For dog parents planning to travel, Alaska Airlines offers one of the more comprehensive pet policies among major carriers. Whether you're relocating, vacationing, or visiting family, understanding Alaska Airlines dog policy and pet travel options makes bringing your furry family member along much easier.
Based on our comprehensive research at Sniffspot, we've compiled everything you need to know about flying with your dog on Alaska Airlines. Alaska Airlines provides what they call "Fur-st Class Care™" for pets, offering multiple options for transporting your dog safely on domestic flights. ✈️
Similar: Most Dog-Friendly Airlines Voted by Our Audience
Alaska Airlines Dog Policy: Jump Ahead
Quick Facts About Alaska Airline's Dog Policy
- Pet Fee: $100 each way (cabin) / $150 each way (baggage compartment)
- Allowed Pets: Dogs, cats, rabbits, household birds
- Carrier Size: Must fit under the seat in front of you (cabin) or various kennel sizes available (baggage)
- Cabin Limit: Alaska limits the number of pets in the cabin on each flight
- Special Notes: Odorous or noisy animals must travel in the baggage compartment
For a full breakdown of Alaska Airline's dog policy, visit their website.
How Does Alaska Airlines Dog Policy Compare?
Take a look at how the fees and options compare between other airlines and Alaska. Better yet, review our deep dives on United Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.
Source: Dog Airline Policy Pages
Pet Travel Options on Alaska Airlines
Unlike many carriers, Alaska offers two primary options for pet travel: pets in cabin and pets in the baggage compartment (cargo).
Small dogs that can fit in an under-seat carrier can travel in the cabin for a fee of $100 each way. This is the most popular option for small breed owners who want to keep their pets with them throughout the journey.
Larger dogs can travel in Alaska's climate-controlled baggage compartment for $150 each way. For pets traveling wholly within the State of Alaska, active duty US Military, or US Military dependents on travel orders, the fee is reduced to $100 each way. For a greater breakdown, read our full guide to flying with your large dog.
Our Sniffspot research shows Alaska Airlines is the third most popular airline among dog owners at 3.5%. One user shared: "Alaska Airlines is very friendly and experienced with dogs. They're always accommodating when traveling with my dog." Another mentioned they chose Alaska because it's "easy to board with my service dog."
How to Book Your Dog on Alaska Airlines
To ensure a smooth experience when flying with your dog on Alaska, follow these steps:
- Book your own ticket first through Alaska's website or booking channels
- Review Alaska's pet policies to determine which travel option is best for your dog
- Contact Alaska reservations by chat or phone (1-800-252-7522) to reserve space for your pet
It's crucial to make these arrangements as early as possible, as space for pets is limited on all flights and fills up quickly.
Alaska Airlines Dog Policy: In-Cabin Requirements
If your dog is small enough to travel in the cabin, here's what you need to know:
Carrier Requirements:
- Must be leak-proof and well ventilated
- Must fit completely under the seat in front of you
- Your dog must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside
Important Rules:
- Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and weaned
- Your pet must remain in the carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding/deplaning, and throughout the flight
- Only one pet per carrier is allowed (unless they are puppies between 8 weeks and 6 months weighing less than 20 pounds each – then two are permitted)
Alaska Airlines Dog Policy: Cargo Requirements
For larger dogs traveling in the baggage compartment, Alaska has specific requirements.
Alaska Airlines Cargo Restrictions
Eligibility:
- Combined weight of pet and carrier cannot exceed 150 pounds
- Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and weaned
- Important restriction: Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs are not accepted for travel in the baggage compartment due to breathing concerns
Documentation:
- A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel is required
- You must certify that you have offered food and water to your pet no more than 4 hours before check-in
Check-in Process:
- Check in no more than 2 hours prior to departure
- Allow at least 90 minutes before departure in Seattle or Guadalajara
- Allow at least 1 hour prior to departure at all other airports
What Alaska Passengers Say
Based on our 2024 Sniffspot travel survey of dog owners, Alaska Airlines emerged as a popular choice for pet travel, with many appreciating their comprehensive pet policies.
