Flying with your pet can feel stressful, especially when trying to decode airline rules, size restrictions, and fees. United Airlines has clear policies for 2025 designed to keep pets safe and travelers informed, but knowing the fine print is key to avoiding last-minute surprises.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about United’s pet policy: which pets are allowed, how much it costs, carrier rules, cargo options, and practical tips for traveling with dogs or cats.
United Airlines Pet Travel Rules (2025)
United has two main ways pets can travel: in the cabin (small cats and dogs) or through PetSafe® cargo (for larger animals). Service animals follow a separate set of rules.
Pets Allowed in Cabin
- Only cats and dogs are permitted.
- Minimum age: 2 months (domestic) or 4 months (international).
- Pets must remain in a leak-proof, ventilated carrier under the seat in front of you.
- Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats are strongly discouraged due to breathing risks.
Carrier Requirements
Your pet’s carrier must fit comfortably under the seat. United allows:
| Carrier Type | Max Dimensions | Notes |
| Soft-sided | 18″ × 11″ × 11″ | Recommended; flexible fit under seat |
| Hard-sided | 17.5″ × 12″ × 7.5″ | Must allow pet to stand, turn, and lie naturally |
Health & Documentation Rules
Travelers must comply with health and vaccination rules when flying with pets on United Airlines. These requirements are especially important for international travel, where additional regulations may apply.
For domestic flights, you’ll need a rabies vaccination certificate for dogs older than 12 weeks, along with a general health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. For international trips, requirements may include USDA endorsements, EU Pet Passports, or country-specific import permits.
Some countries also require pets to be microchipped, dewormed, or treated with additional vaccines. United strongly recommends contacting your veterinarian 30–60 days before departure if you are planning an overseas journey with your pet.
United Airlines Pet Fees (2025)
Unlike checked baggage, pet travel comes with its own set of fees. Here’s how much you can expect to pay in 2025:
| Travel Type | Fee |
| In-cabin pets | $125 per flight |
| Extended layover (4+ hrs domestic / 24+ hrs international) | $125 |
| PetSafe® cargo | Based on weight, crate size & route |
| Service animals | Free (with DOT documentation) |
Note: Each passenger may bring only one pet in the cabin, and the fee must be paid at booking or check-in.
United PetSafe® Cargo Program
For pets too large to travel in the cabin, United offers its PetSafe® cargo program. This service includes temperature-controlled holding areas, specialized handling, and staff trained to prioritize animal safety.
Cargo Pet Eligibility
- Dogs and cats not fitting in-cabin size limits
- At least 8 weeks old
- Healthy and not on United’s restricted breed list
Breed restrictions apply: short-nosed breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are banned from cargo due to respiratory risks.
Cargo Crate Requirements
Kennels for cargo travel must be:
- IATA-approved, rigid, and ventilated
- Large enough for the pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably
- Equipped with food and water dishes inside the door
- Labeled with the owner’s name, address, and contact number
Documentation for Cargo Travel
- Health certificate issued within 10 days
- Acclimation certificate for extreme weather conditions
- Microchip and rabies certificate (for international travel)
- Destination-specific import/export permits
Failure to provide accurate documentation can result in denied boarding or customs delays.
Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals
United differentiates between service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs).
- Service dogs are accepted in the cabin free of charge. Owners must submit U.S. DOT Service Animal Forms and notify the airline at least 48 hours before travel. The dog must remain harnessed and under control at all times.
- Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized under federal law. ESAs must travel as standard pets, either in-cabin or through the PetSafe® cargo program.
Where Can You Sit with Your Pet on a United Flight?
Your seating options with a pet on United depend on the aircraft type and cabin class. While each traveler may only bring one pet in-cabin, there’s also a limit on the total number of pets allowed per flight.
Here’s a breakdown of how many pets United allows in different cabins and aircraft:
| Cabin / Pet Limit | Aircraft Types |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 pets in Premium Cabins | Airbus A319, Airbus A320, Boeing 737 (various models), Boeing 757-300ER, Bombardier CRJ, Embraer 175, Embraer 145 |
| Up to 4 pets in Economy | Airbus A319, Airbus A320, Boeing 737, Boeing 757-200, Boeing 757-300ER, Bombardier CRJ, Embraer 175, Embraer 145 |
| Up to 6 pets in Economy (larger aircraft) | Boeing 767, Boeing 777, Boeing 787 |
Traveler tip: Because pet slots are limited, it’s best to reserve space for your pet as early as possible. Once the pet limit is reached, United won’t allow additional animals in-cabin, even if you meet all other requirements.
