Can You Fly With 2 Small Dogs In One Carrier? ( Basic Facts) (2024)

I was surfing through a particular pet forum today when I bumped into this question: “Can you fly with 2 small dogs in one carrier? In order to provide the most current and accurate answer for our readers at Pawsitive Tips, I conducted deep research to ascertain the general regulations guiding flying with two dogs in one carrier.

I know many people love to travel with their pets, but sometimes it can be difficult to find a way to do so safely and comfortably. Although one option is to fly with your pet, there are a few things you need to know before you do.

One of the most important things to consider is whether or not you can fly with two small dogs in one carrier. The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the size of your dogs, the airline you are flying with, and the destination you are traveling to. So keep reading as I do my best to answer and provide the most current information according to The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

Can one person travel with 2 small dogs in one carrier?

Yes, you can fly with two small dogs in one carrier, but only if they meet the requirements of the IATA LAR and the airline you are flying with. It is also important to check the regulations of the country you are traveling to.

The IATA LAR specifies that weaned puppies or kittens from the same litter, not older than six months, weigh no more than 14 kg each, and no more than three per container may travel well together in the same crate or primary container.

The IATA LAR (Live Animal Regulations) went further to state that a maximum of two adult pets of comparable size up to 14 kg each that are compatible in size and used to cohabiting may also be shipped in the same container or primary enclosure. The regulations stipulate that dogs or cats weighing over 14 kg must be crated individually.

In addition to this regulation, the airline you are flying with may have its own policies regarding the transportation of animals. These policies may be more restrictive than the IATA LAR, so it is important to check with the airline before you book your flight. To make it easier for you, I’ll highlight the pet policies of some of the most popular airlines in the United States below.

Some airlines, for example, may only allow one pet per passenger. Others may have restrictions on the size or breed of animal that is allowed to fly.

Finally, you also need to check the regulations of the country you are traveling to. Some countries have strict regulations regarding the importation of animals, so it is important to make sure that your pets meet all of the requirements before you travel.

Can I bring three dogs on a plane?

Obviously, I have answered this question earlier, but in case you missed it, let me repeat it here:

Yes, you can travel with three dogs on a plane, but it depends on the airline you are flying with. Some airlines allow up to three dogs in the same carrier, as long as they all fit comfortably and weigh no more than 14 kg each. Other airlines only allow two dogs per carrier. You can check with the airline you are flying with to find out their specific policy.

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Which airlines allow up to 2 pets in one carrier?

If you are planning on traveling with two pets, you may be wondering which airlines allow you to bring them all in the same carrier. The good news is that there are a few airlines that do allow this, but there are some restrictions that you need to be aware of.

1: Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines allows up to two pets of the same species and similar size to travel in the same carrier in the main cabin.

Alaska Airlines Pet Policy:

• Passengers must be 18 years of age or older to travel with pets in the cabin.
• Pets cannot occupy emergency exit or bulkhead rows.
• Pets count towards carry-on allowance (pet carrier + personal item or pet carrier + standard carry-on bag).
• First Class allows three pet carriers per flight, and Main Cabin allows eight.
• Up to two pets are allowed in the Main Cabin with a second adjacent ticket.
• Only dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds are allowed in the Main Cabin.
• Pets must be at least eight weeks old, fully weaned, and accustomed to solid food.
• Pets must remain in carriers during boarding, deplaning, and on the aircraft, with doors and flaps secured.
• Pet carriers must be stowed under the seat during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
• Two pets of the same species and similar size may travel in one carrier without protruding body parts or distress.
• Pets with offensive odors or that cause noise disturbance must travel in the climate-controlled baggage compartment.

2: Southwest Airlines

The second airline on our list of airlines that allow up to two pets on one carrier is Southwest Airlines.

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy:

• Small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are allowed to travel in the cabin on domestic flights.
• Pets must be carried in an appropriate pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
• The pet carrier must be specifically designed for pets, be leak-proof and well-ventilated, and have maximum dimensions of 18.5″ x 13.5″ x 9.5″.
• Each pet carrier can contain no more than two of the same species of small cat or dog.
• Six pet carriers are generally allowed per flight, but this may vary.
• Pets will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Pets must be secured in the pet carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding and deplaning, and for the entire flight.
• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old to travel.
• Pets must be vaccinated, but documentation is not required.
• Unaccompanied Minors cannot travel with a pet.
• Customers traveling with a pet may check a pet stroller or crate for free (this is in addition to the regular free baggage allowance).
• Southwest does not assume liability for damage to pet strollers.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when traveling with your pet on Southwest Airlines:

• You must pay a pet fee of $95 each way.
• You cannot sit in an exit row seat or a seat with no under-seat storage in front of you.
• Pets are not allowed on flights to or from Hawaii.
• You must bring a copy of the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy with you when you travel.

