Can Large or Big Dogs Fly on Commercial Airlines? – Guidelines for Bringing Your Pet On a Plane

Can Big Dogs Fly? Understanding the Rules for Bringing Large Dogs on Planes

As a dog owner and frequent flyer, one of the most common questions I get is whether it’s possible to bring a large dog on an airplane. The short answer is yes—but with some important considerations. In this article, I’ll break down the different rules and requirements for traveling with big dogs by air.

Airline Size and Weight Limits

Nearly all airlines have specific size and weight limits for pets flying in-cabin as checked baggage. Some of the most common maximums are:

1. Most carriers allow dogs under 20 pounds to fly in-cabin in a carrier that fits under the seat. This rules out many large breeds.
2. Many airlines have a weight limit of up to 50 or 70 pounds for checking dogs as baggage in the cargo hold. This covers some large and giant breeds.
3. The maximum size limit is often around 18 inches tall or long for the pet carrier. So very tall or long dogs may not fit even if they are under the weight restriction.

It’s important to double check the policies and limits for your specific airline, as they can vary slightly. You’ll also want to consider international rules if flying between countries.

Health Certificates and Vaccination Records

In addition to size/weight restrictions, most airlines require dogs traveling in the cargo hold to have a health certificate from a licensed vet. This proves the dog is fit to fly and verifies its vaccinations are up to date. Records must generally be dated within 10 days of the travel dates.

Some destinations like other countries may have additional vaccine requirements listed on the health certificate like rabies vaccinations. It’s wise to research import rules for your destination well in advance.

Booking Early and Purchasing a Ticket

If flying a large dog, it’s crucial to book well ahead of your travel dates. Many airlines limit the number of pets allowed per flight for safety and space reasons. The earlier you reserve, the better chance of securing a spot. You’ll also need to purchase an extra ticket for your pet, which can be $100-300 each way depending on the carrier.

Using the Right Carrier and Preparing for Takeoff/Landing

The pet carrier must meet airline standards for safety and securty in transit. It should be sturdy, have good ventilation, and be properly labeled with your contact info. It may help to desensitize your dog to the carrier before travel through training at home. You can also ask your vet about sedation options if they seem anxious.

When I flew with my Mastiff, I brought tranquilizers from the vet just in case. It’s also a good idea to contact the airline about their procedures for loading/unloading dogs to reduce stress as much as possible during takeoff and landing.

Considering Ground Transportation Too

Don’t forget that getting to and from the airport can pose challenges too if you have a large dog in tow. Some taxis and rideshares don’t allow pets. Renting a vehicle may be necessary, or asking a friend for a ride if possible. I once called dozens of cab companies and rental agencies trying to coordinate ground transportation—it was a hassle!

Weighing the Pros and Cons

While it is feasible to fly most big dogs if all the proper precautions are followed, it’s definitely not without some potential downsides:

• Higher costs for pet tickets, larger carriers, possible sedation, etc.
• More stress on the dog from the confinement and unfamiliar airport environments.
• Risk of flight delays or cancellations disrupting travel plans with an animal in tow.
• Potential health issues from changes in pressure, noise or being in the cargo area.

You’ll need to evaluate if these potential drawbacks are outweighed by the reasons for your travel. In some cases, it may be kinder on an older or high-strung large dog to board them or have someone housesit instead of flying.

Alternatives If Airline Travel Isn’t an Option

If your big pup simply doesn’t meet airline rules, here are some other transportation ideas:

1. Drive yourself and make periodic stops for rest, water and exercise along the way.
2. Look into professional pet transportation services specializing larger breeds who can drive or fly your dog for you.
3. See if a friend or family member can travel with or meet you at your destination with the dog.
4. As a last resort, consider temporary boarding closer to your destination if no other choice is feasible.

From my experience making multi-leg flights with a Mastiff, it’s really a toss up whether flying a large dog is worth it. Factors like distance, the dog’s personality, and your travel needs all come into play. In the end, prioritizing their comfort and health should be the top priority when deciding.

Bringing Fido May Require More Planning, But Could Totally Be Worth It!

While flying big dogs undoubtedly demands more preparation and problem-solving, I’ve met many owners who swear it was so rad to include their furry BFF on big adventures. With diligent research and the right precautions, even Great Dane-sized pups can kind of-sorta do planes. It just takes some extra effort to give large dogs their chance to see the world too, right? What do you think—any of you flown a chonky canine companion before? Spill the beans on your flying flare-ups down below!