One respondent emphasized Alaska's pet-friendly attitude: "The staff on Alaska is knowledgeable about handling pets and they're genuinely welcoming. It's a relief to fly with a carrier that treats pets as family members rather than cargo."
Another survey participant noted: "I specifically chose Alaska because they have one of the most transparent pet policies. Their online information is detailed and their phone agents are well-versed in answering questions about pet travel requirements."
Restrictions for Flying with Dogs on Alaska Airlines
When planning to fly with your dog on Alaska, keep these restrictions in mind:
- Hawaii and International Travel: Additional requirements apply, including specific health certifications and quarantine procedures
- Breed Restrictions: Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for travel in the baggage compartment
- Weather Concerns: During extreme temperatures, pet travel may be restricted
- Partner Airlines: If your itinerary includes travel on another airline, you must contact that carrier directly to reserve space for your pet
If traveling to Hawaii or internationally, verify any additional documentation or health certificate requirements well in advance. "Alaska's customer service agent walked me through all the Hawaii requirements for my dog—there are a lot—and gave me a timeline for when to schedule vet visits," shared a survey respondent.
Alaska Airlines Service Dog Policy (vs. ESAs)
Alaska Airlines accommodates service animals according to Department of Transportation regulations, with policies that differ from those for pet dogs and Emotional Support Animals (ESA).
Key Service Dog Policies:
- No Fee Required: Properly trained service dogs fly free on Alaska.
- No Carrier Required: Service dogs can sit at their handler's feet or in their lap (if small enough).
- Size Restrictions Don't Apply: Alaska accommodates service dogs regardless of breed or size.
- Documentation Requirements: Alaska may request the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form (must be submitted 48 hours before travel).
One survey respondent with a service dog noted: "Alaska's staff is exceptionally well-trained in accommodating service animals. They know the difference between pets and service animals and treat handlers with respect."
As with other airlines, emotional support animals are no longer recognized as service animals under Department of Transportation rules. On Alaska, ESAs fall under the standard pet policy.
How Difficult Is It to Travel with Dogs?
Our 2024 Sniffspot survey revealed interesting insights about traveling with dogs:
According to our Sniffspot research with real dog owners, 88% of respondents found traveling with dogs either "somewhat more difficult" (48%) or "much more difficult" (40%) than traveling without pets.
The main challenges cited were finding suitable accommodations that accept pets, managing bathroom breaks and exercise needs during travel, and dealing with the stress and anxiety of both pets and owners.
"What I appreciate about Alaska is that their flight attendants are genuinely helpful when I'm trying to get settled with my dog," noted a survey participant. "They understand the challenges of traveling with pets and actively help make it work."
Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska Airlines Dog Policy
How much does it cost to bring my dog on Alaska Airlines?
Alaska charges $100 one-way for pets in the cabin and $150 one-way for pets in the baggage compartment. For travel wholly within Alaska, active military personnel, or military dependents on travel orders, the baggage compartment fee is reduced to $100.
Can large dogs fly in cabin on Alaska Airlines?
No, only small dogs that can fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you can travel in the cabin. Larger dogs must travel in the baggage compartment.
Does Alaska allow dogs in cargo?
Yes, Alaska offers pet transport in their climate-controlled baggage compartment. For pets traveling without an accompanying passenger, they offer the Pet Connect™ service through Alaska Air Cargo.
How many dogs can I bring on Alaska?
Each passenger can bring one pet carrier in the cabin. For the baggage compartment, you're limited to two dogs per passenger, but they may need to be in separate carriers depending on their age and size.
Are there breed restrictions on Alaska Airlines?
Yes, brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for travel in the baggage compartment due to breathing concerns. These breeds can still travel in the cabin if they're small enough.
Flying with Your Dog on Alaska Airlines
One survey respondent wisely noted: "Alaska's pet policy offers more options than most airlines, but it requires more planning. The extra effort is worth it for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your pet is being well taken care of."
Remember that airline policies can change, so it's always best to verify the most current information directly with Alaska Airlines before booking your trip.
Looking for a place to help your dog decompress after a long flight? Check out Sniffspot to find private, safe spaces where your dog can stretch their legs and enjoy some off-leash time after being cooped up in a carrier.
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