Which airlines allow dogs in the cabin?

Most full-service airlines allow small dogs in the cabin if they fit in an approved carrier under the seat, typically up to 8–9 kg including the carrier. Budget carriers generally don't allow pets in the cabin — only assistance dogs.

How much does it cost to fly with a dog in the cabin?

In-cabin pet fees typically range from €70 to $200 each way, depending on the airline and route. Cargo transport is usually more expensive and may involve additional handling fees.

Is cargo travel safe for dogs?

Modern cargo holds are pressurised and climate-controlled. Airlines with dedicated pet cargo programs often provide additional monitoring. However, brachycephalic breeds and very young or senior dogs may face higher risks — always consult your vet.

What documents do I need to fly with my dog?

You'll typically need a rabies vaccination certificate, a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and any destination-specific documents such as an EU pet passport or animal health certificate. Requirements vary by destination.

Can brachycephalic (flat-nosed) breeds fly?

Many airlines restrict or ban brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers from cargo travel due to breathing risks. Some may still allow them in the cabin — check with your airline directly.

How far in advance should I book my dog's flight?

Book your pet's spot as early as possible — ideally when you book your own ticket. Most airlines limit the number of pets per flight, and spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.

Airline Comparison

Best Airlines for Flying with Your Dog: Policies Compared

Not all airlines treat dogs the same way. Compare cabin vs cargo pet policies, typical fees, breed restrictions, and carrier rules across major airlines — then check which ones fit your route.

Once you've compared airline dog policies, use our dog travel planner to check dog travel requirements for your destination, or generate a dog travel checklist.

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Cabin vs Cargo

How Airlines Handle Dogs

In-Cabin Travel

Small dogs that fit in an airline-approved carrier under the seat in front of you can usually travel in the cabin. Weight limits are typically 8–9 kg including the carrier.

Cargo / Hold Travel

Larger dogs travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold in an approved travel crate. Cargo programs vary by airline — some offer dedicated pet-safe services with temperature monitoring.

Safety Considerations

Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) breeds like French Bulldogs and Pugs face extra restrictions, especially in cargo, due to breathing risks. Many airlines also impose seasonal heat or cold embargoes.

Ready to compare specific carriers? Browse our airline dog policies tool, or use our dog travel planner to see what applies to your route.

What We Compare

What We Compare Between Airlines

We evaluate five key dimensions to help you find the right airline for your dog.

Cabin Eligibility

Weight limits and carrier size requirements for in-cabin travel.

Cargo Options

Whether the airline offers climate-controlled cargo transport for larger dogs.

Typical Fees

In-cabin and cargo pet fees, which vary widely by airline and route.

Health Documents

Required health certificates, vaccination records, and airline-specific forms.

Breed, Route & Season Restrictions

Breed-specific bans, seasonal heat embargoes, and route-specific limitations.

Comparison Table

Airline Dog Policies at a Glance

A quick comparison of major airlines' pet travel policies. Always verify current rules directly with your airline before booking.

Airline	Cabin Dogs?	Cargo Dogs?	In-Cabin Fee	Key Restrictions	Full Policy
Air France	Yes Up to 8 kg incl. carrier	Yes Climate-controlled hold	€70–125 each way	Brachycephalic breeds restricted in cargo	View
Lufthansa	Yes Up to 8 kg incl. carrier	Yes Climate-controlled hold	€70–150 each way	Snub-nosed breeds restricted in cargo	View
KLM	Yes Up to 8 kg incl. carrier	Yes Climate-controlled hold	€75–120 each way	Temperature-based route restrictions	View
British Airways	Assistance only Assistance dogs only	Yes Via IAG Cargo	Cargo rates apply	No pets in cabin	View
American Airlines	Yes Up to 9 kg incl. carrier	Limited Varies by route	$125 each way	Seasonal embargoes; breed restrictions	View
Delta Air Lines	Yes Up to 9 kg incl. carrier	Yes Via Delta Cargo	$95–200 each way	Brachycephalic breeds not accepted in cargo	View
United Airlines	Yes Up to 9 kg incl. carrier	Yes PetSafe program	$125 each way	Breed restrictions; temperature limits	View
Ryanair	Assistance only Assistance dogs only	No No cargo program	—	No pets transported (assistance dogs only)	View

Fees and policies are indicative and may change. Always confirm with the airline before booking.

Dog-Friendly Trends

Most Dog-Friendly Airlines in 2026

Pet-friendliness varies by region and airline type. Here's the general landscape — always check specific routes.

North American Carriers

Major US and Canadian airlines generally have established pet programs with both cabin and cargo options, including dedicated pet-safe services with live monitoring.

European & UK Carriers

Flagship European carriers tend to be pet-friendly for small dogs in the cabin, with well-structured cargo programs for larger breeds on long-haul routes.

Budget Carriers

Low-cost airlines typically don't transport pets at all — only registered assistance dogs are accepted. If you're flying budget with a dog, expect to use a full-service carrier instead.

Common Rules

Typical Rules You'll Encounter

Most airlines share a common set of requirements regardless of carrier.

Reserve Your Pet's Spot

Most airlines limit the number of pets per flight. Book your pet's spot at the same time as your ticket — don't wait until check-in.

Airline-Approved Carrier

For cabin travel, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and meet the airline's size requirements. Soft-sided carriers are often preferred.

Age Minimum

Puppies must typically be at least 8–12 weeks old and fully weaned before they can fly. Some airlines require 15–16 weeks for international routes.

Health Certificate

Many airlines require a health certificate issued by a vet within 10 days of travel, confirming your dog is fit to fly.

Breed Restrictions

Brachycephalic breeds and certain large or aggressive breeds may be banned from cargo or from the airline entirely.

Temperature Restrictions

Cargo travel may be refused when ground temperatures are too hot or too cold — often above 29°C or below -7°C — to protect your dog's safety.

How We Help

How DogTravelCompass Helps

Our database and Planner use these airline rules to show you the carriers that match your dog's size, your route, and your budget — so you don't waste time checking airlines that won't accept your dog.