When I planned my first flight with my dog, Luna, I was nervous. Would Delta even allow her in the cabin? Did I need special paperwork? Could she sit beside me or under the seat? After hours of research (and one friendly Delta rep on the phone), I finally figured it out — and our trip went off without a hitch.
If you’re wondering whether Delta Airlines allows dogs, here’s what I discovered firsthand.
Good news: Delta Airlines does allow dogs, both in the cabin and via cargo (for certain routes).
Here’s the quick breakdown:
Small dogs can fly in-cabin if they fit comfortably in a ventilated pet carrier under the seat in front of you.
Service dogs are always welcome, free of charge, as long as documentation meets DOT requirements.
Larger dogs can travel through Delta Cargo, but availability and conditions vary by destination and temperature.
If you’re not sure which option applies to your dog, it’s smart to call 888-217-3324 before booking — a quick chat can clear up confusion about size limits, carrier dimensions, and current fees.
Here’s a quick summary before you pack:
Pet carrier size: About 18” x 11” x 11” — must fit under the seat.
Fee: Typically $95–$125 each way (U.S. domestic flights).
Age: Dogs must be 10 weeks old for domestic travel, 16 weeks for international.
Limit: One pet per passenger, and a limited number per flight.
💡 Pro Tip: Book early! Delta only allows a few pets per flight, and spots fill up fast — especially around holidays.
For international routes, things get trickier. Some countries, like the U.K. or Australia, don’t allow in-cabin pets due to quarantine laws.
In those cases, Delta recommends Delta Cargo, which handles pet transport under specific safety and temperature guidelines. Always bring a health certificate from your vet and confirm import requirements for your destination.
From my experience and other Delta pet travelers:
Line your pet’s carrier with an absorbent pad and a familiar toy.
Take your pup for a long walk before boarding.
Don’t feed them a full meal right before the flight.
Skip sedatives — vets and Delta both advise against them.
Flying with your dog on Delta can be simple, safe, and even fun — if you plan ahead. The airline allows dogs on most flights, but rules depend on your dog’s size, route, and carrier type.
Before you book, call 888-217-3324 to double-check Delta’s pet travel details for your route, or visit Delta’s official pet policy page for the most accurate information.
✈️ Bottom line: Your four-legged friend can absolutely join you on your next Delta adventure — just make sure you both pack smart and fly prepared!