How to Fly With a Large Dog: Tips for Traveling by Plane With Your Big Dog

Flying with Fido: Your Ultimate Guide to Air Travel with a Big Pup

Whether you’re moving homes, taking a vacation, or just want to bring your best bud along, flying with a large dog can be a challenge. But with some advance planning and understanding of airline policies, you can have a smooth trip. In this guide, I’ll answer all the important questions you may have and share tips from my own experiences flying with chunky canines.

Is My Dog Too Big?

1. Most airlines consider dogs over 20 lbs to be “large” or “extra-large.” Measure your pup and check the carrier size rules for your chosen airline.
2. While under-seat carriers are convenient, dogs over a certain weight (often around 20 lbs) must travel in the cargo hold due to safety regulations. Make sure your pup fits the size limits.

My hound Hank is a hefty 70 lbs – no way he’d fit under the seat! So we had to check his crate. Talk about stressful, amirite? Basically, know your dog’s stats and the rules to avoid headaches.

Preparing Your Pooch

Don’t just toss Fido in the car last minute. Practice makes perfect when it comes to getting dogs accustomed to carriers, car rides, and new places. Here are some key things to do in advance:

1. Get them used to their crate with positive reinforcement training. Make it a safe den with toys and treats.
2. Take test walks around town with the crate so they associate it with adventure, not punishment.
3. Desensitize them to car rides – start with short fun trips, working up to multiday road trips if possible.

My wiener dog Louie was never too fond of the crate. Sort of had to bribe him with bacon! After a few trial runs he got more comfortable though. Don’t rush the process – go at your pet’s pace.

Booking Your Flight

When reserving flights:

• Book early – some days/routes have pet capacity limits. You don’t want Fido getting bumped.
• Confirm pet policies in advance. Make sure your dog meets all requirements for the specific airline/route.
• Ask about fees. Most airlines charge $125-250 each way for checked pets.
• Request pet travel arrangement at least 48 hours prior. This notifies ground crews to expect Fido.

I ended up paying extra for a direct flight to avoid connections. You never know what could happen! Read the fine print to avoid surprises.

Pre-flight Checklist

Pack these essentials for your flying furry friend:

1. Vet health certificate – required within 10 days of travel by most airlines.
2. Collar, ID tag, and microchip – make sure info matches the certificate.
3. Leash – to guide pup in terminals and for pick up.
4. Food, water, medication – pack some just in case of delays.
5. Copy of rabies vaccination – keep with health papers for border entry if traveling internationally.
6. Pee pads, poop bags – for emergencies. Trust me, you’ll want these on board too!

Oh, and if your buddy tries escaping? I’d bring a backup collar just in case, ya know? Cover all your bases.

Arriving at the Airport

Give yourself ample time to check in. Here are some final tips:

• Arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight or 3 hours for international.
• Check all regulations for your destination too – requirements can vary by city/country.
• Have vet papers, ID tags and carrier easily accessible at check-in.
• Keep large, excitable dogs leashed and under control at all times in the airport.
• Let agents know if you need any assistance like escorts to/from the plane.

One time we barely made our flight ’cause lil’ Scooter had to do his business – yikes! Give yourself breathing room for surprises. Stay calm and your pup will sense your chill vibes.

Overall, flying with big dogs takes patience and planning. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – airline staff can be helpful. Oh, and pack your dog’s fave toy for comfort. With the right prep and care, you guys will be cruising at 30,000 feet in no time! Safe travels to you and your furry co-pilot.

Preparing for Air Travel with Your Large Dog

Requirement	Details
Dog crate	Required. Must be properly sized for your dog and certified for airline travel.
Health certificate	Needed within 10 days of travel if flying internationally. May be needed domestically as well depending on destination.
Vaccinations	Up-to-date proof of rabies, distemper and bordetella vaccines required.
Identification	Microchip or tag with owner’s contact information on dog and crate.
Travel documents	Check airline policies for travel paperwork and any fees for your dog.
Cabin or cargo	Some airlines allow large dogs in-cabin subject to size/weight limits, others only in cargo hold.
Pre-flight fasting	Follow airline guidelines for withholding food prior to travel to prevent GI upset.

FAQ

1. How early should I arrive at the airport with a large dog?

   Basically, you’ll want to get there extra early, maybe 2 hours before your flight instead of the standard 1 hour. Airlines require you to check-in earlier with animals so they have time to make sure your pup is okay to travel in the cargo hold. At the same time, you don’t want to show up too far in advance or else you might have to wait around a long time with an anxious pup!

   

2. What paperwork is required?

   You’ll need various documents like health certificates from your vet declaring your dog is healthy and up to date on vaccines. Strongly make sure all your paperwork is in order and double check the specific rules for your airline. It would be awful if they refused to let your furry friend fly because of a missing form! You also need to purchase a ticket for your dog, which will vary depending on their size and weight.

3. How is my dog transported?

   Most airlines will put large dogs in the cargo hold of the plane in special kennels that are kept in temperature controlled environments. It’s not essentially the same as being in the cabin with you, so your pooch might find it pretty startling. However, as long as the kennel requirements are met, it’s generally deemed a safe way to fly for animals. Maybe check if any airlines offer “PetSafe” cabins where dogs can stay in cargo but in a quieter area.

4. What if my dog is scared of flying?

   There are some things you can do to help minimize stress if your pup is nervous about flying. Ask your vet about sedation medications before the flight. You can also try using calming treats, pheromone sprays, or CBD products. Playing soft music or leaving a familiar toy or article of your clothing in their kennel may provide comfort too. Bringing a locked container of their regular food could be reassuring. Is it worth trying to acclimate them to the kennel beforehand with short practice sessions and treats?

5. How can I make sure my dog is comfortable?

   Pack lots of padding, their favorite blanket, and maybe a snap camera mounted inside the kennel to see how they are doing. Water before the flight but no food within a few hours. Double check temperature control and ventilation in the hold. Consider extra insurance in case something unexpected happens. Most importantly, try to stay positive around your pup and reassure them with affection before departure despite your own worries. It may help them feel more at ease!

   

6. What if my dog gets anxious on the plane?

   Although animal traveling facilities aim to make flying less stressful, there are no guarantees. Some dogs may appear to handle it well but still feel freaked out inside. If reports come that your pup was distressed, don’t feel awful – it poses them no harm. At the same time, you’ll want to comfort them extra when reunited! Perhaps discuss options like training, medication, or driving next time with your vet if they had a spectacularly bad experience. The priority is your dog’s welfare.