Pet Flight Requirements: What You Need to Know Before Flying with Your Dog

When you’re planning a trip and your dog comes along, pet flight requirements, the rules and health standards airlines enforce for traveling animals. Also known as airline pet policies, these aren’t just paperwork—they’re your dog’s ticket to a safe, stress-free journey. Whether your pup is small enough to fit under the seat or needs to travel in cargo, each airline has its own set of rules. And no, you can’t just show up at the gate with a carrier and hope for the best.

Many people assume that if their dog is calm and small, they can just bring them on their lap. But lap dog flight rules, the specific airline policies that allow small dogs to ride in the cabin under the seat. Also known as in-cabin pet travel, they’re strict: weight limits, carrier size, and breed restrictions all matter. Some airlines only allow certain breeds, and others ban snub-nosed dogs completely—even if they’re under 20 pounds. Then there’s cargo flight for dogs, the process of sending pets as checked baggage in a pressurized, temperature-controlled hold. Also known as pet cargo travel, it’s safer than most think—but only if you prepare right. Temperature extremes, long delays, and rough handling are real risks, and not all airlines treat cargo the same. You’ll need proof of vaccinations, a health certificate from a vet (usually issued within 10 days of travel), and a proper carrier that meets IATA standards. And yes, that means your dog’s carrier must let them stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides written by people who’ve been there. From how to pick the right airline for your dog’s size, to what to do if your pet gets stressed mid-flight, to the hidden fees no one tells you about—every post here cuts through the noise. You’ll see how other pet owners handled flight delays, what they packed in the carrier, and which airlines actually treat pets like family. No fluff. Just what works.