7 Best Airlines That Accept Dogs in Cargo in 2025: A Paws-itive Guide

Traveling with your dog, especially one too large to fit under the seat, can feel like a big puzzle. The good news is that many airlines have special programs for safely flying pets in a climate-controlled, pressurized cargo hold. However, figuring out all the rules—from kennel sizes and breed limits to tricky paperwork and seasonal restrictions—can be a ruff experience for any pet owner. This guide is here to clear up the confusion and help you prepare for a smooth trip.

We’ve put together a list of the best airlines that accept dogs in cargo, breaking down their policies into easy-to-understand sections. For each airline, we’ll explain their specific requirements, offer helpful tips for booking and check-in, and cover the necessary health documents for both local and international travel. Think of this as your pre-flight checklist to make sure your furry family member has a safe and comfortable journey.

Our goal is to give you the clarity needed to choose the right airline and prepare properly. We’ll cover everything from the American Airlines PetEmbark program to the specialized services at Lufthansa Cargo. For those who want an even broader overview before diving in, you might check this guide with detailed airline information for pet transport. Let’s get your best friend ready for takeoff and make their trip as stress-free as possible.

1. American Airlines Cargo – PetEmbark

American Airlines' PetEmbark program is a special cargo service for moving animals, including dogs, that can't fly in the cabin. It’s a complete system designed for those who need a documented, trackable, and professionally handled journey for their pets. This service stands out because it operates as a formal cargo product, offering a higher level of oversight compared to typical checked baggage pet programs.

The PetEmbark system is built to handle the details of animal transport, from providing clear kennel and aircraft compatibility charts to managing temperature rules that help keep pets safe. For U.S.-based shippers like professional pet movers or vet clinics, the platform allows direct online booking for many domestic routes, which can simplify the process.

Key Features and User Experience

PetEmbark gathers all necessary information in one place, making it one of the more transparent options among airlines that accept dogs in cargo.

• Booking Process: While full online booking is often limited to account holders, anyone can submit a booking request through their online form. For more complex international routes or non-account holders, booking is handled through their 24/7 dedicated support desk.

• Tracking and Transparency: Once booked, you get an air waybill number, which lets you track your dog’s journey in near real-time. This feature provides much-needed peace of mind during travel.

• Documentation and Compliance: The website clearly lists all required documents, including health certificates. Preparing these documents correctly is important for a smooth process. For detailed guidance on this, you can explore how to get a USDA-endorsed pet health certificate to help make sure everything is in order.

Pros and Cons

Practical Tips for Using PetEmbark

To ensure a "pawsitively" smooth experience, start the booking process at least two to four weeks in advance, especially for international travel. Carefully measure your dog’s kennel according to their specific guidelines to avoid being turned away at the cargo facility. Always call the PetEmbark desk to confirm the details of your booking and ask about any potential weather-related issues for your planned route.

Website: https://www.aacargo.com/learn/animals.html

2. American Airlines Cargo – PetEmbark

American Airlines' PetEmbark program is a special cargo service for transporting animals, including dogs, that can't fly in the cabin. It’s a complete system designed for those who need a documented, trackable, and professionally handled journey for their pets. This service stands out because it is a formal cargo product, offering a higher level of oversight compared to typical checked baggage pet programs.

The PetEmbark system is built to handle the challenges of animal transport, from providing detailed kennel and aircraft compatibility charts to managing temperature rules that help keep pets safe. For U.S.-based shippers like professional pet movers or veterinary clinics, the platform allows direct online booking for many domestic routes, making the process simpler. It is one of the more established airlines that accept dogs in cargo with a clear, policy-driven approach.

Key Features and User Experience

PetEmbark gathers all necessary information in one place, making it a very transparent option for shipping a pet. The website provides a clear path for both experienced shippers and first-time users to understand the requirements and start a booking.

• Booking Process: While full online booking is often limited to account holders, anyone can submit a booking request through their online form. For more complex international routes or non-account holders, booking is handled through their 24/7 dedicated support desk.

• Tracking and Transparency: Once booked, you receive an air waybill number, allowing you to track your dog’s journey in near real-time. This feature provides much-needed peace of mind during travel, letting you follow your furry friend's progress.

• Documentation and Compliance: The website clearly lists all required documents, including health certificates. Preparing these documents correctly is important for a smooth drop-off. For detailed guidance on this, you can explore how to get a USDA-endorsed pet health certificate to help make sure everything is in order.

