Can You Fly With A Puppy On American Airlines?

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Traveling with a furry friend can be a delightful experience, but it also comes with a lot of questions and concerns. If you’re planning to fly with your beloved puppy on American Airlines, you might be wondering if that is even possible. The good news is that American Airlines does allow you to fly with your puppy, but there are certain rules and regulations that you must follow.

Before you start packing your bags and booking your tickets, it’s essential to understand the requirements and restrictions for flying with a puppy on American Airlines. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about traveling with your furry friend on American Airlines, so you can have a smooth and stress-free journey. So, let’s get started!

Yes, American Airlines allows passengers to travel with their puppies in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on the size of the puppy and the flight. However, there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be followed, such as the size of the carrier and the age of the puppy. It is best to contact American Airlines customer service prior to booking to ensure a smooth travel experience with your furry friend.

Can You Fly With a Puppy on American Airlines?

Can You Fly With a Puppy on American Airlines?

Flying with your furry friend can be an exciting experience, but it can also be a daunting one if you don’t know what to expect. If you’re planning to fly with your puppy on American Airlines, there are some things you need to know before booking your flight.

Requirements for Flying with a Puppy on American Airlines

Before you book your flight with American Airlines, there are some requirements you need to meet. Firstly, your puppy must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before traveling. Secondly, you’ll need to ensure that your puppy has all the necessary vaccinations and health certificates required by American Airlines. These requirements may vary depending on the destination you’re traveling to, so it’s important to check with American Airlines before you book your flight.

If your puppy is under 20 pounds, they can travel with you in the cabin of the plane. However, if your puppy is over 20 pounds, they’ll need to travel in the cargo hold. American Airlines has strict regulations regarding the size and weight of the kennel your puppy will travel in, so it’s important to double-check these requirements before you book your flight.

Booking Your Flight with a Puppy on American Airlines

When booking your flight with American Airlines, it’s important to let them know that you’ll be traveling with a puppy. This will give them the opportunity to ensure that everything is set up correctly for your furry friend’s journey.

If your puppy will be traveling in the cabin of the plane with you, American Airlines may require that you purchase a special ticket for them. This will ensure that they have a designated space on the plane and that you’re able to bring the necessary items, such as a kennel, with you.

Preparing Your Puppy for Air Travel

Air travel can be stressful for both you and your puppy, so it’s important to prepare them for the journey ahead. One way to do this is by gradually acclimating your puppy to their kennel in the weeks leading up to the flight. You can also take your puppy on short car rides to get them used to being in a confined space.

It’s also important to ensure that your puppy is comfortable and has everything they need during the flight, such as food, water, and toys. You may also want to consider using calming aids, such as pheromone sprays or calming supplements, to help your puppy relax.

The Benefits of Flying with Your Puppy on American Airlines

Flying with your puppy on American Airlines can be a great way to bring them along on your travels. Not only does it give you the opportunity to spend more time with your furry friend, but it can also be a more convenient option than leaving them at home or boarding them.

Additionally, American Airlines has a dedicated team of professionals who are trained to handle the special needs of pets during air travel. This can give you peace of mind knowing that your puppy is in good hands during their journey.

The Risks of Flying with Your Puppy on American Airlines

While flying with your puppy on American Airlines can be a convenient and exciting option, it’s important to note that there are some risks involved. For example, air travel can be stressful for your puppy and may cause them to become anxious or agitated.

There’s also the risk of your puppy experiencing health issues during the flight, such as dehydration or hypothermia. It’s important to take steps to minimize these risks, such as ensuring that your puppy has access to water and is comfortable during the flight.

Flying with a Puppy on American Airlines vs. Other Airlines

If you’re considering flying with your puppy, you may be wondering how American Airlines compares to other airlines. While each airline has its own policies and requirements for traveling with pets, American Airlines is known for its pet-friendly approach.

For example, American Airlines allows puppies to travel in the cabin of the plane with you, whereas some other airlines may require that all pets travel in the cargo hold. Additionally, American Airlines has a dedicated team of professionals who are trained to handle the special needs of pets during air travel.

The Bottom Line

Flying with your puppy on American Airlines can be a great way to bring your furry friend along on your travels. However, it’s important to ensure that you meet all the requirements and take steps to prepare your puppy for the journey ahead. By doing so, you can ensure that your puppy has a safe and comfortable flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about flying with pets on American Airlines:

What are American Airlines’ requirements for flying with a puppy?

If you want to bring your puppy on an American Airlines flight, there are a few requirements you’ll need to meet. First, your puppy must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. Second, you’ll need to make sure your puppy is in good health and has all the necessary vaccinations. Finally, you’ll need to purchase a ticket for your puppy and bring an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

Keep in mind that there are also breed restrictions for certain flights, so it’s a good idea to check with American Airlines before booking your ticket.

What if my puppy is too big to fit under the seat?

If your puppy is too big to fit under the seat in front of you, you may be able to bring them as checked baggage or as cargo. However, there are additional requirements for these options, such as an approved kennel and health certificates. You’ll need to contact American Airlines in advance to make these arrangements and pay any applicable fees.

It’s important to note that some breeds may not be able to fly as checked baggage or cargo due to safety concerns, so be sure to check with American Airlines before making any arrangements.

Can I bring multiple puppies on an American Airlines flight?

Yes, you can bring multiple puppies on an American Airlines flight as long as they meet the airline’s requirements for age, health, and size. However, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket and carrier for each puppy, and there may be additional fees depending on the number of puppies you’re bringing.

It’s also important to note that American Airlines limits the number of pets on each flight, so it’s a good idea to make your reservations as early as possible to ensure that there is space available for your puppies.

What if my puppy gets anxious or scared during the flight?

If your puppy gets anxious or scared during the flight, there are a few things you can do to help them feel more comfortable. First, you can try giving them a natural calming supplement or spray. You can also cover their carrier with a blanket to create a cozy, den-like environment. Finally, you can talk to your vet about prescription anti-anxiety medication that may be appropriate for your puppy.

It’s a good idea to acclimate your puppy to their carrier and to the travel process in advance to help reduce their stress levels during the flight.

What if I need to change my flight after booking my puppy’s ticket?

If you need to change your flight after booking your puppy’s ticket, you’ll need to contact American Airlines to make the necessary changes. Depending on the type of ticket you purchased and the reason for the change, there may be fees or restrictions on making changes.

If you’re unsure about your travel plans, it’s a good idea to purchase a flexible ticket or add travel insurance to your booking to help protect your investment.

How To Travel With A Dog On American Airlines


In conclusion, flying with a puppy on American Airlines is possible, but there are certain requirements and restrictions that you need to follow. It’s important to plan ahead and make sure that your furry friend is comfortable and safe during the flight.

Before you book your flight, make sure to check American Airlines’ pet policy and familiarize yourself with the fees and documentation required. You should also prepare your puppy for air travel by getting them used to their carrier and practicing crate training.

Overall, flying with a puppy can be a fun and exciting experience, but it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure that both you and your furry friend have a stress-free and enjoyable flight. With careful planning and preparation, you can safely take your puppy with you on your travels.

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