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Jan 24, 2026
7 Best Airlines That Take Dogs in Cargo for 2026
Choosing to fly your dog in cargo can feel like a big step, but with the right information, it can be a smooth and safe journey. Many pet parents and veterinary professionals need this option for larger breeds, certain international moves, or when a pet cannot fly in the cabin. This guide is here to help you navigate the skies, making the process less 'ruff' for both you and your canine companion. We've put together a list of major airlines that take dogs in cargo, breaking down their specific policies so you can compare them side-by-side.
This article cuts through the confusion by providing a clear, simple roundup. For each airline, you’ll find key details on their pet programs, including breed restrictions, seasonal rules, and crate requirements. We’ll also link directly to their official pet policy pages to ensure you have the most current information. Preparing for your pet's journey involves many details; for tricky arrangements, you might also consider professional travel planning services to manage the logistics. Our goal is to give you the knowledge to select the best carrier, prepare your dog, and streamline the necessary paperwork, ensuring your best friend arrives safe and sound.
1. American Airlines Cargo — PetEmbark
American Airlines Cargo offers a dedicated program, PetEmbark, for shipping dogs and cats. This service stands out for its clear policies and large network, making it a reliable choice for those looking for airlines that take dogs in cargo across the U.S. and to some international destinations. The PetEmbark website clearly outlines everything you need to know, from crate requirements to weather restrictions, helping you avoid last-minute surprises at the terminal.
Key Features and Policies
The PetEmbark program is built on being upfront. Its policies are easy to find and understand, which is a major plus when figuring out animal transport. They provide detailed guidance on which airplanes can safely fit your pet's kennel.
Dedicated Support: PetEmbark offers a dedicated customer support desk to help with bookings, answer questions, and handle changes to your pet’s travel plans. This direct line of communication is very helpful.
Booking Process: While frequent shippers can get a "PAL" account for online booking, most pet owners will need to call the PetEmbark desk to make a reservation. Be ready with your pet’s and kennel’s details.
Clear Restrictions: The airline is upfront about its restrictions. It does not accept brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs, or certain strong-jawed breeds, due to health risks. This policy is in place for animal safety.
Documentation: As with any airline, having the right paperwork is key. You'll need a valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian close to the travel date. For a detailed breakdown of what's needed, you can find more information about the dog health certificate for travel to make sure you're fully prepared.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Major U.S. network with established animal handling | Online booking is limited to qualified account holders |
Transparent, easy-to-find policies and restrictions | Service not available on several Airbus aircraft types |
Dedicated PetEmbark customer service team | Strict rules on brachycephalic and certain other breeds |
Website: American Airlines Cargo Pet Policy
2. Alaska Air Cargo — Pet Connect
Alaska Air Cargo’s Pet Connect program is highly regarded for its detailed, step-by-step approach to animal transport. This service is a strong option for those searching for airlines that take dogs in cargo, particularly for travel within the U.S. The Pet Connect website offers a clear roadmap for the entire process, covering preparation, drop-off, tracking, and the necessary paperwork, which helps take the guesswork out of planning.
Key Features and Policies
Pet Connect is built around providing clear guidance and support, ensuring both you and your pet have a smooth journey. Their policies on health certificates, timing, and weather are posted online, making it easier to prepare for a successful trip without any "ruff" surprises.
Detailed Guidance: The website features a helpful "How to Transport" guide that walks you through every step, from booking and kennel prep to drop-off and pickup procedures.
Booking and Support: Reservations are made by calling their dedicated cargo call center. The staff are known for being responsive and helpful. The airline also clearly states its booking windows, usually allowing reservations up to 30 days in advance.
Clear Restrictions: Like many airlines, Alaska does not accept short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds in cargo for safety reasons. They are also open about weather-related holds and aircraft limitations, particularly on Airbus models, which helps pet owners plan ahead.
Documentation Requirements: Alaska requires a valid health certificate issued within 10 days of travel for a single trip, or 30 days for round-trip travel completed within that time. They also specify the need for a current rabies vaccination certificate.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Strong reputation for careful pet handling | Does not accept short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds in cargo |
Transparent requirements and responsive customer support | Airbus aircraft and extreme weather can limit travel options |
Detailed step-by-step guidance on their website | Service is mainly focused on U.S. routes |
Website: Alaska Air Cargo Pet Connect Guidelines
3. Delta — Delta Cargo and Pet Travel
Delta offers several options for pet travel, with Delta Cargo being the main service for most dogs traveling without their owners. The airline’s website provides a complete hub for all pet-related travel, clearly separating in-cabin pets, checked baggage for specific military and government staff, and its live animal cargo services. This clear layout makes it one of the more straightforward airlines that take dogs in cargo, as you can quickly see which service applies to you.