Pros and Cons

Practical Tips for Using PetEmbark

To ensure a "pawsitively" smooth experience, start the booking process at least two to four weeks in advance, especially for international travel. Carefully measure your dog’s kennel according to their specific guidelines to avoid being turned away at the cargo facility. Always call the PetEmbark desk to confirm the details of your booking and ask about any potential weather-related issues for your planned route.

Website: https://www.aacargo.com/learn/animals.html

3. Alaska Airlines – Pets in Baggage Compartment + Pet Connect

Alaska Airlines offers two different programs for flying with animals, making it a flexible choice for pet owners. Their "Pets in Baggage Compartment" service allows pets to travel as checked baggage on the same flight as their owner, while "Pet Connect" is their separate cargo service for unaccompanied animals. The airline is well-known for its relatively simple policies and is one of the few U.S. carriers that still reliably offers a checked-pet option on many domestic flights.

This dual approach provides options for different travel situations. The checked baggage service is convenient for those traveling with their pets, while Pet Connect provides a formal cargo solution with its own booking and tracking system. Alaska's website provides clear guidance on fees, kennel requirements, and day-of-travel procedures, which helps simplify the process for pet owners.

Key Features and User Experience

Alaska Airlines' website gathers information for both of its pet travel services, making it a user-friendly resource among airlines that accept dogs in cargo.

• Booking Process: For pets traveling in the baggage compartment, you must call Alaska Airlines Reservations to add your pet to your booking. This cannot be done online. For Pet Connect cargo, bookings must be made through their dedicated cargo call center.

• Capacity Controls: The airline limits the number of pets allowed in the baggage compartment per flight to help ensure their safety and comfort, so booking well in advance is a good idea.

• Clear Policies: The website clearly outlines its policies, including breed restrictions (no short-nosed breeds), temperature restrictions, and kennel specifications. Understanding the full scope of pet transportation costs before booking is helpful for budgeting your trip accurately.

Pros and Cons

Practical Tips for Using Alaska Airlines

To ensure a "fur-tastic" journey, call Alaska Reservations to book your own ticket and add your pet at the same time to confirm space is available. Double-check your aircraft type, as pets are not permitted in the baggage hold on Airbus aircraft. Always reconfirm your pet's reservation 24 hours before your flight to avoid any last-minute surprises at the check-in counter.

Website: https://www.alaskaair.com/content/travel-info/pets

4. Air Canada – Passenger + AC Animals/Cargo

Air Canada offers two ways for pets to travel, allowing many dogs to fly in the baggage compartment as checked baggage, while also providing a dedicated cargo service, AC Animals, for situations that require it. This flexible system is particularly useful for travel between the U.S. and Canada or on to other countries. The airline's website clearly separates pets traveling with a passenger from those shipped via cargo, making it a valuable resource for owners trying to find the right fit for their furry friend.

This combined service model makes Air Canada one of the more versatile airlines that accept dogs in cargo. The passenger baggage option is convenient for dogs and kennels under a certain weight and size limit (currently up to 100 lbs / 45 kg, including the kennel), while AC Animals handles larger dogs, unaccompanied pets, or travel to destinations that don't allow pets as checked baggage. This provides a clear path for nearly any pet travel situation.

Key Features and User Experience

Air Canada’s website centralizes the policies for both checked baggage pets and the AC Animals cargo program, guiding users to the correct service based on their needs.

• Booking Process: For pets traveling in the baggage hold, you must first book your own flight and then contact Air Canada directly to register your pet. For the AC Animals cargo service, a separate booking process is required through the Air Canada Cargo division, which involves requesting a quote and coordinating logistics with their specialized team.

• Clear Fee Structure: The airline publishes a clear table of one-way fees for pets traveling as checked baggage. Prices are broken down for travel within Canada, between Canada and the U.S., and to other international destinations, which simplifies budgeting.

• Policy Transparency: The website provides detailed information on kennel requirements, breed restrictions, and seasonal rules. Regular updates and notices help travelers have the latest information before they book.

Pros and Cons

Practical Tips for Using Air Canada

To have a "fur-st" class experience, always verify that your entire trip is operated by Air Canada or Air Canada Rouge, as codeshare partners may not accept pets. Register your pet for the baggage compartment immediately after booking your own ticket, as space is limited. If using AC Animals, start the quote request several weeks in advance to allow plenty of time for coordination. Double-check their kennel size and construction rules, as they are strictly followed.

