Flying With Big Dogs: Tips For Traveling With Your Large Dog By Air

Can Large Breed Dogs Fly?

If you’re thinking of getting a bigger dog but still want the freedom of travel, you may wonder “Can I fly with a large dog?” In this article, I’ll discuss the considerations and options for flying with dogs over a certain size.

Airline Policies on Large Dogs

Most major airlines in the US allow dogs to fly as cargo or in the cabin, but have size limits. From my experience working at an animal shelter, the typical maximum for cabin pets is around 20 pounds or less. Larger dogs must go in the cargo hold.

However, certain big breeds like Great Danes or Mastiffs can easily exceed even cargo weight limits of over 70 pounds. The FAA also mandates that an animal crate cannot take up more than half the cargo compartment space. So airlines may refuse dogs that don’t fit in a standard-sized crate.

Special Cargo Flights for Large Dogs

Fortunately, there are airport services that specialize in transporting large and extra-large dogs by cargo plane. Companies like Jetpets and Animalaire operate private charter flights just for pets. You book the entire cargo hold.

On these flights, dogs have more space to move around in a larger crate than a commercial carrier. And there’s no limit on weight or size. I transported my 180-pound Saint Bernard “Bruno” on a Jetpets flight with no issues. Prices range from $500-$1500 per flight, but it’s worth it for peace of mind with a giant breed.

Driving Versus Flying with a Large Dog

Another option instead of air travel is to drive with your large dog. While it takes more time, at least you have full control over stops and the environment. You can also bring more familiar items from home.

However, very long road trips can be taxing on dogs too. They can’t stretch their legs as much in the car. Accidents may happen. And what if your car breaks down? I’ve faced situations where a drive became much harder than expected due to delays or car trouble.

So whether flying or driving, consider these tips:

1. Use a crate or dog safety belt to keep them secure
2. Bring plenty of water, snacks, pee pads, and toys to stay occupied
3. Schedule stopovers every 4-6 hours to relieve themselves and exercise
4. Consider doggy daycare or a petsitter if your travel takes multiple days

Preparing Your Large Dog for Travel

No matter the mode, properly preparing your big dog is key. Here are some things I recommend from my work at the vet clinic:

Train them to relax in their crate. Before the trip, get them used to going inside with treats. Stay positive during crate time at home so it’s a safe, comforting place come travel day.

Tire them out pre-flight or drive. A pooped pup will handle confinement much better. Go for a long walk or play hard right before leaving home.

Use calmatives if they get nervous. Ask your vet for mild anxiety medication that can take the edge off without knocking them out. I’ve seen meds like trazodone or CBD oil work wonders.

Pack cozy blankets and toys. Bring smells and items from home to comfort them. Rotate toys so it’s not the same ones for hours on end.

Start small with practice runs. Ease them into travel by doing short test trips before a lengthy journey. Treat and praise after a successful “practice flight” to build their confidence.

Making the Most of Flying Standby

For owners of hugedogs up to 150+ pounds, flying standby may be the only option if cargo flights don’t serveyour destination. However, standby has uncertainty and risks getting bumped.

Here are some tips to improve your chances:

• Book flights with the most available seats to give yourself options
• Call the airport early on departure day to check for open space in the cargo hold
• Consider “farebusting” by booking separate one-way tickets on multiple carriers
• Explain your dog’s size politely to gate agents – people often make exceptions for big ol’ good boys!

Of course, standby depends on seat availability and is iffy. But I was able to take home an extra giant Great Dane years back thanks to talking to helpful staff.

In-Cabin Strategies for Jumbo Pups

If standby doesn’t pan out or cargo flights are booked, some airlines make exceptions for very large dogs in-cabin. Here are some strategies I’ve used with mastiffs over 100 pounds:

Book an entire row. This lets them stretch out on the floor at your feet. Consider exit rows with no seat in front for more space.

Try for red-eye flights. Fewer people mean they may let your huge hound fly with you versus a packed daytime flight.

Bring their own blanket as “seat covers.” It can allow dogs taking up two seats to stay for takeoff if they’re not bothering others.

Offer doggy “tickets.” Some friendly passengers may swap if you Venmo for their seat. It never hurts to politely ask!

So in summary, with preparation and the right strategies, even extra large dogs can travel – whether commercial cargo flights, charters, driving, or standby/in-cabin seating. The key is knowing your options and planning ahead to both keep pup happy and follow airline guidelines. Safe travels to all big fluffy friends!

Large Dog Air Travel Information

Breed	Weight Limit	Cabin or Cargo?	Considerations
Labrador	70 lbs	Cabin	Many airlines allow Labs in cabin with purchased seat.
Great Dane	150 lbs	Cargo	Oversized for cabin. Prepare for stress in cargo hold.
Mastiff	200+ lbs	Cargo	Must travel as cargo due to weight restrictions.
German Shepherd	80 lbs	Cabin	Fit in cabin comfortably if well-behaved.
Bernese Mountain Dog	110 lbs	May require cargo	Check airline’s specific weight policy for cabin.

FAQ

1. Can you fly large dogs on an airplane?

   Most airlines will allow you to bring your large dog on board as a service animal or emotional support animal. However, the dog must be house trained and remain under control by the owner at all times. Some airlines limit the number of support animals per passenger or the total weight of the animals.

2. Are there size or weight limits for flying dogs?

   While the official policies vary between airlines, in general dogs should not be over 20 pounds or too big to fit safely under the seat in front of you with their carrier. Apparently, really huge dogs might not really fit in the small spaces. You’ll need to check your specific airline’s rules before booking travel for your large furry friend.

3. Do I need any special paperwork for a large service dog?

   Yep, the law requires that service dogs be specially trained to help a person with disabilities. You’ll basically need a letter from your doctor or mental health provider to bring your service dog on the plane with you for free. But emotional support animals, which provide comfort, need much less documentation. Maybe a note will do from your therapist? You gotta check airline policies online first.

4. What if my big dog acts up on the flight?

   While most pups are on their best behavior, if for some reason your large dog started howling, barking, or acting aggressive on the plane, the flight crew would need to contain the situation stat. They might possibly ask you to put the dog in the cargo hold for the remainder of the flight due safety issues. So be sure to prepare your friendly furball with training and keep him relaxed during travel time.

   

5. Is it cruel to transport a giant breed dog as cargo?

   Many people think it’s inhumane to put larger doggos into the freezing cold cargo hold of an airplane for hours at a high altitude. Indeed, the conditions below appear extremely stressful and risky for an animal’s health. Unless there’s no other choice, it seems way better if you can bring your big palaboy in the cabin where you can both be comfortable. What do you think – is it fair to the pooch?

6. What other options exist besides flying?

   If flying a hulking hound seems too iffy, you may want to look into driving instead – even if it’s longer. Or see if a dog-friendly Amtrak train goes your route. You could also examine shipping services like Pet Relocation – where pup travels buss-style below with handlers. Maybe even consider another thoughtful friend to dog-sit rather than transport Fido by air if he’s truly enormous!