In-Cabin
Max weight (pet + carrier): 20 lbs
Max carrier dimensions: 43 × 30 × 20 cm
In-cabin fee: $150 USD
Cargo
United PetSafe cargo is suspended for the general public as of 2026. Available only to US Military on PCS orders and State Dept. Foreign Service Officers on select routes (GUM–HNL). General passengers with large pets must use a licensed IATA freight forwarder.
Route Restrictions
In-cabin permitted on most domestic US and select international routes. No general-public cargo option.
Breed Restrictions
- All brachycephalic/snub-nosed breeds (dogs and cats) — in-cabin and cargo
- Pit Bull type breeds
- Rottweiler
Paws en route Notes
United's PetSafe cargo program is suspended for the general public. In-cabin remains strong for small pets. For large-dog relocations, we route through Air Canada or Air France depending on destination.
Done-for-You Service
United Airlines's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.
Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against United Airlines's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.
Get a United Airlines relocation quoteIn-Cabin Carriers
United Airlines Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers
To fly in-cabin with United Airlines, your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 43 × 30 × 20 cm. We stock carriers sized to fit — send us a note and we'll pair you with the right one.
Recommended: Low-Profile Carrier
Airline Approved Soft-Sided Low-Profile Carrier
Sized for United Airlines's 20 cm height limit — fits flush under the seat without compression.
- Leak-proof bottom
- Ventilation on 3+ sides
- Soft-sided to compress under seat
Book with this airline?
We verify United Airlines's policy before every booking.
Policies change. We call the airline, confirm your breed is cleared, and lock in the pet booking — not just the human seat.
Plan your flightCommon Questions
United Airlines pet travel — frequently asked
Does United Airlines allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, United Airlines allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 20 lbs, and a per-trip fee of $150 USD applies. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.
Are there breed restrictions on United Airlines?
Yes, United Airlines restricts certain breeds including All brachycephalic/snub-nosed breeds (dogs and cats) — in-cabin and cargo and Pit Bull type breeds, among others. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.
Does United Airlines have a summer cargo embargo for pets?
No summer cargo embargo is listed for United Airlines. Temperature-based restrictions may still apply on specific routes — always verify at the time of booking.