3: Spirit Airlines

When I was doing the research, I also found out that Spirit Airlines also allows up to two pets in one carrier. So, let’s look at the airline’s pet policy below.

Spirit Airlines Pet Policy:

• A health certificate is not required for pets traveling with guests in the aircraft cabin, except for those traveling to the US Virgin Islands (USVI).
• For travel to Puerto Rico, a rabies vaccination certificate is required for pets in the aircraft cabin.
• Spirit Airlines only allows small domestic dogs, domestic cats, small household birds, and small domestic rabbits in the aircraft cabin.
• Birds are not permitted to travel to or from cities in Puerto Rico or the USVI.
• Exotic pets like snakes, spiders, and rodents are not accepted.
• A maximum of two pets per container is allowed, but each guest is limited to one container.
• Animals must be able to stand upright and move comfortably within the container.
• Pets must remain in their carriers for the entire duration of the flight.
• Pets should be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned.
• Animals must be harmless, inoffensive, odorless, and not require attention during the flight.
• Pets cannot be ill, violent, or in physical distress.
• If the pet becomes offensive or causes a disturbance before departure, it will be removed.
• Passengers with pets can choose any seat except the first row and emergency exit rows.
• The combined weight of the pet and carrier cannot exceed 40 pounds (18.14 kg).
• Spirit Airlines does not transport pets in the cargo compartment at any time.
• Advance notice is recommended but not required for traveling with pets on Spirit Airlines.

4: Frontier Airlines

Finally, Frontier Airlines is the least, but not the least, on our list of airlines that allow up to two pets of the same species and similar size to travel in the same carrier.

Frontier Airlines Pet Policy:

• Pets are not allowed to be checked as baggage on Frontier Airlines.
• Passengers are responsible for complying with the laws, customs, and government regulations of the destination country. Ensure your pet has all the required health documents.
• Pets should have no food or water within four hours of departure.
• Domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small household birds are allowed on flights within the United States.
• Large birds (e.g., parrots, macaws, cockatoos, birds of prey), rodents (including mice, rats, and squirrels), beavers, ferrets, reptiles (including snakes), amphibians, spiders, insects, lions, tigers, and bears are not accepted.
• Only domesticated dogs and cats are allowed on international flights.
• Pets are permitted in the cabin on all domestic Frontier flights and on flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico. However, they cannot be seated in row one or an exit row.
• For safety reasons, pets must remain in the travel container at all times during the flight. The container should be large enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Maximum dimensions are 18 in length, 14 in width, and 8 in height. Soft-sided cases are recommended.
• Pets should be harmless, non-disruptive, odorless, and require no attention during the flight.
• Veterinarians advise against sedating pets for travel due to unpredictable effects at higher altitudes.
• It’s recommended not to provide food or water to pets during the flight to avoid discomfort.
• In the event of an emergency, oxygen will not be administered to pets.

Please Note: Frontier Airlines requires pets to stay in their containers at all times during the flight to ensure their safety and comfort.

How to prepare your dog for air travel

In order to have an enjoyable air travel experience with your pet, here are some tips on how to prepare your dog for air travel:

• Start early. The earlier you start preparing your dog for air travel, the better. This will give it plenty of time to get used to the idea of flying and the carrier it will be traveling on.
• Introduce the carrier gradually. Start by letting your dog explore the carrier in your home. Then, gradually start increasing the amount of time it spends in the carrier. You can do this by feeding it in the carrier, giving it treats in the carrier, or just letting it hang out in the carrier with the door open.
• Practice being in the carrier for short periods of time. Once your dog is comfortable spending time in the carrier, start practicing being in the carrier for short periods of time. You can do this by taking your dog for short car rides in the carrier or by leaving them in the carrier for a few minutes at a time while you are home.
• Choose the right carrier. The carrier you choose is important for your dog’s comfort and safety. Make sure the carrier is the right size for your dog and that it has enough ventilation. You should also choose a carrier that is sturdy and well-made, which is why I recommend buy a Funny Fuzzy pet carrier. They are the best in the market.
• Get your dog used to the sounds of air travel. Before your flight, play recordings of the sounds of air travel for your dog. This will help it get used to the noise and make the flight less stressful for it.
• Take your dog to the vet for a checkup. Before your flight, take your dog to the vet for a checkup. The vet can make sure your dog is healthy enough to fly and can give you any medications or supplements that your dog may need for the flight.
• Feed your dog lightly before the flight. According to some of the airline pet policies I highlighted above, it is recommended that you feed your dog four hours before the flight. This will help prevent them from getting sick or having an upset stomach during the flight.
• Give your dog plenty of water. Make sure your dog has plenty of water to drink for four hours before and after the flight.
• Bring a familiar toy or blanket. Bringing a familiar toy or blanket can help comfort your dog during the flight.

