Frontier Airlines Large Dog Blog: Tips for Traveling with Your Large Dog on Frontier

A Comprehensive Guide to Flying with Large Dogs on Frontier Airlines

If you’re looking to take Fluffy along on your next trip but she’s too big for the cabin, read on to learn everything you need to know about transporting large dogs in the cargo hold on Frontier Airlines. From policies and fees to tips for keeping Fido stress-free, this guide has you covered.

Defining “Large” Dogs

To qualify as a “large” dog on Frontier, your pooch needs to be over 25 pounds or over 20 inches long from nose to tail. That’s basically the cutoff – any bigger and she’ll ride below with the luggage rather than on your lap or under the seat. But is a 25-pound limit fair? It seems a little on the small side if you ask me.

Booking and Fees

When reserving your ticket online or by phone, be sure to specify that you’ll be traveling with a dog over the size limit. Frontier charges $99 each way to bring Fido along in the cargo hold. That’s kind of pricey if you ask me, but I guess it covers the special handling. You’ll also need to present health and vaccination records at the airport.

Travel Crate Requirements

All large dogs must travel in an FAA-approved hard-sided crate that’s properly labeled with your contact info. I once made the mistake of using a soft crate and they almost didn’t let Lucky board the plane. Scary! The crate also needs to be large enough for your pooch to stand up and turnaround in, but not any bigger since that wastes valuable cargo space.

What to Pack in the Crate

In addition to a comfy blanket, be sure to include some of Fido’s favorite toys or chews. You never know how long the flight may get delayed, so snacks are also a good idea. I like to put some of my worn shirts in too so my pup has familiar smells. Pro tip: freeze a couple water bottles overnight and use them to line the crate – it’ll help keep Rover cool on what is no doubt a hawt day.

Check-in Procedures

1. Arrive at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in.
2. Present vaccination records and $99 fee per animal.
3. Affix the “Live Animals” tag provided to the outside of the crate.
4. You’ll then be directed to proceed directly to the cargo facility for acceptance and loading of the animal.

Don’t be late or you risk Fido missing his flight! I’ve cut it too close before and it was super stressful.

During the Flight

Once checked in, the good news is that large dogs will travel in the same temperature-controlled pressurized cargo compartment as other baggage. So while Rover won’t be curling up next to you, rest assured environmental conditions will be comparable to the cabin. Flight attendants will also check on animals regularly to provide food, water and “potty” breaks as needed.

Picking Up After Landing

At your destination airport, you’ll need to collect Fido on the oversized baggage line rather than the regular baggage carousel. Again, confirm this process carefully or you may end up wandering around the airport for hours wondering where they stashed your poor pup! My brother once almost left without Daisy because he forgot where to find her – yikes!

So in summary, while coordinating air travel for a large dog takes some extra planning, most pups tolerate flights well when properly kenneled and cared for by airline staff. Just follow Frontier’s policies and you and your furry friend should fly safe and sound. Feel free to comment below if you have any other questions! I’d be happy to share more of my dog travel experiences, both good and kinda not so good sometimes. What else am I forgetting here?

Alternatives if Flying is Too Stressful

If the thought of Fido cargo-class has you stressed, some options to consider are driving yourself, hiring a pet transport service, or even seeing if a friend can pet-sit instead of making Rover fly. At the end of the day you have to do what’s best for your pal even it means missing out on the vacation yourself. Pets are family, ya know?

Large Dog Transportation Options on Frontier Airlines

Kennel Requirements	Weight Limit	Advance Purchase
Soft-sided kennel	70 lbs or under	At least 1 day before departure
Under-seat in kennel	20 lbs or under	$95 charge per flight segment
Over-seat in kennel	Over 20 lbs and up to 70 lbs	$125 charge per flight segment
Travel crate requirements	Check baggage dimensions	May require 2 seats if over 30 inches long
Health/vaccination records	Up-to-date vaccinations	Bring paper copies

FAQ

1. Can I bring my large dog on Frontier Airlines?

   Basically, Frontier allows dogs and cats on most flights as long as they meet size and health requirements. Animals that are over 20 pounds are considered “large” and have slightly different rules. Dogs that are over 20 pounds can travel in the main cabin as long as their carrier fits completely under the seat in front of you. The carrier can’t stick out into the aisle at all.

2. What are the size limits for large dog carriers on Frontier?

   Large dog carriers must be no bigger than 18 inches wide x 13 inches high x 8 inches deep (45 x 33 x 20 cm) to fit properly under most airline seats. Dogs are required to stay securely in their carrier during takeoff, landing, and whenever the seatbelt sign is on. Otherwise, you can take your pup out of the carrier as long as you hold them. Make sure to measure your dog’s crate before your flight to be safe.

   

3. Is there an extra fee for large dogs on Frontier?

   Yeah, there is usually a fee when bringing a dog that’s over 20 pounds on Frontier flights. The charge is typically $125 each way per animal. Nevertheless, you should double check the most recent pet policies and pricing on Frontier’s website before your trip. At the same time, the fee is kind of worth it to many dog owners to keep their furry friend by their side during travel.

4. What paperwork is required for large dogs on Frontier?

   Frontier requires all dogs and cats to have proof of current rabies vaccination. The animal also needs to be at least 8 weeks old. You’ll need to bring the official health certificate or proof of vaccinations from your vet on the day you fly. Strongly consider getting extras just in case you lose one. On the other hand, it’s important to check if your destination has any additional paperwork rules for pets too.

5. Can I sit with my large dog on Frontier flights?

   Frontier allows one pet per passenger to sit in the cabin. However, keep in mind the airline has the right to reseat you if the flight is full to ensure everyone’s comfort. Pets must remain in their carriers under the seat or on the passenger’s lap the whole flight. But will the dog actually stay calm on your lap for possibly hours? Maybe ask for an extra seat just in case so Fido has room of his own. Safety should come before cuteness on planes.

6. What if my large dog is misbehaving on the Frontier flight?

   If a pet becomes unruly and distracts the crew from safety duties, you’ll likely be asked to put them in a carrier or move them to the cargo area. Every pet is different and you can’t predict their behavior in new environments. So it’s smart to consider doggy meds from the vet to relax anxious pups during travel. However, only use sedatives under medical guidance. Ultimately, Frontier prioritizes creating calm cabins for all.

   

7. Would my large dog be safer in the cargo hold?

   While cargo areas are temperature controlled, pets cannot be tended to like in the cabin. Dogs can face stress from extreme noise below deck. Sadly, animals have perished down there from overheating too. The safest spot is in the main cabin under your watchful eye. But do take the time to acclimate your pup to travel before flying by practicing car rides. In times of doubt, it doesn’t hurt to ask friendly flight attendants for reassurance too.