How we score airlines
Every airline gets a Dog-Friendly Score from 0 to 100. Here's how we calculate it.
Score tiers
| Score | Rating | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 80+ | Excellent | Small dogs allowed in cabin, large dogs in cargo, low fees, no major breed restrictions. A genuinely dog-friendly airline. |
| 70+ | Good | Good pet options with minor limitations: slightly higher fees, stricter weight limits, or limited cargo availability. |
| 50+ | Fair | Pet travel is possible but comes with notable restrictions: cabin only for small dogs, higher fees, or limited routes. |
| 20+ | Limited | Very restricted pet travel: cargo only, high fees, strict breed rules, or only available on select routes. |
| <20 | Poor | Pets not accepted or only in exceptional circumstances. Not a viable option for most dog owners. |
What goes into the score
The score is calculated from the official pet policy of each airline, weighted by how much each factor matters to most dog owners.
Cabin access
Can small dogs travel in the cabin? This is the biggest factor, as cabin travel is safer and less stressful for dogs.
Cargo availability
Are larger dogs accepted in the hold? Airlines that offer both cabin and cargo options score higher.
Weight limits
How generous is the cabin weight limit? Higher limits mean more dogs qualify for cabin travel.
Fees
How much does it cost to bring your dog? Lower fees result in a higher score.
Breed restrictions
Are certain breeds prohibited or restricted? Fewer restrictions means a better score.
Assistance dogs
Are certified assistance and guide dogs accepted in cabin free of charge?
Always double-check before booking
Airline pet policies change frequently and can vary by route, aircraft type, and season. The score reflects the general policy at the time of our last verification. Always confirm the current rules directly with the airline before booking.