10 Best Airline Dog Carrier 2025 in the United States

The Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet is designed for small and medium pets up to 15 lbs, making it suitable for both cats and dogs. This carrier is TSA airline approved, which means you can take your pet with you on flights without hassle. The size dimensions (17 x 11 x 11 inches) provide adequate space for small to medium pets, but it's essential to measure your pet's length and height to ensure a good fit, not just their weight.

The carrier is made from durable polyester fabric and features mesh on all four sides, allowing for excellent ventilation and easy visibility of your pet, ensuring they stay comfortable during travel. Its foldable and lightweight design (1.98 pounds) enhances portability and makes storage convenient. Additionally, the padded shoulder strap and handles offer comfortable carrying options, and the safety design with adjustable straps helps secure the carrier during transport.

However, the soft-sided structure may not provide enough protection for pets that are prone to chewing or scratching. Also, while it is machine washable, the polyester material might wear out faster with frequent washing. This carrier is best suited for owners of small to medium cats and dogs who need a portable, airline-approved travel solution with good ventilation and reasonable comfort features.

The Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel is designed for small pets and measures 23.6 x 15.7 x 13 inches. It is constructed from durable molded plastic with a metal wire door and side panels for ventilation, ensuring your pet gets ample air during travel. The single door for front entry has a secure locking mechanism, enhancing safety. A top handle adds to its portability, making it easier to carry around.

This kennel is made to be sturdy and reliable, reassuring pet owners about their pets' security during travel. However, it’s worth noting that this carrier may be more suitable for smaller pets like puppies or small breeds due to its size. In terms of airline regulations, while it is generally compliant, it’s always best to check specific airline requirements beforehand.

Though the hard-sided design offers durability, it might not be as comfortable as soft-sided carriers, especially for extended travel. Despite these minor drawbacks, the kennel is a practical choice for short trips and vet visits, with a good balance of strength, ventilation, and portability.

The Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier is a solid choice for pet owners needing an airline-approved carrier for small cats and dogs. Measuring 18x11x11 inches, this carrier meets the requirements of major airlines like Delta, American, and United. It's important to note that it's designed for pets under 12 pounds and should fit comfortably within 15x9x12 inches dimensions, so be sure to measure your pet carefully before purchasing.

One of its main strengths is the excellent ventilation provided by the mesh on five sides, which allows your pet to look out and for you to easily check on them. The carrier also features multiple openings with secure, non-slip zippers to ensure your pet cannot escape. The structural integrity is maintained by a combination of stainless steel and fiber rods, preventing sagging or collapse. Made from durable, waterproof, and non-toxic polyester, the carrier is both scratch-resistant and easy to clean.

While the carrier is portable and easy to store, it may not be suitable for larger pets or those that are particularly active and likely to try and escape. The carrier's weight of about 3.73 pounds might seem a bit heavy for some users, especially during longer trips. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Petskd carrier comes with a 12-month warranty and a high customer satisfaction rating, making it a reliable option for frequent travelers with small pets.