Have you ever dreamt of bringing your beloved furry friend along on your Southwest Airlines adventure? Many pet parents do! But before you start packing their favorite squeaky toy and tiny travel bowl, there's a crucial question to answer: How much can a dog weigh to fly on Southwest Airlines? The answer isn't as straightforward as a single weight limit. Southwest Airlines has a specific set of rules revolving more around carrier size and your pet's comfort within it than a strict maximum weight for the animal itself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to ensure a smooth journey for you and your canine companion.
Understanding Southwest Airlines' Pet Policy: It's All About the Carrier
Southwest Airlines prioritizes the safety and comfort of all passengers, including the four-legged ones. Unlike some airlines that publish a clear weight limit for pets, Southwest's policy focuses on the pet's ability to comfortably fit in an approved carrier that stows under the seat in front of you.
Step 1: Are You Eligible to Fly with Your Dog on Southwest?
First things first, let's see if your dog (and you!) qualify for in-cabin travel. This is where your engagement begins! Are you ready to discover if your furry travel buddy can join you in the cabin?
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Small, Vaccinated Domestic Cats and Dogs Only: Southwest only permits small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in the cabin. No other animal types are allowed as pets.
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Age Requirement: Your dog must be at least eight (8) weeks old to travel.
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Unaccompanied Minors: Unfortunately, unaccompanied minors cannot travel with a pet.
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Destination Restrictions: Southwest does not accept pets on flights to or from Hawaii or on international itineraries. There might be specific requirements for travel to Puerto Rico, so always double-check. Pets are accepted on flights between Hawaiian Islands.
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Service Animals vs. Pets: It's crucial to understand the distinction. Trained service dogs have different regulations and are exempt from pet fees and carrier requirements, provided they meet the specific U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) guidelines for service animals. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are generally treated as pets by Southwest.
Step 2: The Cornerstone – Pet Carrier Requirements
This is where the "weight" question indirectly comes into play. While there's no stated weight limit, your dog's weight will naturally dictate if it can fit comfortably within the carrier dimensions.
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Approved Carrier Types: Southwest allows both soft-sided and hard-sided pet carriers.
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Crucial Dimensions: The carrier must be small enough to fit completely under the seat in front of you. Southwest's official branded pet carrier has dimensions of 17" L x 10" W x 9.5" H. However, they also state that other carriers can be used as long as they do not exceed 18.5" L x 13.5" W x 8.5" H. Always verify these dimensions on Southwest's official website or by calling them, as policies can change.
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Pet's Comfort is Key: Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down with ease in the carrier. This is a non-negotiable rule. If your dog is crammed or appears distressed, they may be denied boarding, regardless of the carrier size.
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Leak-Proof and Well-Ventilated: The carrier must be leak-proof and provide adequate ventilation.
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Carrier Counts as Carry-On: Your pet carrier will count as either your personal item or your one carry-on bag. Plan accordingly if you also have a purse, backpack, or other carry-on items.
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One Carrier Per Customer: You are permitted to travel with no more than one pet carrier per ticketed Customer.
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Two of the Same Species: Each pet carrier can contain no more than two of the same species of small cat or dog, provided they both fit comfortably and meet all other requirements.
Step 3: Making Your Reservation – Timing is Everything!
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
Space for pets on Southwest flights is limited. This is a critical step to ensure your dog has a spot.
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Limited Spots Per Flight: Southwest typically allows a maximum of six (6) pet carriers per scheduled flight (excluding service animals). These spots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Book Early, Call Early: It is highly recommended to book your own flight first, and then immediately call Southwest Airlines (1-800-I-FLY-SWA or 1-800-435-9792) to add your pet to your reservation. Do not wait!
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No Online Pet Reservations: You cannot add a pet to your reservation online. You must call.
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Information You'll Need: When you call, be prepared to provide your pet's name, breed, and potentially an estimated weight (though the focus will remain on the carrier fit).
Step 4: The Pet Fare and Check-In Process
Money matters, and so does being prepared at the airport.
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Pet Fare: The fee for flying with a pet in the cabin on Southwest is $125 each way per pet carrier (as of current information – always confirm the latest fee on Southwest's website or during your booking call). For inter-island Hawaii travel, the fee is $35 each way per pet carrier.
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Payment at the Airport: The Pet Fare must be paid at the airport ticket counter with accepted credit cards. You won't be able to pay it in advance online.
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Arrive Early: Because you need to pay the pet fare and check in your pet at the ticket counter, Southwest advises arriving at the airport at least two to four hours before your scheduled flight. This allows ample time for check-in, security screening (where you'll briefly remove your pet from the carrier), and finding pet relief areas.
