Flying Tips for Traveling with an Oversize Dog | How to Fly with Your Large Breed Dog

A Guide to Flying With Your Large Dog

If you want to take your big pooch along on a plane trip but aren’t sure of the rules and regulations, this article covers everything you need to know to make it a smooth flight for both you and your furry friend.

Is My Dog Too Big to Fly?

Most domestic airlines in the United States allow dogs to fly in the cargo hold or in the cabin as carry-on luggage, depending on the dog’s size. However, there are weight and size limits that vary among airlines.

In general, dogs that are too large or heavy to fit safely under an airplane seat are not permitted in the cabin and must travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage instead. This usually means dogs over 20 pounds.

From my experience traveling with dogs of different sizes, most airlines will allow dogs weighing 20 pounds or less in the cabin as carry-on baggage provided they can sit quietly at your feet under the seat in front of you. Dogs over 20 pounds typically fly in the cargo hold.

Always check individual airline size restrictions, as policies may vary slightly. You don’t want to get turned away at the airport. Most will list size and weight limits for traveling dogs on their websites.

Is It Safe for My Large Dog to Fly in Cargo?

Many pet owners wonder if the cargo hold is really the best place for their big dog during a flight. While the risks are often exaggerated, there are a few key things to know.

1. Proper planning can help ensure a safe cargo experience. Only fly your dog during acceptable weather conditions to avoid flight delays.
2. Choose nonstop flights whenever possible to minimize time spent in cargo. Most mishaps occur during connections.
3. Ask your vet for a health certificate stating your dog is fit to travel. Some airlines require this for checked pets.

At the same time, cargo areas are pressurized, temperature-controlled, and regularly monitored by the airline. With the right precautions, statistics show the vast majority of dogs travel incident-free in cargo.

How Can I Make My Big Dog More Comfortable in the Cargo Hold?

Whether your dog is traveling in cabin or cargo, comfort is key. Here are some tips:

1. A properly fitted pet carrier labeled with your contact info makes them feel secure. Consider soft-sided as they’re less restrictive.
2. Pack familar items that smell like home like a well-worn blanket or toy. It reduces stress from the unfamiliar cabin environment.
3. Consult your vet about sedatives if your dog is anxious. Never sedate without vet guidance, as reactions can occur.
4. Bring along water in sealed containers and ask the airline about feeding schedules in cargo. Staying hydrated helps them cope with the experience.

Your prep work can do wonders for your dog’s travel comfort. I’ve found simple tricks go a long way to easing tensions over the journey by aircraft.

What Paperwork Is Required?

Whether your large dog flies in the cabin or cargo hold, certain important documents must accompany them.

1. A health certificate issued within 10 days of travel by a licensed vet is typically mandatory for checked pets. They verify fitness to fly.
2. All airlines require a travel kennel that’s properly fitted, ventilated, and sturdy enough to withstand baggage handling. It should be clearly labeled with your contact details.
3. Proof of up-to-date vaccinations like rabies, distemper and, possibly, bordetella depending on destination. Retain vaccination records for cross-checks.
4. If departing internationally, check destination country pet import requirements in advance which may entail permits or microchipping. Not knowing can ruin travel plans.

Basically, be overprepared with paperwork to avoid rejections over missing files. It may seem like kinda a drag, but dotting i’s and crossing t’s is important for assuring a hassle-free journey.

How Can I Make the Airport Experience Less Stressful?

Whether in cabin or cargo, arriving at the airport triggers anxiety in many pets. Here are some tips to help keep your big dog calm until boarding:

1. Bring them in their carrier and keep covered or use an anxiety wrap if they feel more comfortable in enclosed, dark spaces. Avoid crowded terminals if possible.
2. Play soft music to mask unfamiliar airport noises or use calming pheromone sprays/diffusers designed to ease stress. The familiar sounds and scents promote relaxation.
3. If time permits, consider sedative medication prescribed by your vet before arrival. But sedate only with vet guidance, and never too early which could impact boarding.
4. Let your dog potty prior to check-in and don’t feed within a few hours of travel as an upset tummy ups anxiety on flights. An empty system promotes calm.

With forethought, even the noisiest airports can pose less risk to stress levels of our furry travel companions.

What Should I Expect at Check-In?

When checking in your large dog for cabin or cargo travel, be ready for a thorough inspection by airline staff.

They will review all paperwork like health certificates, ask medication questions, confirm kennel complies with IATA standards, and potentially weigh and measure your dog. Have everything in order to sail past checks.

