Can Big Dogs Fly? Travel Tips for Bringing Your Large Dog on a Plane

The Complete Guide to Flying With Your Large Dog

If you want to take Fido along on your next flight, there are a few important things to know about flying with big dogs on planes. As the proud parent of a Great Dane named Marley, I’ve had my share of experiences navigating airline policies for large breeds. In this article, I’ll cover all the bases to help ensure a smooth trip for you and your furry friend.

Check Airline Size Restrictions

The first step is to check the size limitations for dogs on the specific airline you intend to fly. Most airlines only allow dogs under 20 pounds to fly in the cabin as carry-on items. Heavier dogs must travel in a designated space under the plane known as the cargo hold or baggage compartment. However, some carriers set the maximum allowable weight even lower, around 15 or 16 pounds.

For larger dogs, this means you’ll need to transport them as checked baggage rather than carry-on. Make sure the dimensions of your dog’s kennel meet the airline’s restrictions for the cargo hold as well. Kennel size is an important safety factor to avoid injury from being shifted around during takeoff, landing, and any turbulence encountered mid-flight.

Reserve a Space in Advance

Once you know your dog qualifies for cargo transport based on size, the next critical step is reserving their space on the plane early. Airline cargo rooms for pets fill up fast, especially around major holidays. Some carriers even have blackout dates where no animals at all are allowed. I’ve learned from personal experience that it’s best to book your dog’s spot no less than two weeks before your planned departure date if possible.

Go onto the airline’s website and look for the pet reservation option when booking your own seats. Provide all the standard identification info for your dog like type, size, age, and vaccinations. Pay the associated fees, which can range from around $100-300 each way depending on the specific flight and carrier. With space reserved, you’ll have peace of mind your furry friend has a spot.

Choose the Perfect Kennel

Your dog’s kennel is their safe sanctuary during the journey. It needs to be strong, well-ventilated, and just the right size. Here are some tips for choosing an airline-approved kennel:

1. Select a kennel specifically labeled for air travel to ensure it meets airline durability standards.
2. Choose a soft-sided kennel rather than hard plastic or metal for optimal safety if jostled around.
3. Make sure there is enough length for your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably.
4. Provide adequate ventilation with multiple openings above and below.
5. Do test runs at home so your pup is comfortable before the big day.

I like the Petmate Sky Kennel because it’s lightweight yet sturdy, and Marley seems very at ease inside. Take the time to get the right fit kennel – it’s your dog’s safe place in the sky.

Prepare Proper ID Tags and Paperwork

Air travel with dogs requires some important documentation. Make sure your pet has updated license tags with your current address in case of emergency. You’ll also need:

1. A health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel listing vaccinations and certification of good health.
2. Proof of rabies vaccination which must be administered at least 30 days before the flight date.
3. An order form from the kennel manufacturer stating it follows airline regulations.

Carry all paperwork in your carry-on in case of issues checking in. Don’t assume everything will go smoothly either – I’ve already had to provide proof of new vaccinations near the travel date due to changing rules.

Follow Diet and Medication Guidelines

Some airlines restrict what can be given to pets for the flight duration, so research allowed items carefully. In general:

• Provide only 50% of normal food 12 hours before the trip to prevent digestive upsets.
• Offer small amounts of water up until check-in time to prevent accidents.
• Check usage guidelines for any sedatives and avoid giving them within a few hours of flying.
• Carry motion sickness medication dosage instructions in case airsickness occurs mid-flight.

I like using calming chews and supplements for Marley in moderation before travel helps ease his nerves. Staying hydrated and nourished is important too. Ask your vet for tailored flying advice.

Arrive Extra Early for Check-In

Unlike passengers, checking pets as baggage involves extra paperwork, kennel inspection, and sometimes long lines. Build in a nice cushion of time for this process. I always aim to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours for international. The last thing you want is delays putting more stress on your pup.

Follow airline agent instructions carefully during check-in too. They may want to personally see your dog loaded in the kennel before accepting it. And prepare for potential issues like weighing to ensure correct baggage fees are paid. Taking it slow prevents mistakes.

Don’t Stress too Much About Safety

While the idea of beloved fur babies flying solo can cause anxiety, try not to catastrophize. Airlines actually take pet transport very seriously for liability and PR reasons. The cargo holds are pressurized and temperature controlled for animal comfort.

