Can You Take a Large Dog on a Plane?
If you’re hoping to travel with your big furry friend, you may be wondering whether airlines allow large dogs in the cabin. The short answer is yes – most major airlines will let you bring your pooch onboard, but there are some important guidelines to follow.
Dog Size Limits
Nearly all airlines limit the size of dogs that can fly in the cabin. The maximum dimensions are typically around 20 inches tall and no more than 40 pounds. Any dog over this size would need to travel in the cargo hold as pets checked in luggage.
Some carriers may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis for dogs slightly larger than the limit. But in general, don’t plan to bring Fido if he’s a Great Dane or Saint Bernard. From my experience working as a vet, most airlines won’t budge on size rules for safety reasons.
Advance Planning Is Critical
When taking a large dog on a plane, preparation is key. First, check airline policies well ahead of your flight dates. Many carriers require health records and proof of vaccinations from your vet at least 10-14 days before travel. I’ve seen dogs denied boarding because their paperwork wasn’t fully sorted out.
You’ll also need to purchase a pet ticket, which can cost $125 or more each way depending on the airline. Spots for pets in the cabin are limited, so book early to avoid getting stuck putting Fluffy in cargo. It may have restricted temperature controls and be noisier.
Approved Pet Carrier
All dogs must travel in an FAA-approved soft-sided or hard-sided carrier that fits completely under the seat in front of you. Most major brands like SleepyPod and Sherpa make dog carriers meeting airline dimensions. I once had difficulties flying because my pup’s carrier zipper was broken, so inspect it thoroughly before traveling.
Carriers should be properly labelled with your contact details in case your dog gets separated from you en route. And remember not all airlines will accept flexible soft carriers, so check carrier policies too.
Food, Water, and Potty Breaks
With flight delays common, you’ll want to limit food and water intake before flying to avoid accidents. I usually stop feeding and water 4-6 hours before scheduled departure. And don’t forget to pack bags and newspapers in case of emergencies!
On long haul flights where there may be no opportunities for bathroom breaks, some owners bring dog diapers as a precautionary measure. But from my experience, most pups do fine holding it 5-6 hours on shorter flights.
cabin distractions
A stressed or anxious dog could disturb other passengers, so come prepared with enough interactive treats and chew toys. Bringing some of your dog’s bedding or a worn t-shirt with your scent may help reassure them. Calming supplements or medications prescribed by your vet are okay to use before flying. But absolutely no sedatives without vet supervision!
Playing calming music or videos on your phone or tablet could occupy your pooch during take-off and landing when air pressure changes may cause ear discomfort. The white noise masked any whines from my doggo on one bumpy flight. I’d also avoid excess touching or cooing that may overexcite them.
In-Cabin Etiquette
Be respectful of other passengers by keeping your dog under control. No jumping, barking or disruptive behavior is allowed. Consider getting your dog aerofit. From my experience adopting rescue dogs, even a slight odor can set off allergies in the cabin. So bathe your pet with odor-eliminating shampoo at least 24 hours before leaving for the airport.
You’ll also want to bring plenty of absorbent blankets or towels to create a clean layer between dog and seat fabric. Accidents do happen despite best precautions, and you’ll be liable for professional cleaning costs if any mess is left behind. Overall, being a considerate dog owner will go a long way in ensuring smooth flying experiences.
Alternatives to Cabin Travel
As a last resort, some airlines will transport dogs over the size limit in the climate-controlled cargo hold on short domestic flights. However, this is generally not recommended for safety and humane reasons. Communication and visibility are limited, so delays or mishandling could go unnoticed.
When possible, consider driving instead of flying with larger dogs. Even taking a multi-day road trip beats exposing them to potential cargo hold risks, in my opinion. Of course, boarding kennels or pet sitters in your destination city are perfectly viable options too if leaving Fido at home just isn’t an option.
With careful planning and responsible ownership, most major airlines will accommodate larger canine companions in the passenger cabin. Just be sure to follow all guidelines and prepare your pup accordingly for a smooth flight. Their comfort and safety should always come before convenient travel plans.
I hope this helps provide a full picture of what’s involved in taking a large dog on a plane. Please feel free to share any other questions! Safe travels and happy landings to all pet parents and their furry friends.
Taking Large Dogs On Planes
| Airline | Weight Limit | Size Limit | Crate Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Maximum 70 lbs | No height or length limits under 70 lbs | Yes, in soft-sided carrier under seat |
| Delta | Maximum 50 lbs | No height limit under 50 lbs | Yes, in soft or hard carrier under seat |
| United | Maximum 100 lbs | No height or length limits under 100 lbs | Yes, in soft-sided carrier under seat |
| Southwest | Maximum 50 lbs | No height or length limits under 50 lbs | Yes, in soft-sided carrier under seat or in cargo hold |
| Alaska | Maximum 75 lbs | No height or length limits under 75 lbs | Yes, in soft-sided carrier under seat or in cargo hold |
FAQ
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Can I bring my large dog on a plane as a carry-on?
No, while small dogs can travel in the plane cabin, bigger puppers are usually only allowed in the cargo hold as checked baggage. The size limits for in-cabin dogs are basically there for everyone’s comfort and safety. At the same time, some airlines do make exceptions for service and support animals. You’d have to check each airline’s specific rules about emotional support animals.
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What size dog is allowed as a carry-on?
Most airlines only let you bring dogs that can fit under the seat in front of you without sticking their head out. I’d say if Fido is bigger than a large housecat, chances are he’ll need to ride down below with the luggage. The limit is usually around 20 pounds or so, but again, each airline has their own regulations. Maybe ask your vet to fudge the numbers if your pup is just over! *wink wink*
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How do I travel with a large dog in the cargo hold?
To fly a big ol’ pup in the belly of the plane, you’ll need to purchase them their own ticket and use a special container that is soft-sided with adequate ventilation. Some extra travel tips include giving your dog something with your scent inside their crate and trying to schedule direct flights to minimize the time spent in cargo. Is that fair to the poor pooch? On the other hand, driving may not always be possible.
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Are there any airlines that allow larger dogs in the cabin?
If you’ve got an absolutely enormous dogo, you might check out some international carriers that have a bit more leniency in their cabin pet policies. For example, I’ve heard Singapore Airlines allows dogs weighing up to 100 pounds in the main cabin! Perhaps they’ve got roomier seats than domestic flights. Then again, flying overseas with man’s best friend sounds kind of amazing yet absolutely bonkers at the same time.
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What steps should I take if traveling internationally with a dog?
Crossing borders with your canine BFF requires some serious planning and paperwork. You’ll need health records, a veterinary certificate, and possibly quarantine depending on the destination. I reckon doing your research a couple months in advance is probably wise to get all your ducks in a row. Don’t be that person showing up at customs like “Surprise! I brought a dog!” Yikes! Better safe than sorry, right?
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How can I keep my dog calm during the flight?
Reducing stress is key when transporting anxious animals. Try exercising your pup and giving them a calming supplement before the big day. Having a familiar toy or article of clothing in their crate may also help them feel more chill. You could even see if a vet will prescribe anti-anxiety meds—I’ve heard gabapentin and benzodiazepines work nicely for dogs. Ultimately, knowing your furry friend is well taken care of seems like the best medicine of all.