Health & vet care
How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Dog?
Flying a small dog in the cabin on a U.S. airline usually costs about $100 to $150 each way in airline fees: Alaska Airlines charges $100 and Delta $150 within the U.S. and Canada. A larger dog in the baggage compartment costs more, for example $200 each way per kennel on Alaska. On top of that, budget for a vet visit and health certificate, an approved carrier or crate, and much higher costs for international or cargo-only trips.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 9, 20264 min read4 sources
Airline pet fees for a dog in the cabin
The pet fee is charged each way, per carrier, and is separate from your own ticket. Delta charges $150 each way for an in-cabin pet within the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands for tickets issued on or after April 8, 2025, and $200 on international routes. Alaska Airlines charges $100 per carrier each way, or $35 for travel wholly within Hawaii.
So a round trip with a small dog in the cabin typically adds $200 to $300 in fees alone. These are examples from published policies and they change, so confirm the figure when you reserve your dog's place. If your trip includes flights on more than one airline, each airline may charge its own fee.
What it costs to fly a larger dog
Dogs too big for an under-seat carrier fly in the temperature-controlled hold, where fees are higher. Alaska Airlines charges $200 each way per kennel in the baggage compartment, with a combined dog and crate limit of 150 pounds, and offers discounts for some military travel and flights within Alaska or Hawaii. Some airlines no longer carry pets in the hold at all.
When a dog flies without its owner, or on an airline that only moves pets as freight, the price is quoted by the airline's cargo arm based on route, crate size and weight. These shipments can cost several times the checked-pet fee. Professional pet shippers add their own service charges on top, for handling, paperwork and transport to and from the airport.
Vet visits and health certificates
Before most flights you will want a vet checkup, current rabies vaccination and copies of your dog's records. The AKC notes that a health certificate often is not required for domestic flights, but many airlines and some destinations ask for one, and the ASPCA suggests getting one dated within 10 days of departure. The cost of the exam and certificate varies by clinic.
International travel adds far more. A USDA-accredited veterinarian has to confirm the destination's rules, which can include specific vaccines, blood tests and treatments, and the health certificate usually needs USDA endorsement. Some countries also require a microchip and import permits, and a few require quarantine, all of which carry fees.
Carriers, crates and supplies
An in-cabin carrier has to meet your airline's under-seat limits. Delta recommends a soft-sided carrier no larger than 18 by 11 by 11 inches, and Alaska Airlines sets 17 by 11 by 9.5 inches, so you may need to buy a new one even if you own a carrier already. Prices range widely depending on size and quality.
A dog in the hold needs a sturdy, airline-approved hard crate big enough to stand, sit, turn around and lie down, with absorbent bedding, a water dish and Live Animal labels, which the ASPCA describes. Large crates are a significant cost on their own. Add a leash, collapsible bowls, wipes and travel treats.
Costs people forget
Airport parking for the extra time pet check-in takes, a pet-friendly hotel on either end, and pet deposits or cleaning fees at rentals all add up. If your dog cannot fly on your chosen dates because of summer heat or winter cold restrictions on the hold, you may pay to change flights or board your dog for a few days.
The alternative is not always cheaper. A boarding kennel or pet sitter for the length of your trip can cost more than the airline fee for a short visit, but less than shipping a large dog. For a long move with a big dog, a road trip often works out cheaper and less stressful than cargo.
How to keep the cost down
Book a nonstop flight, which the ASPCA prefers for safety anyway, so you only pay fees on one airline. Reserve your dog's place early so you are not forced onto a pricier flight. Get a carrier that fits the strictest airline you are likely to fly. Ask your vet to combine the travel exam with any routine visit that is due.
Most importantly, ask your vet whether your dog is fit to fly at all. A flat-faced, elderly or anxious dog may be safer and cheaper at home with a sitter.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How much does it cost to fly a dog in cabin?
Usually about $100 to $150 each way on U.S. airlines. Alaska Airlines charges $100 per carrier and Delta $150 within the U.S. and Canada, based on their current published policies. Confirm when booking.
How much does it cost to fly a dog internationally?
Much more than a domestic trip. Delta charges $200 each way in cabin internationally, and you also pay for a USDA-accredited vet, endorsed health certificates, any required tests and sometimes import permits or quarantine.
Is it cheaper to fly a dog cargo?
Rarely. Cargo shipments are priced by route, crate size and weight, and often cost several times a checked-pet fee. Pet shippers add service charges, so get quotes before deciding.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.