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Security Checkpoint: At the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your pet from its carrier while the carrier goes through the X-ray machine. Your pet must remain leashed and under your control during this process.
Step 5: Onboard the Aircraft – Keeping Your Pet Comfortable
Once you're through security and boarded, there are a few more rules to follow.
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Remain in Carrier: Your pet must remain completely inside its leak-proof, well-ventilated carrier and under the seat in front of you for the entire duration of the flight, including taxi, takeoff, and landing.
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No Occupying Seats or Aisles: Your pet is not permitted to occupy an aircraft seat, extend into the aircraft aisle, or encroach upon a neighboring seat.
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Emergency Exit Rows: Passengers traveling with pets (including service dogs) cannot sit in emergency exit rows due to safety regulations.
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Open Seating Strategy: Southwest's open seating policy means you might want to consider boarding strategically. A window seat often provides more floor space for your pet carrier. If you have a service animal that requires additional space, you may qualify for pre-boarding by speaking with the gate agent.
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Step 6: Preparing Your Dog for Travel
A calm and well-prepared dog makes for a much smoother journey.
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Carrier Training: Start weeks in advance by getting your dog comfortable with their carrier. Create positive associations with treats, toys, and short periods inside the carrier at home.
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Exercise Before Flight: A tired dog is typically a calmer traveler. Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise before heading to the airport.
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Limited Food/Water: Avoid feeding your dog a large meal right before the flight to prevent nausea. Offer small amounts of water, but be mindful of potential accidents in the carrier.
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Potty Breaks: Take advantage of pet relief areas at the airport before boarding.
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Vet Consultation: Consider consulting your veterinarian to discuss any concerns about your dog's health or anxiety during travel. They may be able to recommend calming aids or specific advice.
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
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| How Much Can A Dog Weigh To Fly On Southwest Airlines |
In Summary: The "Weight" is in the Fit!
While Southwest Airlines doesn't publish a strict weight limit for dogs flying in the cabin, the ability of your dog to comfortably fit, stand, turn around, and lie down within the approved carrier dimensions is the primary factor. If your dog is too large for the carrier that fits under the seat, then its weight, by default, makes it ineligible for in-cabin travel.
Always prioritize your pet's comfort and safety. If you have any doubts, it's best to contact Southwest Airlines directly and consult with your veterinarian. Happy travels to you and your furry co-pilot!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to determine if my dog is too big for a Southwest pet carrier?
Measure your dog's height (from paw to top of head when standing) and length (from nose to base of tail). Compare these to the maximum carrier dimensions (e.g., Southwest's branded carrier is 17" L x 10" W x 9.5" H, other approved carriers up to 18.5" L x 13.5" W x 8.5" H). Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside without touching the top or sides.
How to book a flight with my dog on Southwest Airlines?
First, book your own flight online. Then, immediately call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) to add your pet to your reservation. You cannot book pet travel online.
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
How to pay the pet fee for my dog on Southwest Airlines?
The pet fare (currently $125 each way per carrier) must be paid with a credit card at the airport ticket counter when you check in for your flight.
How to prepare my dog's carrier for a Southwest flight?
Ensure the carrier is leak-proof and well-ventilated. Place an absorbent pad inside for any accidents. Familiarize your dog with the carrier in the weeks leading up to your flight to reduce stress.
How to check in with my dog at the airport for a Southwest flight?
Arrive at the airport 2-4 hours before your flight and go directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. You will pay the pet fare there and get your pet's travel tag.
How to handle security screening with my dog at the airport?
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
At the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your dog from its carrier. The carrier will go through the X-ray machine. Keep your dog on a leash and under your control at all times during this process.
How to ensure my dog is comfortable during the Southwest flight?
Keep your pet's carrier under the seat in front of you. Avoid feeding large meals before the flight. A tired dog is a calm dog, so ensure they get plenty of exercise before heading to the airport.
How to find pet relief areas at airports when flying Southwest?
Most major airports have designated pet relief areas both pre- and post-security. Check the airport's website or ask airport staff upon arrival for directions to these areas.
How to differentiate between a pet and a service animal on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines recognizes trained service dogs (individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability) differently from pets. Service animals have different documentation requirements (U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form) and are not subject to pet fees or carrier restrictions. Emotional Support Animals are generally treated as pets.
How to know if my specific flight allows pets on Southwest Airlines?
When you call Southwest Airlines to add your pet to your reservation (Step 3), the representative will confirm if there is space available for pets on your specific flight. Space is limited, so calling early is crucial.
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