A Comprehensive Guide to Flying with Your Large Dog
If you need to travel by air with your big furry companion, there are some important things to know before you book your flight. In this article, I’ll provide answers to all the common questions owners have when it comes to transporting larger canine travelers.
Getting Your Dog Used to the Crate
The first step is getting your pup accustomed to their travel crate. This helps reduce stress for both of you on travel day. Start feeding your dog in the crate with the door open so they associate it with positive experiences. Gradually work up to closing the door for short periods while giving treats. From my own experience, I’ve found it’s best to start with just a few minutes and build up slowly over the course of a few weeks.
Measuring for Proper Fit
It’s important to use a crate that fits correctly based on your dog’s size. I typically recommend allowing enough space for your pet to stand up and turn around comfortably but no additional room. Make sure any carrier or crate you use is approved by the airline and FAA regulations for size. You can contact the carrier directly to double check dimensions if unsure.
Weight and Breed Restrictions
Most airlines have size limits for animals traveling in the cargo hold, usually around 100 pounds. However, some restrict certain breeds altogether like pit bulls. Be sure to check the breed and weight policy of your chosen airline directly on their website before booking travel. From my experience, smaller regional jets may have tighter restrictions too.
Health Certificate and Vaccination Records
Almost all destinations within the United States require an interstate health certificate from a licensed vet within 10 days of travel for dogs flying in cargo. It verifies the pet is free of communicable diseases and lists current vaccinations. Keep the certificate and vet records together in an easy to access spot. I’ve faced situations where an airline needed these documents at the last minute.
Food, Water, and Medications
You are allowed to bring food, but the container must be easily accessible for inspection without unpacking luggage or opening the crate. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring along your dog’s travel water bowl, any medications, and a letter from your vet detailing current prescriptions. Pack meds in your carry-on in case of delays so your pup has proper care available right away on arrival.
Extra Leash and Poop Bags
Even when flying cargo, bring an extra leash and small pack of poop bags. Ground transportation is unpredictable, and you’ll want clean-up options in a pinch. I once arrived at baggage claim to discover my pet’s crate had popped open during transit! Thankfully, the extra leash let me contain her until luggage arrived with her regular gear.
Get to the Airport Early
Give yourself plenty of time to park, check-in with your dog, get through security, and reach the cargo area. The process can take over an hour from start to finish depending on airport wait times. While running late leads to stress, I’ve found arriving early allows breathing room for unexpected snags. Aim to reach the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight.
Seat Your Dog for Takeoff and Landing
If your pup meets the size limit to travel in-cabin, buy them an extra plane ticket and seat. This is much less stressful than cargo. When booking, request bulkhead or emergency exit rows with more legroom. From my personal experience, I’ve noticed dogs seem to feel the plane’s movements more than people. Giving a large breed the seat rather than having them stowed below helps prevent anxiety and fear.
Make Travel Fun with Positive Reinforcement
To help your pup associate flying with good things, make a travel ritual out of it. Give high-value training treats only during trips to build positive associations. Some owners even play calming music or aromatherapy diffusers in the crate pre-flight. By keeping travel lighthearted through reward-based training, your dog is more likely to brave future trips with less stress, in my opinion.
Consider Sedation from Your Vet
Especially for dogs prone to anxiety, talk to your vet about a mild anti-anxiety medication prescription for travel days. Something non-drowsy calms nerves without zonking pups out. Just be sure the vet knows flying details like timing so doses can be adjusted properly. While sedatives carry risks if overused, they’re a legitimate option in some high-stress cases. Discuss pros and cons openly to make the choice that’s right for your dog.
Arrange Meet and Greets Curbside
Many airports allow dogs exiting cargo to be met curbside rather than inside terminals. Contact your airline regarding procedures and transfers from cargo facilities. This reunion outside takes pressure off everyone and avoids crowding in arrival halls. Hopefully officials continue to work with owners for smooth pickups when possible. Communication is key to avoiding complications on arrival, in my experience.
In summary, with preparation starting a few weeks before departure, most big dogs can handle flying with minimum fuss. Use positive reinforcement to build travel confidence from the start. And allow extra time for checks, paperwork verification, and snags that may arise. By being organized, you’re more likely to get Fido there safely so you both can relax and enjoy your destination stress-free. Safe travels!
Factors to Consider When Flying with a Large Dog
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Airline pet policies | Policies vary by airline – some only allow small dogs in cabin, others have size/weight limits for cabin. Check policies and fees in advance. |
| Dog crate/carrier | The crate needs to be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in. It must have ventilation and be sturdy for cargo hold travel. |
| Health records | Vaccination records may be required. Consider seeing vet 2 weeks before flight for health check and travel certificate. |
| IDs on crate and owner | External crate tags with your contact inside and out. IDs on dog’s collar and on your boarding pass/ticket too. |
| Food, water, supplies | Pack limited food, water, medications, bedding, toys in checked baggage – not in the crate with your dog. |
FAQ
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Can I bring my big dog on a plane?
Most major airlines allow you to bring your dog in the cabin of the plane as long as it fits under the seat in front of you in a carrier. However, some dog breeds may be too big for this. Always check airline policies before traveling with a large dog.
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What size carrier do I need for my dog on a plane?
The maximum size carrier permitted in the cabin is usually about the size of a small suitcase – around 18 inches by 14 inches. Measure your dog from nose to tail and be sure their carrier meets the airline restrictions. Otherwise, your pup might need to go in the cargo hold instead of the cabin.
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How can I keep my dog calm on a flight?
To help settle your doggo’s nerves, try giving them a calming aid like CBD oil or pheromone spray a few hours before the trip. Familiar toys, blankets and heartbeats help too. During takeoff and landing when pressure changes bother them most, try having them lay on you under a light blanket. Above all, stay positive – their energy will reflect yours.
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What paperwork is required for flying with a dog?
You’ll need your pup’s vaccination records showing they are up to date on vaccines for rabies and other diseases. The airline may want proof your pooch has traveled before or that they are not aggressive. Some destinations require an international health certificate from your vet too. It’s smart to have copies of all documents in case one gets lost.
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How can I prepare my nervous dog for air travel?
Desensitize them to the carrier ahead of time through short practice sessions with treats inside. Take baby steps – don’t force them in at first. Using the car as a “mock plane” can help too. Give them a few trial runs to get used to new sights, sounds and what to expect before the big day. Practice calmness and try to diffuse any anxiety they show.
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What if my dog is too big or nervous to fly?
Perhaps air travel is not the best option for a dog that is overly anxious or too big for the plane’s size limits. You may consider driving instead so they can be more comfortable. Or see if a professional pet transport service can help by providing an experienced handler during the trip. Ultimately, do what you feel is safest and least stressful for your furry friend.