Traveling with your dog can be incredibly rewarding—but only if you understand the rules, costs, and logistics ahead of time. Southwest Airlines is one of the most pet-friendly U.S. carriers, yet many travelers still ask the same core question:
How much does it cost to bring a dog on a Southwest flight, and what exactly is included in that fee?
This guide provides a comprehensive, up-to-date breakdown of Southwest Airlines’ dog travel costs, policies, and practical considerations. It’s designed for first-time pet flyers and experienced travelers alike, using verified airline policies, government guidance, and real-world travel scenarios to help you plan with confidence.
Quick Answer: How Much Does Southwest Charge to Bring a Dog on a Flight?
As of publicly available information in 2026:
Southwest Airlines charges $95 USD each way, per pet carrier, for dogs traveling in the cabin.
This fee applies to:
- Domestic flights within the U.S.
- Most flights between the continental U.S., Hawaii, and Puerto Rico (with additional restrictions)
Important: Southwest does not allow dogs to fly in cargo. If your dog cannot fit in an approved cabin carrier under the seat, Southwest is not an option.
Understanding Southwest’s Pet Travel Policy (At a Glance)
Before diving into costs, it’s important to understand what Southwest allows—and what it doesn’t.
Dogs Allowed on Southwest Flights
- Small, vaccinated domestic dogs
- Must travel in the cabin only
- Must remain in an approved carrier at all times
Dogs NOT Allowed
- Large dogs that cannot fit under the seat
- Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) treated as pets, not service animals
- Dogs in cargo (Southwest does not offer cargo pet transport)
Southwest Airlines Pet Fee Breakdown
Standard Dog Travel Fee
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dog in cabin (one carrier) | $95 each way |
| Maximum pets per carrier | 1 dog |
| Maximum carriers per passenger | 1 |
| Refundable? | Yes (if flight is canceled before travel) |
What Does the $95 Fee Actually Cover?
The pet fee covers:
- In-cabin transport of your dog
- Space allocation under the seat
- Compliance with USDA and DOT pet safety requirements
It does not include:
- Pet carrier purchase
- Veterinary certificates (if required)
- Destination-specific compliance costs (e.g., Hawaii entry rules)
Dog Size and Carrier Requirements (Critical to Cost Planning)
Approved Carrier Dimensions
Southwest allows soft-sided and hard-sided carriers, provided they fit under the seat.
Maximum carrier size:
-
18.5” (L) x 8.5” (H) x 13.5” (W)
Why This Matters Financially
If your dog does not fit comfortably in the carrier:
- You may be denied boarding
- Your pet fee may be forfeited
- You may need to rebook travel (additional cost)
Step-by-Step: How to Add Your Dog to a Southwest Flight
Step 1: Book Your Ticket First
Southwest limits the number of pets per flight (typically 6 pets total).
Step 2: Call or Notify at the Airport
- Pets cannot be added online
- Declare your dog at the ticket counter
Step 3: Pay the $95 Pet Fee
Payment is required each direction of travel.
Step 4: Receive a Pet Boarding Tag
This confirms your dog is officially checked in.
Real-World Cost Examples
Example 1: Short Domestic Trip
- Route: Dallas → Denver → Dallas
- Cost: $95 x 2 = $190 total
Example 2: Multi-City Round Trip
- Route: Chicago → Phoenix → San Diego → Chicago
- Cost: $95 x 3 segments = $285 total
Southwest charges per one-way flight, not per itinerary.
Southwest vs Other Airlines: Cost Comparison
| Airline | In-Cabin Dog Fee (One Way) | Cargo Option |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest | $95 | No |
| Delta | $95–$125 | Yes |
| American Airlines | $125 | Limited |
| United Airlines | $125 | (cargo discontinued for pets) |
Service Dogs vs Pet Dogs: Cost Differences
Service Dogs
- Fly free of charge
- Must meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements
- DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form required
Pet Dogs
- $95 each way
- Must remain in carrier at all times
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, emotional support animals are no longer classified as service animals.
Health, Safety, and Documentation Considerations
Veterinary Requirements
For most domestic flights:
- No health certificate required
However, the CDC advises ensuring:
- Rabies vaccination is current
- Your dog is healthy enough for air travel
For Hawaii:
- Strict animal quarantine laws apply
- Additional costs and documentation may be required
(Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed flat cost, as fees vary by compliance level.)
Expert Tips to Avoid Hidden Costs
Choose the Right Seat
- Avoid bulkhead rows (no under-seat storage)
- Window seats often provide better carrier stability
Invest in an Airline-Approved Carrier
- Look for breathable mesh
- Soft-sided carriers are more forgiving
Fly Early or Late
Veterinary experts and NIH-referenced animal welfare studies suggest cooler cabin temperatures reduce pet stress.
Common Mistakes That Increase Costs
- Waiting too long to declare your pet
- Bringing a carrier that exceeds size limits
- Booking non-pet-friendly seating
- Assuming pet fees apply per trip instead of per flight
Is Southwest Worth It for Flying With a Dog?
From an experience-based standpoint:
- Pros: Lower fees, no cargo risk, flexible cancellations
- Cons: Strict size limits, no large dogs allowed
If your dog is small and travels well in a carrier, Southwest is consistently rated as one of the best airlines for pet travel, according to traveler surveys and airline policy reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much does Southwest charge to bring a dog on a flight?
Southwest charges $95 each way, per dog, traveling in the cabin.
2. Is the Southwest pet fee refundable?
Yes. If you cancel your flight before departure, the pet fee is refundable.
3. Can I buy a seat for my dog?
No. Dogs must stay in a carrier under the seat in front of you.
4. Are large dogs allowed on Southwest flights?
No. Southwest does not allow dogs that cannot fit in an under-seat carrier.
5. Does Southwest allow emotional support dogs for free?
No. Emotional support animals are treated as pets and subject to the $95 fee.
6. How many dogs are allowed per Southwest flight?
Typically up to six pets per flight, subject to availability.
7. Can my dog sit on my lap during the flight?
No. Dogs must remain inside the carrier at all times.
8. Does Southwest allow dogs on international flights?
Southwest currently offers limited international routes, and pet acceptance varies by destination.
9. Do puppies cost the same as adult dogs?
Yes. Age does not affect the pet fee.
10. Is there a weight limit for dogs on Southwest?
There is no published weight limit, but the dog must fit comfortably in the carrier.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Dog’s Southwest Flight Budget
When planning to fly with your dog on Southwest, the math is simple—but the preparation matters.
Key takeaway:
- Budget $95 per one-way flight
- Ensure your dog fits carrier requirements
- Declare your pet early to secure a spot
With thoughtful planning and adherence to airline rules, flying Southwest with your dog can be smooth, affordable, and stress-free—for both of you.
