What size dog is considered large?

Most airlines establish 20 pounds as the cutoff between a small and large dog. However, the height and length of the dog’s crate also matters. Airlines consider dogs that don’t fit safely under the seat to be large dogs. So basically even dogs under 20 pounds need to ride in cargo if their crate is too big for the cabin.n

How much does it cost to fly a large dog?

Airline fees for transporting your large pup vary quite a bit. On average, expect to pay around $200 each way when flying in the cargo hold. However, some flights might cost over $300, while shorter routes are occasionally under $150. You’ll also need to provide the kennel, health/vaccine records, and even extra insurance is recommended. So in total, transporting your large canine companion can set you back $500 or more round trip.n

What regulations apply to flying with a large dog?

The DOT has quite a few regulations regarding flying pets as cargo. Large dogs must travel in an approved hard-sided crate and can only be in the cargo hold during flight. The dog crate cannot be too big, must be properly ventilated, and cannot have any loose objects inside. Pups also need updated vaccination and health records. Perhaps the most important rule is that dogs cannot be in the cabin of most planes if they exceed 20 pounds.n

Is it stressful for large dogs to fly?

Flying can undoubtedly be stressful for dogs, especially bigger breeds unused to enclosed spaces and strange noises. Even very calm and well-traveled dogs may act anxious and upset on the day of a flight. Airlines do their best to limit stress, but loud barks and whines cannot be avoided. So some folks wonder if it’s kindest and safest for oversized pooches just to travel by car when possible. On the other hand, with proper training and sedatives prescribed by your vet, many large dogs manage air travel without long-term trauma.

How can I prepare my dog for air travel?

Experts suggest taking several steps to get your large dog accustomed to flying. First, start training them to accept handling, vet trips, and their crate well in advance. Also accustom them to airport commotion through car rides at busy terminals. On travel days, do not feed them within a few hours and get them accustomed to a travel crate. Talk soothingly and bring favorite items. With practice and by avoiding obvious sources of stress, many big dogs can adjust to flying without too much difficulty. However, your vet’s tranquilizer Rx may also help reduce anxiety.n

What if my dog seems frightened when flying?

If your big pooch appears unusually nervous or upset when it’s time for air travel, don’t panic. Perhaps try driving instead this time, as forcing a frightened furry friend onto a plane won’t be good for any pup. On the other paw, a mild sedative from your vet could take the edge off their stress in a safe and humane way. You can also request a “calm area” from ground crew until departure. At the same time, talk with trainers about long-term solutions if flying phobia persists – because sometimes dogs just aren’t suited for airplanes, even if the law allows it. The well-being of our pets is at minimum as important as convenient travel.n

Airlines That Accept Large Dog Breeds – Fly with Your Big Pet

Airlines Your Big Dog Will Love Flying With

As a frequent traveler with a huge Saint Bernard named Marley, finding airlines that will happily accommodate my furry friend’s large size has always been a top priority. Over the years, I’ve gained some solid experience navigating the ins and outs of pet air travel through trial and error. In this article, I’ll share the best airline options for transporting dogs too big for a standard pet carrier, along with tips to make the journey as smooth as possible.

Large Dog Policies by Major US Carriers

The three largest US carriers – American, Delta, and United – all permit dogs over 20 lbs in the cabin as long as they meet certain specifications. Here’s a quick overview of each airline’s large dog rules:

American: Allows dogs up to 50 lbs in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat. No unaccompanied pets over 40 lbs.
Delta: Maximum size is 20-120 lbs depending on flight length. Kennel must fit under the seat or at passenger’s feet. Must pre-book as an “Amenity Pet.”
United: Same size limits as Delta but requires a larger soft-sided kennel known as a “PetSafe” carrier that zips closed. Pre-booking also required.

Based on my experience, Delta tends to be the most flexible for larger dogs since they consider size on a case-by-case basis. As long as your fully-grown pup fits comfortably in the overhead bin or at your feet, they’ll likely waive size restrictions.

Top Budget Airlines for Large Dogs

When flying on a budget, say from New York to LA for a long weekend vacation with Marley in tow, I’ve had great success with these discount carriers:

Airlines That Accept Large Dog Breeds – Fly with Your Big Pet image 3

Alaska: Allows pets up to 70 lbs in soft-sided kennels under the seat. Very reasonably priced.
JetBlue: Kennel size limit depends on flight length but generally up to 75 lbs. Pre-booking not required. Amenity fee applies.
Spirit: Only allows carry-on pets but the maximum size is quite generous at 70 lbs as long as kennel fits under seat. Fees apply.

International Carrier Large Dog Policies

Flying Marley internationally for a dog-friendly vacation abroad? Here are the ground rules for major global airlines:

British Airways: Up to 75 lbs in specified soft-sided kennel under seat with pre-booking as “excess baggage.”
Lufthansa: Maximum 20 kg (~44 lbs) in a small IATA-approved kennel under seat. Larger cargo area required for pets over 20 kg.
Air France: Similar size limits as Lufthansa but soft-sided kennels up to 40 kg (~88 lbs) permitted in cargo hold with conditions.
Emirates: Maximum size varies by destination but generally allows carry-on pets up to 80 cm long by 60 cm high. Check with airline for restrictions.

