A Paw-some Guide to Flying With Fido: Everything You Need to Know About Bringing Your Big Pup on Board
If you and your furry friend Fido are planning to take to the skies, you may be wondering how to fly with a large dog in the passenger cabin. As any dog lover knows, bringing your pup along makes travel more fun, but airlines have rules about canine passengers. In this guide, I’ll cover the top questions pet parents ask and share tips and tricks from my own experiences flying with bigger breeds.
What Are the Size Restrictions For Dogs In Cabin?
Most major airlines only allow dogs small enough to fit comfortably in a carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. Typically, this means the carrier can’t exceed 16 inches high by 13 inches wide by 8 inches deep. So if Fido is a giant breed dog, he likely won’t fit. The maximum size varies by airline but is usually around 20 pounds.
Can I Buy an Extra Plane Ticket For My Oversized Dog?
If your pup is too big for the cabin but you still want to bring him along, some carriers offer canine passengers their own tickets in the cargo hold. However, this option has drawbacks.Being in cargo means your dog will experience very different conditions than in the cabin with you. Changes in air pressure, noise levels and lack of frequent human contact or bathroom breaks can stress dogs out. From my experience, it’s best to consider ground transportation or leaving Fido with a petsitter if he’s above airline size limits.
What Documents Do I Need To Fly With A Dog?
- Vaccination Records: All dogs must have current rabies, distemper and bordetella vaccines.
- Health Certificate: Some international flights require an exam from your vet within 10 days stating your dog is healthy and parasite-free.
- Carrier: The carrier must be soft-sided, escape/leak-proof and allow your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably.
- ID Tag: Ensure your dog’s collar has updated contact info in case you’re separated at the airport.
Pet parents also heading to Hawaii or Puerto Rico need additional clearance. But basically, if you’ve got documents showing vaccines are up to date and your pup can safely travel in an approved carrier, you’re good to go winging with your pal Fido!
What’s The Deal With Multiple Leg Flights?
Layovers can definitely get kinda sketchy when your pup is along for the ride. Airlines have varying policies on connecting flights concerning how long you’re allowed between arrival and departure times with an animal. In my experience, it’s safer to book nonstop flights if possible. But if a connection is inevitable, choose layovers that are as short as can be to minimize stress on your fur baby. Staying hydrated and giving training treats can help keep pups calm on long travel days.
Is There A Way To Request Early Boarding With A Dog?
Most carriers allow early boarding for pet passengers either as the first people in Zone 1 or in a special pet-only group. Giving your pooch a calming treat like CBD oil about 30 minutes before should take the edge off airport chaos. Then when you board, get settled with Fido in his carrier under the seat as quickly as you can. Some gates even have “pet relief areas” nearby if your pup needs a potty break before takeoff. Communicating your travel plans and any needs for your furry friend to the flight crew is also key for a smooth sailing trip with man’s best co-pilot by your side.
What Are Some Tips For Making The Flight Easier On My Dog?
Beyond the essential documents and an airline-approved carrier, the following can help make flying with a large dog less stressful:
- Bring familiar items like a well-worn blanket or toy from home for comfort.
- Load up on treats for positive reinforcement during security checks, taxiing and takeoff/landing when noise levels are highest.
- Consider calming supplements like for anxiety-relieving music or apps playing on your phone during ascent/descent.
- Practice desensitizing your pup to carrier, car rides and other aspects of travel ahead of time through training sessions.
- Book direct flights and ask for seating near the restroom in case furry copilot needs an impromptu potty break.
With a little planning and patience, you can definitely take trips with even bigger breed dogs. Just go in prepared knowing policies. From my experiences, it’s rewarding traveling alongside your four-legged family members. I hope these tips are helpful as you and Fido embark on future adventures together by air!
Any Other Tips Or Cautionary Tales From Flying With Large Dogs Before?
A few parting words from those who’ve been there… While advance prep can help, expect some bumps alongside the joys when flying commercial with a big ol’ pup. One buddy of mine has a 150lb Saint Bernard who took up the whole row like basically. They had to buy three seats, LOL! Also be ready to bring doggy bags ’cause motion sickness may kick in for some pups. But mostly just go with the flow, follow the rules and give yourself extra time. As long as Fido’s safe, comfy and with you, the miles will melt away!
Hope this gives you and your pup an all-paws up guide for getting airborne together. Safe travels to all you pet parents and passengers out there! Let me know if any other doggone Air Bud questions come up during trip planning.
Guidelines for Flying with Your Large Dog in Aircraft Cabin
| Dog Breed | Maximum Weight Allowed | Carrier Size Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | 70 lbs | Hard-sided carrier must fit under seat |
| German Shepherd | 100 lbs | Soft-sided carrier must fit on lap |
| Golden Retriever | 80 lbs | Hard-sided carrier must fit under seat |
| Great Dane | 120 lbs | Dog must travel in cargo hold as face restrictions |
| Husky | 60 lbs | Soft-sided carrier must fit on lap |
FAQ
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Can I bring my large dog on the plane cabin?
Basically, most airlines allow dogs to fly in the cabin as long as they are small enough to fit under the seat. However, there are some carriers that let larger dogs travel too, as long as they meet certain size and weight limits. You’ll need to check with your specific airline for their pet policies.
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What size and weight limits do airlines have for dogs in cabin?
Airline policies on dog sizes can vary a lot. Most common limits are around 20 pounds or less and able to sit curled up at your feet. But some carriers let bigger pups on too, sometimes up to around 40 or 50 pounds. Always verify the exact rules when booking your ticket cause they differ between airlines.
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Don’t airlines charge a fee for an in-cabin dog?
You bet, flying with Fido usually comes at a cost. Most airlines charge somewhere between $75 to $125 each way just to bring your pup on board. There may also be restrictions like only allowing one pet per passenger. At the same time, it can still be much cheaper than shipping them as cargo.
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What paperwork is required for an in-cabin dog?
To fly with your doggo in the cabin, you’ll need some key documents. Most airlines require valid vaccinations, proof of training or certification if your pup is a service or emotional support animal, and a health form signed by your vet within 10 days of departure. It’s best to check if any additional paperwork like a tick/flea treatment is necessary too.
Is it stressful for large dogs to travel by plane?
It can definitely be stressful and maybe even kind of traumatic for bigger dogs to take a plane ride, especially in the cargo hold where there’s more noise and less contact with their owner. Traveling in the cabin is usually better for dogs because it’s calmer and they have you close by to feel secure. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to get your pup acclimated to the crate before flying to help reduce any stress or anxiety.
How can I keep my big dog comfortable on the plane?
To help your large furry friend feel cozy at 30,000 feet, bring familiar blankets, toys or treats. Make sure they have plenty of water too. At the same time, ask for a window seat if possible so Fido has something to lean on. Speaking of leaning, don’t forget a padded crate or carrier under the seat that’s roomy enough for your pooch to get cozy during takeoff and landing. With any luck, your pup will snooze away those hours like a big ole teddy bear!
Is there a risk of my big dog bothering other passengers?
Maybe, a ginormous hound could sort of possibly bother other flyers if barking or wriggling around too much. However, as long as your pup is well-trained to behave on command and stay by your feet, usually there shouldn’t be problems. At the same time, keep them secured and muzzled during takeoff and landing just in case. Most passengers are usually okay with dogs as long as they’re not aggressive or noisy. But is that fair to other travelers who don’t want pet hair in their cereal aisle? Perhaps ask around nearby seats first before bringing a massive mastiff on board!