Oh, planning a trip with your furry best friend on American Airlines? That's fantastic! Traveling with a small dog can be a wonderful experience, but it definitely requires some careful planning and understanding of the airline's policies, especially when it comes to costs. Let's break down everything you need to know about how much it costs to take a small dog on American Airlines, along with a step-by-step guide to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Fly with Your Pup?
Before we even get to the dollars and cents, let's consider something crucial: is flying the right choice for your small dog? While many small dogs are excellent travelers, it's essential to assess your dog's temperament. Is your dog generally calm and comfortable in new environments and confined spaces? Do they get anxious easily? A long flight, even in the cabin, can be stressful for some animals. Consider a trial run with their carrier at home, gradually increasing the time they spend inside. This initial assessment will save you and your pup a lot of potential stress down the line. If your dog is prone to extreme anxiety or aggression, flying might not be the best option, and exploring ground transportation alternatives might be more suitable.
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| How Much Does It Cost To Take A Small Dog On American Airlines |
Step 2: Understanding American Airlines' Pet Travel Options
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
American Airlines offers a few ways for small dogs to travel, and the cost varies significantly depending on the method. For small dogs, the most common options are:
In-Cabin (Carry-on Pet): This is generally the preferred method for small dogs, as they can stay with you in the cabin.
Cargo (American Airlines Cargo / PetEmbark): This option is typically for larger dogs or if you're traveling to a destination where in-cabin pets aren't permitted. Note: As of recent policy updates, American Airlines' checked baggage option for pets is largely limited to U.S. Military and State Department Foreign Service personnel on official orders. For most general public travelers, larger pets travel via Cargo.
Let's focus primarily on the in-cabin option for small dogs, as that's usually the most relevant for the user's query.
Step 3: Estimating the Cost for In-Cabin Travel
The primary cost for bringing a small dog in the cabin on American Airlines is a non-refundable fee per kennel, per way.
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The Fee: As of recent updates (early 2025), the fee for a carry-on pet on American Airlines is $150 USD per kennel, each way. This means if you're flying round-trip, you'll pay $150 for the outbound journey and another $150 for the return journey, totaling $300.
Important Note on Layover Fees: If your trip includes a voluntary stopover or connection of more than 4 hours, fees may apply for each connection segment. However, for connections less than 4 hours, generally, you'll only pay one fee for that direction of travel. It's always best to confirm this directly with American Airlines or during the booking process, as policies can have nuances.
Additional Carry-on Allowance: Good news! American Airlines has eased its policy. Previously, your pet carrier counted as your only carry-on item. Now, you are allowed to bring a standard carry-on bag in addition to your pet carrier when flying with your small dog in the cabin. This is a significant cost relief as it avoids checked bag fees for your personal luggage.
Step 4: Beyond the Fee – Other Potential Costs
While the $150 per-way fee is the main cost, don't forget these other potential expenses:
Pet Carrier: You'll need an airline-compliant pet carrier.
Soft-sided carriers are generally recommended and often offer more flexibility to fit under the seat. Their maximum recommended dimensions are typically around 18" x 11" x 11" (46 x 28 x 28 cm).
Hard-sided carriers have stricter maximum dimensions, often 19" x 13" x 9" (48 x 33 x 22 cm).
Costs for carriers can range from $30 to $100+ depending on size, brand, and features.
Veterinary Visit & Health Certificate: Most domestic travel within the U.S. requires your pet to be at least 8 weeks old. While a health certificate isn't always required for domestic in-cabin travel, it's highly recommended to ensure your pet is healthy enough for travel.
For international travel, a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination, and other country-specific forms are almost always mandatory. These vet visits and certifications incur costs, which can vary widely depending on your veterinarian and any specific tests or vaccinations needed for your destination.
Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for vet visits and necessary documentation.
Comfort Items & Supplies: Blankets, small toys, travel bowls, puppy pads, and a small amount of food taped to the carrier can add a minor cost but contribute significantly to your dog's comfort.
Pet Insurance: While not a direct travel cost, having pet insurance is always a good idea, especially when traveling, to cover unforeseen medical emergencies.
Step 5: Essential Requirements for In-Cabin Travel
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
Paying the fee isn't enough; your dog and carrier must meet strict American Airlines requirements:
Size and Weight: Your small dog must be able to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down in their carrier. The combined weight of your pet and the carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds (9.07 kg).
Carrier Dimensions: As mentioned, dimensions vary slightly depending on whether it's a soft-sided or hard-sided carrier and the aircraft type (mainline vs. regional flights). Always double-check the most current dimensions on American Airlines' official website or by calling reservations for your specific aircraft. The carrier must fit entirely under the seat in front of you.
Ventilation: The carrier must have adequate ventilation on at least three sides for domestic travel and four sides for international travel.
Leak-Proof: The carrier must have a waterproof bottom with absorbent material inside (like a pet pad or towel). Hay, wood shavings, and straw are not allowed.
Secure: The carrier must be secure with heavy-duty zippers or secure fasteners. No part of your pet can extend out of the carrier at any time.
Age: Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel. For international flights, specific age and vaccination requirements apply (e.g., typically 6 months old for international travel).
Behavior: Your pet must remain inside the carrier with the flap closed for the entire duration of the flight, including boarding, taxiing, takeoff, landing, and while at the gate. Disruptive behavior may result in your pet being denied travel.
One Pet Per Carrier: Generally, only one pet is allowed per carrier. However, American Airlines may allow two puppies or kittens of the same species and under six months old, provided their combined weight (including carrier) does not exceed 20 pounds and they can comfortably fit.
