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10 Best Airline Approved Dog Carriers 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a solid choice for dog owners looking for an airline-approved carrier for medium to large breeds weighing between 50 to 70 lbs. Its sturdy plastic construction provides durability and security, which is essential for travel. Notably, it complies with most airline cargo specifications, ensuring you can take your pet along on journeys without hassle. The kennel boasts ventilation on all four sides, promoting airflow and keeping your pet comfortable during travel. The spacious interior allows pets to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, which is a crucial consideration for their well-being.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Size
Material
Ventilation
Most important from
7375 reviews
#2
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black
The Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier is a versatile and practical option for pet owners who need a reliable carrier for small to medium pets up to 15 lbs. It's airline-approved, meaning you can take your pet with you on flights without worrying about compliance with TSA regulations. The carrier's dimensions are 15 x 9 x 9 inches, making it suitable for smaller pets. It's crafted from durable polyester fabric, which is both lightweight and sturdy. The four-side mesh design ensures excellent ventilation, keeping your pet comfortable and allowing you to keep an eye on them during travel.
Rating
8.2
Size
Material
Ventilation
Most important from
50782 reviews
#3
Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel - Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs - Airline Approved Pet Carrier - Durable Plastic Shell - For Home and Travel - Made in USA - 24 Inches - Pale Aqua and Black
The Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel is designed for small dogs weighing between 15-20 lbs, making it suitable for breeds that fit within its interior dimensions of 21.5” L x 15” W x 13.5” H. The durable plastic shell ensures longevity, and the kennel is easy to wipe clean, which is a plus for pet owners. One notable feature is the stay-dry moat that helps manage any accidents by directing fluids away from your pet, maintaining a clean and comfortable environment inside the crate.
Rating
7.9
Size
Material
Ventilation
Most important from
8519 reviews
Top 10 Best Airline Approved Dog Carriers 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
Size: 36.0"L x 25.0"W x 27.0"H
Material: Plastic
Ventilation: Ventilation on all sides
Security: Easy-open latch, tamper-proof holes
Comfort: Spacious interior for pets
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Complies with most airline specifications
Chosen by 1272 this week
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black
Size: 15 x 9 x 9 inches
Material: Polyester
Ventilation: Four-side mesh
Security: Two loop handles, seat belts
Comfort: Padded strap and handles
Portability: Foldable, under 2 pounds
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Airline-approved
Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel - Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs - Airline Approved Pet Carrier - Durable Plastic Shell - For Home and Travel - Made in USA - 24 Inches - Pale Aqua and Black
Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel - Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs - Airline Approved Pet Carrier - Durable Plastic Shell - For Home and Travel - Made in USA - 24 Inches - Pale Aqua and Black
Size: 24.1"L x 16.7"W x 14.5"H
Material: Blend
Ventilation: Openings on all sides
Security: Wire door with latch
Portability: Fold-down handle
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Meets most airline cargo specs
Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel Single-Door Travel Pet Carrier with Metal Wire Ventilation, 23.6"L x 15.7"W x 13.0"H, Beige
Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel Single-Door Travel Pet Carrier with Metal Wire Ventilation, 23.6"L x 15.7"W x 13.0"H, Beige
Size: 23.6 x 15.7 x 13 inches
Material: Molded plastic, Metal wire
Ventilation: Metal wire door, side panels
Security: Locking door mechanism
Portability: Top handle
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Yes
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey
Size: 17.0"L x 11.0"W x 11.0"H
Material: Polyester
Ventilation: Four-sided mesh panels
Security: Adjustable strap, seat belt connections
Comfort: Padded straps
Portability: Foldable
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Airline-approved design
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Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 18x11x11 Inches Delta American United Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Grey)
Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 18x11x11 Inches Delta American United Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Grey)
Size: 18x11x11 inches
Material: Polyester, Metal
Ventilation: Mesh panels on five sides
Security: Locking zippers, anti-scratch mesh
Comfort: Expandable top
Portability: 2.87 pounds
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Yes
ROVERLUND Airline-Compliant Pet Carrier | Includes Leash | for Pets up to 20lbs
ROVERLUND Airline-Compliant Pet Carrier | Includes Leash | for Pets up to 20lbs
Size: 18.5"L x 11.8"W x 11.5"H
Material: marine and mountaineering-grade
Ventilation: 3-sided ventilation
Portability: 3.2 pounds
Compliance with Airline Regulations: meets in-cabin sizing requirements
Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels 19x13x9 Inches Southwest Allegiant Airlines Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Dog Under 12 lbs and Large Cat Under 15 lbs(Black)
Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels 19x13x9 Inches Southwest Allegiant Airlines Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Dog Under 12 lbs and Large Cat Under 15 lbs(Black)
Size: 19 x 13 x 9 inches, expandable top
Material: Polyester, Metal
Ventilation: Mesh panels on five sides
Security: Metal frame, leash, zipper snap locks
Comfort: Mesh panels for airflow, visibility
Portability: Wheels, lightweight (7.4 pounds)
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Meets Southwest, Allegiant under-seat size
Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 17x11x9.5 Inches Alaska Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Black)
Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 17x11x9.5 Inches Alaska Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Black)
Size: 17x11x9.5 inches
Material: Polyester, Metal
Ventilation: Mesh panels on five sides
Security: Non-slip zippers, adjustable rope buckle
Comfort: Soft-sided design
Portability: Lightweight, easy-to-carry
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Yes
#10
Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier 18x11x11 Inches Delta United Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Black)
Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier 18x11x11 Inches Delta United Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Black)
Size: 18 x 11 x 11 inches
Material: Polyester, Metal
Ventilation: Five-sided mesh
Security: Locking zippers, adjustable buckle
Comfort: Expandable, prevents sagging
Portability: 3 pounds
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Airline Approved, meets TSA requirements
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Buying Guide for the Best Airline Approved Dog Carriers
Choosing the right airline-approved dog carrier is crucial for ensuring your pet's comfort and safety during travel. It's important to consider various factors such as size, material, ventilation, and additional features to make sure the carrier meets both your needs and the airline's requirements. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.SizeSize is one of the most important factors when choosing an airline-approved dog carrier. The carrier should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Airlines have specific size requirements for carriers, especially for in-cabin travel. Measure your dog’s length, height, and weight to ensure the carrier fits within the airline's guidelines. For smaller dogs, a compact carrier that fits under the seat is ideal, while larger dogs may require a sturdier, more spacious carrier that goes in the cargo hold.
MaterialThe material of the carrier affects its durability, comfort, and ease of cleaning. Common materials include hard plastic, soft fabric, and metal. Hard plastic carriers are sturdy and provide more protection, making them suitable for cargo travel. Soft fabric carriers are lightweight and often more comfortable for in-cabin travel. Metal carriers are less common but offer high durability. Choose a material that suits your travel needs and your dog's comfort.
VentilationProper ventilation is essential to ensure your dog gets enough fresh air during the flight. Look for carriers with multiple mesh panels or ventilation holes. This is especially important for long flights or if your dog tends to get anxious. Carriers with good ventilation will help keep your dog calm and comfortable. Ensure that the ventilation openings are secure and cannot be easily chewed through or damaged by your pet.
SecuritySecurity features are crucial to prevent your dog from escaping or getting injured. Look for carriers with strong zippers, locks, and secure fastenings. Some carriers come with additional safety features like seatbelt loops or tethering straps to keep the carrier in place during travel. Ensure that the carrier is escape-proof and that your dog cannot open it from the inside. This is particularly important for nervous or energetic dogs.
ComfortYour dog's comfort is paramount during travel. Look for carriers with padded interiors, soft bedding, and enough space for your dog to move around. Some carriers come with removable and washable pads, which are convenient for maintaining cleanliness. Consider carriers with additional features like pockets for storing treats, toys, or travel documents. A comfortable carrier will help reduce your dog's stress and make the journey more pleasant for both of you.
PortabilityPortability is important for ease of transport. Look for carriers with handles, shoulder straps, or wheels for easy maneuvering through the airport. Lightweight carriers are easier to carry, especially if you have other luggage. Consider how you will be transporting the carrier and choose one that fits your needs. For example, a wheeled carrier might be more convenient for larger dogs or longer distances.
Compliance with Airline RegulationsEach airline has its own set of regulations for pet carriers, so it's important to check these before making a purchase. Ensure that the carrier meets the size, material, and ventilation requirements of the airline you will be flying with. Some airlines have specific guidelines for in-cabin and cargo travel, so make sure the carrier is compliant with these rules. Checking the airline's pet policy in advance will help you avoid any last-minute issues at the airport.