Southwest Pet Policy 2026 - Complete Fees, Size Limits & Booking Guide

Southwest Airlines allows small vaccinated cats and dogs who are at least 8 weeks old to fly in the cabin under a seat on domestic itineraries.  The policy is straightforward, with only a few essential rules to follow. Like most of the Southwest Airlines, permits 6 pet carriers in the main cabin, but in some circumstances.

Here, the passenger is allowed 1 pet carrier per flight. And make sure that you have to do pet reservations at the earliest, as per the rule its first serve first basis. Also, the pets that are too big to fit under the seat won't be able to fly on Southwest Airlines, as the pets cannot travel as checked luggage. 

Does Southwest Airlines Allow Pets?

Indeed, the airlines allow pets to travel with strict restrictions only. The pets are only permitted in the main cabin with the passenger on the domestic flights, as they cannot travel as checked baggage or in the cargo. 

Overview of Southwest Airlines Pet Travel Rules

The Southwest Airlines pet travel regulations state that the pets have to remain inside an approved carrier under the seatm which is located at the gate areas. The pets are supposed to be there for the entire flight. Also, the pets must be at least 8 weeks old, well-behaved, and the air carrier must be leak-proof and properly ventilated.  Pet fare fees are there at check-in, and passengers with pets cannot sit in the exit rows or on the seats that have no under-seat storage.

Types of Pets Allowed (Cats & Dogs)

Southwest Airlines only permits small domestic cats and dogs. These animals are supposed to fit in an approved carrier that goes under the seat of the passenger throughout the flight. Upto 2 pets of the same species can be put together in one common carrier only if the space allows for it. Keep in mind that there are restrictions on other animals like reptiles, birds, or rabbits as pets onboard.

Southwest Airlines Dog and Cat Policy Overview

The very policy will help you to understand what all is there that has to be followed when travelling with your pet. Read the table to learn about the policy:- 

Southwest Airlines Domestic vs International Pet Rules

What Countries Does Southwest Airlines Fly To?

The airline does not allow pets on international flights. However, the domestic routes within the United States include flights that are between the continental U.S. and Puerto Rico and between the Hawaiian islands.

Pet Travel Limitations on International Routes

Pets (dogs or cats) are not permitted on Southwest Airlines international flights or any itinerary that has an international element. Pets must stay in an authorized carrier beneath the seat and are only permitted in the cabin on domestic U.S. flights, including those between Hawaiian islands and Puerto Rico. Additionally, Southwest does not allow pets in cargo or checked baggage on any itinerary.

Countries Where Pets are Not Allowed

Pets are not allowed on Southwest flights to any foreign country, including locations in Mexico, the Caribbean (including Jamaica and the Bahamas), Central America, and beyond. Additionally, pets are not allowed on Southwest flights to or from mainland Hawaii. Pets are only permitted in-cabin on domestic U.S., Puerto Rico, and inter-island Hawaiian flights. While regular pet travel is prohibited on international routes, service animals may travel under different regulations.

Classes of Service Offered to Pets by Southwest Airlines

In-Cabin Pet Travel

The pets can only travel in the cabin on the eligible domestic flights. Also, the pets are supposed to be in the approved, leak-proof air carrier.  In the entire trip, the pets are supposed to be inside the carrier. Every passenger has to bring in their carry-on, which is counted as a carry-on item. 

Checked Baggage (Not Allowed)

The Southwest Airlines does not allowed the pets to travel as checked baggage under many circumstances. Unlike many airlines, Southwest has eliminated this option to make sure animal safety and comfort.

Air Cargo Policy

Southwest Airlines does not allow pets to be transported through air cargo. The airline does not offer a separate cargo program for live animals, which is applicable for the larger breeds or long-distance travel. This also means that the traveler cannot ship the pets independently on Southwest flights. 

Southwest Airlines Pet Reservation Process

To be able to reserve a pet space on Southwest Airlines, you have to book your flight first, call the Southwest Reservations line to add your furry friend, and also, the pets cannot be added online. It's a first-come, first-served basis, so make sure that the tickets are booked in advance.

How to Add a Pet to Your Booking

To be able to add your pet to the Southwest Flight, you have to call the Southwest Airlines? reservation team after booking your tickets. Keep in mind that adding pets online is not possible. To the agent you have to provide your booking information and your pet's details, and the agent will check and reserve a pet spot. The pet space is limited ,so do not be late to book. 

Seat Availability Limits

The Southwest here limits the number of in-cabin pets per flight, so that the spaces can be filled quickly even if the seats remain open. And because of this seat availability, it becomes more important to reserve your pet spot early by phone; your pet might not be allowed on that flight.