Limited Availability: There's a limit to the number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight (typically seven kennels on mainline flights and five on American Eagle regional flights, excluding service animals). It's crucial to book your pet's spot as early as possible!
Step 6: Step-by-Step Booking and Travel Guide
Here’s a practical guide to booking and traveling with your small dog on American Airlines:
Sub-heading: Step 6a: Research and Plan Your Trip
Check Destination Restrictions: First, verify if your destination allows pets in the cabin. American Airlines permits in-cabin pets to most destinations in the United States (excluding Hawaii), Canada, Mexico, Central America, Alaska, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and St. Croix. Flights cannot be longer than 11.5 hours. Always check the specific import requirements for your destination country/state.
Vet Check-up: Schedule a vet appointment well in advance (ideally a few weeks before your trip) to ensure your dog is healthy for travel and to obtain any necessary health certificates or vaccinations, especially for international travel.
Carrier Purchase & Acclimation: Purchase an airline-compliant carrier and get your dog accustomed to it. Leave it out with treats and comfortable bedding so they associate it positively.
Sub-heading: Step 6b: Book Your Flight and Pet Reservation
Book Your Human Ticket First: Book your own flight on aa.com or the American Airlines app.
Add Your Pet: Immediately after booking your flight, go to the "Special Services" section of your trip on aa.com or the app. Select "Add carry-on pets." You'll review and accept the pet requirements and select the flights your pet will travel on.
Confirm and Pay at the Airport: You'll typically pay the pet fee at the airport check-in counter when you check in for your flight. While you can add the pet reservation online, payment is usually processed in person. Given the limited space for in-cabin pets, booking your pet's spot online as soon as your flight is confirmed is crucial.
Sub-heading: Step 6c: Day of Travel Logistics
Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport earlier than usual for your flight (at least 2-3 hours for domestic, more for international). You cannot check in a pet at curbside; you must go to the passenger check-in counter.
Final Potty Break: Give your dog a final opportunity to relieve themselves before entering the airport. Many airports have designated pet relief areas.
Check-in & Verification: At the counter, present any required documentation (health certificate, vaccination records, etc.) if applicable. Airport staff will verify your pet and carrier meet the requirements.
During the Flight: Your dog must remain in their carrier, stowed under the seat in front of you, for the entire flight. Do not take them out.
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Step 7: Important Considerations & Tips for a Smooth Journey
Temperature Restrictions: While primarily for cargo travel, be aware that airlines have temperature restrictions for pet travel to ensure their safety. Extreme hot or cold temperatures can lead to travel embargoes.
Sedation is NOT Recommended: American Airlines, like most airlines, advises against sedating or tranquilizing your pet for travel. It can interfere with their ability to regulate body temperature and can have adverse effects at altitude. Consult your veterinarian for natural calming aids or strategies if your dog is anxious.
Identification: Ensure your dog has a collar with up-to-date ID tags and is microchipped with current contact information.
Food and Water: Feed your dog a light meal a few hours before the flight. Attach small, empty food and water bowls to the inside of the carrier that can be filled without opening the door. Pack a small, clear bag of food taped to the top of the kennel with feeding instructions in case of delays.
Service Animals: Fully trained service dogs are not considered pets and fly free of charge in the cabin, provided they meet American Airlines' and DOT requirements. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized as service animals by American Airlines and are treated as pets, subject to the standard pet fees and requirements.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common questions related to flying with a small dog on American Airlines, with quick answers:
How to know if my dog is small enough to fly in the cabin on American Airlines?
Your dog must fit comfortably in a carrier that stows under the seat in front of you, allowing them to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally. The combined weight of your pet and carrier cannot exceed 20 lbs (9.07 kg).
How to book a spot for my small dog on an American Airlines flight?
Book your own flight first, then go to the "Special Services" section of your trip on aa.com or the American Airlines app and select "Add carry-on pets" to reserve your dog's spot.
How to determine the correct carrier size for my small dog for American Airlines?
For hard-sided carriers, max dimensions are typically 19" x 13" x 9". For soft-sided carriers (recommended), max dimensions are usually 18" x 11" x 11". Always check the latest requirements on the American Airlines website for your specific aircraft type.
How to pay the pet fee for American Airlines?
The $150 USD per-way pet fee for in-cabin travel is typically paid at the American Airlines check-in counter at the airport on your day of departure.
How to get a health certificate for my dog for American Airlines travel?
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. They will examine your dog and issue a health certificate if required by your destination (especially for international travel) and confirm your dog is fit to fly.
How to avoid extra fees when flying with my small dog on American Airlines?
Ensure your pet and carrier strictly adhere to all size and weight limits. Also, remember that your pet fee is per-way, so a round trip means two fees.
How to prepare my dog for the flight on American Airlines?
Acclimate your dog to their carrier, provide a familiar blanket or toy, feed a light meal a few hours before, and ensure they have a potty break just before entering the airport. Do NOT sedate your pet without veterinary guidance.
How to know if my flight allows pets in the cabin on American Airlines?
American Airlines has a limit on the number of pets per flight. It's crucial to reserve your pet's spot online as soon as you book your ticket. If space is unavailable, you won't be able to add your pet.
How to distinguish between an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) and a Service Animal for American Airlines travel?
As of recent policy changes, American Airlines no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals. ESAs are now treated as pets and are subject to pet fees. Fully trained service dogs (dogs trained to perform specific tasks for a disability) fly free of charge with proper documentation.
How to handle my dog during the flight on American Airlines?
Your dog must remain fully inside their carrier, with the flap closed, and the carrier stowed under the seat in front of you for the entire duration of the flight. Do not remove your dog from the carrier at any point during the flight.
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