Website: https://www.aircanada.com/en-CA/plan/special-assistance/pets

5. KLM (U.S. Site) – Pets in Hold

KLM’s service for transporting pets in the hold is a well-regarded option for pet owners, especially for travel across the Atlantic and other global trips starting from the United States. Unlike a pure cargo service, this option treats pets as special baggage, adding the booking directly to your own ticket. This approach is ideal for owners who want to travel on the same flight as their dog and prefer a more unified booking experience.

The airline's U.S.-facing website clearly explains the rules for pets traveling in the hold, providing specific guidance on kennel dimensions, weight limits, and aircraft-specific restrictions. This transparency helps reduce the chance of last-minute surprises at the airport, making KLM one of the more user-friendly airlines that accept dogs in cargo for international journeys.

Key Features and User Experience

KLM centralizes pet travel information, making it easy for owners to understand requirements and prepare for their trip.

• Booking Process: You must make a reservation for your pet by contacting KLM directly, ideally right after booking your own flight, as space is limited. This is typically done over the phone or through their social media service channels.

• Clear Requirements: The website provides detailed charts on accepted kennel sizes and materials. Understanding these requirements is vital; you can explore our guide to airline-approved pet carriers to ensure you have the right one for your dog.

• Documentation and Compliance: KLM explicitly lists necessary travel documents, including health certificates and specific U.S. CDC requirements for dogs entering the United States. This helps travelers organize their paperwork well in advance.

Pros and Cons

Practical Tips for Using KLM

To ensure a "flying" start to your journey, contact KLM to reserve your dog's spot immediately after booking your own ticket. Double-check the aircraft type for every leg of your journey on KLM’s website to confirm pets are permitted. When preparing, make sure your dog’s kennel is IATA-compliant and that you have all health documentation, including rabies vaccination proof, ready for inspection.

Website: https://www.klm.com/information/pets/reservation

6. Lufthansa Cargo – Live Animals

Lufthansa Cargo offers a highly specialized service for transporting live animals, positioning itself as a premium choice for international pet travel. Known for its careful handling and state-of-the-art facilities like the Frankfurt Animal Lounge, this service is designed for pets traveling as manifest cargo rather than as passenger baggage. It's a key option for pet owners with large dogs, complex travel plans, or destinations where standard baggage services are not available for pets.

This platform stands out due to its reliance on professional coordination. For most private pet shippers, particularly on routes to and from the U.S., booking must be done through an approved freight forwarder or pet shipping company. While this adds a layer of coordination, it also helps ensure that every detail, from paperwork to customs clearance, is managed by experts who understand the detailed regulations of global animal transport.

Key Features and User Experience

Lufthansa Cargo’s system is built on professionalism and expertise, making it one of the most reliable airlines that accept dogs in cargo for complex journeys.

• Booking Process: The website does not offer direct booking for individuals. Instead, it directs users to find a specialized animal transport agent through its forwarder search tool. This approach helps ensure all shipments are managed by professionals familiar with IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR).

• Specialized Facilities: The Frankfurt Animal Lounge is a world-class transit station with 24/7 care from veterinarians and trained staff, climate-controlled rooms, and spacious holding areas. This significantly reduces stress for animals on long-haul flights.

• Expert Handling: Lufthansa Cargo has dedicated teams trained specifically for live animal handling. This expertise is crucial for helping ensure the safety and well-being of dogs throughout their journey, from tarmac transport to loading and unloading.

Pros and Cons

Practical Tips for Using Lufthansa Cargo

To navigate this service successfully, start by contacting a professional pet shipper who is approved to work with Lufthansa Cargo. Do this well in advance, ideally 4 to 6 weeks before your travel date. Your chosen agent will guide you through the entire process, including selecting the right kennel, preparing the necessary health certificates, and coordinating drop-off and pick-up logistics. Be sure to provide the agent with your dog's exact measurements to ensure the booking is made for the correct kennel size.

Website: https://lufthansa-cargo.com/live-animals

7. IPATA – International Pet and Animal Transportation Association

The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) is not an airline itself, but a vital resource for anyone navigating the challenges of pet cargo shipping. It's a global network of professional pet shippers who specialize in arranging safe and compliant animal transport. For many pet owners, especially those facing complicated international moves or dealing with airlines that require a professional booker, IPATA is the essential first stop.

This platform stands out because it connects you with vetted experts who handle the entire process, from booking flights on airlines that accept dogs in cargo to managing customs clearance, kenneling, and ground transport. Instead of navigating confusing airline policies alone, you can hire a professional who already knows the ropes, which can lead to a much smoother journey for your furry friend.

