Asia
Flying with a dog on Japan Airlines JL
Asia
Flying with a dog on Japan Airlines
Limited
Here is the Japan Airlines pet policy for dogs, checked against the airline's own pages in October 2026. Below: what applies in the cabin and in the hold, the breed rules for your dog, and what to sort out before you fly.
Japan Airlines dog policy at a glance
In the cabin
Not allowed
Dogs can't fly in the cabin on Japan Airlines.
In the hold
Up to 32 kg
Breed rules
Restrictions| Breed group | Hold on your flight | Cargo booked separately |
|---|---|---|
| Snub-nosed | Conditional | Not listed |
| Strong breeds | Allowed | Not listed |
– not listed
Snub-nosed
- Hold, on your flight
- Conditional
- Cargo, booked separately
- Not listed
Strong breeds
- Hold, on your flight
- Allowed
- Cargo, booked separately
- Not listed
French Bulldogs and Bulldogs (brachycephalic breeds) are not accepted on any flights, in either checked or carry-on transport; other short-nosed breeds such as Pugs, Chins and Boston Terriers are accepted in the hold.
Assistance dogs
AllowedGuide dogs, hearing dogs and service dogs accepted free of charge in cabin. Advance notice required.
Summary
Pets travel only in the hold as checked baggage; cabin transport is not available for dogs and cats. French Bulldogs and Bulldogs are banned on all flights, while other snub-nosed breeds are accepted in cargo. Dogs and cats must be at least 8 weeks old, and domestic fees run 5,500 to 7,700 JPY per crate per flight sector depending on route and day.
JAL offers rental crates in several sizes (domestic S 39-43x40x54-59, M 51x48x69, L 55x60x81, XL 63x67x90 cm W x H x D) or you can use your own IATA-compliant crate. Cargo compartments accommodate only a limited number of L and XL crates, so advance contact is required. If the combined weight of pet and crate exceeds 32 kg it is carried as cargo rather than passenger baggage; total pet plus baggage is limited to 100 kg per passenger (45 kg on JAC/HAC/RAC flights).
Before you fly
- Check which vaccinations and health documents your route requires, and keep them with you.
- Reserve your dog's spot early, as places per flight are limited.
- Check the entry rules of your destination country.
- Get your dog used to the carrier or kennel well before the trip.
- Dogs travel in the climate-controlled hold, so book that early too.
Always double-check
Airline pet policies change often and vary by route, aircraft and season. Confirm the current rules directly with Japan Airlines before booking.
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Flying with a dog on Japan Airlines: FAQ
What is the Japan Airlines pet policy for dogs? ▾
Japan Airlines carries dogs in the hold, but not in the cabin. Some breeds are restricted, and the Dog-Friendly Score is 37/100. Checked against the official policy in October 2026.
Can I bring my dog in the cabin on Japan Airlines? ▾
No. Japan Airlines does not allow dogs in the cabin, but dogs can travel in the hold as cargo.
Can my dog travel in cargo on Japan Airlines? ▾
Yes. Japan 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 Japan Airlines? ▾
On Japan Airlines, the hold fee is ¥5,500–7,700 (per flight · varies by route and booking); the airline states: JPY 5,500-7,700 per crate per flight (domestic); international charges quoted at check-in. Fees change, so confirm the exact amount when you book.
Are there breed restrictions on Japan Airlines? ▾
Yes. Japan Airlines restricts certain breeds: French Bulldogs and Bulldogs (brachycephalic breeds) are not accepted on any flights, in either checked or carry-on transport; other short-nosed breeds such as Pugs, Chins and Boston Terriers are accepted in the hold. Check the breed rules for your dog before booking.
Does Japan Airlines accept assistance dogs? ▾
Yes. Trained assistance dogs are accepted in the cabin, usually free of charge, with the required documentation. Contact Japan Airlines in advance.