Preparing Your Pet for Travel
Even healthy pets can experience stress during air travel. Preparing ahead of time helps reduce anxiety for both you and your animal.
Before the Flight
- Get your pet comfortable with their carrier in advance
- Take a long walk before heading to the airport
- Avoid feeding within 4–6 hours of departure
What to Pack
Bring a small kit with:
- Approved pet carrier with liner
- Collapsible bowls for food & water
- Treats or calming aids (vet-approved)
- Leash, harness, and ID tags
- Health certificates and documents
At the Airport & Onboard
Traveling with pets requires extra time at the airport. United recommends arriving at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.
At TSA security checkpoints, pets must be removed from carriers while the carrier itself is scanned. Most major United hubs also feature designated pet relief areas, which can be useful for layovers.
During boarding, inform United staff that you are traveling with a pet to avoid last-minute issues. Once on board, the carrier must remain fully under the seat for the entire flight. Pets are not allowed to sit on your lap or roam the cabin.
International Travel Restrictions
Not all destinations allow pets to travel in the cabin. Some countries restrict pets to cargo transport only:
| Destination | In-Cabin Pets | Cargo Pets | Notes |
| Canada | Yes | Yes | Rabies certificate required |
| Mexico | Yes | Yes | Health certificate required |
| EU | No | Yes | USDA paperwork or Pet Passport |
| UK | No | Yes | Cargo only |
| Australia & NZ | No | Limited | Strict quarantine rules |
Always confirm with both United and the destination country before booking.
Alternatives if United Airlines Isn’t a Fit
If United’s policies don’t align with your travel needs, alternatives exist. Competing airlines such as Delta and American Airlines offer similar pet programs, sometimes with different breed restrictions or pricing. For ground transportation within the U.S., services like CitizenShipper provide pet-friendly rides with vetted drivers.
For international relocation, professional companies such as Airpets International and PetRelocation manage end-to-end logistics, including paperwork and customs clearance.
Final Thoughts: Stress-Free Pet Travel with United!
Flying with pets doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding United’s policies, preparing documents early, and choosing the right carrier, you’ll minimize stress for both you and your furry companion. Whether your dog is curled up at your feet in-cabin or flying via PetSafe® cargo, with a little planning, your pet can fly safely with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my pet on a United Airlines flight?
Yes, but only cats and dogs are permitted. Small pets may fly in the cabin if they fit in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you. Larger pets must use United’s PetSafe® cargo program.
How much does it cost to fly with a pet on United?
As of 2025, the in-cabin pet fee is $125 each way. Additional $125 fees apply for long layovers (over 4 hours domestic or 24 hours international). Cargo transport prices vary by route, weight, and crate size.
What size pet carrier is allowed on United Airlines?
- Soft-sided carriers: up to 18″ × 11″ × 11″
- Hard-sided carriers: up to 17.5″ × 12″ × 7.5″
The carrier must be leak-proof, ventilated, and fit completely under the seat.
Does United Airlines allow pets in cargo?
Yes, through the PetSafe® program. However, not all breeds are eligible. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats, are prohibited due to respiratory risks.
Can service animals fly for free on United?
Yes. Trained service dogs can travel free of charge in the cabin. Passengers must submit DOT forms at least 48 hours before the flight. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized and must travel under standard pet rules.
What are the requirements for international pet travel on United?
International travel requires a health certificate, valid vaccinations, and often microchipping. Rules vary by country. Some destinations (like the U.K. and Australia) do not allow in-cabin pets at all, requiring cargo transport instead.
How old does my pet need to be to fly United?
- Domestic flights: At least 2 months old
- International flights: At least 4 months old
- Cargo (PetSafe®): At least 8 weeks old
Are there breed restrictions on United Airlines?
Yes. United does not allow certain short-nosed breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) in cargo or cabin due to breathing risks. Always confirm breed eligibility before booking.