Since pet carriers must fit under the seat, your seat choice matters. While you can't sit in an exit row with a pet, you can learn about other seating options on our Seat Selection guide.

Southwest Airlines Age Requirements for Pets

The kittens must be eight weeks old to be able to fly in the cabin on Southwest Airlines flights. The minimum age rule generally helps to make sure that your pets are safe and sound, and that they are ready for their first flight.

Minimum Age Rules for Puppies and Kittens

Puppies and kittens must be at least 8 weeks (about two months) old to fly in the cabin on Southwest Airlines. This minimum age ensures they are healthy, adequately weaned, and better able to manage travel conditions. Pets under eight weeks old are not allowed to fly.

Southwest Airlines Pet Carrier Size Requirements

Southwest Airlines Pet Carrier Size

The pet carrier on Southwest Airlines must fit under the seat in front of you, and it must have no leakage and be properly ventilated. Both soft and hard type carriers are accepted as long as they meet this under the under-the-seat requirement for the in-cabin pet travel.

Southwest Pet Carrier Dimensions (Length, Width, Height)

Southwest Airlines' maximum permitted in-cabin pet carrier dimensions are 18.5 feet long by 13.5 feet wide by 9.5 feet high. All branded carriers must fit under the seat front; some are somewhat smaller (e.g., 17 x 10 × 9.5). Follow the regulations to avoid any last-minute surprises at the check-in for Southwest airlines pet carrier size.

Soft-Sided vs Hard-Sided Carriers

Both are great options to carry the pets in the flight, as the soft-sided ones are often easier to fit under the seat due to their flexibility. Be it any type that you buy, both the carriers should be properly ventilated and have enough space to allow the pet to stand and to turn comfortably as well.

Forms Required for Pet Travel

Health Certificates

The many health certificates for in-cabin pet travel on most of the domestic routes. Furthermore, know that there are some destinations or local authorities that may request one. It's advised to carry a recent veterinary health certificate that can confirm that your pet is healthy enough to fly and is free from any contagious diseases.

Vaccination Records (if Applicable)

The vaccination records are not routinely needed by Southwest Airlines or domestic in-cabin pet travel, and still, carrying the papers (proof) of up-to-date vaccinations, especially of rabies, is strongly recommended. Many documents are requested by airport officials, destinations, or landlords to help demonstrate your pet's health status and compliance with local animal regulations.

Route Restrictions & Important Terms

Flights Where Pets are not Permitted

Southwest Airlines does not allow to fly in the international flights, and that applies to any itinerary with an international segment, for flights to/from the U.S mainland and Hawaii. The pets are not accepted as checked baggage or cargo.

Seasonal and Weather Restrictions

While Southwest airlines does not have any specific seasonal limitations. That is for when there is extreme heat or cold, which may lead to the denial of the pet's travel to protect animal welfare.

Check-In Process for Pets on Southwest

Airport Check-in Rules

The airport check-in at the Southwest Airlines counter with your pet and carrier. Here, the staff members will cross-check the pet's reservation details and then collect the fees. The pets have to remain in their designated carrier through the security check and boarding until reaching your seat. Make sure that you are carrying your pet as per the Southwest pet carrier dimensions only.

Early Arrival Recommendations

Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure (earlier for peak travel) to secure pet space and complete check-in. Early arrival helps ensure your pet is added before spots fill, reduces stress, and allows time for security screening with your carrier.

Southwest Pet Fee (Updated 2026)

The Southwest's pet fee remains to be $125 as per flight segment. Here, the vaccinated cats and dogs in the cabin on the domestic flights, with a limit of 6 pets per flight and that a carrier of size 17" L X 10" W X 9.5"H, which then counting as a carry-on or as a personal item, but with no international travel or say Hawaii flights, with the booking that is required in advance as due to the limited space.

Refund Policy for Pet Fees

• If you cancel your reservation, Southwest's pet fee (currently $95 one-way) is entirely refundable; however, it must be paid at the airport ticket counter and is linked to your travel booking. You should also receive a refund for the pet cost if Southwest cancels your flight and you don't rebook, but since it's a distinct fee from the ticket, you may need to get in touch with customer care to handle it.

If you need to cancel your trip entirely, your pet fee is refundable. For more details on ticket refunds, visit our Cancellation Policy page.

Service Dog & Emotional Support Animal Policy on Southwest Airlines (ADA Compliant)

According to the Southwest Airlines U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) guidelines for trained service animals, states that they permit trained service dogs to be able to travel in the cabin free of charge with passengers who have physical disabilities.