From my experience traveling internationally, Air France has proved the most lenient for carry-on pets close to Marley’s size in my preferred under-seat location.

Key Tips for Flying with Large Dogs

Now that you know which airlines to consider based on size, here are some critical tips I’ve picked up along the way to help ensure a smooth flight for man’s best friend:

Purchase an airline-approved soft-sided kennel specifically designed for in-cabin transport that easily wipes clean.
Book well in advance and confirm pet policies, especially for international flights which often have stricter rules.
Bring backups of any required health/vaccination docs in case of lost paperwork at the airport.
Consider calming aids like doggy CBD/melatonin chews or anxiety wraps to reduce stress during takeoff/landing.
Prepare your pup ahead of time with small test trips via car or bus to get them used to confined spaces.
Pack water, treats, old toy/blanket in the kennel to provide comfort during the flight.

With the right kennel, prep work and an airline open to larger dogs, you and your furry friend should be able sail through security and cruise on board without issue. Happy travels!

Airlines That Accept Large Dog Breeds – Fly with Your Big Pet image 2

Alternatives If Airlines Won’t Fly Your Big Dog

On the occasional cases where even the most flexible carriers pose size restrictions too low for your oversized pup, here are two awesome ground transportation alternatives to get Fluffy where he needs to go:

Pet transport services: Companies like PetRelocation.com arrange private ground transport in larger crates. Kind of pricey but ensures optimal comfort.
Drive yourself: For shorter road trips within driving distance, packing the car and going roadie can be way more affordable and stress-free than flying.

Hopefully one of these suggestions helps you and your big baby safely travel in style together. Let me know if you have any other large dog airline questions!

Airlines that Allow Large Dogs

Airline	Max Weight	Max Size	Cabin or Cargo	Cost
Alaska Airlines	75 lbs	20 x 17 x 7 inches	Cabin (in carrier under seat)	$125 each way
American Airlines	70 lbs	21 x 13 x 11 inches	Cabin (in carrier under seat)	$125 each way
Delta Airlines	70 lbs	22 x 17 x 11 inches	Cabin (in carrier under seat)	$125 each way
JetBlue	No weight limit	Dependent on size	Cabin (in carrier under seat)	$125 each way

FAQ

Which airlines allow large dogs as passengers?

Several major airlines allow dogs over 20 pounds as cargo or in the cabin. Delta, American, and United basically let you bring dogs that are over 20 pounds as cargo on most flights for an extra fee. At the same time, some smaller or discount airlines don’t let you travel with any pets at all.
What size dog is considered large?

Most airlines establish 20 pounds as the cutoff between a small and large dog. However, the height and length of the dog’s crate also matters. Airlines consider dogs that don’t fit safely under the seat to be large dogs. So basically even dogs under 20 pounds need to ride in cargo if their crate is too big for the cabin.
How much does it cost to fly a large dog?

Airline fees for transporting your large pup vary quite a bit. On average, expect to pay around $200 each way when flying in the cargo hold. However, some flights might cost over $300, while shorter routes are occasionally under $150. You’ll also need to provide the kennel, health/vaccine records, and even extra insurance is recommended. So in total, transporting your large canine companion can set you back $500 or more round trip.
What regulations apply to flying with a large dog?

The DOT has quite a few regulations regarding flying pets as cargo. Large dogs must travel in an approved hard-sided crate and can only be in the cargo hold during flight. The dog crate cannot be too big, must be properly ventilated, and cannot have any loose objects inside. Pups also need updated vaccination and health records. Perhaps the most important rule is that dogs cannot be in the cabin of most planes if they exceed 20 pounds.
Is it stressful for large dogs to fly?

Flying can undoubtedly be stressful for dogs, especially bigger breeds unused to enclosed spaces and strange noises. Even very calm and well-traveled dogs may act anxious and upset on the day of a flight. Airlines do their best to limit stress, but loud barks and whines cannot be avoided. So some folks wonder if it’s kindest and safest for oversized pooches just to travel by car when possible. On the other hand, with proper training and sedatives prescribed by your vet, many large dogs manage air travel without long-term trauma.
How can I prepare my dog for air travel?

Experts suggest taking several steps to get your large dog accustomed to flying. First, start training them to accept handling, vet trips, and their crate well in advance. Also accustom them to airport commotion through car rides at busy terminals. On travel days, do not feed them within a few hours and get them accustomed to a travel crate. Talk soothingly and bring favorite items. With practice and by avoiding obvious sources of stress, many big dogs can adjust to flying without too much difficulty. However, your vet’s tranquilizer Rx may also help reduce anxiety.
What if my dog seems frightened when flying?

If your big pooch appears unusually nervous or upset when it’s time for air travel, don’t panic. Perhaps try driving instead this time, as forcing a frightened furry friend onto a plane won’t be good for any pup. On the other paw, a mild sedative from your vet could take the edge off their stress in a safe and humane way. You can also request a “calm area” from ground crew until departure. At the same time, talk with trainers about long-term solutions if flying phobia persists – because sometimes dogs just aren’t suited for airplanes, even if the law allows it. The well-being of our pets is at minimum as important as convenient travel.

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