North America
Flying with a dog on United Airlines UA
North America
Flying with a dog on United Airlines
Good
Here is the United 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.
United Airlines dog policy at a glance
In the cabin
No weight limit
In the hold
Not available
United Airlines doesn't carry dogs in the hold.
United Airlines pet carrier size: dog carriers that fit
We checked every carrier in our comparison against the limits of United Airlines, size by size. Shown are the ones that fit by their dimensions, most mentioned first. At the gate, United Airlines decides.
In the cabin
9 carriers fit by their dimensions
Illustration Sherpa Original Deluxe Fits Small, Medium 
Illustration Sherpa Delta Deluxe Fits 
Illustration Sleepypod Air Fits 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
United states there are no weight or breed limitations for pets traveling in the cabin.
Assistance dogs
AllowedTrained service animals are allowed; therapy and emotional support cats and dogs must fly as pets, not service animals.
Summary
Dogs travel in the cabin only, in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you, and United sets no weight or breed limit. Checked pets and cargo are no longer offered, except for certain active-duty military and State Department employees. The cabin fee is 150 USD each way, and pets cannot fly to, from or through destinations such as Hawaii, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.
On Boeing 737 MAX aircraft the carrier can be no more than 10 in (25.4 cm) tall. The carrier must be ventilated and fit under the seat in front of you.
Pets can only fly in cargo when traveling with certain active-duty military or State Department employees; the PetSafe program is otherwise discontinued.
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 United Airlines before booking.
Similar airlines in North America
Flying with a dog on United Airlines: FAQ
What is the United Airlines pet policy for dogs? ▾
United 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 United Airlines? ▾
Yes. United 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 United Airlines? ▾
No. United Airlines does not offer hold or cargo transport for dogs.
How much does it cost to fly a dog on United Airlines? ▾
On United Airlines, the in-cabin fee is $150 (each way); the airline states: 150 USD each way. Fees change, so confirm the exact amount when you book.
Are there breed restrictions on United Airlines? ▾
United Airlines does not list specific breed restrictions, but it is worth confirming for your dog's breed before you book.
Does United Airlines accept assistance dogs? ▾
Yes. Trained assistance dogs are accepted in the cabin, usually free of charge, with the required documentation. Contact United Airlines in advance.