Dog Flight Guide
Air Canada

North America

Flying with a dog on Air Canada AC

Cabin + Cargo Score: 70

Thinking about flying with your dog on Air Canada? Air Canada allows small dogs up to 10 kg in the cabin, and larger dogs travel in the hold. Below you'll find the full details before you book: weight limits, fees, breed restrictions, and the official rules.

Air Canada dog policy at a glance

🐾  Pet Travel

In-Cabin Up to 10 kg
Cargo / Checked Available
Cabin Fee CA/US $50-60 one way within Canada/U.S.; $100-120 international
Cargo Fee CA/US $105-126 one way within Canada/U.S.; $270-324 international

Breed restriction details

Brachycephalic breeds cabin-only. Restricted breeds include all Bulldogs, Pug, Boxer, Chow Chow, Shih Tzu.

Notes

Cats and small dogs can travel in the cabin in a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat in front of you, with the pet able to stand, turn around and lie down; one pet per passenger. Larger pets can travel in the pressurized baggage compartment, with pet plus kennel up to 45 kg. Cabin fees run CA/US $50-60 each way within Canada and Canada/U.S. and $100-120 international, while baggage compartment fees run $105-126 domestic and $270-324 international. Seasonal heat and cold restrictions apply for pets travelling in the baggage compartment on many routes.

🦮  Assistance Dogs Allowed

Before you fly

  • Up-to-date vaccinations and a valid health certificate are required.
  • Dog + soft carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
  • Combined dog + carrier weight must stay under 10 kg.
  • Larger dogs travel in the climate-controlled hold as cargo.
  • Reserve your dog's spot early, as places per flight are limited.
  • Certain breeds may be restricted. Check breed rules before booking.

Always double-check

Airline pet policies change often and vary by route, aircraft and season. Confirm the current rules directly with Air Canada before booking.

Visit Air Canada

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Flying with a dog on Air Canada: FAQ

Can I bring my dog in the cabin on Air Canada?

Yes. Air Canada allows small dogs up to 10 kg (including the carrier) in the cabin, as long as the carrier fits under the seat in front of you.

Can my dog travel in cargo on Air Canada?

Yes. Air Canada transports dogs in the temperature-controlled hold. Advance booking and an IATA-compliant travel crate are usually required.

How much does it cost to fly a dog on Air Canada?

Air Canada's in-cabin fee is around CA/US $50-60 one way within Canada/U.S.; $100-120 international, and the cargo fee is around CA/US $105-126 one way within Canada/U.S.; $270-324 international. Fees vary by route, so confirm the exact amount when you book.

Are there breed restrictions on Air Canada?

Yes. Air Canada restricts certain breeds: Brachycephalic breeds cabin-only. Restricted breeds include all Bulldogs, Pug, Boxer, Chow Chow, Shih Tzu.. Check the breed rules for your dog before booking.

Does Air Canada accept assistance dogs?

Yes. Trained assistance dogs are accepted in the cabin, usually free of charge, with the required documentation. Contact Air Canada in advance.

Last verified: 17 August 2026