Travel in Style With Your Dog: How to Choose the Best Dog Crate for Airplane Travel

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Dog Crate for Air Travel

Whether you’re taking your furry friend on a vacation or moving to a new home, flying with your dog on an airplane requires proper planning and preparation. One of the most important items you’ll need is a high-quality dog crate designed specifically for air travel. In this guide, I’ll answer all your questions about choosing the right airline-approved crate and preparing your pup for their big plane ride.

Why Do Dogs Need Crates on Planes?

Airline regulations require that dogs be contained in a sturdy crate during take-off and landing for their safety and the safety of other passengers. The pressurized cabin and sudden changes in air pressure can be stressful and disorienting for dogs if they’re not secured. Crates also prevent dogs from sticking their heads out windows or walking freely in the narrow aisles where they could potentially injure themselves or others. Basically, the crate keeps everyone safe and calm throughout the journey.

What Size Crate Do I Need?

When selecting a crate size, you’ll want to choose one that is big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in comfortably but not so big that they’ll have excess room to move around during turbulence. Measure your pup from nose to tail, then add a few inches. Most airlines require the crate to be no bigger than 18 x 13 x 8 inches with the door facing the aircraft seat in front of you. I’d get a little bigger than minimum if possible to give them wiggle room.

Choosing the Right Material

Look for crates made from durable plastic or metal with solid sides (no bars). From my experience, plastic crates tend to hold up better than wire crates on plane rides due to sudden air pressure changes. Soft-sided crates are also approved by some airlines but don’t offer as much protection as a hard shell. No matter the material, ensure all screws, hinges and latches are secured tightly. The last thing you want is a crate door popping open at 30,000 feet!

Other Must-Have Features

1. Removable/washable pad – Accidents can happen during take-off and landing. Look for cushioned pads that zip out for easy cleaning.
2. Secure door latch – Test the latch several times to ensure it locks tightly and won’t accidentally open mid-flight.
3. Low center of gravity – Crates that are bottom-heavy are less likely to tip over. Avoid any with wheels.
4. Ventilation – Slots, holes or mesh provide airflow and prevent your pup from overheating.
5. Comfortable size – As mentioned, the crate should allow your dog to stand fully and turn around comfortably.

Crate Training Made Easy

Get your dog used to their new crate well in advance of travel dates. Start by feeding them in the crate with the door open, then work up to closing it for short periods with treats inside. I’d also get them accustomed to noises like those experienced on a plane by playing recordings of engine sounds. Leave the TV or radio on when you’re not home to get them used to background noise. With time and positive reinforcement, they’ll learn their crate is a safe, comfortable space. This helps prevent stress and anxiety on travel day!

Pre-Flight Prep

Once ticketed, find out the airline’s specific policies and restrictions. Some say dogs must check-in 2 hours before departure while others allow curbside check-in. Filling out pet travel paperwork in advance saves time. I’d also pack backup supplies like extra food, water, toys and clean-up pads in your carry-on in case of delays. On travel morning skip walks and feed your dog 5-6 hours before departure to minimize bathroom trips. A calming treat like CBD oil may help chill them out too if they tend to get amped up.

So in summary dude, those are the basics on choosing a dope crate and getting your pup prepared for their trip. I’ve learned from difficult experiences that it takes mad planning to fly stress-free with dogs. Hope this helps you and Fido have a gnarly vacation! Let me know if you have any other questions.

In-Flight Comforts

While safety is the priority, you also want your companion as cozy as possible. Consider adding a familiar blanket or toy that smells like home. The crate should have adequate airflow but it may get chilly at altitude, so a small heating pack (secured away from direct contact) provides warmth without fire risk. I also give my pup a snug fitting doggie life jacket, as the pressure changes can cause ear pain and it comforts them to feel wrapped up, kinda like being swaddled as a puppy. Music played on your phone can help mask engine noise as well.

Is air travel for dogs ideal? Perhaps not, but when done right it can be relatively low-stress. I hope these tips provide some reassurance and guidance. Safe travels to you and your furry friend! As with any big change, patience and empathy go a long way in helping dogs feel calm and secure. With preparation and TLC, that airplane crate can truly become their cozy sanctuary for the journey.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Airline Approved Dog Crate

Size	Choose a crate sized properly for your dog‘s growth. Also consider maximum size limits for the airline.
Ventilation	Look for multiple openings on sides and top for airflow. Mesh or metal doors offer better ventilation than solid plastic or wood.
Durability	Flight-approved crates must withstand baggage handling without breaking. Opt for heavy-duty plastic or aluminum over flimsier materials.
Ease of Cleaning	Washable fabrics or removable liners inside make cleaning easier between trips. Avoid cushy interiors that trap odors and messes.
Airline Approval	Only hard-sided crates officially certified “airline-approved” by the manufacturer meet airline size, strength, and ventilation standards.
Comfort	Padded crates provide cushioning during flights. Look for ones with plastic bowls to avoid spills. Provide favorite blankets or toys.

FAQ

1. Can I bring my dog’s crate on the airplane?

   Yes, you can bring your dog‘s crate aboard most airplanes. The crate needs to be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Make sure it is properly labeled as a pet carrier.

2. How do I prepare my dog for travel in a crate?

   It’s a good idea to get your dog used to being in their crate before the big flight. Practice short periods with treats and praise. You can also get them accustomed to noises like the airport by playing recordings. Basically, the more comfortable they feel in their crate beforehand, the better their journey will be.

3. What size crate is allowed on flights?

   Most airlines permit crates that are no bigger than about 18 inches wide by 13 inches high and not over about 22 inches long. Check with your specific carrier just to be certain, yet those measurements will work for the majority of planes. Don’t bring an oversized crate or it might not fit properly in the aircraft.

   

4. Can the crate door be left open on the plane?

   For safety, keep your dog secured in the crate with the door fastened during takeoff and landing. However, once the seatbelt sign is off, you can maybe crack the door if your pup seems stressed. Just watch them carefully so they don’t roam free if turbulence hits. It’s best if they stay belted in for their protection and yours.

5. “What should go inside the crate?”

   Pack a few of your dog’s favorite toys or chew toys inside the crate to ease their stress and keep them entertained during the flight. Also include their leash, collar, ID tag, and an extra collar just in case. Water is a must – either bring bottled water or a travel bowl. And don’t forget treats for good behavior!

6. Is there anything I need to watch out for?

   Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and health during the trip. Signs like panting, restlessness, or vocalizing could mean they’re becoming overwhelmed – offer pets and reassurance. Monitor for overheating on flights without A/C. Dehydration is a concern as well. Bring paperwork proving vaccines in case it’s needed at your destination.

7. Does the crate need labels or tags?

   Yes, proper labeling really helps! Write your contact info clearly on an ID tag attached to the crate as well as on paperwork stowed inside. Include “Live Animal” and other important tags. Many airlines require a specific “Pet in Crate” sticker on the outside too. Clear labeling prevents any potential mixups with your furry friend’s crate during transit.

   

8. But is air travel truly safe for dogs?

   While proper planning and precautions go a long way in making flights safer for pets, there are no guarantees when it comes to their welfare on planes. Perhaps the stress of taking off and landing is too much for some dogs to handle healthfully. If at all possible, it may be best to consider driving with Fido instead of risks to his well-being that flying carries. In the end, your dog’s comfort should be the #1 priority.