Flying With Your Dog: Cabin, Cargo & Crate Rules

Get the airline part right before you book anything.

DogsFlyingAirline policy

Country paperwork is only half of pet travel — the airline is the other half, and it's where a lot of trips fall apart. Whether your dog flies in the cabin or as cargo depends on its size and the airline, and there are hard limits around crate dimensions, snub-nosed breeds, and temperature. This evergreen guide covers what to check before you book, so the flight itself isn't the thing that stops you.

The checklist, step by step

Read the airline's pet policy first

🗓 Before booking the flight

Every airline differs on cabin vs cargo, weight limits, breed rules and seasonal embargoes. Confirm the policy for your exact route and aircraft before you buy a ticket.

Decide cabin vs cargo

🗓 Based on size and airline

Small dogs (roughly under 8 kg including the carrier) can often fly in the cabin; larger dogs travel as checked or manifested cargo. Not all airlines offer both.

Get an IATA-compliant crate

🗓 Weeks before travel

For cargo, the crate must meet IATA Live Animals Regulations: the dog can stand, turn and lie down naturally, with ventilation and secure fastenings. Measure your dog before buying.

Check breed & temperature restrictions

🗓 Before booking

Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds face cabin/cargo embargoes on many airlines, and airlines refuse the hold in very hot or cold conditions. Prefer direct flights and mild-temperature dates.

Acclimate the crate & prep for the day

🗓 In the weeks before

Let your dog get used to the crate ahead of time, and plan feeding, water and a toilet break around check-in. Bring all documents to the airport.

Good to know

Airline pet policies change often and vary by route, aircraft and season. Treat this as a checklist of what to confirm, not a guarantee — always verify directly with your airline.

Frequently asked questions

Can big dogs fly in the cabin?Usually no — most airlines only allow small dogs (roughly under 8 kg including the carrier) in the cabin. Larger dogs travel as checked or manifested cargo, where available.

Why do airlines restrict snub-nosed breeds?Brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs, boxers and similar) are more prone to breathing problems and heat stress, so many airlines limit or refuse to carry them, especially in the hold or warm weather.

What crate do I need to fly my dog as cargo?An IATA-compliant crate in which the dog can stand, turn around and lie down naturally, with proper ventilation and secure door and fastenings. Measure your dog first.

Official sources

IATA — Traveling with pets (Live Animals Regulations)

Get this as a dated plan for your trip

SerendiLoop turns this checklist into exact dates tied to your travel day, stores your dog's documents, and reminds you before anything expires.

Build your plan — free to start

This guide is for general information and is kept in step with official sources, but requirements change and can vary by case. Always confirm the current rules with the official authority for your route before you travel.

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