Key Features and Policies
Delta Cargo’s strength is in its detailed rules, designed with animal welfare as a top priority. Their online resources cover everything from temperature restrictions to aircraft-specific limitations, helping you plan your dog’s journey with care. The website is a great resource for understanding the entire process, from booking to pickup.
Booking Process: For domestic shipments, pet owners can book directly with Delta Cargo. However, most international shipments require using an IPATA-certified professional pet shipper, which adds a layer of complexity and cost but suggests expert handling.
Specialized Support: Delta provides well-documented procedures and exceptions for U.S. military members and State Department staff traveling on official orders, simplifying what can otherwise be a difficult process.
Crate Requirements: As with all airlines, the kennel must be safe, secure, and large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Choosing the right airline pet travel carrier is a critical first step and Delta's guidelines are very specific.
Restrictions: Delta has strict temperature rules, and may not transport pets if the temperature at any point in the journey is too high or low. They also do not accept brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds in cargo due to respiratory risks.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Large U.S. network with detailed safety rules | Many aircraft types and routes have pet restrictions |
Clear policies for military and State Dept. personnel | International cargo often requires a professional shipper |
Direct booking available for domestic cargo shipments | Strict seasonal and temperature-based holds |
Website: Delta Pet Travel Overview
4. Hawaiian Airlines — Pets as Checked Baggage and Hawaiian Air Cargo
Hawaiian Airlines provides a unique service for those looking for airlines that take dogs in cargo, especially for travel to and from the Hawaiian islands. The airline offers a clear choice between pets traveling as checked baggage on domestic routes and those needing shipment via Hawaiian Air Cargo for international or more complex trips. Their website is a valuable resource, detailing fees, kennel requirements, and important seasonal restrictions upfront to help pet owners plan their journey.
Key Features and Policies
Hawaiian Airlines stands out by continuing to offer a checked baggage option for pets, a service that is less common among major U.S. carriers. This makes it a go-to for many traveling between the mainland and Hawaii. The airline's policies are straightforward, with specific guidelines for animal safety and Hawaii's strict entry requirements.
Service Options: The main option is for dogs to travel as checked baggage on North America to Hawaii routes. For situations where this isn't possible, such as international flights or specific aircraft limits, travelers are directed to use Hawaiian Air Cargo.
Clear Restrictions: The airline clearly lists its seasonal heat embargoes, typically between May 1st and September 30th, which restrict pet travel to protect animals from high temperatures. It also specifies which routes and cities have year-round restrictions.
Kennel Specifications: Detailed kennel requirements are posted on their website, covering size, ventilation, construction material, and security, to help your pet travel in a safe carrier.
Hawaii-Specific Requirements: Traveling to Hawaii with a pet is a very specific process. It's important to meet all quarantine and health documentation rules to avoid your pet being held upon arrival. To get "paws-itively" prepared, it is essential to understand the State of Hawaii animal quarantine regulations before you book.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
One of the few U.S. carriers offering checked-pet options | Significant route, seasonal, and state-specific restrictions |
Clear documentation on check-in and kennel requirements | May require cargo referral for many international routes |
Straightforward fee structure for checked pets | No brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds are accepted |
Website: Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy
5. Air Canada — AC Animals (Baggage Compartment + Cargo)
Air Canada offers a complete pet travel program, AC Animals, that serves as a central hub for all animal transport needs, whether in-cabin, as checked baggage, or via their dedicated cargo service. This connected approach is particularly helpful for travelers whose plans may involve different types of aircraft or routes. Their website clearly separates pets traveling in the baggage compartment and those requiring specialized cargo shipping, making it a go-to resource for those looking for airlines that take dogs in cargo to, from, or within Canada.
Key Features and Policies
Air Canada’s strength is in providing clear paths for different pet travel situations. The website outlines policies for pets traveling with their owners as checked baggage and for unaccompanied or very large pets that must travel through Air Canada Cargo. This dual system offers flexibility for various travel needs and kennel sizes.
Integrated Information Hub: The AC Animals page brings together information for all pet travel options, reducing the need to search multiple sections of the website. This makes it easier to compare services and find the right fit.
Clear Limits and Fees: Air Canada posts its size and weight limits directly on the page, such as the combined weight of a pet and kennel up to 45 kg (100 lb) for checked baggage. Fee tables are also provided, offering transparency for budgeting.