Key Features and User Experience

IPATA’s website is designed as a powerful directory, providing the tools needed to find a qualified partner for your dog's relocation.

• Searchable Directory: The core feature is a strong search tool that allows users to find registered pet shippers by location. You can search for members in your departure city and destination country to coordinate seamless door-to-door service.

• Educational Resources: The site offers extensive FAQs and information on IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations, crate requirements, and documentation needs. This helps pet owners understand the "why" behind the complex rules.

• Expert Coordination: Members are experienced in dealing with specific airline cargo departments, CDC regulations, and the unique import rules of different countries. You can get a much clearer picture by exploring the common international pet travel requirements that these professionals handle daily.

Pros and Cons

Practical Tips for Using IPATA

To make the most of the IPATA directory, start by requesting quotes from at least three different members in your area to compare services and pricing. Be sure to ask about their experience with your specific destination and breed of dog. When you contact them, have your dog's measurements, weight, and travel timeline ready to get a more accurate estimate and ensure you're barking up the right tree.

Website: https://www.ipata.org/find-ipata-pet-shippers

7-Airline Comparison: Dogs in Cargo

Making Your Pet’s Travel Dreams a Reality

Navigating the world of pet air travel can feel like a big puzzle, but as we've explored, it’s entirely manageable with the right information and preparation. From understanding the specific policies of major carriers like American Airlines and Alaska Airlines to using the global networks of KLM and Lufthansa Cargo, you now have a solid foundation for choosing among the best airlines that accept dogs in cargo. This isn't just about booking a ticket; it's about making a series of informed decisions that put your dog's safety and well-being first.

The journey starts with selecting an airline but quickly moves to the important details: kennel requirements, temperature restrictions, and breed-specific rules. Each airline has its own unique set of guidelines, which is why a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't work. By now, you know that preparation is your most valuable asset.

Key Takeaways for a Smooth Journey

Let's recap the most important steps to help your pet’s travel be a success:

• Start Early, Plan Thoroughly: The golden rule of pet travel is to never leave things to the last minute. Begin your research at least a few months in advance, especially for international moves. This gives you plenty of time to understand airline policies, book your pet's spot (as they are limited), and handle all necessary veterinary appointments without rushing.

• Airline Policies Are Key: Remember that each airline’s pet travel program, whether it’s American’s PetEmbark or Alaska’s Pet Connect, has strict rules. Pay close attention to kennel specifications (IATA-compliant), size and weight limits, and seasonal rules that could affect your travel dates. A quick call to the airline's cargo department can clear up any remaining questions.

• Documentation is Everything: This is arguably the most critical and detail-oriented part of the process. A missing signature, an incorrect date, or a misread microchip can disrupt your entire trip. For international travel, the requirements become even more complex, often involving specific timelines for vaccinations, treatments, and government endorsements.

Your Action Plan: From Research to Reality

Feeling empowered? Good. Now it’s time to put this knowledge into action. Here is your step-by-step guide to move forward with confidence.

1. Shortlist Your Airlines: Based on your destination and your dog’s specific needs (size, breed), create a shortlist of two to three potential airlines from our list. Compare their costs, flight routes, and specific cargo policies.

2. Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: Schedule a consultation with your vet to discuss your travel plans. They are your partner in this process and will need to perform health checks, administer necessary vaccinations, and ultimately issue the health certificate.

3. Use Your Resources: Don’t forget the valuable resources we covered. If the logistics feel overwhelming, consulting an IPATA-affiliated pet shipper can provide professional, end-to-end management of the entire move. They are the experts who handle these complex journeys every day.

The most common pitfall for pet owners is underestimating the complexity of health documentation. Every country has its own set of strict rules, and a single error can lead to difficult consequences like quarantine or denial of entry. This is where seamless coordination with your veterinary team becomes so important.

By arming yourself with the right information and using the right tools, you transform a potentially stressful process into a well-managed project. You're not just moving a pet; you're relocating a beloved member of your family. With careful planning, you can help ensure their journey is as safe and comfortable as possible, making their travel dreams—and yours—a reality.

Ready to ensure your pet's travel documents are perfect? Talk to your veterinarian about Passpaw. Our platform helps vet practices streamline and automate the creation of accurate, compliant health certificates for domestic and international travel, ensuring every detail is correct for all airlines that accept dogs in cargo. Learn more at Passpaw and take the guesswork out of your pet’s paperwork.