Only dogs that are individually trained to perform work or tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability (including physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disabilities) are accepted as service animals.

Southwest Service Dog Policy (ADA & DOT Compliant)

Unlike standard pets, trained service dogs fly free of charge and are not required to stay in a carrier. However, they must meet the following criteria:

• Definition: A service animal is a dog, regardless of breed, individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.

• Control: The dog must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered at all times and remain under the handler's control.

• Behavior: Disruptive behavior (barking, lunging, or "accidents" at the gate) can result in the dog being reclassified as a pet and charged a fee.

• Documentation: Passengers must present a completed DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form at the gate or ticket counter.

• Exclusions: Since 2021, Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) and "Service Dogs in Training" are not considered service animals and must follow the standard $125 pet fee rules.

Southwest Pet Policy - Checked Baggage

Pets are not permitted to fly as checked baggage on Southwest Airlines' regular passenger service. There is no checked pet option on Southwest flights; all pets must travel in the cabin with you in an authorized carrier that fits under the seat.

Because Southwest doesn't allow pets in the cargo hold, you'll need to pack light. If you realize you have too much gear to carry on, check our Reservation Policy for tips on managing your baggage allowance.

Southwest Pet Policy - Air Cargo

Know that the airline does not transport pets in the aircraft's cargo hold under its standard passenger services. The pets are now only permitted in the cabin area with their owners, and the airline's official contract of carriage very clearly mentions that no pets will be carried in the cargo compartment on any flight.

And because of this, the Southwest Airlines passengers cannot check the pets as baggage, nor can they ship them on the passenger flight. This policy means that the pet owners with the pets that cannot travel in an approved air carrier must seek alternative arrangements.

Southwest Cargo is a separate service that has its own booking, prices, and requirements for kennel type, documentation, and scheduling for people who need to carry animals that are too big or unable to fly in-cabin. This cargo option necessitates close communication with the cargo department and supports the transportation of live animals under controlled circumstances.

Private Jet Charter for Pet Travel (Alternative Option)

You cannot reserve a private flight with Southwest Airlines, especially for pet travel, because the airline does not provide private jet charter services. Instead of using Southwest's regular commercial service, you must utilize a different private charter firm that permits pets under its own standards if you want to travel in a private jet.

If your pet is too large for the cabin and you prefer not to use cargo, you might consider a Business Class ticket on an airline with more generous cabin space, though a private charter remains the most flexible alternative.

Tips for Flying with Pets on Southwest Airlines

The many tips that can help you to carry your pets without any worries are mentioned here: 

• After reserving your ticket, make sure that you are able to book your pet spot immediately, as in-cabin pet spaces are limited per flight.
• Do make sure that you choose a soft-sided, airline-approved carrier that fits comfortably under the seat.
• Avoid feeding your pet right before departure to reduce the risk of motion sickness.
• Let your pet get familiar with the carrier days in and out just before travel to reduce anxiety.
• Put ID tags and a small label with your contact details on the carrier.
• Carry absorbent pads inside the carrier for unexpected accidents.
• Arrive early at the airport to complete pet check-in without stress, also pay for the Southwest pet fee. 
• Select the aisle or window seats with under-seat storage for easier placement.
• Carry the calming items like a favorite toy or blanket inside the carrier.
• Keep your pet inside the carrier only as per the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy. 

Southwest Pet Policy vs Other Airlines

Comparison with Delta, United, American

When compared with other airlines, namely Delta, United, and American Airlines, you should know that Southwest Airlines allows for small cats and dogs but only in-cabin on domestic flights. Also, there are no cargo pet transport, whereas other airlines may permit the same.

The associated fees is typcially less than those of American Airlines, and are similar to those of Delta airlines, and allow for two pets per carrier. Here, Delta Airlines also accepts birds on board, and United Airlines sometimes allows larger pets through cargo, but that is under special programs. However, as per many reviews, Southwest Airlines' in-cabin approach is much easier for many of the travelers.

Why Southwest May Be Better for Pet Owners

Due to cheaper fares and a simple, cabin-only pet policy without complex cargo regulations, Southwest may be attractive to pet owners. Traveling may be made easier by the lax carrier regulations, which permit two small pets in a single carrier. Planning is also made easier by Southwest's domestic focus and refundable pet charge. This straightforward, economical method would be less onerous for owners traveling within the United States than negotiating the more stringent, inconsistent regulations of other big airlines.