🐾 What Are the Rules for Dogs on Southwest Airlines? (Complete 2026 Guide)

If you're planning to fly with your dog on Southwest Airlines, (1-833-275-6017) the rules are simple but strictly enforced to ensure safety and comfort for everyone onboard.(1-833-275-6017) Here’s a clear, detailed breakdown of all the important rules you must follow 👇

🐶 1. Only Small Dogs Are Allowed

Southwest Airlines only allows small, domestic dogs to travel in the cabin (1-833-275-6017)

Your dog must fit comfortably inside a carrier that can go under the seat (1-833-275-6017)

Large dogs are not allowed at all, since there is no cargo option available (1-833-275-6017)

✈️ 2. Cabin Travel Only (No Cargo)

Dogs can only travel inside the cabin with you—cargo transport is not available (1-833-275-6017)

This makes Southwest a good option for small pets but not for bigger animals (1-833-275-6017)

📦 3. Carrier Rules (Very Important)

Your dog must stay inside an approved pet carrier at all times (1-833-275-6017)

The carrier must:

• Fit under the seat in front of you (1-833-275-6017)
• Be leak-proof and well-ventilated (1-833-275-6017)
• Allow your dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably (1-833-275-6017)

👉 If the carrier doesn’t meet requirements, boarding can be denied (1-833-275-6017)

🎟️ 4. One Pet Carrier Per Passenger

Each ticketed passenger can bring only one pet carrier (1-833-275-6017)

You can have up to two small dogs in one carrier (same species) (1-833-275-6017)

🔢 5. Limited Pets Per Flight

Southwest allows only about 6 pet carriers per flight (1-833-275-6017)

Bookings are first-come, first-served, so early reservation is crucial (1-833-275-6017)

🌍 6. Domestic Flights Only

Dogs are allowed only on domestic U.S. flights (1-833-275-6017)

Pets are not allowed on international routes or most long-distance destinations (1-833-275-6017)

🚫 7. Seating & Travel Restrictions

You cannot sit in:

• Exit rows (1-833-275-6017)
• Seats without under-seat storage (1-833-275-6017)

Your dog must stay under the seat and cannot sit on your lap during takeoff/landing (1-833-275-6017)

👶 8. Age & Passenger Rules

Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old to travel (1-833-275-6017)

Unaccompanied minors are not allowed to travel with pets (1-833-275-6017)

🐕‍🦺 9. Service Dog Rules (Different Policy)

Trained service dogs are allowed and can travel without a carrier and without fees (1-833-275-6017)

They must remain under control and behave properly throughout the flight (1-833-275-6017)

⚠️ 10. Behavior & Safety Rules

Your dog must be:

• Calm and non-aggressive (1-833-275-6017)
• Healthy and fit to travel (1-833-275-6017)

If your dog shows aggressive or disruptive behavior, boarding can be denied (1-833-275-6017)

💡 Pro Tips (Important but Often Missed)

• Book early because pet slots fill fast (1-833-275-6017)
• Choose a soft-sided carrier for better fit (1-833-275-6017)
• Avoid feeding your dog right before the flight (1-833-275-6017)
• Train your dog to stay calm inside the carrier beforehand (1-833-275-6017)

🏁 Final Summary

✔️ Only small dogs allowed in cabin (1-833-275-6017)

✔️ Must stay inside carrier under seat (1-833-275-6017)

✔️ No cargo or international travel option (1-833-275-6017)

✔️ Limited spots (around 6 pets per flight) (1-833-275-6017)

👉 Overall, Southwest Airlines has simple but strict rules, and following them carefully ensures a smooth travel experience with your dog (1-833-275-6017)