Best Airlines for Dog Transport: 2026 Policies, Fees & Alternatives

As a pet owner, it can be a daunting task to figure out the best way to transport your beloved pup. Whether you’re moving across the country or taking a family vacation, you want to make sure your pet is safe, comfortable and properly cared for. When it comes to air travel, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the right airline for your dog transport needs. In this guide, we’ll cover the top considerations for selecting the best airline for your pet, from safety and convenience to cost and customer service. Read on to learn more about how to choose the best airline for dog transport.

What to Consider When Choosing an Airline for Dog Transport

When selecting an airline for your pet’s travel, there are several factors that should be taken into account. These include safety and convenience, cost and customer service.

Safety and Convenience

Safety should be your top priority when it comes to air travel for pets. Look for airlines that have a good record of on-time flights and a strong safety record. You should also check to see if the airline allows pets in the cabin, as this can make the travel experience much more comfortable and stress-free for your pup. Additionally, check to see if the airline has any restrictions on the size of the animal and the type of crate you can use.

Cost

Cost is another important factor to consider when selecting an airline for your pet’s travel. Each airline will have different policies and a pet fee for transport, so it’s important to compare the different options before making a decision. Some airlines may even offer discounts for pet travel, so it’s worth checking for any promotions or deals that could help save you money.

Customer Service

The customer service of an airline is also an important factor to consider when selecting an airline for pet transport. Look for airlines that have a good reputation for customer service, as this can make the entire process much smoother and less stressful. Check to see if the airline has a dedicated customer service line for pet travel, as this can help ensure that your questions and concerns are answered quickly and efficiently.

Popular Airline Policies for Dog Transport

Below are some of the most popular airlines for dog transport:

Delta Airlines Pet Policy

Delta is a popular airline for pet transport. They allow small dogs and cats in the cabin on domestic and international flights, as long as they remain in an approved pet carrier.

American Airlines Pet Policy

American Airlines is another great option for pet transport. They allow small pets in the cabin on domestic flights, as long as they are in an approved carrier. They allow pets in the cargo hold through American Airlines Cargo.

United Airlines Pet Policy

United Airlines is also a popular choice for pet transport. They allow small dogs and cats in the cabin on domestic flights, but they should be in a carrier under the seat in front of you.

Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy

Hawaiian Airlines is a pet-friendly airline that allows dogs, cats and household birds inside the cabin and also in the cargo hold. The fees traveling within Hawaii are quite low — ranging from $35 one way in the cabin for small pets and $60 one way in the cargo hold. If you’re flying to North America, the fees are $125 one way in the cabin and $225 one way in the cargo hold.

Alaska Airlines Pet Policy

Alaska Airlines is another very pet-friendly airline allows dogs, cats, household birds and rabbits to travel with you in the cabin. The cost is $100 one way (and $105 if flying from Canada). Alaska Airlines is the only airline that allows a more diverse selection of pets in the cargo hold. It also costs $100 for each pet one way. Alaska Airlines allows dogs, cats, household birds, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, non-poisonous reptiles, tropical fish and even pot-bellied pigs.

Tips for Making Dog Transport Easier

Transporting your pup can be a stressful experience, but there are some tips that can help make the process much smoother.

Book Early

To ensure that your pet can fly with you, it’s important to book early. Many airlines require that you book your pet’s ticket at least a few weeks in advance, so it’s important to plan ahead.

Prepare Ahead of Time

It’s also important to prepare ahead of time for your pet’s travel. Make sure to check the airline’s requirements for pet transport, as well as their restrictions on the type and size of pet carriers. Additionally, make sure to bring any necessary documents, such as your pet’s health certificate, to the airport.

Utilize Pet Transport Services

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of transporting your pet, consider utilizing pet transport services. These services can help make the entire process much easier, from booking tickets to getting your pup to the airport.

Airlines That Ship Dogs in Cargo: What to Know

While many airlines once offered extensive pet cargo programs, several reduced or discontinued these services during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, only a limited number of airlines continue to transport pets in cargo, and policies vary widely depending on the route, destination, and time of year. Before booking, always confirm the airline’s current pet policy, as availability can change.

Most airlines that accept dogs as cargo require a USDA-compliant health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within the required timeframe before departure. The dog must also travel in an airline-approved crate that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) size requirements.

Temperature restrictions are another important consideration. Many airlines impose seasonal embargoes when temperatures at the departure, connecting, or arrival airport exceed safe limits or fall below minimum thresholds. These restrictions are especially common during the summer and winter months and are intended to reduce health risks during loading and unloading.

Although air cargo is generally safe, it can be stressful for some dogs. Pets travel separately from passengers, experience unfamiliar environments, and may spend extended periods inside their travel crate during check-in, connections, and delivery. Owners of senior dogs, anxious pets, and brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds often consider alternative transportation methods that reduce travel-related stress.

In-Cabin vs. Cargo: Which Option Is Right for Your Dog?

The best way for a dog to fly depends largely on its size, breed, health, and temperament. Small dogs that fit comfortably inside an airline-approved carrier beneath the seat—typically pets weighing around 20 pounds or less (including the carrier)—may qualify for in-cabin travel on many airlines.

Larger dogs generally must travel as checked baggage (where available) or as manifest cargo. However, many airlines restrict or prohibit cargo transportation for brachycephalic breeds, including Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, and Boxers, because these breeds face an increased risk of breathing difficulties during air travel.

