Flying to Canada with a dog

What should I know before flying to Canada with a dog?

Before you book your ticket there are three things you should confirm. Does your airline accepts pets on your route? How will your dog travel? What paperwork will you need at check-in?

The biggest mistake you can make is to assume that Canada’s entry rules and the airlines pet policy are the same. They are not. Canada’s rules decide if your dog is allowed in the country and the airline’s rules decide if your dog gets on the plane. A dog can meet all of Canada’s entry requirements but still be turned away at the check-in counter by the airline.

Airline rules vs Canada entry rules

Canada’s official pet import tool asks for details like animal type, purpose of entry, age, accompanied status, and country of origin so travelers can check the requirement for their exact situation. The airline is a separate checkpoint. It can decide whether your dog can fly in cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo. Airlines set their own rules for carrier size, crate type, breed restrictions, fees, and check-in timing.

Before you book check both Canada’s dog entry requirements and your airline’s pet policy. If you are still sorting out paperwork start with the Canada documents checklist. If your main question is whether a certificate applies use the Canada health certificate guide.

Can dogs fly in cabin to Canada?

Dogs can fly in cabin to Canada if they meet the airline’s size, carrier, and weight limit.

Your dog needs to stay inside an airline-approved carrier under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight. Your dog needs enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier. Some airlines use a combined pet-and-carrier weight limit while others focus on carrier fit.

If you are not sure whether your dog qualifies for cabin travel start with the in-cabin flying guide. Once you know cabin travel is realistic check your carrier size against the dog carrier guide and your airline’s own policy.

Can large dogs fly to Canada?

Large dogs cannot travel in the cabin unless they are trained service dogs and meet the airlines service animal rules. This means the usual options for larger dogs are cargo or checked baggage depending on the airline and route. Prior to booking your ticket you will want to confirm if large dogs are accepted on your route, if the dog will travel as cargo or checked baggage, if there are temperature restrictions, and whether your dog’s breed is accepted.

If you are unsure if your dog should fly in the cabin or cargo check out the cabin vs cargo article.

How to add your dog to a Canada flight?

Do not assume your dog is automatically included when you buy your ticket. Most airlines require your dog to be added separately. Often this requires calling after purchasing your ticket to confirm space is available and then adding your dog to the reservation. Other times you will need to call before you book the ticket.

What I have found with Beckham is the safest approach is to slow things down. Before I choose our flight I need to know that the airline accepts pets, that Beckham can travel in the cabin, that his carrier will work, and most importantly that pet space is available. I confirm pet fees, what documents I will need at check-in, and set a reminder to confirm everything one last time a couple days before the flight.

Do airlines check documentation at check-in?

Airlines will almost always check your dog’s documentation during the check-in process? They may ask to see a health certificate, rabies proof, or airline specific forms. The airline is checking if your dog is able to board the plane and the requirements are met. They may also confirm you have the required documents to get into Canada as well.

What happens at the airport

Plan to check in with an agent. When you are flying with a dog you almost always have to check in at the airline counter in person with your pet. The airline needs to verify your documents, review your pet booking, check the carrier or crate, and sometimes collect the pet fee.

The next steps will depend on how your dog is traveling. In-cabin dogs will need to go through security with you. Dogs traveling as checked baggage or in cargo will go through a different process handled by airline staff.

If you want more detail on how to fly with a dog or what happens at the airport, check out our airport process article.

Which airlines fly dogs to Canada?

If you are flying to Canada, one of the first airlines to consider is Air Canada. Other airlines allow dogs on Canada routes and the right choice will depend on a variety of factors. Before booking you need to compare cabin pet rules, cargo or checked baggage options, weight limits, route and breed restrictions, pet fees, and document requirements.

Check out our list of the best airlines for dogs if you are just starting out.

Breed restrictions when flying to Canada

Airlines may restrict certain breeds such as snub-nosed or brachycephalic dogs. Breed rules are stricter for cargo because flat-faced dogs can face higher risk during air transport. If your dog is a restricted breed you should always contact the airline first before booking.

For Beckham this is one of those steps I never skip.

Common airline mistakes when flying to Canada with a dog

The most common mistakes people make is forgetting to check the airline’s pet policy. Another common mistake is waiting too long to reserve your dog’s space. Even if your dog qualifies the flight might not have pet space left. Assuming an airline-approved carrier works for all airlines is another mistake people make. A carrier that works for one airline may not work for another.

Want the full Canada dog travel overview?

Flying is only one part of the process. You still need to understand Canada’s entry rules, document requirements, health certificate rules, airline checks, and what to expect when you arrive.

For the overview check out our Canada dog travel guide.

Frequently asked questions