Flying With Dogs 2025: New Airline Pet Policy Changes Explained
Summer travel season is here, and airlines have rolled out 2025 pet policy updates that every dog owner needs to know before booking a flight. From tighter in-cabin carrier dimensions to higher cargo fees and breed-specific restrictions, preparation is more important than ever.
Why the Rules Changed for 2025
Passenger numbers are back at pre-pandemic highs and cabin space is at a premium. Airlines are standardizing pet policies to:
- Cut down on carrier size disputes at the gate
- Reduce last-minute denials for brachycephalic breeds
- Streamline international paperwork as new One Health biosecurity rules roll out
Quick-Glance Policy Highlights
- Carrier size (in-cabin): 18 in L × 11 in W × 11 in H on most U.S. carriers
- Weight limit: Dog + carrier ≤ 20 lb (9 kg) for economy; up to 25 lb on select premium cabins
- Fees: $95–$125 each way in cabin; $300–$550 cargo
- Brachycephalic ban: Bulldogs, Pugs, Frenchies, and Shih Tzus barred from cargo on all major airlines; still allowed in cabin if under weight limit
- Service & ESA changes: Emotional-support animals now treated as pets; only trained service dogs fly for free
Top Airlines & Their 2025 Pet Rules
While policies look similar, small differences matter:
- Alaska Airlines: Allows soft-sided carriers up to 19 × 11 × 11 in and the lowest in-cabin fee at $95.
- Delta: Adds a required “fit check” at check-in; no more curbside tags.
- United: Only one pet carrier per passenger, even in premium cabins.
- American: Expanded cabin pet limit to eight total per flight, but sold first-come, first-served.
- JetBlue: Still offers 300 bonus TrueBlue points for flying with a pet.
International Flight Checklist
- Microchip in ISO-11784/11785 format
- Rabies vaccine at least 21 days before entry
- USDA health certificate issued within 10 days of travel
- Tapeworm treatment for UK, Ireland, Finland, or Malta
- Airline-approved crate compliant with IATA CR82 (cargo only)
Carrier Shopping Tips
- Choose soft-sided carriers—height compresses under the seat.
- Measure nose-to-tail and floor-to-top-of-ears with dog standing.
- Opt for carriers with top and side entry; easier security screening.
- Look for waterproof bottom liners and mesh ventilation on three sides.
Day-of-Travel Game Plan
- Arrive 30 min earlier than normal—pets require manual check-in.
- Feed a light meal 4 hours before departure; avoid heavy treats.
- Exercise your dog thoroughly just before security.
- Carry pee pads, wet wipes, and a small zip-lock of kibble in your “personal item.”
Pro Tips for a Smooth Flight
- Reserve a window seat—gives more under-seat width for carriers on most planes.
- Book direct flights to avoid missed connections and extra stress.
- Place a recently worn T-shirt inside the carrier to calm anxious dogs.
- Ask gate agents politely for pre-boarding to secure overhead bin space.
Bottom Line
The 2025 airline pet policy shake-up means homework is essential. Measure twice, book early, and print every form. With the right carrier and some strategic planning, your dog can still log thousands of safe, comfortable air miles this year.
