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10 Best Airline Approved Dog Carriers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Henkelion Cat, Dog Carrier for Small Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey

The Henkelion Cat and Dog Carrier is a solid choice for pet owners looking for a travel-friendly solution for small to medium pets, weighing up to 15 lbs. One of its standout features is its airline-approved design, which makes it suitable for flying with your furry friend. The carrier is made from durable and lightweight polyester, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of travel while remaining easy to carry.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Material
Even after five years of use, the carrier still looks and functions like new, highlighting its durability.
Ventilation
Sturdy yet lightweight, with thoughtful design and plenty of ventilation, keeping pets calm and cozy.
Comfort
The carrier is roomy and has a soft, removable pad inside, making it comfortable and easy to clean.
Portability
Durable handles and an adjustable shoulder strap make it easy to carry through busy airports.
Compliance with Airline Regulations
Perfect for coast-to-coast flights with no issues on airlines, and it's easy to carry and super sturdy.
#2
9.8 score

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

The Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel is a practical choice for pet owners needing a secure, airline-approved carrier for small dogs or cats. Measuring 23.6 x 15.7 x 13 inches, it falls within the size limits set by most airlines, making it a solid option for traveling with your furry friend. The hard-sided design, crafted from durable molded plastic, ensures that it can withstand the rigors of travel while providing a safe environment for your pet.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Size
Roomy enough to accommodate a 12-pound cat comfortably, making it suitable for small pets.
Material
The carrier is well-made, with a sturdy design that ensures durability even with its plastic construction.
Security
The metal door and secure locking mechanisms offer peace of mind that pets will not escape during transit.
Portability
The carrier is stable yet not too heavy, making it easy to handle and perfect for travel.
#3
9.5 score

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)

The Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier is a compact and airline-approved option designed especially for small cats and dogs. Measuring 17x11x9.5 inches, it fits under the seat in cabins of several major airlines, including Alaska, Southwest, Delta, United, American, and Air Canada. The primary strength of this carrier lies in its compliance with various airline regulations, making it a versatile choice for frequent travelers with pets.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Size
The pop-up top gives your pet more space inside the carrier.
Material
The quality is absolutely amazing for the price! It’s very sturdy and durable.
Security
Each zippered section has a clip that secures both ends of the zipper, providing peace of mind.
Comfort
The expandable top is a huge bonus and makes a real difference in comfort for the cat.
Portability
The carrier folds flat when not needed, making it easy to store.
Compliance with Airline Regulations
It fits under Southwest airplanes' seats but is rigid enough to provide protection during transit.

Top 10 Best Airline Approved Dog Carriers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Henkelion Cat, Dog Carrier for Small Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible 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

Chosen by 1327 this week

Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board - Black, Medium

Size: 18"L x 11"W x 10.5"H
Material: Polyester
Ventilation: Mesh panels
Security: Escape-proof zippers
Comfort: Removable, washable base liner
Portability: Padded handle, detachable strap
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Yes

Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board - Charcoal Gray, Medium

Size: 17.0"L x 11.0"W x 10.5"H
Material: Polyester
Ventilation: Mesh panels
Security: Escape-proof zippers
Comfort: Removable, washable base liner
Portability: Padded handle, shoulder strap, luggage strap
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Meets major airline regulations

Cat/Dog Airline Approved Expandable Pet Carrier for Small Pets - Removable Pad, Pockets, TSA Compliant

Size: 19.5"L x 12"W x 12"H
Material: Polyester
Ventilation: Four mesh windows
Security: Reflective bands, attach to luggage or seatbelt
Comfort: Washable suede pad
Portability: Detachable straps and handles
Compliance with Airline Regulations: TSA compliant
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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.

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