Discover the Most Dog-Friendly Airline for Your Next Trip
For pet owners who love to travel, bringing along their furry friend is often a top priority. However, flying with dogs can be stressful without the right airline. Between fees, pet policies, cabin accommodations, and overall treatment of animals, not all airlines are created equal. So, what’s the most dog-friendly airline? According to frequent flyers and numerous pet travel reviews, Alaska Airlines stands out as the top choice for dog owners.
Why Alaska Airlines Is Considered the Top Dog-Friendly Airline
Several airlines offer pet-friendly services, but Alaska consistently ranks highest among them for its mix of compassion, affordability, and detailed pet policies. Here's why:
- Affordable pet fees: Alaska charges a relatively low fee for pets flying in-cabin—currently around $100 per pet, per flight.
- In-cabin pet travel duration: Pets are allowed in the cabin on most flights, provided they meet size and health requirements.
- Dedicated pet reservation support: You can easily reserve a spot for your pet during booking or by calling their customer service.
- Pet accommodations: Soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are allowed, and pets must remain enclosed under the seat in front of you.
- Positive customer reviews: Animal lovers praise Alaska for its respectful and attentive approach to flying with dogs, especially small breeds.
Other Dog-Friendly Airlines Worth Considering
If Alaska Airlines isn’t available or you’re considering other options, here are some runner-ups that also provide respectable experiences for dog owners:
- American Airlines: Offers in-cabin pet travel for small dogs and cats and features a pet cargo service called American PetEmbark for larger dogs.
- Delta Airlines: Allows small pets in the cabin and provides good tracking options for pets flying cargo.
- JetBlue: Pet fees are competitive and they offer the JetPaws program, which includes a pet travel guide and bonus frequent flyer points.
- Southwest Airlines: Low pet fees and straightforward policies make Southwest a budget-friendly alternative.
Tips for Flying Safely and Comfortably with Your Dog
No matter which airline you choose, keeping your dog safe and stress-free during travel is crucial. Here are some expert tips:
- Visit the vet: Ensure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations before flying.
- Pick the right carrier: The carrier should be well-ventilated, appropriately sized, and airline-approved.
- Practice before flight: Let your dog get used to the travel carrier several days before you fly.
- Pack essentials: Include food, a water container, toys, waste bags, and any medications your dog may need during the journey.
- Arrive early at the airport: Give yourself extra time to check in with your dog and go through any security procedures.
What About Emotional Support Animals?
Recent changes in airline policies following new DOT regulations in the U.S. mean most airlines, including Alaska, no longer accept emotional support animals (ESAs) for free. Instead, all pets—regardless of ESA status—must travel under standard pet policies unless they’re certified service animals with proper documentation.
What Makes an Airline Truly Dog-Friendly?
Airlines that score high marks from pet owners usually have consistent, transparent pet policies and prioritize animal safety. Characteristics of a dog-friendly airline typically include:
- Clear size and weight restrictions for in-cabin travel
- Reasonable pet fees
- Effective communication with pet owners during booking and travel
- Temperature-controlled cargo holds and trained animal care personnel for pets traveling in cargo
- High safety ratings and positive reviews from other pet travelers
While Alaska Airlines hits the mark on almost all these factors, each pet and situation is unique. It’s essential to review each airline’s current pet policy and consider your dog’s health, size, and temperament before flying.
Conclusion
If you're looking for an airline that truly makes flying with dogs easier and more comfortable, Alaska Airlines is your best bet. Its pet-friendly culture, competitive pricing, and safety measures make it the top choice for travelers who want their canine companions to enjoy the skies as much as they do.
