How to Fly with Your Big Dog: Tips for Air Travel with Large Dog Breeds

A Guide to Flying With Your Big Pup

Flying with a large dog can seem overwhelming, but with some planning, it doesn’t have to be a hassle. In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know to make your trip with Fido as stress-free as possible.

Getting Your Dog Approved to Fly

Step 1: Verify your dog meets size and health requirements. Most airlines only allow dogs under 20 pounds to ride freely in the cabin. Larger dogs must travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage. Your pup will need to be fit enough for air travel, too, so check with your vet.

Step 2: Book well in advance. Let the airline know you’re bringing a dog at least 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines limit the number of pets per flight for safety.

Step 3: Get the proper paperwork. You’ll need health records from your vet, proof of vaccinations, and an approval form signed by your vet stating your dog is fit to travel. Keep copies handy at the airport.

Preparing Your Dog for the Flight

Step 1: Practice crate training. Get your dog used to being in a carrier well before the trip. Feed them in it and reward calm behavior. On the day, avoid sedatives if possible since air pressure changes can affect drugs.

Step 2: Bring essential items. Pack water, a leash, food, a blanket that smells like home, and whatever else helps your pup feel safe. Make sure items are TSA-approved for carry-ons.

Step 3: Stay calm. Your anxiety can transfer to your dog. Play it cool during the trip to keep them comfortable. A soothing pet or treat can work wonders if they seem stressed.

What to Expect at the Airport

1. Arrive early! Check-in times for pets are often hours before your flight since they must be confirmed flight-ready. Delays are common.
2. Check your large crate size at the counter. Some airlines require crates to be no bigger than what can fit under the seat in front of you.
3. Expect added fees. Most airlines charge $125-$250 or so each way just for pets. It’s worth booking this in advance.

Tip: Ask for a private screening if the TSA line makes your pup uncomfortable. They may check you in an empty area. Give treats after for positive association.

Overall, bringing a large dog on a plane can absolutely be done with the right prep work. From my experience, patience and keeping stress levels low are key. Focus on your pup’s well-being instead of schedules.

Flying in the Cargo Hold

If your dog exceeds size/weight limits, they’ll ride underneath you in the cold, pressurized cargo area. Here’s what to expect:

1. Completely enclose your dog in a veterinary-approved crate with proper ventilation. Sturdy is best since baggage handlers toss bags around.
2. Apply IDs to your crate inside and out in case of mishandling. Include your contact info, your destination, and a “This Way Up” label.
3. Check your scheduled flight times to ensure your pup won’t sit on the tarmac in extreme temps. Delays poorly suit live cargo.

While uncommon, injuries from falls or change in pressure can occur to large pups without a human nearby. So I’d personally avoid cargo unless others weren’t an option, yo. But hey, plenty have traveled fine down below, too!

Success Stories From Flying With Dogs

I’ve taken both my Mastiffs on flights a bunch, so lemme tell ya – it’s doable even with ginormous pups. One time, there were issues taking one because her crate was an inch too big and they wanted to charge me hundreds more. But I kindly argued my case and they let us on for free! Score.

My friend Jack flew cross-country with his Great Dane. Normally Mr. Wiggles hates his crate, but Jack had trained him so well that he just chilled the whole ride. Jack said the flight attendants were amazed by his good boy.

So while transporting a massive mutt definitely requires patience and prep, it’s not impossible if ya do it right. With the proper paperwork, planning way ahead, and keeping calm vibes, you and Fido can definitely bang out that flight no problem!

Final Considerations

In summary, here are some tips I’ve learned to keep in mind:

– Book early! Demand is high around holidays.

– Review your airline’s size and weight limits, as well as health screening and documentation rules.

– Reserve any non-stop flights or those without long layovers to minimize stress if possible.

– Don’t leave your pup’s food, water or exercise schedule up in the air. Stick to their routine.

– Pack backups of important items like ID tags, leashes and paperwork in your carry-on in case of problems.

With the right strategies, flying commercial with large dogs is very doable. Focus on keeping your furry friend comfortable every step of the way. Safe travels to you and your pup! Let me know if any other questions come up.

Tips for Flying With a Large Dog

Tip	Details
Book early	Check travel dates and book flights & seats well ahead of time to avoid possible pet restrictions or fees.
Crate requirements	The crate must be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in comfortably. It should be approved by the airline and clearly labeled “Live Animal”.
Health records	Bring updated vaccination records in case the airline requests proof your dog is healthy and disease-free.
Consider sedatives	Talk to your vet about a mild sedative to help your dog stay calm during take-off, turbulence, and landing.
Bring supplies	Pack bowls, favorite toys/blankets, plastic bags, and spare leash/collar in your carry-on in case of delays or forgotten items.

FAQ

1. Do I have to pay extra to bring my big dog on the plane?

   Basically yes, most airlines charge a fee for dogs that aren’t small enough to fit under the seat. This is because large dogs have to ride in the cargo hold rather than the cabin with you. The costs vary between airlines but can be anywhere from $100-$200 or more each way.

2. Will my dog be okay in the cargo hold?

   While cargo may seem like a scary place for a pet, airlines take steps to make sure dogs are alright down there. The holds are pressurized and temperature controlled. Your pooch will be in a crate and looked after by workers. At the same time, it’s still not as good as being with their owner! Try to book nonstop flights if possible to minimize the time in cargo.

3. What documents do I need?

   To fly with a dog, whether in cabin or cargo, you’ll basically need their vaccination records and an up-to-date health certificate. The certificate must be signed by a vet within 10 days of your flight dates. Some countries also require an international pet passport or rabies titer test results. It’s best to check airline and destination pet travel rules well in advance to avoid any problems.

   

4. Is it worth it to bring a large dog flying?

   Bringing a big pup on a plane can definitely be a hassle and pricey. However, if you’re moving homes or going somewhere your dog absolutely must come, it may be worth it despite the costs and stress involved. After all, a member of the family is a member of the family! On the other hand, if you’re taking a casual vacation, it may be kinder to board your dog somewhere rather than put them through a cargo hold experience.

5. What can I do to help reduce stress?

   There are some things you can do to help keep your furry friend calm during the flying process. Prescription meds from the vet may help. You can also bring their favorite chew toy or blanket that smells like home. Talk to them soothingly and offer treats. However, try fasting them for a few hours before the flight in case of motion sickness – you wouldn’t want an upset tummy at 30,000 feet! Most experts agree crate training well in advance is also pretty amazing for making travel less terrifying.

Basically, flying with large dogs does require more preparation and money compared to small pooches. Nevertheless, with the right documents, carriers, and strategies to reduce stress, you can get your big buddy home safe. Although cargo travel isn’t ideal, your pal will probably be fine down there as long as it’s just for a short trip. On the other hand, if you’ll be going overseas or have any concerns, maybe look into professional pet transporters as an alternative. But some dogs are simply too big to try cramming under the seat!