Bring handling tips for staff as every dog has preferences, like using a coaxing hand signal versus touch on certain areas. It fosters a smoother check-in experience for all.

Aim to arrive 2 hours before flight time now that security’s tighter after 9/11. This allows ample buffer for potential delays versus if cutting it sort of close which introduces stress.

What Should I Expect During Boarding?

Whether boarding in-cabin or saying farewell at the gate for a cargo flight, some key points:

• Remain calmly positive and low-key with your dog. High emotions transmit stress which amps them up.
• Consider a favorite treat or toy aboard to help redirect anxious behaviors. Distraction is your friend.
• Avoid prolonged goodbyes that intensify feelings. A swift departure & cheerful “be good” reassures versus lingers.
• For cabin travel, practice calm waiting in-line. Get cozy under the seat in advance. Rushed approaches cause distress.
• Staff are usually dog-savvy but offer handling tips or cue word meanings for crew’s rapport. It promotes smooth handling.

With the right attitude and preparation traveling by air can go amazingly well even for bigger dogs. Your calm presence helps them stay calm too.

What Happens During the Flight?

While you relax watching movies in your seat, here is what to expect for your large dog elsewhere on the plane:

In-cabin, they will snooze under your seat, subtly monitored by crew. Most dogs sleep through flights.

In cargo, temperature/pressure controls alongside regular luggage. Well-being checks happen between staff rotations. Trained handlers load/unload cautiously.

Know that while we imagine the worst up in the air, flight crew are genuinely animal-lovers. Seeing tails wag at baggage claim reminds how smoothly things tend to go.

Try not to stress about unknowns – focus on the certainty of your reunion ahead! Positive energy serves us and our furry friends best.

What Should I Do Upon Arrival?

After enduring hours cooped on a plane, landing brings relief yet new challenges. Be prepared upon deplaning:

1. Rush straight to baggage claim if in cargo to limit hold time. Familiar scents and early reunion offset tensions.
2. Have kibble, water

   Things to Consider When Flying With a Large Dog

   Consideration	Details
   Airline Pet policies	Check requirements for size, health certifications, vaccines, etc. Rules vary by airline.
   Crate size	Dog must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably in the crate.
   Extra seat purchase	Consider buying an additional ticket if your large dog takes up a seat.
   Departure/arrival times	Avoid red-eye flights or very early/late day trips when dog will be crated for long periods.
   Destination pet policies	Research hotel, rental home, etc. policies on large dogs if traveling with pet.
   Calming aids for dog	Consider anti-anxiety meds or calming treats to help dog cope with stress of travel.

   FAQ

   1. Can I bring my big dog on the plane?

      Most airlines let you bring dogs over 20 pounds in the cargo hold of the plane. Smaller dogs can sometimes fly in the cabin with you if they fit in an approved carrier under the seat. However, it’s best to check your airline’s policy in advance.

   2. Will my dog be okay in the cargo hold?

      While many big dogs fly cargo with no troubles, it’s not without risks. The hold can get very cold or hot depending on weather. And there’s less supervision than in the cabin. Most experts recommend talking to your vet and only flying cargo as a last choice for large breeds. Is that fair?

   3. How do I prepare my dog for air travel?

      Basically, you want to get your pup accustomed to their travel crate before flying day. Give them treats and toys in it over a few weeks so it’s a positive place. Also get them used to any sedatives the vet recommends. On travel day, make sure they have ID tags and are fed lightly. Quiz your vet on any other preparation tips!

      

   4. What paperwork is required?

      Most importantly, you’ll need a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of flying. This proves vaccines are up to date. Some countries also need an international pet passport. You’ll also need to buy a ticket for your pup. Check pet policies and paperwork needed on your airline website – the rules can differ.

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

      Kind of depends who you ask! While it may be easier in some ways to leave Fido at home, many pets and owners really don’t do well apart. Perhaps flying cargo is worth it to keep the family together. On the other hand, it’s an awful lot of stress on the doggo. You’ll have to decide if the risks are worth it for your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind.

   6. What if my dog is really nervous to fly?

      If your pup is especially anxious, discuss sedation options with your vet. Some dogs really need a chill pill or two to stay calm on a flight. There are also pheromone diffusers and calming treats that may help. You could also see if your vet will write a note for airline staff about any special needs. With luck and prep, even scaredy dogs can fly!

   Airlines PetCare