For many pets, flying in the cabin is less stressful because they remain close to their owner throughout the trip. Cargo transport can still be a safe option when handled by experienced airlines, but it involves more time inside the crate, additional handling, and exposure to airport environments.

If your dog is too large for cabin travel, has breed-related restrictions, or becomes anxious during flights, professional ground transportation is often the better alternative. Ground transport provides regular exercise and potty breaks, door-to-door service, and avoids cargo holds entirely while accommodating dogs of virtually any size.

Service Dog Airline Policies

Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, airlines are required to accommodate trained service dogs that perform specific tasks for a person with a disability. Service dogs generally travel in the cabin with their handler at no additional charge, provided they meet the airline’s safety requirements.

In 2021, the DOT updated its rules to distinguish psychiatric service dogs from emotional support animals (ESAs). Psychiatric service dogs that are individually trained to perform tasks receive the same protections as other service dogs. Emotional support animals, however, are no longer required to be treated as service animals, and most airlines now transport ESAs under their standard pet policies and applicable fees.

Many airlines require passengers traveling with a service dog to complete a DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form, and additional documentation may be required for longer flights. Always review your airline’s current service animal policy before departure to ensure compliance with its documentation and behavioral requirements.

International Dog Transport by Air

International pet travel requires significantly more planning than domestic flights. Many airlines offer international pet transportation, but destination-country regulations often determine whether your dog can enter and what documentation is required.

Most countries require a USDA-accredited veterinarian to issue an international health certificate, and many destinations also require the certificate to receive USDA endorsement before departure. Additional requirements may include proof of rabies vaccination, microchipping, parasite treatments, blood tests, or import permits.

Some countries impose mandatory quarantine periods, while others allow pets to enter immediately if all health requirements are satisfied. Because import rules change regularly, it’s important to verify requirements well in advance of travel.

Professional international pet relocation companies often assist with airline bookings, documentation, import permits, and customs procedures, helping owners navigate the complex requirements for overseas moves.

Ground Transport: A Safer Alternative to Flying Your Dog

For many families, professional ground pet transportation offers a less stressful alternative to flying. Instead of spending hours inside an airport and traveling in a cargo hold or aircraft cabin, dogs travel by climate-controlled vehicle with regular stops for exercise, water, feeding, and bathroom breaks.

Ground transportation is especially popular for large dogs, senior pets, puppies, anxious travelers, and brachycephalic breeds that may face airline restrictions. It also eliminates many of the challenges associated with air travel, including cargo embargoes, airline size limits, weather delays, and complicated airport logistics. Most ground transporters provide convenient door-to-door service, making the entire process easier for both pets and owners.

CitizenShipper connects pet owners with experienced, background-checked independent pet transporters across the country. Simply post your shipment for free, receive multiple competitive quotes, compare driver reviews and profiles, and communicate directly with transporters before booking. There’s no obligation until you choose the driver that’s right for you.

Most domestic ground pet transportation costs approximately $200–$1,200, depending on distance, pet size, and whether the trip is private or shared. Every eligible CitizenShipper booking also includes $1,000 in Pet Protection Coverage and 24/7 veterinary access through FirstVet, giving owners additional peace of mind throughout the journey. For many dogs, ground transportation provides the best balance of comfort, flexibility, and safety while avoiding the unique challenges of air travel.

Bottom Line

Choosing the right airline to travel with a pet can be a daunting task. However, by taking into account factors such as safety and convenience, cost and customer service, you can be sure to find the best airline for your pet’s needs. Popular airlines for dog transport include Delta, American Airlines and United Airlines.

Additionally, there are a few tips that can help make the process of pet transport much easier, such as booking early, preparing ahead of time and utilizing pet transport services. We hope this guide has been helpful in selecting the best airline for your pet’s travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which airlines allow dogs in the cabin?

Delta, American, United, Hawaiian, and Alaska Airlines all allow small dogs in the cabin on domestic flights. The dog must fit in an airline-approved carrier under the seat in front of you. In-cabin pet fees range from $35 (Hawaiian inter-island) to $125 (United). Most airlines limit cabin pets to one per passenger and 2–5 per flight.

Q2: How much does it cost to fly a dog in cargo?

Flying a dog in cargo costs $100–$1,000+ depending on the airline, route, and dog's size. Hawaiian Airlines charges $60–$225 one way for cargo pets. Alaska Airlines charges $100 one way. American Airlines Cargo pricing varies by route and must be quoted directly. Delta Air Lines no longer ships pets as cargo. United PetSafe was discontinued in 2019.

Q3: Which airlines ship dogs as cargo?

As of 2026, airlines that ship dogs in the cargo hold include Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and American Airlines (through American Airlines Cargo). Delta discontinued its cargo pet shipping program, and United ended its PetSafe cargo program in 2019. Southwest Airlines does not transport pets in cargo at all.

Q4: What is the best airline for large dogs?

Large dogs that exceed cabin carrier size limits (typically dogs over 20 pounds) must fly in the cargo hold. Alaska Airlines is the best option for large dogs because it accepts a wide range of breeds and pet types in cargo at $100 one way. For large dogs that are brachycephalic breeds or poor flyers, ground transport through a service like CitizenShipper is a safer alternative.

Q5: Are snub-nosed dogs allowed to fly?

Most airlines restrict or ban brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers from cargo travel due to higher risk of breathing problems at altitude. Some airlines allow snub-nosed dogs in the cabin if they fit in an approved carrier. Check each airline's restricted breed list before booking.