Seasonal and Route Restrictions: The airline is upfront about its restrictions, particularly the summer heat embargoes that apply from May to September in many locations. They also list specific routes where pet travel is not permitted, which helps in planning.
Cargo for Larger Pets: For dogs in oversized kennels or those traveling on routes that don't permit pets as baggage, the Air Canada Cargo team steps in. This ensures there's a reliable option for nearly every pet travel situation.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Single, easy-to-use hub for all pet travel policies | Summer heat holds can significantly limit travel dates |
Transparent fee tables and weight/size limits are posted | Pet acceptance may be blocked on codeshare flight segments |
Extensive North American and international network | Some international routes have specific restrictions |
Website: Air Canada Pet Policy
6. Amerijet International — Live Animals (Cargo Airline)
Amerijet is a U.S.-based cargo carrier with a strong focus on transporting live animals, making it an excellent choice for those looking for airlines that take dogs in cargo, especially to the Caribbean and Latin America. As a dedicated cargo airline, its entire operation is built around shipping, not passenger travel, which means they have special processes for handling sensitive cargo like pets. Their Live Animals product helps your dog get handled by trained specialists.
Key Features and Policies
Amerijet’s service is particularly valuable when passenger airlines have restrictions on certain routes, dog breeds, or large kennel sizes. They provide a clear and professional pathway for shipping pets as cargo, supported by their regional expertise and established setup. This is a paws-itively great alternative when other options are unavailable.
Online Quote System: Shippers can use the MyCargo online portal to get a quote for their specific shipment. This allows for clear, upfront pricing based on your dog's size, kennel dimensions, and destination.
Specialized Handling: The airline employs trained staff for its live animal product. This includes proper ventilation, temperature control in holding areas, and careful loading procedures.
Regional Expertise: With a major hub in Miami, Amerijet has deep experience handling the logistics and paperwork for travel to and from the Caribbean and Latin America.
Clear Tariffs: Amerijet posts its tariff rules for live animals, providing transparency on how costs are calculated and what special handling options are available.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Expertise in Caribbean and Latin America routes | Operates as a cargo-only airline, requiring drop-off at cargo facilities |
Accepts pets when passenger airlines may not on certain lanes | Quotes are shipment-specific and require advance planning |
Trained specialists and careful handling processes | The network is more focused than major passenger carriers |
Website: Amerijet Get a Quote
7. IPATA — International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (Directory)
While not an airline itself, the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) is an essential resource for pet owners, especially for international or complex moves. IPATA is a global network of professional pet shippers. Many airlines that take dogs in cargo will only accept animal bookings from these certified agents, making IPATA the gateway to flying your pet on certain carriers or routes.
Key Features and Policies
IPATA's main function is to connect you with a qualified professional who can manage the entire pet shipping process. These experts know the detailed requirements of different airlines and countries, helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensuring your pet's journey is as smooth as "paw-ssible." They handle everything from booking flights and coordinating layovers to preparing customs paperwork and making sure the crate is correct.
Shipper Directory: The website features a searchable directory that allows you to find members by airport, city, or country. This helps you locate a local expert to manage your pet's travel plans from start to finish.
Access to More Airlines: Many international airlines only work with professional shippers to transport pets as cargo. Using an IPATA member unlocks these flight options that are otherwise unavailable to the general public.
Complex Travel Management: IPATA shippers specialize in handling multi-airline trips, quarantine laws, and country-specific import/export rules. This is crucial for international moves where paperwork errors can lead to long delays.
