Flying with dogs can be a complex and confusing process, especially when it comes to our furry friends. Many pet owners wonder if it is possible for their dogs to sit on their laps during a flight. In this article, we will explore the regulations and guidelines set by airlines regarding pets on board, the benefits and drawbacks of having a dog sit on your lap during a flight, and alternative options for ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety.

In this article we will discuss in detail which airlines may allow you to sit with your dog on your lap during the flight. Furthermore, we will share tips for flying with dogs and discuss exactly what you will need to prepare for your flight.

Can my dog sit on my lap during a flight?

Many airlines allow small dogs to fly in the cabin with their owners, on certain routes and planes. However, many of them require that they stay in their pet carriers, stowed under the seat in front of their owners. This is the case with Air Canada, American Airlines, Southwest, United and West Jet. These airlines specifically state that dogs must remain in their carriers stowed under the seat for the entire flight.

Nevertheless, there are many airlines that only state dogs must remain stowed away under the seat in front of their owners during taxi, takeoff and landing. Many do not specifically state that you aren’t allowed to sit with your dog’s carrier on your lap after the flight takes-off and before landing.

JetBlue actually states that you may hold the carrier on your lap during the flight.

Additionally, if your dog is an emotional support animal, it is more likely that he or she will be able to sit in your lap during a flight.

Can I bring fly with my dog in cabin?

Before considering whether your dog can sit on your lap during a flight, it is essential to understand the regulations set by airlines and aviation authorities. Most airlines allow small pets to travel in the cabin under certain conditions. However, these regulations vary among airlines and may depend on factors such as the size of the dog, the type of aircraft, and the destination.

1. Your dog must be healthy.

Many airlines require an animal health certificate to demonstrate that your dog is healthy and ready for travel. These must be issued by an authorised veterinarian, and in some cases, must be endorsed by your local governing body. Some airlines will also require your dog is microchipped and has a valid rabies vaccination.

2. Dogs must be small and light.

Most airlines require that dogs and their carriers weigh less than 8-10kg combined. This is because they usually require dogs to fit in a pet carrier that must fit underneath the passenger seats.

The rules and regulations have been set out by International Air Transport Association (IATA) ensure that dogs are comfortable when travelling. Thus, inside their travel carriers, dogs must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down in a natural position in their kennel (without touching any side or the top of the container).

Please note the weight and size does vary between airlines:

Japan Air allows 10kg, where TUI allows just 6kg.

Therefore, if you are the owner of a large dog, it is likely that you will need to ship him in cargo hold.

3. Certain breeds may not be able to fly.

Some airlines have restrictions on which breeds they allow to fly.

United doesn’t permit any pit bull type dogs in their cabins.

It is rather common that airlines do not allow brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs of any “mix” to fly, however this is often only mentioned as checked pets. This is in the interest of your dog’s own health and safety. Certain breeds often are more prone to certain illnesses which put them at risk when flying. Due to some cases over the years of dogs not making it to the end of their flight, airlines have gotten stricter on which pets they allow on the plane.

Different airlines have different pet policies, double check your airline to see if your dog breed can fly with you.

4. Your dog must be well behaved.

Airlines often require that dogs are obedient to commands and can behave appropriately in public. Thus, he mustn’t bark or growl at other passengers or staff. If your dog does not behave in an appropriate manner, some airlines may transfer him to the cargo hold at an additional cost, or refuse to transport him all together.

Some airlines require a consent form to ensure your pet is flight-ready.

For example, Lufthansa require two copies of a fully completed and signed forms at the check-in counter.

Can my dog sit on my lap during a flight? These airlines say no.

The following airlines do not allow a dog to sit on their owners laps on a flight. These airlines specifically state that dogs must remain in their carriers, stowed away for the whole duration of the flight.

Air Canada Pet Policy

Your pet must remain at all times in a closed pet carrier stowed under your seat.

American Airlines Pet Policy

On flights with American you can bring 1 kennel as your carry-on bag if your pet stays in the kennel and under the seat in front of you the entire flight

Southwest Pet Policy

Pets must be secured in the pet carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding/deplaning, and they must remain in the carrier for the entire duration of the flight. Failure to follow this requirement may result in denial of transportation of the pet onboard Southwest Airlines.

Cats and dogs must remain in the carrier (including head and tail) and the carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of the Customer (owner) for the entire duration of the flight.

United Pet Policy

Tips for flying with dog in cabin

1. Select an appropriate, cabin-approved travel carrier.

Different airlines and aircrafts have different size restrictions for carriers. Be sure to check the restrictions for your specific airline, and aircraft.

For example, Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.

I would recommend using a soft sided carrier as they usually give your dog more space.

Carriers must generally be leak-proof and well ventilated.

2. Get your dog used to it’s travel carrier.

3. Train your dog to stay calm.

Your dog will need to stay calm on the flight otherwise they risk being sent into the cargo area of the plane. Being obedient to orders is a requirement when flying with dogs.

4. Exhaust your dog before the flight.

Try to exhaust your dog a little by increasing the level of activity before your trip. A sleepy animal will be less prone to getting stressed out on the flight, and will likely be better behaved on the flight.

5. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

Limit your dog’s access to food. Therefore, it’ll be less likely that they will need to ‘defecate or urinate’ on the flight.

Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before.

Air Canada suggest feeding your dog four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel.

6. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.