Is there an extra fee for big dogs on planes?

Pretty much all airlines charge an extra fee if you bring your pup as carry-on luggage. The cost varies depending on the airline and the size of your dog. Some charge around $125 each way while others can be $250 or more each flight. Basically you gotta pay to play if you want Fido by your side on the flight. Nevertheless, many people think the fee is worth it to keep their pal by their side during travel.n

What paperwork is required for an emotional support animal?

You’ll need a letter from your therapist or doctor saying your dog is an emotional support animal. The letter needs to be on official letterhead and describe how the dog helps ease your anxiety or other issues. Some airlines ask for this letter to be dated within a year of your flight dates. On the other hand, emotional support animals have more lenient rules than regular pets, so it’s a good option if you need your furry friend to accompany you but they’re too big for the cabin normally.

Is my large pet safe flying in cargo?

That’s a good question. Statistically, the majority of pets make it safely in the cargo holds of planes. However, there have been some awful incidents where animals got injured or worse from overheating or other issues. So basically there are no guarantees when animals fly as cargo instead of in the cabin . Perhaps it’s safest of all to drive with an anxious or elderly pet instead of risking flying down in those freight areas. You gotta do what feels right for the well-being of your furry family member.n

What are some options if airlines won’t allow my pet?

If your pup is too huge for cabin travel on commercial flights, another choice is to see if there’s a pet transport service available. Some services will fly your dog private charter flights in actual kennels in the main cabin. While pricey – it could run over $1000 each way – it gives anxious owners peace of mind. Other alternatives involve driving long distances or looking into pet-friendly trains. You may also see if a friend can dog-sit nearby your destination. There’s usually a way to make it work, you just have to get creative!n

Airlines That Accept Large and Big Dogs as Pets to Travel With You

Airlines That Allow Large Dogs: Your Complete Guide

As a frequent flyer with dogs, one of the most common questions I get is “Which airlines will let me bring my big dog?” If you have a Great Dane, Saint Bernard or other large breed, finding an airline that accommodates them can seem impossible. But there are actually several options. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll outline the major US carriers and their pet policies, restrictions, fees and tips from my own experiences to help you and Fido fly smoothly.

Delta

Delta is one of the most pet-friendly airlines and allows dogs over 20 pounds in the cabin as long as they can fit under the seat in a carrier. The maximum size is dependent on the aircraft but generally ranges from 18-22 inches long by 14-17 inches high by 7-9 inches wide. Dogs must remain in the carrier for the entirety of the flight.

As an example, my 80-pound Labrador Remy fit perfectly in a large Sherpa carrier that measured 22x15x9 inches. A Mastiff or Bernese Mountain Dog owner may have trouble finding an appropriate carrier, but many Great Danes can squeeze into the max dimensions if relaxed. Delta charges a non-refundable fee of 5 each way for dogs over 20 pounds. Extra fees may apply during certain times of year.

American Airlines

American has similar size restrictions to Delta, allowing dogs over 20 pounds in soft-sided carriers that fit under the seat. The maximum dimensions are slightly smaller at 17x13x9 inches, which can pose difficulties for giant and extra-large breed owners. But from experience, my friend was able to fly with her Great Dane using three carriers to house her dog within the allowed space.

Airlines That Accept Large and Big Dogs as Pets to Travel With You photo 3

Like Delta, American charges $125 each way for animals over 15 pounds. Make absolute certain to reserve your pet’s space at the time of booking your flight, as availability is limited and the carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you with no part extending into the aisle.

United

United has a weight limit rather than dimension-based policy. Dogs must be under 20 pounds to travel as carry-on. That rules out most giant breeds unless they are particularly petite examples of their type. Larger dogs can travel in the cargo hold on flights within the US, in their owners’ crate. However, United’s bag fees for oversized items would apply and space down Below is much more limited.

Southwest

You may be surprised to learn that Southwest has a very generous pet policy. Dogs of any size and breed can fly with their owners as long as they remain in an enclosed carrier throughout the flight at your feet or by your side, depending on seat availability. They do not charge pet fees but normal baggage fees may apply for very large crates.

As the only major carrier without assigned seating, getting a whole row or extra legroom seats to accommodate larger carriers can be stressful. But with patience and flexibility, flying on Southwest has worked great for my 100-pound Newfoundland on many trips over the years.

Airlines That Accept Large and Big Dogs as Pets to Travel With You photo 2

JetBlue

While JetBlue does allow dogs over 20 pounds fly in cabin, their size limit is only 50 pounds total weight including carrier. That pretty much rules out gentle giants like Saint Bernards. However, they do have a very reasonable $100 fee each way. If traveling light and your pup comes in under 50 pounds including carrier, JetBlue can be a solid and affordable option.

