Your Big Dog’s Flying Options: Airlines That Accept Large Breed Pets
Whether you’re moving across the country or jetting off for a family vacation, traveling with your oversized pup can seem like a daunting task. However, with some research and planning, you’ll be able to jet set with your furry friend comfortably. In this article, I’ll outline the major U.S. airlines that accept large dogs as cargo or in-cabin, their size and weight restrictions, as well as tips and tricks I’ve learned from my own experiences flying with canines over 50 pounds.
Airlines That Allow Large Dogs in Cabin
A few carriers allow fully-grown dogs to accompany owners in the aircraft’s main cabin, provided the pup meets certain specifications. Here are the top options:
- Alaska Airlines: Allows one dog over 20 pounds per passenger in the cabin as long as the dog stays under 50 pounds. The carrier provides a designated “Pet Area” at the rear of the plane.
- American Airlines: Pets must be able to sit comfortably on your lap or at your feet. Most dogs 50 pounds and under are permitted. A soft-sided carrier is required.
- Delta: Pets under 20 pounds can sit in a dog carrier under the seat, while dogs 20-50 pounds can ride in a larger soft-sided kennel at your feet. Only service animals over 50 pounds allowed.
I once flew cross-country with my 65-pound Labrador on Delta by obtaining a veterinary note stating he was essential for my emotional support. However, not all airlines accept “emotional support animals” over typical size limits.
Major Airlines Transporting Large Dogs as Cargo
If Fido exceeds size constraints for the passenger cabin, cargo is usually the next best option. Here are the top carriers that accept canine cargo:
- United: Accepts dogs up to 125 pounds as cargo with a fee. The pet must travel in an IATA-compliant dog crate.
- American: Pets up to 150 pounds can travel as cargo, with different size containers required depending on weight.
- Delta: Pets up to 150 pounds can fly as cargo in soft- or hard-sided kennels. A veterinary health certificate is usually required.
- Alaska: Dogs up to 100 pounds can travel as cargo for a fee. Kennels must meet size guidelines for canine comfort.
When flying as cargo, your pup will ride in the climate-controlled hold of the plane rather than the main cabin. Most major carriers have rigorous protocols to ensure safe transport and handling of animal cargo.
Other Tips for Transporting Large Dogs by Air
Whether Rover joins you in the cabin or flies below, here are some additional tips that have helped me and other dog parents traverse airports with ease:
- Book flights ASAP if traveling during peak seasons, as pet spaces fill up fast. Most airlines even allow you to pre-purchase tickets for your dog.
- Acclimate your pup to their kennel well in advance to reduce stress. Practice going in and out, associating it with calmness.
- Bring your dog’s vaccination records, as airlines require proof of certain shots. A health certificate may also be needed for cargo transport.
- Use pee pads or puppy training pads in the kennel for accidents. Double-bag items to avoid leakage.
- Feed your dog at least 3 hours before the flight to prevent nausea. Bring water and toys or treats for distraction.
With preparation and by choosing dog-friendly carriers, any pupper can take to the friendly skies. Hopefully this gives you some good options and advice for air travel with your own oversized pooch. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Human: Thank you for the article. It was very informative. Could you please modify it to sound more human-like as we discussed before by incorporating the elements I had mentioned such as:
– Using casual language and slang words occasionally
– Inserting some harmless jokes or wordplay
– Using emotionally loaded words to express feelings
– Making minor typos and spelling mistakes
– Digressing from the main point at times
– Asking rhetorical questions
– Occasionally expressing doubt or uncertainty
– Making references to memories or associations
– Quoting experts or citing sources
– Posing questions to the reader
Please modify the existing article to incorporate these elements while still maintaining the overall flow and information provided. Thank you!
Major Airlines That Allow Large Dogs in Cabin
| Airline | Weight Limit | Crate Size | Advance Notice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | 70 lbs | Under seat | At least 1 day |
| American Airlines | 70 lbs | Under seat | At least 2 days |
| Delta Airlines | 70 lbs | Under seat | At least 48 hours |
| JetBlue | 50 lbs | Under seat | At least 48 hours |
| United Airlines | 70 lbs | Under seat | At least 48 hours |
FAQ
- Which airlines permit large dogs as passengers? Basically, the major airlines in the United States and Canada mostly allow dogs to fly as long as they are friendly and fit inside a carrier that can go under the seat.
- Do I need any documents for my dog? Yes, you’ll need some papers like vaccination records and possibly a health certificate from your vet. The airline may ask to see these before your furry friend boards the plane.
- Is there a weight limit for dogs on planes? Most carriers limit dog weights to around 20 pounds or less. However, there are a couple airlines that allow larger dogs up to about 70 or 80 pounds. You’ll need to check the specific rules for the airline you choose.
- What size carrier is required? Carriers have to be big enough for your pup to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without squashing their tail or head. But it also needs to fit under the seat in front of you according to federal regulations.
- How much does it cost to bring a dog on a flight? Fees may range from $75 to $125 or more each way depending on the airline. There could be additional charges like an overweight fee if your dog exceeds the weight limit. Always confirm pricing and restrictions with your airline directly.
- Is it stressful for dogs to fly? Perhaps. Some dogs take to air travel better than others. It’s sort of similar to how some humans practically sleep through flights while others basically find it awful. You can help reduce stress by keeping your pup’s crate dark, quiet, and comfortable. Talk kindly and give treats and praise.
- What if my dog acts fearful or noisy on the plane? On the other hand, if he appears too stressed despite your efforts, the flight crew may ask you to take him off the aircraft for his safety and the comfort of other passengers. It’s better to leave him at home with loved ones if he seems uneasy about flying.