End-to-End Service: A professional shipper offers a complete solution beyond just booking a flight. For a deeper look into what they provide, you can learn more about the different types of pet transport services and how they simplify the process.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Unlocks airlines that only accept bookings via agents | Adds professional service fees to the total cost of travel |
Global network of professionals reduces risk | Quality and pricing can vary between members |
Expert handling of complex international rules | Requires you to research and choose a specific shipper |
Website: IPATA Find a Pet Shipper
7-Airline Dog Cargo Comparison
Service | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
American Airlines Cargo — PetEmbark | Medium — structured program, PAL account limits | Moderate — PAL account for online booking or use pet desk; compliant crate/docs | Transparent, reliable domestic handling; some route/aircraft limits | Domestic and select international shipments by account holders | Dedicated pet desk, published policies and aircraft/breed guidance |
Alaska Air Cargo — Pet Connect | Low–Medium — clear step‑by‑step process | Moderate — documentation, timing/weather adherence, call center support | Predictable domestic/interline shipments with good tracking | U.S. domestic and interline moves needing clear prep and timing | Detailed guidance, responsive cargo support, strong reputation |
Delta — Delta Cargo and Pet Travel | Medium–High — multiple pathways and special‑shipper rules | High — possible known shipper/IPATA, strict temp/aircraft limits, documentation | Safe transport when requirements met; international adds complexity | Large U.S. network moves; military/State Dept. and cargo shipments | Wide network, detailed operational rules, procedures for special cases |
Hawaiian Airlines — Pets as Checked Baggage & Cargo | Low–Medium — checked‑baggage option simplifies some bookings | Moderate — kennel specs, seasonal heat embargo monitoring, possible cargo referral | Convenient checked options on eligible routes; cargo used when restricted | Hawaii↔mainland travel where checked pets allowed; cargo for restricted routings | Ongoing checked‑pet option, clear fees and kennel requirements |
Air Canada — AC Animals (Baggage Compartment + Cargo) | Medium — multiple pathways and route/season rules | High — size/weight limits, baggage vs cargo coordination, seasonal limits | Flexible for North American/international moves; some itinerary blocks | Oversize kennels, international routings requiring cargo or baggage compartment | Single hub for all pet pathways, cargo capability for oversize shipments |
Amerijet International — Live Animals (Cargo) | Medium — cargo workflow but specialist processes | High — advance booking, drop‑off/pick‑up at cargo facilities, shipment quotes | Reliable cargo alternative when passenger airlines won’t accept pets | Routes to Caribbean/Latin America or oversized/special handling needs | Dedicated live‑animal product, IATA‑compliant handling, regional expertise |
IPATA — Directory of Pet Shippers | Low — directory access is simple; using shippers adds steps | Moderate — shipper service fees, coordination, vetting of members | Reduced compliance risk and access to forwarder‑only airlines | Complex international multi‑airline routings or known‑shipper requirements | Global vetted network, expertise in documentation and complex routings |
Making the Final Approach: A Smooth Landing for Your Pet's Travel Plans
Navigating the skies with your four-legged friend requires careful planning, but as we've seen, it’s far from impossible. The journey to finding the right airline for your dog's cargo travel is about doing your homework and understanding the details. From major carriers like American Airlines with its PetEmbark program to specialized cargo services like Amerijet, there are solid, reputable options available for getting your companion safely from point A to point B.
The key takeaway is that no two airlines are exactly alike. Each has its own set of rules, from kennel specifications and breed restrictions to seasonal heat holds that protect your pet's well-being. This guide has provided a starting point, but always remember that airline policies can change. The golden rule is to always check the most current information directly with the airline before making any bookings.
Key Takeaways for Your Pre-Flight Checklist
To help with a smooth journey, keep these key points in mind:
Plan Ahead, Way Ahead: Pet travel, especially in cargo, is not a last-minute thing. Start your research and preparations months in advance to avoid stressful surprises. This gives you plenty of time to secure bookings, schedule vet appointments, and purchase the correct travel crate.
Documentation is Key: Accurate, complete, and timely paperwork is non-negotiable. An incorrect form or a missed signature can ground your pet’s travel plans before they even begin. This is especially true for international travel, where requirements can be complex and vary widely by destination.
Your Vet is Your Co-Pilot: Your veterinarian plays a huge role in the process. They are responsible for conducting the health check, giving necessary vaccinations, and completing the official health certificate. Open communication with your vet clinic is essential for a seamless process.
Choosing the Right Path Forward
Selecting the right airline ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're flying a common domestic route, carriers like Alaska Air or Delta might offer the perfect balance of convenience and established pet programs. For international or more complex shipments, a dedicated cargo airline or guidance from an IPATA professional could be the better choice.
The most important factor, however, is preparing your dog and their documentation. This is where the process often becomes overwhelming for pet owners and even veterinary staff. The maze of international health certificates, varying airline forms, and destination-specific rules requires precision and expertise. A simple mistake can lead to delays, added costs, or even refusal to transport. This is the single most important detail to get right, and it's where specialized tools can make all the difference, turning a potential headache into a streamlined, successful departure. With the right airline chosen and your paperwork in perfect order, you can feel confident that your furry family member will have a safe and secure flight.
Ready to simplify the most complex part of pet travel? Passpaw is a platform built for veterinarians to streamline the creation of accurate, compliant international health certificates and travel documents. Ensure your pet's paperwork is picture-perfect and ready for takeoff by visiting Passpaw to learn how we help veterinary teams manage pet travel with confidence.
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