Alaska Airlines

Similar to JetBlue, Alaska Airlines has a total weight limit of 50 pounds for in-cabin pets rather than dimensional restrictions. But their legroom and lack of jetlag make them top choice for short flights within a region, especially if you have a smaller to mid-sized giant breed rather than extra-large. The $125 pet fee each way is competitive too.

So in summary, for true giant breeds Delta, American, and Southwest tend to work best based on their seat and size accommodations. But all circumstances are different. It pays to check carrier regulations, reserve your spot early, and consider alternate carriers if needed for the smoothest flying experience with your furry friend.

Additional Tips

Contact the airline directly about your specific dog’s dimensions before booking to avoid surprises
Invest in collapsible soft-sided carriers that can compress small for storage at home but expand large enough for travel
Consider calming aids for dogs prone to anxiety like CBD oils or calming treats with vet approval
Bring pee pads, paper towel, baggies and clean up any accidents immediately
Notify the crew if your dog seems stressed so they can check on you

With proper preparation, most well-behaved giants can fly comfortably. From my experience, it’s better to drive if flights involve connections or many hours in cargo. But planes have allowed me to enjoy family trips across states with my massive fur-babies like the Newf over the years. I hope these guidelines help you determine the best option for airline travel with your big dog!

Let me know if you have any other questions! Safe travels to all my fellow flyers with furry companions.

Airline Options for Traveling with Large Dogs

Airline	Weight Limit	Crate Size	Advance Reservation
Delta	70 lbs	Require airline-approved soft-sided or hard plastic crate	At least one day before flight
United	100 lbs	Require airline-approved soft-sided or hard plastic crate	At least one day before flight
American	70 lbs	Require airline-approved soft-sided or hard plastic crate	At least two days before flight
Alaska	75 lbs	Require airline-approved soft-sided or hard plastic crate	At least one day before flight
Southwest	No weight limit for dogs	Require airline-approved soft-sided crate	No advance reservation required

FAQ

Which airlines let me bring my big dog as a pet?

A few major airlines in the US basically allow dogs over a certain size in the aircraft cabin. Delta and American will let you bring dogs that can sit under the seat in front of you without sticking their head out. So basically as long as your pup is not a huge Great Dane or something, they may let you bring them on board. At the same time, there are size and weight limits so check the airline website for specifics.
Is there an extra fee for big dogs on planes?

Pretty much all airlines charge an extra fee if you bring your pup as carry-on luggage. The cost varies depending on the airline and the size of your dog. Some charge around $125 each way while others can be $250 or more each flight. Basically you gotta pay to play if you want Fido by your side on the flight. Nevertheless, many people think the fee is worth it to keep their pal by their side during travel.
What paperwork is required for an emotional support animal?

You’ll need a letter from your therapist or doctor saying your dog is an emotional support animal. The letter needs to be on official letterhead and describe how the dog helps ease your anxiety or other issues. Some airlines ask for this letter to be dated within a year of your flight dates. On the other hand, emotional support animals have more lenient rules than regular pets, so it’s a good option if you need your furry friend to accompany you but they’re too big for the cabin normally.
Do airlines provide special accommodations for large dogs?

It depends on the airline. Some may allow you to pre-board with your dog so you have space to get them settled in their carrier under the seat. Maybe they’ll give you early exit rows or bulkhead seats too for extra legroom. A few carriers offer “Pet Safe” zones where well-behaved pets can stay on flights, but these spots are limited. Ultimately it’s best to check each airline’s policies and make a reservation far ahead online if you want the best spot for your big boy. You don’t want to be stuck trying to lug a Great Dane onto a packed plane through the regular aisle!
Is my large pet safe flying in cargo?

That’s a good question. Statistically, the majority of pets make it safely in the cargo holds of planes. However, there have been some awful incidents where animals got injured or worse from overheating or other issues. So basically there are no guarantees when animals fly as cargo instead of in the cabin. Perhaps it’s safest of all to drive with an anxious or elderly pet instead of risking flying down in those freight areas. You gotta do what feels right for the well-being of your furry family member.
What are some options if airlines won’t allow my pet?

If your pup is too huge for cabin travel on commercial flights, another choice is to see if there’s a pet transport service available. Some services will fly your dog private charter flights in actual kennels in the main cabin. While pricey – it could run over $1000 each way – it gives anxious owners peace of mind. Other alternatives involve driving long distances or looking into pet-friendly trains. You may also see if a friend can dog-sit nearby your destination. There’s usually a way to make it work, you just have to get creative!

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