Traveling with Your Large Dog on an Airplane Cabin Flight
If you have a big pooch and want to bring them along vacation, flying in the airplane cabin is an option – but there are some important things to know first. As a frequent flyer with my 125-pound Great Dane, Bruno, I’ve learned a lot over the years about what it takes to safely travel with a large dog on a commercial flight.
Dog Size Requirements
The first thing to check is whether your dog meets the size restrictions for traveling in the cabin. Most domestic airlines in the United States limit cabin pets to 20 pounds or under when carried in a carrier that can fit under the seat. If your dog is over this weight, they’ll need to fly in the cargo hold as luggage instead of the cabin.
Bruno just makes the cutoff at 125 pounds. A few times we’ve showed up to the airport only to learn the flight was oversold and they wouldn’t let him in the cabin due to space constraints. It pays to check aircraft size and booking policies carefully with the airline ahead of time if your dog exceeds the standard 20-pound limit.
Proper Kennel and Papers
Whether your dog travels in the cabin or cargo, federal regulations require them to ride in an approved hard-sided kennel. The kennel needs to be big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in comfortably. I went with an XXL-sized kennel fitting Bruno perfectly that I use any time we fly together.
- Current rabies vaccination certificate from your vet
- Signed “Rabies Certificate for Travel” provided by your vet
- Vaccination records for canine distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus
Most airlines also require travel paperwork to be submitted 2-4 weeks before your flight date for pre-clearance. Double check documentation rules, as missing or expired records can mean your pet isn’t approved to board the plane.
Cabin Travel Fees
In addition to your dog’s airline ticket, most carriers charge a fee for pets to travel in the cabin rather than cargo. These fees range from around $100-250 each way depending on the airline. It’s important to budget these pet passenger charges into your travel costs upfront. One year I was surprised at checkout when an $800 roundtrip pet fee was unexpectedly added!
Some airlines offer mileage rewards or partner programs where you can redeem points to cover part of the pet fare. For Bruno’s safety though, I always pay the fee no matter the extra cost to keep him with me in the pressurized cabin.
Book Early and Ask Questions
As with people tickets during busy travel seasons, the number of pets allowed in the cabin on any given flight is limited. If the pet capacity is already reached, you risk being bumped or needing to fly your dog as cargo instead. I’ve found it’s best to book travel at least 2-3 months ahead of time if bringing a large dog along.
Don’t be afraid to call the airline directly too with any other questions. Their website policies don’t always match the latest updates I’ve found. Speaking with a customer service agent lets me get the clearest picture of what to expect and any special restrictions to be aware of.
Prepare Your Pup!
Just like humans, dogs can get anxious flying too. I start desensitizing Bruno to his kennel well ahead of our trips. We practice short training sessions of him calmly sitting in it with treats, then work our way up to longer durations over weeks. I also get him used to the sounds of the airport like luggage carts ahead of time.
The day of the flight, I don’t give Bruno any food within a few hours of departure to avoid upset stomachs. Some calming aids like pheromone sprays, music playlists, or CBD treats can help relax dogs flying for the first time too. A tired dog is also a happy dog, so I try tiring Bruno out with extra exercise before our trip.
I make sure to bring along some of Bruno’s favorite chew toys or blankets too that carry his scent for comfort in the unfamiliar kennel environment. A full belly and familiar scents work wonders to calm stressed pets I’ve found.
Prepare Yourself!
Flying with a big dog is not much different preparation-wise than adults traveling with infants. I pack extra layers, entertainment like books and music, and essentials like water, snacks and dog first aid kit in my carry-on just in case of delays. A change of clothes is good to have on hand too because accidents can happen!
I also bring printouts of all Bruno’s documents, vets records, and airline reservations to smoothly check in. Being over-prepared puts me at ease so I can focus on keeping Bruno relaxed through the process. It may sound like a lot, but the peace of mind is worth it to fly with my furry partner stress-free.
If issues do come up like a late flight or overbooking, I politely but firmly advocate for my rights and Bruno’s well-being according to regulations. A calm demeanor goes much further with airline staff in those situations versus getting angry in my experience.
