American Airlines does not allow brachycephalic (snub-nosed) or mixed-breed dogs and cats in checked baggage due to health risks. Banned dog breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, Mastiffs, Pit Bulls, Shih Tzus, and others. Banned cat breeds include Burmese, Persian, Himalayan, and Exotic Shorthair.

What breeds are restricted on American Airlines?

Dog restrictions

• Affenpinscher.
• American Staffordshire Terrier.
• Boston Terrier.
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffon.
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Cane Corso.
• Chow Chow.

What dog breeds can't fly?

The following breeds are restricted from flying in cargo:

• American Pit Bull.
• American Staffordshire Terrier.
• Boston Terrier.
• Boxer.
• Brussels Griffon.
• Mastiff (All Breeds)
• Bulldog.
• Bull Terrier.

What is the dog policy on American Airlines?

American Airlines In‑Cabin Pet Policy Overview:

Maximum Carrier Dimensions: 18" L x 11" W x 11" H (soft-sided recommended) Pet Fee: $125 per kennel, each way. Total Weight Limit: Pet and carrier combined must fit under the seat in front of you. Allowed Routes: Domestic flights and select international destinations.

Are pitbulls allowed to fly?

Most American airlines (Delta, United, American, Alaskan, Hawaiian) no longer accept snub nosed breeds, including pitbulls, staffies and American bullies for carriage. You are welcomed to contact our office for referrals to ground transporters who may be able to assist.

American Airlines’ NEW Pet Travel Rules Are Here – Are You Prepared?

Can I buy my dog a seat on a plane?

Yes, some airlines allow you to buy an extra seat for your dog's carrier, but most require small pets to stay in their carrier under the seat in front of you for the whole flight, while a few niche options like JSX Airlines permit larger dogs in purchased seats, leashed on the floor. It's crucial to check your airline's specific pet policy as rules vary, but generally, if you buy a seat, the carrier goes on that seat for takeoff/landing and then into the foot space, though some (like Alaska Airlines or JetBlue) allow the carrier on the seat during flight.

Does it hurt dogs' ears to fly in a plane?

Yes, your dog might suffer from “airplane ears” due to sudden changes in pressure inside and outside the ears. To relieve this change in pressure their ears may pop while flying on airplanes.

How long can my dog sit on my lap during a flight?

Generally, pets must remain in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. They're required to stay inside that carrier for the entire flight, and you're not allowed to take them out and hold them on your lap.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The "7 7 7 rule" for dogs is a puppy socialization guideline, originally by Pat Hastings, suggesting exposing puppies to 7 different people, 7 different locations, and 7 different surfaces/objects/sounds/challenges (variations exist) by about 7 weeks old to build confidence, resilience, and prevent fear or anxiety as adults. Key experiences include meeting diverse individuals, visiting different places like a vet's office or friend's house, walking on various substrates (grass, tile, carpet), and encountering new objects and gentle challenges (like tunnels or boxes).
 

What dog breeds cannot fly?

In July 2010, the U.S. Department of Transportation released statistics that showed short-nosed breeds of dogs—such as pugs, Boston Terriers, boxers, some mastiffs, Pekingese, Lhasa Apsos, Shih tzus and bulldogs—are more likely to die on airplanes than dogs with normal-length muzzles.

How to get your dog certified as a service dog?

To be considered a Service Dog, a dog must be individually trained to perform a job or task relating to your disability. Be aware that there is no official organization that sets training standards in the U.S. You are not required to work with a trainer – the ADA allows handlers to train their dogs on their own.

What airlines allow snub-nosed dogs?

Brachycephalic in-cabin airline list (2025 snapshot)

• United Airlines (in cabin only; follow carrier size rules) United Airlines.
• JetBlue (in cabin only; small dogs/cats) JetBlue.
• Alaska Airlines (in cabin; explicitly notes brachycephalics may fly in cabin; cargo restrictions apply) alaskacargo.com.

What is the American Airlines pet policy?

American Airlines allows small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on most domestic flights and some international routes. To be eligible, your pet must fit comfortably in a soft-sided or hard-sided kennel that fits under the seat in front of you. Key Guidelines: Eligible Pets: Only cats and small dogs.

What dog breeds can you bring on a plane?

Non-exhaustive list of dog races weighing less than 6 kgs then accepted in cabin by air companies

• Bolognese (bichon)
• Bichon Frise.
• Havanese (bichon)
• Maltese (bichon)
• Miniature and toy poodle.
• Chinese Crested dog.
• Peruvian Hairless dog / Peruvian Inca Orchid.
• Chihuahua.

What disabilities qualify for a service dog?

Although the ADA does not name every qualifying impairment, some disabilities that meet the requirements for a service dog include:

• Arthritis.
• Asthma.
• Cancer.
• Cerebral palsy.
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Seizures.

What size dog can fly in-cabin?

Yes, dogs under 20 pounds can fly in carriers in the cabin. Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? The combined weight of the dog and carrier must be no more than 20 pounds.

Is it stressful for dogs to fly?

Most of the time, dogs travel quite well, without needing medication. Some dogs, on the other hand, experience tremendous stress when subjected to air travel. Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your dog if he does not travel well.

Is it scary for dogs to fly in cargo?

Be aware of the dangers of flying your pet in a cargo hold

While most animals flown in the cargo area of airplanes are fine, you should be aware that some animals are killed, injured or lost on commercial flights each year. Excessively hot or cold temperatures, poor ventilation and improper handling are often to blame.

How to prevent dogs' ears from popping on a plane?

Best advise is to check with your veterinarian for something to keep him calm and/or relieve pressure. You may want to try a chew toy. One of my customers is a flight attendant and takes her little griffon with her on vacations to visit family.

Will a dog with anxiety be fine on a plane?

For in-cabin travel, your veterinarian may recommend anti-anxiety medications under certain circumstances. If you and your veterinarian believe that your dog would benefit from being sedated during the journey, you'll need specific directions on the proper dosage and how to sedate your dog.

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