Flying With a Large Dog In-Cabin in 2024: Tips and Guidelines for Taking Your Pet on Board

Flying with a Large Dog In-Cabin in 2021: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re moving to a new home across the country or taking an important business trip, many pet owners want to keep their furry companions by their side when traveling by air. While flying with dogs in cargo holds used to be the norm, more airlines are now allowing properly-sized dogs to accompany passengers in the cabin.

Airline Policies on In-Cabin Dogs

The first step is checking policies with your selected airline. Most major carriers in the U.S. permit dogs to fly in-cabin, provided they meet certain size and container requirements:

1. Dogs must be able to fit comfortably in an International Air Transport Association (IATA)-approved pet carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you.
2. The carrier cannot exceed 18 inches in length by 14 inches wide by 9 inches high.
3. Dogs must weigh under 20 pounds.

However, from my experience booking flights, some airlines like United and American have even stricter size limits of around 15 pounds or less for in-cabin pets. Always verify the specific rules for your airline well in advance of booking travel.

Flying Larger Dogs as Cargo

If your dog exceeds the size restrictions, your only option may be to fly them as cargo in the belly of the plane. While not ideal, cargo is preferable to leaving them unattended at home. The process does require extra preparation:

1. Check health certificates and vaccination requirements, which vary by destination.
2. Book well ahead of time as cargo space is limited.
3. Discuss shipping crate type, size, and test run requirements with your airline.
4. Understand cargo fees, which can range from $100-500 each way based on dog size.

At the same time, consider flying on pet-friendly routes if possible to avoid connections where delays could pose health risks to cargo pets. Communicate your dog’s needs clearly to ground crews as well.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations at Your Destination

With your excited pooch by your side, be sure to line up pet-friendly lodging options beforehand too. Online services like BringFido.com let you filter hotels, vacation rentals, and homes by fees and policies regarding dog size, number allowed, cleaning charges, and more.

From my experience, even standard hotels may make exceptions if you contact them directly to discuss your situation. Budget-friendly chains like La Quinta and Red Roof Inn commonly welcome dogs. Alternative lodging platforms like Airbnb also provide larger listings perfect for traveling with pets.

Kennel Training Before Takeoff

Once travel logistics are set, mastering kennel skills is critical for a smooth flight. Familiarize your pup with their carrier through positive reward-based training at home. Get them comfortable going inside, having the door closed for short periods, and growing accustomed to typical noises they may hear during travel.

I’ve found the best approach is breaking it down into tiny steps over several training sessions rather than attempting too much too soon. Remain affectionate yet firm. Keep early sessions under a minute before releasing for play and praise. Over time, steadily increase duration until they can calmly stay inside for extended periods.

A few treats can also help convince nervous natures that the carrier is a good place to be. But avoid feeding directly before or during travel to minimize nausea risk. Speaking softly and keeping your own anxiety under control further encourages calm dogs.

Prepare Your Pup’s Travel Kit

Assemble all necessary items well in advance of travel days:

• ID tag and microchip registration information in case collars come loose.
• Comfort items like a familiar toy or blanket that smells like home.
• Peanut butter, lamb lung, or other long-lasting chew treats to occupy anxious mouths.
• Collapsible bowls, bottled water, and any medications.
• Cleanup bags and paper towels in case of accidents.
• “Settling” calming supplements or natural remedies *if needed* (but avoid sedation without vet oversight).

I’ve learned to pack multiple copies of key documents too in case of misplacing one mid-journey. And don’t wait until the day of – test runs with the full kit help every member of the family get familiar with the process.

Prepare Yourself for Boarding and Departure

On travel days, stick to your pup’s regular routines as much as flight schedules allow. This includes meals, potty breaks, and relaxation time.

While boarding dates can be exciting adventures for some dogs, others find the hullabaloo overwhelming. Approach airports early to avoid dashes that spike stress levels. It also helps giving anxious pets calming shakedown walks once you arrive as long as there’s time before scheduled check-ins.