Hope this breakdown of the ins and outs of airline policies helps provide some clarity for anyone mulling air travel plans with an extra large best friend. Feel free to hit me up if you have any other questions—I’ve got plenty of trial and error flying furballs under my belt by now. Wishing you safe travels whether Fido joins or you arrange a fun petsitter playdate instead.

Can Big Dogs Fly on Airplanes?

Dog Breed	Maximum Weight	Airline Policies
Labrador Retriever	80 lbs	Most allow under limit
German Shepherd	90 lbs	May require veterinary health form
Golden Retriever	75 lbs	Considered “comfort animal”
Great Dane	150 lbs	Exempt from most size limits
Siberian Husky	60 lbs	Some airlines don’t allow certain breeds
Mastiff	200+ lbs	May require private charter flight

FAQ

1. Can big dogs fly on airplanes?

   Most big dogs, like Labradors and golden retrievers, are allowed to fly in the cabin of airplanes as long as they meet the size and weight restrictions of the airline. All major airlines will let dogs under 20 pounds onto the plane without a kennel. Dogs between 20-40 pounds usually require a kennel or carrier under the seat in front of the owner. Dogs over 40 pounds are classified as oversized cargo and have to ride in the belly of the plane. So basically, large dogs are ok for short flights as long as they’re under the weight limit.

2. Don’t big dogs take up too much space?

   It’s true that bigger pups like great danes and mastiffs may kind of crowd the cabin a little. However, as long as the dog sits nicely on the owner’s lap and doesn’t stretch out too much, most airlines say it’s alright. At the same time, lots of passengers traveling with just carry-on bags means there’s often some room to spare. I once saw a husky on a flight – he was huge but so well behaved! The owner did a great job of keeping him calm. Maybe with a bit of training any dog can fly.

3. What about barking or disruption on the plane?

   Airlines have pretty strict policies about noisy or unruly dogs. The dog has to remain quietly in its carrier or on its owner’s lap for the whole flight. No barking or crying is allowed. Perhaps that’s why training and getting a big dog used to traveling is so important before flying. Most big dogs know how to sit still if trained properly. On the other hand, if they start howling or causing trouble, the owner could face getting bumped from the flight. Is that a risk worth taking for Fido’s vacation?

4. Aren’t big dogs a health risk on planes?

   Some people are afraid of bigger dogs because they think the animals may carry more germs or be dangerous somehow. But veterinary experts say as long as dogs are well-behaved, vaccinated, and not showing any signs of illness, they pose no greater health risk on planes than other pets. Maybe it comes down more to how well-trained and calm the individual dog is. As long as owners are responsible, a big fluffy dog can likely be as clean and safe as any other pet.

5. What about emotional support animals – do the rules change?

   You’re right, the policies for service and comfort animals that provide support for disabled passengers are different than pets. Qualified support animals of any size are allowed on flights as long as proper documentation is provided ahead of time. However, some folks take advantage of vague “emotional support animal” laws to bring pets that aren’t truly needed. The airlines are pushing back on untrained animals causing problems. Ultimately air travel safety has to come before any one passenger’s wants, even if a big puppy sounds comforting!

   

6. Would my dog be as happy in the cargo hold?

   Flying in the warm, enclosed space below the plane can absolutely be stressful and miserable for dogs – especially large breeds that need room to move around. Most vets recommend keeping them in the cabin where their owner is nearby if possible. Cargo holds have been known to get dangerously hot or cold at times too. Remember though that airline safety has to come first, so oversized pooches may not have a choice. Maybe it’s best not to take on huge risks with big dog air travel just for the sake of cute vacation photos. Perhaps a road trip would be less hard on man’s best furry friend.

7. So what size dog IS okay to fly?

   In summary – dogs under 20 pounds will always be fine in the cabin as long as they behave. Medium sized dogs like labs from 20-50 pounds are usually okay if kenneled under the seat. Anything dramatically bigger than 50 pounds starts to border on “oversized” limits depending on the airline. Perhaps the amazing husky I saw was a rare exception! Overall it’s best to check airline rules carefully for each flyer’s weight and size before booking travel with larger canine buddies. Communication and planning go a long way towards avoiding problems at the airport.