🐾 The True Cost of Flying With Your Dog in 2025: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book
Thinking of bringing your four-legged friend along for your next flight? Whether you’re relocating, going on vacation, or traveling for an extended stay, many pet parents want to include their dogs in their travel plans. But flying with a dog isn’t as simple as buying an extra ticket — it comes with a range of fees, policies, and hidden costs that vary by airline and destination.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the real cost of flying with a dog in 2025, including:
- Airline fees
- Hidden travel costs
- Carrier and vet requirements
- Domestic vs. international travel
- Tips for saving money on pet flights
Let’s dive into everything you need to know so you and your pup can fly stress-free — and on budget.
✈️ Can You Fly With a Dog? What Airlines Allow It?
Yes, most major airlines allow you to fly with a dog. However, your dog’s size, breed, and health — plus your destination — all determine how and where your dog can travel on a plane.
The Three Ways Dogs Fly:
- In-Cabin (under the seat) – For small dogs that meet weight limits (usually 15–20 lbs with carrier).
- As Checked Baggage – Medium dogs fly in the cargo hold on the same flight as you.
- As Air Cargo (Unaccompanied or Oversized Pets) – Large dogs travel on separate air freight services.
🔎 Important: Not all airlines allow pets in the cabin or as checked baggage. Some only offer cargo transport through third-party pet shipping services.
💵 How Much Does It Cost to Fly With a Dog?
Flying with a dog typically costs anywhere from $75 to over $1,500 — depending on the airline, dog size, and whether you’re flying domestic or international.
Here’s a breakdown of average dog travel costs by method:
| Travel Type | Average Cost (One-Way) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| In-Cabin | $75 – $200 | For small dogs only (under-seat carrier required) |
| Checked Baggage | $200 – $500 | Medium dogs in climate-controlled cargo |
| Air Cargo | $300 – $1,200+ | Large dogs, long-distance or international flights |
💡 Tip: Some airlines charge higher pet fees for international flights or long-haul journeys. Always check with the airline directly before booking.
🧾 Additional Costs to Consider
Airline pet fees are just part of the cost. Here are other common (and often unexpected) expenses when flying with a dog:
👜 1. Carrier or Crate
- Cabin carrier: $30 – $150 (must fit under seat, be soft-sided, ventilated)
- Cargo crate: $75 – $400 (hard-shell, IATA-approved, correct size for your dog)
🩺 2. Vet Visits & Health Documents
- Health certificate: $50 – $250 (required by most airlines within 10 days of travel)
- Vaccinations: $20 – $100+
- Microchipping: Required for some destinations
- Sedation (not recommended): $50 – $100+
🌍 3. International Travel Costs
- Import permits or customs fees
- Rabies titer test (EU/UK travel): $100 – $300
- Quarantine fees: Varies by country, sometimes $500+
✈️ U.S. Airline Pet Fee Comparison (2025)
Here’s a quick look at what major U.S. airlines charge for in-cabin dog travel in 2025:
| Airline | In-Cabin Pet Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delta | $95 | Only small dogs, domestic flights only |
| United | $125 | No checked pets since 2018 |
| American | $125 | In-cabin or cargo via PetEmbark |
| Southwest | $95 | Pets allowed only on domestic flights |
| JetBlue | $125 | Includes pet points for TrueBlue members |
| Alaska | $100 | Great for West Coast travel |
✅ Always check your airline’s latest pet policy — some breeds (like snub-nosed dogs) may be banned or restricted.
🌎 Flying Internationally With a Dog
Taking your dog abroad adds extra layers of complexity. Here’s what to expect when flying internationally with your dog:
Common Requirements:
- USDA or government-endorsed health certificate
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Rabies titer test (for EU, UK, Japan, Australia)
- Microchip (ISO standard)
- Import permit (if applicable)
- Country-specific quarantine regulations
⚠️ Quarantine Alert: Some countries, like Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii, require quarantine periods — sometimes up to 10 days or more.
Estimated International Flight Costs:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| International air cargo | $400 – $2,000 |
| Health checks & documents | $100 – $500+ |
| Quarantine fees | Varies |
| Import duties | $50 – $200 |
✈️ Which Dogs Can’t Fly?
Certain dogs are restricted or banned by airlines due to health and safety risks.
🐶 Restricted Breeds (Commonly Snub-Nosed or “Brachycephalic”):
- French Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Boxers
- Shih Tzus
- Boston Terriers
These breeds are prone to breathing issues and may be denied cabin or cargo travel. Some airlines allow them with special documentation or during cooler months.
💡 Tips to Save Money When Flying With Your Dog
- Compare airline pet fees before booking — some are nearly half the cost of others.
- Use points or travel credits to cover your own fare and budget more for your dog.
- Fly during off-peak seasons to avoid pet embargoes and added fees.
- Book direct flights to minimize travel time and reduce pet stress.
- Invest in a reusable, airline-approved carrier to avoid last-minute purchases.
🧳 Is It Worth It to Fly With Your Dog?
Flying with your dog can be an emotional and financial investment — but for many pet parents, it’s absolutely worth it. If you’re relocating or taking a long vacation, having your dog with you provides peace of mind and a sense of home, wherever you go.
However, if the total cost is too high or the flight is very long, consider alternatives:
- Trusted pet sitters or family at home
- Ground pet transport services
- Boarding or pet hotels
🐾 Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Surprised
So, how much does it cost to fly with a dog in 2025? Depending on the type of travel, your dog’s size, and your destination, you could be looking at anywhere between $100 to over $2,000. It’s essential to plan ahead, research your airline’s specific policies, and prepare your dog properly to ensure a smooth, safe, and affordable trip.
With the right prep, your dog can be your favorite travel buddy — no matter how far you fly. ✈️🐶
📌 Summary: Cost to Fly With a Dog
- In-Cabin: $75 – $200
- Checked Baggage: $200 – $500
- Air Cargo: $300 – $1,200+
- Extra costs: Vet fees, carriers, documents, possible quarantine
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