United Airlines pet policy at a glance
| In cabin | Yes — small pets in an under-seat carrier |
| Checked baggage | No |
| Cargo | Limited — availability changes; historically military/State Department focused |
| Snub-nosed breeds | Cabin only |
Cabin travel
United carries small dogs and cats in-cabin in a carrier that fits under the seat, at roughly $150 per segment. No weight limit applies, but the pet must fit comfortably in the closed carrier.
Cargo
United's cargo pet programme has been restricted since the PetSafe changes — general-public availability varies by route and has frequently been limited to military and State Department relocations. For larger dogs on US routes, comparing international carriers or specialist services is usually the practical path.
Health requirements
Standard CDC and destination-country rules apply; health certificate validity windows are short, so timing the vet visit matters.
Frequently asked questions
Can my dog fly in the cabin on United?
Yes — small dogs and cats in an under-seat carrier, about $150 per segment.
Does United ship pets as cargo?
Availability is limited and changes often; it has largely been restricted since PetSafe was scaled back. Our instant quote shows which carriers on your route accept your pet's size today.
Policy details last verified 2026-07. Airline rules and fees change — always confirm current requirements on the official United Airlines pet travel page before booking.
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