I always bring a book, music, or other distractions to stay relaxed myself while waiting our turn in what can be chaotic terminal environments. Then keep carriers covered, voices soft, and the handoff to gate agents as smooth and swift as possible once called.

With preparation, positive training, and a calm reassuring presence, most dogs can take air travel in stride whether snuggled at your feet or well-cared for below. Safe travels to all flying four-legged friends and their humans! Reach out if you need any other tips for making the journey stress-free.

Flying with Large Dogs In-Cabin: Requirements and Tips for 2021

Airline	Dog Weight Limit	Crate Size	Requirements
American Airlines	40 lbs	Maximum size of 18x13x8 inches	Health certificate, vaccination records, dog must remain in carrier under seat
Delta	50 lbs	Maximum size of 21x17x13 inches	Health certificate if traveling to/from some international destinations, dog must remain in carrier under seat
United	40 lbs	Maximum size of 20x13x12 inches	Health certificate if needed for international travel, dog must remain in carrier under seat
Alaska Airlines	40 lbs	Maximum size of 19x13x9 inches	Health certificate if needed for international travel, dog must remain in carrier under seat
JetBlue	25 lbs	Maximum size of 16x12x9 inches	Health certificate, vaccination records, dog must remain in carrier under seat

FAQ

1. Can I bring my large dog on the plane as a cabin pet?

   Yeah basically you can bring Fido as a cabin pet on most major airlines as long as he meets their size and behavior rules. The dog will need to fit under the seat in front of you in a carrier. Most carriers can’t be much bigger than 20 inches by 16 inches.

   

2. What are the size limits for cabin pets?

   If you’re taking your puppy on the plane, the size limits vary by airline. But in general, your pup cannot be over 20 pounds. Some airlines allow slightly bigger dogs up to around 25 pounds. Anything above that is going to need to ride in the cargo hold as checked baggage. Always check your airline’s policy to avoid any nasty surprises.

3. How do I prepare my dog for a flight?

   Getting Fido acclimated to his travel crate well in advance of the big trip is key. Get him used to going inside, getting treats, and taking short rides around the neighborhood. Bring familiar toys, blankets that smell like home, and try calming supplements or medication if he seems anxious. On the day, make sure he goes potty right before boarding. Overall, keep him well-exercised beforehand so he’s tired and mellow in the airport.

4. Will my dog be stressed during the flight?

   Perhaps. Flying can be kinda scary for some pups due to the noises and movement. However, there are things you can do to help minimize stress. Use calming products and keep him contained in his carrier under the seat. Bring favorite chew toys and try to distract him whenever possible. At the same time, some dogs seem to adapt fairly well to flying and may sleep through much of the trip. It really depends on the individual dog.

5. What paperwork is needed?

   In addition to the usual ID and vaccination records, most airlines require a health certificate from your vet. The certificate proves good health and makes sure Fido isn’t carrying any contagious diseases. You’ll also need to purchase an airline-approved pet carrier that meets size limits. Check in early and follow directions closely to avoid any issues. On the other hand, forgetting a form could end up grounding your good boy.

6. Is it worth it to fly with a dog?

   That’s a great question! Taking your furry friend on a plane can be a lot of hassle and money. However, for many people it’s worth it to keep the family together. As long as your pet is well-trained and you properly plan, the trip may go smoothly. Flying can spike stress and anxiety for all involved. Nevertheless, seeing the happy reunion of owner and doggo at the destination is pretty amazing. In the end, it takes knowing your dog’s temperament and being prepared to handle whatever comes up at 30,000 feet!

7. What are some tips for making the flight easier on everyone?

   In addition to acclimating your pup to his carrier and exercising him before the trip, bringing lots of toys and treats is key to keeping him occupied and positive. Bring several frozen kongs stuffed with peanut butter – the licking keeps them entertained for ages. Also, putting a lightweight sweatshirt or article of your clothing in the carrier adds comforting familiar scents. With patience and your love and support, even anxious flyers can be calmed.