Here are some additional tips that you may find helpful:

• If your dog is on medication, make sure you have enough for the duration of your trip, plus a few days in case of delays.
• If your dog is prone to motion sickness, you may want to give it medication to help prevent it.
• If your dog is anxious, you may want to talk to your vet about calming supplements or medications.
• On the day of the flight, arrive at the airport early so you have plenty of time to check in your dog and go through security.
• Once you’re at the gate, make sure your dog is comfortable in its carrier.
• Depending on the airline you are traveling with, some do not allow customers to check on their dogs regularly, while others do. So, do check the pet policy for the airline you are traveling with to confirm this.
• After the flight, take your dog to a quiet place where they can relax and have some water.

You may also want to check out the 11 Amazing Funny Fuzzy Dog Car Seat Beds For Your Pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I give my dog anything before a flight?

Whether or not you should give your dog anything before a flight depends on a few factors, including your dog’s individual temperament, the length of the flight, and the airline’s regulations.

In general, most airlines advise that you should not give your dog any food or water within 4 hours of the flight. This is because a full stomach can make your dog nauseous or uncomfortable during the flight. If your dog is prone to motion sickness, you may want to give them a small amount of food or water at least 4 hours before the flight.

Is flying uncomfortable for dogs?

A friend of mine lost an American Bulldog while traveling from Russia to the United States because of how stressful the flight was for the dog. So yes, flying can be uncomfortable for dogs. The noise, changes in air pressure, and confinement can all be stressful for dogs. Additionally, dogs that are not used to flying may be scared of the experience.

Do dogs need oxygen when flying?

Not all dogs need oxygen when flying. However, some dogs, such as those with short snouts or respiratory problems, may need supplemental oxygen at higher altitudes.

The cabin pressure on commercial flights is typically maintained at about 8,000 feet, which is lower than the atmospheric pressure at sea level. This can cause some dogs to experience hypoxia, or a lack of oxygen in the blood.

How much does it cost to bring two dogs on a plane?

The cost of bringing two dogs on a plane will vary depending on the airline, the size and weight of the dogs, and the distance of the flight. However, in general, you can expect to pay around $100–$300 per dog per one-way flight.

For example, Alaska Airlines charges $100 per dog in the cabin for a one-way domestic flight and $150 for international travel. Which means if you are flying with two dogs, you would need to pay between $200 and $300 for the entire trip.

Some airlines also charge a pet fee for the carrier. For example, American Airlines charges $50 for a pet carrier that fits under the seat, although they don’t allow customers to travel with two dogs in one carrier on their airlines.

In addition to the pet fee, you will also need to pay for the weight of the dogs. Most airlines have a weight limit of 20 pounds for dogs that are traveling in the cabin. If your dogs are over 20 pounds, you will need to pay for them to travel in the cargo hold.

The cost of flying dogs in the cargo hold is typically higher than flying them in the cabin. For example, United Airlines charges $200 per dog per one-way flight for cargo travel.

How to save money when flying with two dogs

Here are some tips for saving money when flying with two dogs:

• Book your flight in advance. Airlines often offer discounts for booking in advance.
• Travel during the off-season. Flights are typically cheaper during the off-season.
• Consider flying with a budget airline. Budget airlines often have lower pet fees than major airlines.
• Pack light. The lighter your dog’s carrier is, the less you will have to pay.

Bottom Line

Based on what you’ve learned so far on the question “Can you fly with 2 small dogs in one carrier?” It is possible to fly with two small dogs in one carrier if their weight meets the requirements mentioned at the beginning of this article. Anything short of those requirements is considered null. So, endeavor to contact your chosen airline and ask them about their pet policy and requirements for traveling.