Best Small Dog Carriers: Updated Products List for 2023

If you plan to go on a trip with your furbaby, it’s optimal to invest in the most appropriate carrier for his comfort and safety, and of course, for your own peace of mind. 

While large dogs should be placed in a large crate carrier and placed in the cargo area of a plane or train, traveling with a small dog is different. Some airlines allow small pets below 20 pounds to travel with their owners as long as the pet is secured inside a carrier.

Can you imagine sitting next to a cute, 4-legged passenger during a 12-hour trip crossing the Pacific? 

Dog carriers are small, secure bags that may be placed under the plane’s seat. 

Best Small Dog Carriers

Henkelion Pet Carrier For Small Cats and Dogs

The Henkelion cat and dog carrier with airline-approved style and design. You can take your small pet anywhere safely with this bag.

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It has adjustable shoulder straps for hands-free carrying. It is made from lightweight yet durable and waterproof polyester material. This is portable, easy to take anywhere, and store. 

X-ZONE PET Airline Approved Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier for Dogs and Cats

This is a medium pet carrier that’s 17.5” x 11” x 11” and can carry up to 16 pounds. It can fit under the seat and is allowed by most airlines but do contact your airline company first.

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It comes with mesh windows for improved ventilation, and you can place your pet in from the top of the side. The base is completely removable with a fleece pet bed where your pet can sleep. 

Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier

Another airline-approved pet carrier is the Sherpa Travel. It comes with a patented spring wire frame to let the rear end be pushed down to conform with under the seat carrier requirements.

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It comes with mesh windows for improved ventilation and top or side entry with secure zippers. The carrying strap is adjustable, while the inside is a faux lambskin liner that you can remove and wash.  

Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

The AmazonBasics soft-sided pet travel carrier is large with soft mesh sides. It has carrying handles and a long and adjustable shoulder strap so you can keep your pet near as you commute or travel.

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This conforms to the under-seat requirements of most airlines but calls before you purchase. Inside is a soft fleece bed that’s washable while other parts of the carrier are easy to spot clean.

Morpilot Pet Travel Carrier Bag

This is a practical and portable pet carrier that can carry up to 16 pounds. It has a folding bowl, soft cushion, and pockets.

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It is made from durable polyester with a breathable mesh side and doors. It is easy to spot clean, to take anywhere, and to store. The soft cushion may be machine washed.

Akinerri Airline Approved Pet Carrier

The Akinerrri is quality in a compact package – convenient egress and exit for your pet due to its two entrances, one on top and the other on the side.

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Equipped with a handle for carrying by hand and a strap for carrying by the shoulder. It has a non-collapsible frame constructed from sturdy steel plus a well-ventilated design to secure your pet and prevent escape.

PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

You can choose from 7 different colors, this soft-sided pet travel carrier has a ventilated design, with safety buckle zippers and safety straps. It is easy to use and easy to clean.

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Prodigen Pet Carrier Airline Approved Pet Carrier Dog Carriers

The Prodigen pet carrier is an airline approved by Southwest, American Airlines, Jetblue, Delta, Allegiant, and United.

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It is easy to access, safe, well-ventilated and is waterproof. It also has compartments for your pet’s treats, foods, toys, and water.

BERTASCHE Cat Carrier Large Pet Carrier 

This cat/dog pet carrier is expandable, easy to carry, with removable fleece padding to be used as your pet’s bed. It has well-ventilated mesh walls and top when expanded.

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One Last Thought

Do your due diligence before you hie off with Daisy the Chiweenie or Nala the nervous kitty you rescued. Different airlines have different regulations regarding placing pets in small pet carriers. Contact your airline company (or train) for more details regarding their pet travel policy.  

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Lovelia Horn

I’m a certified crazy dog mom, a physical therapist (for hoomans), writer, animal rescuer, and foster home provider. Together with my hubby Ryan, I’ve fostered and helped look for forever homes for over a hundred shelter dogs in the Southern Illinois area. I mostly work with Puppy Rescue 911, Inc., a certified animal rescue organization based out of Chester, IL (home of Popeye!)

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