No published weight limit (must fit in carrier)
Airline dog policy
WestJet
WestJet is Canada's second-largest airline, based in Calgary with services across Canada, the United States, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Europe. The airline accepts small dogs, cats, birds, and some small mammals in the cabin, with checked baggage and WestJet Cargo options for larger animals. WestJet's domestic pet fees are among the most affordable in North America, starting around CAD $50 one way — making it an attractive alternative to Air Canada for Canadian pet owners.
Book early and confirm aircraft acceptance.
Under-seat dimensions can vary by aircraft.
Fees can change by region and currency.
Booking tip
WestJet's cabin carrier dimensions are notably smaller than most airlines at just 41×21.5×25.4 cm, so measure carefully before booking. Only soft-sided carriers are accepted for cabin travel. The pet counts as your carry-on item. Book your pet when making your reservation or contact WestJet's call centre. Hard-sided kennels are mandatory for checked baggage and cargo transport.
Why it can work
WestJet's competitive domestic pricing — around CAD $50 one way — undercuts Air Canada on most Canadian routes. The airline's extensive network covers all major Canadian cities plus popular US and Caribbean destinations. WestJet Cargo provides a full live animal shipping service for pets that exceed cabin limits, which is increasingly rare among North American carriers. The airline's newer Boeing 737 MAX fleet offers improved cabin storage space.
Restrictions
Carrier dimensions are smaller than industry average — verify fit before booking. Not all aircraft types accept hold pets. Checked baggage pets may be restricted during extreme temperatures. Brachycephalic breeds cautioned but not banned. Minimum age 8 weeks. Some Caribbean and Mexican routes may have pet restrictions.
Dog-owner notes
WestJet operates from hubs in Calgary (YYC), Toronto (YYZ), and Vancouver (YVR). The airline's Encore subsidiary uses Bombardier Q400 turboprops on regional routes — check pet acceptance on these smaller aircraft. WestJet Cargo: 1-888-937-8538. For pet reservations: 1-888-937-8538 or via westjet.com chat.
Final check before paying
Confirm the exact aircraft, route, dog breed, carrier size, temperature rules and destination import law directly with the airline. A country can allow dogs while a specific airline or aircraft refuses them.