Flying with your dog or cat isn’t just about buying a ticket anymore. It’s a maze of paperwork, specific crate dimensions (that they actually measure!), and timing your "application" just right. China Southern Pet Policy is actually surprisingly decent compared to some budget carriers, but they are strict. If your paperwork is off by a day or your crate doesn't have the right mesh, they’ll just say no. Simple as that.

The Big Question: Cabin or Cargo?

Most people assume their pet has to go in the dark, scary hold. For a long time, that was the only way. But things changed recently. China Southern finally expanded its "Pets in Cabin" service, and honestly, it’s a game changer—if you’re on the right route.

Flying in the Cabin (The "Pets on Board" Deal)

This used to be just for a few routes, but as of 2025/2026, they’ve opened it up to about 18 major cities including Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen.

• The Catch: It’s domestic only. Don't expect to fly your Poodle in the cabin from Los Angeles to Guangzhou. It’s not happening.

• Weight Limit: Your pet + the carrier needs to be under 5kg (about 11 lbs). That’s basically just small cats and toy dog breeds.

• Booking: You have to do this through their app or mini-program at least 6 hours before. They only allow 4 pets per flight, so if you wait until the last minute, you’re toast.

• The Cost: It's usually a fixed fee—around 1380 RMB (~$200) depending on the distance, but I’ve seen it fluctuate. You’re essentially paying for their "seat" space.

Checked Baggage (The Cargo Hold)

If your dog is a Golden Retriever or you're flying international, the hold is your only option. They call this "Small Animals as Checked Baggage."

• Temperature Matters: They won't fly pets in the hold of B738 aircraft because of temperature control issues. Check your plane type before you get your heart set on a specific flight.

• The 32kg Rule: Most routes cap the total weight (pet + crate) at 32kg. If your dog is a unit and exceeds this, you might have to look into "Manifest Cargo," which is a whole different headache involving warehouses and brokers.

The "No-Fly" List: Brachycephalic Breeds

Ugh, this is the part that catches everyone off guard. If your pet has a "smooshed" face, China Southern will likely reject them. Why? Because these breeds struggle to breathe at high altitudes/stress.

• Dogs: Pugs, Bulldogs (all types), Boxers, Chow Chows, Boston Terriers, Mastiffs, and even Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

• Cats: Persian, British Shorthair, Burmese, and Himalayan.

  They are firm on this. I’ve seen people try to argue that their Pug is "long-nosed," but the gate agents have a list. They won't budge.

Documentation: The Paperwork Nightmare

Do not—I repeat, do not—show up without the original copies of these.

1. Animal Quarantine Certificate: For domestic, it’s usually from a county-level authority. For international, you need the official one from the PRC Animal and Plant Quarantine Department.

2. Rabies Vaccination: Must be current. Not "expiring in two days." Current.

3. Microchips: Mandatory for international entry into China. ISO 11784/11785 standards (15 digits). If it’s not readable, you’re in for a long day in a quarantine facility.

Fees: How Much is This Going to Hurt?

Pet travel isn't included in your free baggage allowance. Even if you're flying Business Class with zero suitcases, you still pay for the pet.

International Fee Standard (Approximate)

Note: If you’re flying from Europe, they’ll charge in Euros (usually €190 to €470). It’s never cheap, is it?

The Crate: It’s Not Just a Box

I’ve seen people try to use those flimsy plastic carriers from the supermarket. Don’t. China Southern requires:

• Metal doors: Plastic latches are a big "no."

• Three-side ventilation: Crucial for the cargo hold.

• Absorbent mat: Put a towel or a pee pad down. They will check.

• The "Grid" Packaging: This is a weird China Southern quirk. They often require a protective net or specific binding straps to be wrapped around the crate in a grid shape. They sometimes provide the net at the airport (for a fee), but it’s better to be prepared.

My "Been There" Advice

• The 72-Hour Rule: Call them. Don't just book online and hope for the best. You need to apply for the pet space at least 72 hours before departure. They have a limit on how many animals can be on one plane (usually 3 in the hold), and once that's full, you're out of luck.

• Stopovers: If you have a layover in Guangzhou (their main hub), check if your pet needs to be re-checked. Sometimes they do, sometimes they don't—it depends on if it’s a through-check.

• Sedation: Most vets (and airlines) hate it. A groggy pet can't react to turbulence. Just use a familiar blanket that smells like home.

It’s a lot of stress, honestly. I usually need a stiff drink after getting a pet through check-in. But if you follow the China Southern Pet Policy to the letter—and I mean the literal letter—it’s doable.