Flight tracking is often possible too if tensions arise. And cargo crews are specifically trained to handle animals with care. In all my trips with Marley, there have been zero problems. Deep down, dogs seem to understand we’re doing our best to include them in life’s adventures too.

Focus on your pet’s needs like food, water, safe travel kennel, and paperwork being in order. The cargo crew will do right by your buddy. Safe travels to you both!

Dealing with Potential Issues En Route

No trip ever goes perfectly, so remain flexible at all times when flying with dogs. Here are smart steps to take for unforeseen circumstances:

• Carry a 24/7 emergency vet phone number for your destination city.
• Bring a portable crate, food, leash in carry-on in case your pup can’t fly and you must take a later flight.
• Be prepared to kennel your dog locally if they show illness signs upon entry.
• Notify airline right away about lost kennels to dispatch tracing crews ASAP.
• Document any mishandling incidents factually for potential claims later.

With patience and backup plans, the fun you’ll have making memories together generally outweighs rare hassles. Safe travels to all! Let me know if any other flying fur baby questions come up.

Considerations for Traveling with Large Dogs on Planes

Dog Breed	Maximum Weight	Airline Requirements
Labrador	75 lbs	Most airlines allow under seat in carrier or on lap
German Shepherd	90 lbs	Must be in carrier that fits under seat
Golden Retriever	75 lbs	On lap or in carrier under seat depending on airline
Great Dane	150 lbs	Special arrangements and fees may apply
Saint Bernard	155 lbs	Only permitted as cargo on some airlines

FAQ

1. Can big dogs ride on planes?

   By and large, most airlines let big dogs fly as passengers. Though certain enormous dogs could basically be too big for the plane cabin. Airlines usually have size and weight limits for animals.

2. Do you have to pay extra fees for big dogs as plane passengers?

   Yeah, most airlines charge extra money for larger dogs to ride along. Since huge pooches take up more room under the seat than little pups. Fees can differ quite a lot between airlines. Expenses for a huge Great Dane might be more than twice as much as a cozy Cockapoo.

3. What paperwork is needed for flying with a big dog?

   To get Fido aboard the plane, the dog’s owner has to provide like proof of vaccinations, health certification from the vet, and the dog has to ride in an FAA-approved carrier that fits completely under the seat. Perhaps it would be smarter to check if there are any additional paperwork needs based on the specific airline too.

4. Are there size or weight limits for dogs on planes?

   Most definitely. Airlines set maximums to ensure safety and comfort for all passengers. Weight limits are commonly around 20 pounds or so, pretty much. Size limitsask that the dog fit comfortably in its carrier beneath the seat in front of the owner. But these rules can change now and then, so be sure to check each airline’s website or give them a call for their actual policies before booking airplane tickets for any large breed dogs. Nonetheless, most major airlines allow medium and giant dog breeds if conditions are met.

5. Can emotional support dogs be big dogs?

   It seems yes, larger dogs are allowed to fly as emotional support animals to provide emotional and psychiatric support to owners with mental health issues. However, airlines may get a bit leery of supersized dogs claiming that status. Likewise, there is some concern enormous animals could potentially disrupt other passengers. But in general, as long as medical paperwork checks out, big dogs too can serve as support pups according to regulations.

   Is it safe to bring a big dog on a plane as a passenger?

   On one hand, most experts say it’s genuinely okay to bring well-trained big dogs on planes as passengers if guidelines are appropriately followed. At the same time, nervous flyers may possibly feel uneasy near a 150 pound Saint Bernard no matter how pleasant. But for the overwhelming bulk of dogs, the cabin environment is deemed safe when dogs are leashed, crated, and remain under complete owner supervision. Regardless, it’s advisable to consider seatmate comfort levels when deciding to book a ticket for a very large companion dog.

   

6. What are some tips for flying with a big dog?

   Strongly, it’s best if your huge hound is accustomed to traveling. Desensitize them to sights of crates and planes beforehand. On flying day, make sure dog is tired out and relieved before the flight. During travel, offer toys and water. I’d also recommend massively informing nearby folks Fido is joining us – people frequently dig big sweet doggies! But whatever you do, don’t forget emergency poop bags or you’ll be in the doghouse, so to speak.