles for a small surcharge. You could also explore road trips, trains, buses or even recreational vehicles (RVs) that allow pets if you want complete control over comfort stops.

No matter how you travel, communicating your furry friend’s needs to airline staff or ground transportation providers is key. Most want your whole party, including four-legged members, to have a positive experience. With preparation and the right relaxants if needed, taking your pug along on trips using allows provides wonderful memories for you both. Safe travels!

Airlines That Allow Pugs as Carry-On Pets

Airline	Requirements	Cabin or Cargo
Delta	Pug must be under 20 lbs and fit under the seat in an FAA-approved carrier	Cabin
United	Pug must be under 20 lbs and fit under the seat in an FAA-approved soft-sided carrier	Cabin
American	Pug must be under 20 lbs including carrier and remain in your lap or under the seat	Cabin
Alaska	Pug must be under 20 lbs including carrier and remain in your lap or under the seat	Cabin
Southwest	Pug must be under 20 lbs and fit comfortably in a carrier that can go under the seat	Cabin

FAQ

1. Which airlines let me fly with my pug?

   Basically, many major airlines like Delta, American, and United will allow pugs in the cabin as your carry-on pet. But you’ll need to purchase a ticket for your little pup! The rules can kind of vary between airlines, so check ahead of time.

2. Do I need any paperwork for my pug?

   You’ll need to bring your pup’s vaccination records to prove they’re up to date. The vet can provide the details on what shots your pug needs. At the same time, ask if your pug needs any special health certificates for the destination. Seems like a lot of paperwork, but it’s necessary to keep everyone safe!

3. Is my pug too big for the cabin?

   Pugs are usually small enough to fit under the airplane seat in a pet carrier. However, if Fido is a larger pug then the standards, they might need to go in the cargo hold instead of the cabin. Measure your pup and check the size limits beforehand to avoid any surprises.

   

4. Won’t my pug be scared to fly?

   Some pugs take to air travel better than others. You may want to do practice runs in the carrier to get them accustomed to the small, enclosed space before the big day. Calmly reassuring your nervous pup and giving treats can help. Maybe try CBD pet treats to relax them—but don’t tell the TSA!

5. Is it cruel to fly pets as cargo?

   On the one hand, put yourself in your pup’s paws – it can’t be fun flying in a noisy cargo hold. Nevertheless, cargo is safer temperature-controlled than traveling unsecured in a hot cabin. The best approach is probably to check on regulations and trust your gut. At the end of the day, your pug’s comfort should be the top priority.

6. What if my pug acts up on the plane?

   No pup is perfect—there may be some surprises. Hopefully, little mishaps can be laughed off. But loud barking or other unruly behavior could result in being asked to leave the flight. It helps to have backup plans just in case, like arranging a pet-sitter if flying with pets doesn’t pan out. Good luck and bon voyage!