What to Expect at the Airport When Flying with a Dog (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Check-in with your dog

You cannot check in online when traveling with a dog. You’ll need to go to the airline counter. At check-in the airline will:

• Review your documents
• Confirm your dog meets requirements
• Weigh your dog and carrier (for cabin travel)
• Verify crate compliance (for cargo travel)

This step is where most issues happen if something is incorrect. If you’re unsure whether your dog will be in the cabin or cargo, see cabin vs cargo for flying with a dog.

Step 2: Security screening

Security screening is one of the most unfamiliar parts of flying with a dog and applies to dogs traveling in the cabin. You can expect:

• You’ll remove your dog from the carrier
• Put the carrier, leash, harness through the scanner
• Carry or walk your dog through the body scanner

Your dog must remain under control at all times. You will most likely be asked to undergo further swab testing as well.

For cargo travel, the process is handled separately by airline staff.

Step 3: Waiting at the gate

Once you are through security, things will become more relaxed. You will still need to manage your dog carefully. At the gate:

• Keep your dog calm and contained
• Use designated pet relief areas (if available)
• Monitor announcements carefully

Not all airports are dog-friendly, so it is best to plan ahead.

Step 4: Boarding the aircraft

Boarding with a dog is slightly different depending how you are traveling.

For cargo:

• Your dog will have already been transported by airline staff

For in-cabin:

• Your dog will stay in the carrier under the seat in front of you
• Flight attendants may check placement and compliance

If everything has been handled correctly earlier, this is a quick step.

Step 5: Arrival and inspection

After landing your experience will depend on your destination.

For international travel:

• Your documents may be reviewed by authorities
• Your dog may undergo a brief inspection
• You may need to pay an entry or inspection fee

For domestic travel:

• You can usually leave the airport normally once you land

To understand how arrival requirements vary by country, see your destination-specific guide.

Common mistakes at the airport

These are some of the most common issues travelers with a dog face:

• Arriving too late for check-in
• Missing or incorrect documents
• Using a non-compliant carrier or crate
• Not confirming pet booking in advance
• Assuming airline policies are the same as country rules

Most problems at the airport come down to preparation.

My experience flying with a dog

From my experience flying internationally with my dog Beckham, the airport process is usually smoother than expected—if everything is prepared properly beforehand.

The biggest differences between airlines show up at check-in. Some are fast and organized, while others take longer or require additional verification.

In almost every case, issues can be avoided by:

• Confirming details ahead of time
• Arriving early
• Having documents ready

Pro tips for a smooth airport experience

• Choose direct flights when possible
• Avoid peak travel times
• Exercise your dog before arriving
• Bring essentials in your carry-on (water, wipes, documents)

Final thoughts

The airport process can feel stressful, but once you understand the steps, it becomes much more manageable.

Most travelers find that the experience is straightforward as long as they are prepared and understand what to expect at each stage.

If you’re still planning your trip, go back and review the full process: how to fly with a dog step-by-step.

Frequently asked questions