North America
Flying with a dog on Southwest Airlines WN
North America
Flying with a dog on Southwest Airlines
Good
Here is the Southwest 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.
Southwest Airlines dog policy at a glance
In the cabin
No weight limit
In the hold
Not available
Southwest Airlines doesn't carry dogs in the hold.
Southwest Airlines pet carrier size: dog carriers that fit
We checked every carrier in our comparison against the limits of Southwest Airlines, size by size. Shown are the ones that fit by their dimensions, most mentioned first. At the gate, Southwest Airlines decides.
Breed rules
None stated| Breed group | Cabin with you |
|---|---|
| Snub-nosed | Allowed |
| Strong breeds | Allowed |
Snub-nosed
- Cabin, with you
- Allowed
Strong breeds
- Cabin, with you
- Allowed
No breed restrictions. Pets must be vaccinated and at least 8 weeks old.
Assistance dogs
AllowedCertified assistance and guide dogs accepted in cabin free of charge. Documentation from a recognized organization required. Contact airline in advance.
Summary
Small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are welcome in the cabin on domestic flights in an appropriate carrier stowed under the seat; pets must be at least 8 weeks old. No pets travel in the cargo compartment. A Pet Fare applies and is paid at the ticket counter; each carrier may hold up to two small cats or dogs of the same species.
Southwest's own pet carrier measures 15 x 10 x 10 in (38.1 x 25.4 x 25.4 cm). A soft-sided carrier is recommended, because under-seat space varies by seat and is smaller at some seats, including aisle seats. Up to two small cats or dogs of the same species per carrier; pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
No pets are transported in the cargo compartment.
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.
Always double-check
Airline pet policies change often and vary by route, aircraft and season. Confirm the current rules directly with Southwest Airlines before booking.
Similar airlines in North America
Flying with a dog on Southwest Airlines: FAQ
What is the Southwest Airlines pet policy for dogs? ▾
Southwest Airlines allows small dogs in the cabin. No breed restrictions are listed, and the Dog-Friendly Score is 85/100. Checked against the official policy in October 2026.
Can I bring my dog in the cabin on Southwest Airlines? ▾
Yes. Southwest Airlines allows small dogs in the cabin in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
Can my dog travel in cargo on Southwest Airlines? ▾
No. Southwest Airlines does not offer hold or cargo transport for dogs.
How much does it cost to fly a dog on Southwest Airlines? ▾
On Southwest Airlines, the in-cabin fee is $125 (each way); the airline states: USD 125 per pet carrier each way (USD 35 between the Hawaiian Islands). Fees change, so confirm the exact amount when you book.
Are there breed restrictions on Southwest Airlines? ▾
Southwest Airlines does not list specific breed restrictions, but it is worth confirming for your dog's breed before you book.
Does Southwest Airlines accept assistance dogs? ▾
Yes. Trained assistance dogs are accepted in the cabin, usually free of charge, with the required documentation. Contact Southwest Airlines in advance.