Airplane Travel With Your Dog: Is it Safe?
Wondering if you should take your dog on the airplane for your next trip? There are a few considerations when deciding whether or not to fly with your dog. First, you’ll need to consider the size of your dog.

Generally, only dogs up to about 20 pounds can fly in the cabin. If your dog can fit in a carrier that goes under the seat in front of you, they can fly with you. If they do not, they will need to fly in cargo in a secured area near where the checked luggage is stored.
If your dog is small enough, flying with them in the cabin is a great option. The cabin is temperature-controlled and having you nearby will greatly reduce stress on your dog.
However, sometimes this is not an option. If your dog has a sensitive stomach in new situations, here are 5 home treatments for diarrhea in dogs.
If your dog is too large for the cabin they’ll need to fly in cargo. While generally safe, there are some risks involved including the following:
- Fluctuating temperatures
- Drops in air pressure
- Exposure to loud noises
Many animals fly in cargo with no issues every year. However, it’s crucial to have your pet cleared for health issues by your veterinarian before considering flying with them. Your vet may have medication to reduce your dog’s anxiety during the flight.
Make sure to follow any instructions they provide so that your dog has a safe and comfortable flight experience.