North America
Flying with a dog on American Airlines AA
North America
Flying with a dog on American Airlines
Fair
Thinking about flying with your dog on American Airlines? American Airlines allows small dogs up to 9.07 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.
American Airlines dog policy at a glance
🐾 Pet Travel
Breed restriction details
Brachycephalic/snub-nosed dogs and cats not accepted as checked pets, including all bulldog, boxer, pug, mastiff breeds, Pit Bull, Chow Chow, Shih Tzu, etc.; brachycephalic cats like Persian, Himalayan, Burmese, Exotic Shorthair also excluded.
Notes
Dogs up to 9.07 kg including carrier travel in the cabin on most routes. Larger dogs can fly as checked pets or through American Airlines Cargo. The cabin fee is $150 each way, and brachycephalic or snub-nosed breeds like Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs, Pit Bulls and Shih Tzus are not accepted as checked pets.
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 9.07 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 American Airlines before booking.
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Flying with a dog on American Airlines: FAQ
Can I bring my dog in the cabin on American Airlines? ▾
Yes. American Airlines allows small dogs up to 9.07 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 American Airlines? ▾
Yes. American Airlines 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 American Airlines? ▾
American Airlines's in-cabin fee is around $150 each way, and the cargo fee is around via American Airlines Cargo. Fees vary by route, so confirm the exact amount when you book.
Are there breed restrictions on American Airlines? ▾
Yes. American Airlines restricts certain breeds: Brachycephalic/snub-nosed dogs and cats not accepted as checked pets, including all bulldog, boxer, pug, mastiff breeds, Pit Bull, Chow Chow, Shih Tzu, etc.; brachycephalic cats like Persian, Himalayan, Burmese, Exotic Shorthair also excluded.. Check the breed rules for your dog before booking.
Does American Airlines accept assistance dogs? ▾
Yes. Trained assistance dogs are accepted in the cabin, usually free of charge, with the required documentation. Contact American Airlines in advance.