Lufthansa: Pet Policy

What methods of transport does Lufthansa provide for my pet?

Lufthansa will transport animals either in the passenger cabin or in the aircraft’s cargo hold, depending on the animal’s weight and size.

Does my pet qualify for travel in the passenger cabin?

If your pet is travelling with you in the cabin in your container, please ensure that the animal has enough space to stand up in its natural position, turn around and lie down.

Your pet must remain in its container throughout the entire flight. During take-off and landing or if the aircraft is affected by turbulence, the container must either be stowed under the seat in front of you or secured with a lead to your seat belt.

Does my pet qualify to be shipped as cargo?

If your pet does not meet the requirements for travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, or you would like your pet to travel unaccompanied contact Lufthansa Cargo for more information.

What are the fees associated with pet transport?

Animals are not included in the free baggage allowance; the level of the charge is based on the size of the container or crate (excess baggage):

  • Small animals in the cabin traveling within Germany: 35 EUR/USD $50/CAD $50 per animal (Max: 8kg/18 lb)
  • Small animals in the cabin traveling within Europe and third countries: 50 EUR/USD $60/CAD $60 per animal (Max: 8kg/18 lb)
  • Small animals in the cabin traveling intercontinental: 70 EUR/USD $100/CAD $100 (Max: 8kg/18 lb)
  • Medium animals in hold traveling within Germany: 70 EUR/USD $100/CAD $100 (Animals in the cargo hold container. Dimensions 1: 60 x 45 x 40 cm /Dimensions 2: 80 x 55 x 55 cm)
  • Medium animals traveling within Europe and third countries: 100 EUR/USD $150/CAD $150 (Animals in the cargo hold container. Dimensions 1: 60 x 45 x 40 cm /Dimensions 2: 80 x 55 x 55 cm)
  • Medium animals traveling intercontinental: 150 EUR/USD $200/CAD $200 (Animals in the cargo hold: container. Dimensions 1: 60 x 45 x 40 cm /Dimensions 2: 80 x 55 x 55 cm)
  • Large animals traveling within Germany: 150 EUR/USD $200/CAD $200 (Animals in the cargo hold: container Dimensions 3: 100 x 65 x 70 cm /Dimensions 4: 125 x 75 x 85 cm)
  • Large animals within Europe and third countries: 200 EUR/USD $300/CAD $300 (Animals in the cargo hold: container. Dimensions 3: 100 x 65 x 70 cm /Dimensions 4: 125 x 75 x 85 cm)
  • Large animals traveling intercontinental: 300 EUR/USD $400/CAD $400 (Animals in the cargo hold: container. Dimensions 3: 100 x 65 x 70 cm /Dimensions 4: 125 x 75 x 85 cm)

What are the kennel requirements?

The maximum dimensions are 55 x 40 x 23 cm. The kennel must be watertight and bite proof.

What health documentation is required?

Many countries require health documents. As it is the passenger's responsibility to be aware of all regulations, you should consult your veterinarian and the local embassy to where you'll be traveling to ensure that the animal will comply with all requirements.

Are there any other restrictions?

Lufthansa can refuse to transport an animal due to illness, aggressive behavior, poor kenneling, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer, or destination airports.

Guide dogs, hearing dogs and other comparable service dogs are carried in the cabin free of charge on all Lufthansa flights. Such dogs must be registered in good time before the flight. If you have booked a flight to/from the USA, there is also the option of transporting an ESAN dog (emotional support animal) in the aircraft cabin free of charge. You will require confirmation from your doctor that you require an assistance dog. Please note that the dog’s suitability for transport in the aircraft cabin may be checked.

On long-haul flights arrangements must be made regarding the dog’s hygiene. Written confirmation is required that the animal can defecate and urinate on command so that other passengers are not disturbed in any way.



Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.