Delta is one of the largest airlines in the US and offers both in-cabin and cargo options for pets. But the rules are complicated, and cargo comes with significant restrictions. Here’s what you need to know.

The Quick Answer

In-Cabin

Cargo (Delta Cargo Live Animals)

In-Cabin Pet Policy

What’s Allowed

Delta allows small dogs, cats, and household birds in the cabin on most domestic flights and some international routes.

• One carrier per passenger
• Two pets allowed per carrier if they’re the same species, small enough, and combined weight stays under the limit
• Carrier must fit under the seat in front of you
• Pet must stay in carrier for the entire flight

Weight Limits

• Combined weight of pet + carrier: Under 20 lbs
• Realistically, this means dogs under ~15 lbs

Delta agents may weigh your pet and carrier at check-in. If you’re over, you won’t board.

Carrier Requirements

• Soft or hard-sided
• Leak-proof bottom
• Must fit under seat (dimensions vary by aircraft)
• Pet must be able to stand and turn around
• Must stay closed during flight

Recommended dimensions: Keep it under 18" x 11" x 11" to fit most aircraft.

In-Cabin Fees

Fees are per carrier, each direction. Round-trip domestic = $300.

How to Book (In-Cabin)

1. Book your flight online first
2. Call Delta to add your pet — 1-800-221-1212
3. Or add at check-in — Arrive early

You cannot add a pet online. You must call or do it at the airport.

Limit: Delta restricts the number of pets per cabin (varies by aircraft). Call early to secure a spot.

Cargo: Delta Cargo Live Animals

If your dog is too large for the cabin, Delta offers cargo transport through Delta Cargo. This is a completely separate process from booking a passenger flight.

How Cargo Works

• You book through Delta Cargo (not regular Delta reservations)
• Your dog flies in the climate-controlled cargo hold
• You drop off at the cargo facility (not the regular terminal)
• You pick up at the destination cargo facility

Cargo Restrictions

This is where it gets complicated:

Cargo Fees

Cargo fees vary significantly based on:

• Route
• Size/weight of pet + crate
• Season

Expect $200-$500 for domestic routes, potentially $1,000+ for international. Get a quote from Delta Cargo directly.

Seasonal Embargoes

Delta suspends cargo pet transport during extreme weather. This typically affects:

• Summer: June-September for many routes
• Winter: December-February for northern routes
• Specific days: When forecast temps exceed limits

Check Delta Cargo’s current embargoes before booking.

Breed Restrictions

In-Cabin

Delta allows all breeds in the cabin, including snub-nosed breeds. As long as your dog fits in a carrier under the seat, breed doesn’t matter.

Cargo

Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds are banned from cargo. These breeds have higher risk of respiratory distress in the cargo hold. Banned breeds include:

• Bulldogs (all types)
• Pugs
• Boston Terriers
• Boxers
• Shih Tzus
• Pekingese
• Affenpinschers
• And others

If you have a snub-nosed breed that’s too big for the cabin, Delta is not an option.

Tips for Flying Delta with Your Dog

For In-Cabin

1. Call early — Pet spots are limited
2. Choose window seats — More floor space for the carrier
3. Avoid bulkhead and exit rows — No under-seat storage
4. Book direct flights — Less stress, less risk
5. Tire your dog out — Exercise before the airport

For Cargo

1. Book direct flights only — Connections increase risk significantly
2. Avoid summer and winter extremes — Embargoes are common
3. Use a high-quality crate — IATA-compliant, with absorbent bedding
4. Attach food and water dishes — Required for longer flights
5. Don’t sedate your dog — Sedation increases health risks at altitude
6. Confirm, confirm, confirm — Call Delta Cargo repeatedly before travel

TSA Process

Same as other airlines:

1. Remove dog from carrier
2. Carrier goes through X-ray
3. Carry your dog through the metal detector
4. Put dog back in carrier immediately

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy my dog a seat on Delta?

No. Pets cannot occupy seats. Small pets must be in a carrier under the seat. Large pets must fly cargo.

Can I bring two dogs?

If flying in-cabin: two small dogs can share one carrier if they’re small enough and combined weight (with carrier) stays under 20 lbs. Otherwise, you need two passengers.

For cargo: each dog needs its own crate and booking.

How do I know if my dog is too big for the cabin?

If your dog is over ~15 lbs, it’s borderline. Try putting your dog in the carrier at home, then see if the carrier fits under a standard seat (about 18" wide, 11" tall, 14" deep). If it’s a squeeze, cargo might be your only option.

Are emotional support animals free?

No. Delta only accommodates trained service dogs for free. Emotional support animals are treated as pets and subject to fees and restrictions.

What about international flights?

In-cabin pets are allowed on some (not all) international routes. Cargo is more widely available but complex. You’ll also need to navigate import requirements for your destination country.

The Bottom Line

Delta works well for small dogs flying in-cabin. The $150 fee is standard, and the process is straightforward.

For larger dogs, cargo exists but comes with serious limitations — breed restrictions, temperature embargoes, and higher costs. If you have a medium or large dog, driving is often the better choice.

Read next: Southwest Pet Policy | United Pet Policy | American Airlines Pet Policy