Airline pet policies / Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines pet policy: cabin, hold and fees
Southwest Airlines accepts dogs and cats in the cabin if the carrier fits under the seat. Fees, carrier sizes, breed rules and how to book, checked against the official policy.
Checked against the official page · 15 Oct 2026| Pets in the cabin | Yes: Dog, Cat |
|---|---|
| Cabin weight limit | No fixed limit: the pet must fit in an under-seat carrier |
| Cabin carrier | up to 47 × 22 × 34 cm (18.5 × 8.5 × 13.5 in) |
| Good to know | US domestic flights only. 2 pets of one species may share a carrier. |
| Pets in the hold | No |
| Fees | USD 125 per carrier each way (USD 35 between Hawaiian islands) |
| How to book | Add when booking |
| Cargo and other animals | No pets in the hold. |
- No pets on international flights or to Hawaii (interisland is OK).
Here is the Southwest Airlines pet policy in plain English, checked against the official Southwest Airlines page on 15 Oct 2026. Southwest Airlines accepts dogs and cats in the cabin if the carrier fits under the seat. Below, you’ll find what it means for your trip, plus a short checklist before you book.
Southwest Airlines pet policy for the cabin
On Southwest Airlines, dogs and cats can travel with you in the cabin. There is no fixed weight limit, but your pet must fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you. Carrier rules: up to 47 × 22 × 34 cm (18.5 × 8.5 × 13.5 in). Also note: US domestic flights only. 2 pets of one species may share a carrier.
Pets in the hold and as cargo on Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines does not carry pets in the hold as checked baggage. No pets in the hold.
Fees and how to book a pet on Southwest Airlines
Fee: USD 125 per carrier each way (USD 35 between Hawaiian islands). How to book: Add when booking. Fees can change, so check the final amount when you book.
Before you book: Southwest Airlines pet policy checklist
- First, weigh your pet together with its carrier or kennel, because airlines check the total weight at the airport.
- Next, check the entry rules of your destination, such as microchip, rabies vaccine and health papers. Our pet travel requirements page links to the official sources.
- Then, book your pet at the same time as your own seat, since pet places on each flight are limited.
- Finally, confirm the details on the official Southwest Airlines pet policy page, because rules and fees can change.
Comparing airlines? See all 62 airline pet policies on one page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my pet in the cabin on Southwest Airlines?
Yes. Southwest Airlines accepts dog, cat in the cabin. There is no fixed weight limit, but the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Carrier: up to 47 × 22 × 34 cm (18.5 × 8.5 × 13.5 in).
How much does it cost to fly with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
USD 125 per carrier each way (USD 35 between Hawaiian islands). Fees change often, so confirm the exact amount when you book.
This summary is a guide, not legal or veterinary advice. Airlines change their rules often: always confirm with Southwest Airlines before you book. Your destination country may have extra entry rules.