What Size Dog Can Fly On American Airlines?

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Traveling with pets can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but it can also be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to air travel. As a pet owner, you want to ensure your furry friend is comfortable and safe during the flight, but what size dog can fly on American Airlines? Let’s take a closer look at the airline’s pet policy and find out what you need to know before booking your next flight.

American Airlines allows dogs, cats, and birds to travel in the cabin or cargo hold of their planes, but there are specific size and breed restrictions to consider. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or moving to a new city with your pet, understanding the airline’s policy can make all the difference in ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable journey for you and your furry friend.

What Size Dog Can Fly on American Airlines?

What Size Dog Can Fly on American Airlines?

If you are planning to travel with your furry friend on American Airlines, you might be wondering about the size restrictions for dogs. American Airlines allows dogs to travel in the cabin, as well as in the cargo hold, but there are certain rules and regulations you need to be aware of before you book your flight. In this article, we will explore the size restrictions for dogs on American Airlines and what you need to know before you travel.

Cabin Travel

If you want to bring your dog with you in the cabin, American Airlines allows dogs that fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for the carrier that holds your dog must not exceed 19 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches high. Your dog and the carrier must not weigh more than 20 pounds combined.

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It is important to note that there is a limit to the number of pets allowed in the cabin, so it is recommended that you book your flight as early as possible to ensure that there is space available for your furry friend. You will also need to pay a fee of $125 each way for your dog to travel in the cabin.

Cargo Hold Travel

If your dog is too large to fit under the seat in front of you or exceeds the weight limit, you can still bring your furry friend with you in the cargo hold. American Airlines allows dogs to travel in the cargo hold as long as they meet the following requirements:

– Your dog must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
– Your dog must be in good health and have all necessary vaccinations and health certificates.
– Your dog must be transported in an airline-approved kennel that is large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
– Your dog must not exceed 20 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 10 inches in height.

It is important to note that American Airlines does not allow certain breeds of dogs to travel in the cargo hold, including but not limited to American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and English Staffordshire Bull Terriers. You will also need to pay a fee of $200 each way for your dog to travel in the cargo hold.

Benefits of Traveling with Your Dog on American Airlines

Traveling with your furry friend can be a rewarding experience, and American Airlines makes it easy for you to bring your dog with you. By following the size restrictions and regulations for traveling with a dog, you can ensure that your furry friend has a safe and comfortable journey.

In addition, traveling with your dog can provide emotional support and reduce stress and anxiety. Dogs are known for their ability to improve our mental health and well-being, and having your furry friend by your side can make your travel experience more enjoyable.

Conclusion

In summary, American Airlines allows dogs to travel in the cabin or the cargo hold, but there are certain size restrictions and regulations you need to be aware of before you travel. If your dog fits under the seat in front of you, you can bring them with you in the cabin for a fee of $125 each way. If your dog is too large to fit in the cabin, you can still bring them with you in the cargo hold for a fee of $200 each way. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your furry friend has a safe and comfortable journey with American Airlines.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers related to flying with dogs on American Airlines.

What are the requirements for a dog to fly on American Airlines?

In order for a dog to fly on American Airlines, it must meet certain requirements. The dog must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned, and it must be in good health with no contagious diseases. Additionally, the dog must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

If the dog is a service or emotional support animal, it must also be trained to behave appropriately in public settings and must have appropriate documentation from a licensed mental health professional.

What size carrier is allowed for dogs on American Airlines?

The size of the carrier allowed for dogs on American Airlines depends on the size of the dog. For dogs that can fit comfortably under the seat in front of you, the carrier must be no larger than 19 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 9 inches high. For larger dogs that must travel in the cargo hold, the carrier must be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

It is important to check with American Airlines for specific carrier size requirements before booking your flight, as they may vary based on the aircraft and other factors.

Can all breeds of dogs fly on American Airlines?

Most breeds of dogs can fly on American Airlines, as long as they meet the airline’s requirements for size and health. However, certain breeds may be restricted or prohibited due to safety concerns or regulations. For example, American Airlines does not allow brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds to fly in cargo due to their increased risk of respiratory issues.

If you have a specific breed of dog, it is important to check with American Airlines before booking your flight to ensure that your dog is allowed to fly.

What is the cost to fly with a dog on American Airlines?

The cost to fly with a dog on American Airlines varies depending on the size of the dog and whether it is traveling in the cabin or cargo hold. For dogs traveling in the cabin, the fee is $125 per carrier, each way. For dogs traveling in the cargo hold, the fee is based on the weight and destination of the dog.

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It is important to book your dog’s travel arrangements in advance and pay any necessary fees to ensure that your dog is able to travel with you on your flight.

What documents are required to fly with a dog on American Airlines?

The required documents for flying with a dog on American Airlines depend on the type of dog and its purpose for travel. For pets traveling in the cabin, a health certificate is not required. However, if the dog is traveling as a service or emotional support animal, documentation from a licensed mental health professional is required.

If the dog is traveling in the cargo hold, a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel is required, as well as any other required permits or documentation for the destination. It is important to check with American Airlines for specific documentation requirements before booking your flight.

How To Travel With A Dog On American Airlines


In conclusion, if you’re planning on flying with your furry friend on American Airlines, it’s important to know their size restrictions. According to their pet policy, dogs are allowed to fly in-cabin or as checked baggage as long as they meet certain size requirements. Only small dogs weighing up to 20 pounds (including pet carrier) are allowed to fly in-cabin, while larger dogs up to 100 pounds (including pet carrier) can fly as checked baggage.

It’s essential to check with American Airlines before booking your flight to ensure that your pup meets their size requirements and that you have all the necessary documentation and supplies for a smooth travel experience. Additionally, American Airlines requires that pets be at least 8 weeks old and have all necessary vaccinations before flying.

Overall, traveling with your furry friend can be a great experience, but it’s important to do your research and prepare accordingly to ensure their safety and comfort during the flight. So, make sure to check American Airlines’ pet policy and guidelines before booking your next flight with your furry companion!

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