Best Airlines That Allow Large and Big Dogs to Fly in the Cabin with You

Airlines That Fly Big Dogs: Your Guide to Flying with Oversize Canines

As a frequent flyer with a Great Dane, finding airlines that accept big dogs in the cabin is important to me. Whether you’ve got a Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, or other giant breed, cabin access is much less stressful than cargo for pooches. Here’s a rundown of major carriers and their policies on flying with oversize canines.

Delta Airlines

Delta allows dogs and cats under 20 pounds in the cabin for free as regular carry-on. However, they impose size restrictions on dogs over 20 pounds. Specifically, your furry friend must be able to sit on your lap or fit comfortably under the seat without protruding. From my experience, this effectively limits Delta to medium and smaller dog breeds.

You can check large dogs, but they must be in an approved pet kennel that fits under the seat. Kennels cannot exceed 140 linear inches or a length + width + height of 108 inches, which is pretty tight for big breeds. Unless your dog is unusually svelte, most giant dogs won’t meet Delta’s size limits for cabin travel.

United Airlines

United’s size policy is even more restrictive, with a weight limit of just 20 pounds for any animal in the cabin. Anything over that size has to be checked as cargo. In my view, this rules out United as an option for owners of large and giant dog breeds.

American Airlines

American Airlines does allow dogs slightly larger than other carriers, with a weight limit of 75 pounds for animals traveling in the main cabin. However, there are still restrictions on the kennel size and whether the pooch fits under the seat without overflowing into the aisle.

In practice, most dogs over 50 pounds are unlikely to meet American’s size criteria. However, compared to other major airlines, American offers the most lenient policies for medium and some larger breeds hoping to fly in the cabin rather than cargo.

Alaska Airlines

Of the big U.S. carriers, Alaska Airlines has one of the most pet-friendly policies. They permit dogs up to 75 pounds AND 21 inches tall to travel with owners in the main cabin, which encompasses many giant breeds.

From my experience flying my Dane on Alaska, their size specifications are also more realistically assessed than competitors. As long as your pooch fits in an approved carrier under the seat, the airline is accommodating of larger canine passengers.

International Airlines

Some European and Asian carriers also allow sizable dogs in the cabin. For example, Lufthansa permits any dog 20 kg (44 pounds) or under to travel on board.

Air France is also fairly flexible, with a weight restriction of 17 kg for dogs in-cabin. The carrier provides soft-sided bags for transporting dogs in the aircraft if needed.

Scandinavian airlines like Finnair, SAS and Norwegian open the cabin door even wider for flying pooches—up to a whopping 32 kg (70 pounds)! As plane policies go, you’d be hard-pressed to find more pet-friendly than these carriers across the pond.

Smaller and Discount Airlines

Boutique carriers catering to niche markets are sometimes the most accommodating for large dogs. For instance, Boutique Air flying in and out of smaller domestic airports allows animals up to 100 pounds onboard. Similarly, private jet charter companies like JSX permit pooches over 75 lbs. However, these options come at a significantly higher price tag.

At the end of the day, when it comes to giant breeds, your best domestic bets for flying in-cabin are Alaska Airlines and American Airlines. But be sure to check policies for your specific itinerary, as ground rules can vary by route.

Tips for Flying with an Oversized Pup

Now that you know which airlines accept larger canine passengers, here are some additional tips for ensuring a smooth flight with your fur baby:

1. Make reservations ASAP – Space is limited, so book well in advance of your travel dates. Many airlines require Veterinary Health Forms as well.
2. Use an FAA-approved pet carrier or “bag” – It needs to be big enough for stretching out comfortably but still small enough to fit under the seat. Measure twice!
3. Arrive extra early – Expect delays checking in your dog as a pet rather than carry-on luggage. Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure.
4. Calm your canine – Use calming treats, oils, or medication as needed to prevent anxiety. Having a nervous puppy on an airplane is a recipe for disaster.
5. Be prepared – Bring plenty of water, paper towels, poop bags, and a leash for airport walks if possible to relieve yourself. Tummy troubles are common for flying fur babies.

