When I first decided to take my miniature dachshund, Daisy, on a trip to California, I had no idea if Delta would even allow dogs in the cabin. I didn’t want her flying alone in cargo, so I did what any pet parent would — I called 888-217-3324 to ask about Delta’s pet travel rules. That quick call saved me a ton of confusion and stress.
So, if you’re wondering the same thing — yes, Delta does allow small dogs, cats, and even household birds to travel inside the cabin, as long as they meet certain requirements.
Delta’s in-cabin pet policy is designed to keep pets safe and comfortable during the flight. Small dogs can fly with you in a ventilated carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The pet and carrier combined must meet Delta’s size and weight limits (varies slightly by aircraft type).
Delta requires that pets be at least 10 weeks old for domestic flights and properly secured throughout the journey. Only one pet is allowed per carrier, and reservations are first-come, first-served, so booking early is a must.
💰 Pet Fee: Expect to pay around $95–$125 each way, depending on your route.
Before my flight, I bought a soft-sided, airline-approved carrier and let Daisy get used to it for a few days. At check-in, the Delta staff were surprisingly friendly — they checked her documents and made sure her carrier fit properly. Once onboard, she settled comfortably under the seat, and I could keep an eye on her the entire flight.
If you’re unsure whether your route allows cabin pets, you can call 888-217-3324 to confirm before booking — that’s what I did, and it gave me total peace of mind.
Choose a soft-sided carrier for more flexibility under the seat.
Bring absorbent pads and a small water bowl.
Arrive early to the airport — cabin pet spots are limited.
Keep your dog calm by walking them before boarding.
Flying with my dog on Delta was easier than I expected. The key is preparation — check Delta’s official pet policy online, confirm your route, and pack smart.
If you’re planning to travel soon, visit Delta’s website or call 888-217-3324 to get personalized details about bringing your pet in the cabin. With the right planning, you and your furry friend can both enjoy a smooth, stress-free flight.