With checking policies thoroughly, practicing calm routines, and using stress-reducing aids if needed, my hope is this gives you confidence that yes – even extra large dogs can absolutely travel safely in the passenger cabin of a commercial aircraft. Don’t assume your pooch can’t join the family vacation! Reach out if you have any other questions.
My Experience Flying with Bruno
In all my flights over the past 5 years taking Bruno as my co-pilot, we’ve definitely faced some ups and downs. His ideal behavior hides how much inner turmoil must be going on in that big head of his being crammed in a kennel for hours! But through preparing well with training and having understanding flight attendants, we’ve navigated every trip smoothly.
There’s been silly moments too, like the time Bruno managed to claw open his snacks bag mid-flight and potato chips went everywhere to other passenger’s amusement. We laugh about that one now. Overall I’m so glad we stick it out with the process because those family vacation memories with Bruno by our side are truly priceless. His huge tail wags of joy when we land make it all worthwhile.
It really sparked me to research and share tips to help other giant dog owners overcome worries of not being able to travel with their furry best friend. With diligence, any pooch – no matter how big – can experience the magic of cabin flights. Never count your companion out before exploring all options. They deserve to create lasting memories with you too.
I hope sharing our story provides reassurance that with preparation, large dogs flying is very possible. Please let me know if you have any other questions! Safe travels to you and your pup.
Large Dog Air Travel Guidelines
| Dog Breed | Maximum Weight | Cabin or Cargo |
|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | 80 lbs | Cabin or Cargo |
| Golden Retriever | 75 lbs | Cabin or Cargo |
| German Shepherd | 88 lbs | Cargo |
| Great Dane | 120 lbs | Cargo |
| Mastiff | 200 lbs | Cargo |
FAQ
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Can I bring my large dog in the cabin on a flight?
Most airlines allow large dogs to travel in the cabin as long as the dog can fit under the seat. The dog must remain in a carrier that fits completely under the seat in front of you. However, some large breeds find it difficult to be in a small space for a long time. Check with your specific airline for size and breed restrictions.
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What documents do I need for my dog to fly in the cabin?
You’ll need a health certificate from your vet saying that your dog is fit to travel. The certificate can’t be older than 10 days. You also need proof of up-to-date vaccinations. The airline may want to see your dog’s ID tag as well. Basically, come prepared with all the necessary paperwork to show the agents.
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Is my large dog allowed on my lap during the flight?
No, for safety reasons, dogs must remain in their carrier under the seat or in the cargo hold. They are not permitted on your lap due to risks of injury if there is sudden turbulence. You definitely don’t want Fido flying around the cabin! Keep him secure in the approved carrier at all times.
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What if my dog is too big for the carrier?
If your dog exceeds the size limits, some airlines offer to transport overly large dogs in the cargo hold. However, this area is not climate-controlled and it gets loud. Personally, I’d be worried about Fido’swell-being down there. Perhaps it’s best to consider driving or look into pet transportation services instead.
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How can I keep my dog calm on the flight?
Give your pup some calming aids like CBD treats or pheromone sprays well before the flight. Talk to them gently and reassure them during takeoff and landing when they seem nervous. Consider practicing time in the carrier at home too. Bring favorite toys/chews and see if they’ll sleep through some of the trip. With patience and preparation, they can kind of get used to flying.
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Is it worth it to take my large dog in the cabin?
For many owners, the comfort of having their good boy by their side makes all the hassle worthwhile. However, it’s not an easy trip for big dogs in a tiny space. You have to ask yourself: is subjecting pup to potential stress worth it just for convenience? Maybe road-tripping or shipping separately is kinder to your pal in the long-run. In the end, consider what’s best for Fido.
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What if my dog acts up onboard?
There is a chance that even well-trained dogs could bark or whine from nerves. While the other passengers likely understand, loud disruptions are not fair to them. Have a backup plan just in case – maybe a vet can prescribe light sedatives. Or consider putting dog in cargo if it loses it. A little yelling on 20 humans is basically unfair to them. Always have a plan B!