With some planning and preparation, you can give your giant doggo an enjoyable flying experience instead of banishing them to cold cargo. I hope these tips help you find an airline that respects the bond between hoomans and their heckin’ big dog friends.

My Personal Experience Flying with a Great Dane

I have two Great Danes, so air travel is always an adventure! The bigger guy Max is over 150 pounds – no way would he fit under any airline seat. We mainly fly him cargo because there aren’t many options. But our smaller Dane Lucy has flown in-cabin a bunch.

She’s about 100 pounds so squeaks in under Alaska’s guidelines. The biggest challenges are finding a carrier she feels comfy in yet still complies with size policies. We use a snug-fitting Softie brand bag that folds flat but expands for her long limbs. The keys are getting her accustomed to it through desensitization training and packing high-value treats to keep her calm on the flight.

It can be stressful having a huge dog in such tight quarters. But whenever we take Lucy, the flight attendants are always so kind and accommodating. Most passengers are curious about her too. As long as she behaves, which training ensures, in-cabin travel for a big pup is totally doable with the right precautions. It beats cargo every time in my view!

Hopefully these tips and insights help you find an airline that suits Fido’s flying needs whether sportin’ an economy Plus-sized seat or checked down below. Safe travels to all pets and their people taking wing! Let me know if you have any other gigantic dog travel questions.

Airlines That Allow Large Dogs in Cabin

Airline	Breed Restrictions	Weight limit	Cabin Size	Advance Notice
Delta	None	20 lbs or under	Under passenger’s seat or in carrier	At least 24 hours
American	Potentially dangerous dogs prohibited	20 lbs or under	Under passenger’s seat or in carrier	At least 48 hours
United	Potentially dangerous dogs prohibited	20 lbs or under	Under passenger’s seat or in carrier	At least 48 hours
Alaska	None	20-50 lbs depending on size	Under passenger’s seat or in carrier	At least 48 hours
JetBlue	Potentially dangerous dogs prohibited	20 lbs or under	Under passenger’s seat or in carrier	At least 48 hours

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow big dogs in the passenger cabin?

   Some major airlines that basically let bigger dogs fly in the cabin include American Airlines, Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines. But the dog’s weight and size has to meet their requirements.

2. What are the size and weight limits for cabin pets?

   Most airlines limit dogs to around 20 pounds or so. Some may go up to around 70 pounds. The dog also can’t be too tall when standing. The limits vary, so check each airline website for their specific policies. Airlines want to make sure heavier pets don’t cause issues in an emergency.

3. Do I need to buy an extra ticket for my pet?

   You usually have to purchase an extra “pet ticket” for your furry friend. Prices vary but expect to pay around $125 each way on major airlines. Some discount carriers charge less. However, even though you pay, your pup doesn’t get peanuts or pretzels!

4. What paperwork is required?

   In addition to paying the pet fee, you need to present proof your dog is healthy, up-to-date on shots, and trained. Airlines ask for a vet health certificate stating your pet was seen recently and is okay to fly. Rabies vaccination records also prove your pooch won’t, uh, go batty on the plane.

5. Is it stressful for dogs to fly?

   The cabin environment can be overwhelming for pets. There is noise, movement, and scary take-offs and landings. However, many frequent flying pups seem to handle it just fine. To calm nerves, some vets recommend sedative aids from your vet. But sedating carries risks, so talk to your vet instead of self-medicating your pet. Overall it’s best if your dog is accustomed to traveling in new places.

   

6. What about international flights?

   Taking Fido abroad gets kinda tricky due to strict quarantine rules. Each country has different pet paperwork and vaccine requirements. Also, not all international airlines take pets in-cabin. Your best bet is to thoroughly research import regulations way before your travel dates. Crating and checking pets may be the only option for some global jaunts.

7. Is it worth it to fly with a large dog?

   For many pet parents, the short term stress is worth ensuring their furry family member can stick by their side on trips. However, flying commercially with a huge hound is not for every pooch or owner. You must seriously consider your dog’s comfort and tolerance for new experiences. Maybe a pet sitter or doggy daycare is better than a potential fright flight. In the end, do what’s suitable and safest for your pup.