The 5 Best Crates for Flying with Your Dog

The Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Dog Crate for Flying

Flying with your furry friend can be stressful for both of you. As a frequent flyer with dogs over the past decade, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges getting them comfy in their travel crate. In this guide, I’ll break down the top options and considerations to help you pick the best crate for your pup.

Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided Crates

1. Soft-Sided Crates: These are more lightweight and collapsible for easy transport. Your pup can also see out the mesh sides for less anxiety. However, they’re not as durable if handled roughly by airline staff.
2. Hard-Sided Crates: These plastic or metal crates provide maximum security and durability. I rate them better for long haul flights. But the solid sides contribute to more stress since dogs can’t see outside. Also heavier to lug around the airport.

Basically, soft crates are best for short flights while hard crates give piece of mind for cross-country journeys. I’d go hard if your pup has separation anxiety too.

Size Really Matters

Get a crate where your dog can stand up and turn around comfortably, but no bigger since airlines have strict size limits. Remember, they’ll be cooped up for hours – give ’em some wiggle room!

I made the rookie mistake of getting too large a crate once. They refused to check it and I had to scramble to find an alternative. Def not a vibe, dude. Measure twice to avoid hassle.

Durability & Style

Plastic crates are more impact-resistant than thinner metal versions. Zippered crates let you customize ventilation. Sort of think about how rough baggage handlers could potentially be – you want crush-proof.

For aesthetics, some dogs do better feeling cozy in a lil bed rather than institutional gray plastic. I dig the cute cover options to make travel less jarring. Go for fun prints or your pup’s fave color if they have one!

Additional Features

Look for fold-down food/water dishes, leash clips, and drainage holes for “accidents”. Kind of a bummer to discover a messy crate mid-flight! Non-slip lining prevents sliding and a handy carry handle simplifies airport navigation.

Sturdy latches are key so it doesn’t pop open mid-transport. Guess that could cause mayhem! Tie fabric handle pads are a nice touch for comfort.

Testing It Out

Spend a week acclimating your pup to their new crate at home. Put treats and toys inside so it becomes a happy place instead of punishment. Gradually increase alone time so they learn it’s chill to hang solo.

I made one mistake of not properly training and my hound freaked on the flight. Never again! Practice runs to the vet can prep them for real deal travel day jitters. The more naturally at ease they are, the smoother sailing for you both.

Additional Tips

Bring favorite toys, blankets, calming treats. Ask vet about anti-anxiety meds for flight jitters if needed. Having paperwork shows they’re travel-trained and supervised at all times. Perhaps consider pet health insurance in case of unexpected medical costs from travel risks.

On travel day, limit food/water intake so there’s less mess potential. Also prevent overheating since there’s restricted ventilation. Think about your puppo’s comfort level like you would your own!

Some Final Advice

Listen to your pup’s personality. More independent dogs do better roaming freely on board than anxiety-prone clingers. Young puppies also have unique needs over older well-behaved dogs. Basically trust your instincts oversize standards.

The Air Bud rule still serves as a good litmus test to check if flying is truly the right choice. Would Buddy actually enjoy and handle the excursion well? Or would he be absolutely miserable trapped in a cramped crate for endless hours? Tough call, man – follow your heart!

I hope this helpful overview gives you ton of ideas on choosing the ideal crate setup to make flying a breeze. Most importantly try and stay calm yourself since dogs totally pick up on our energy. Safe travels to you and your pup! Feel free to hit me up if any other questions. Stay pawsitive!

Best Crates for Flying with Dogs

Crate	Material	Dimensions	Ventilation	Ease of Cleaning	Price
Sherpa Original Deluxe Soft-Sided Pet Carrier	Nylon	23″ L x 17″ W x 19″ H	Mesh windows and door	Machine washable liner	$70
Pet Gear IGO2-Pro Travel Dog Crate	Aluminum and plastic	24″ L x 18″ W x 19″ H	Ventilated windows and door	Wipe clean surfaces	$130
MidWest iCrate Folding Metal Dog Crate	Steel	24″ L x 18″ W x 21″ H	Multiple ventilation points	Wipe clean surfaces	$70
SportPet Designs Fold & Carry Dog Crate	Plastic	22″ L x 17″ W x 19″ H	Ventilated plastic door	Dishwasher safe tray	$70
Petmate Vari Kennel	Plastic	24″ L x 18″ W x 21″ H	Multiple air vents	Wipe clean surfaces	$60

FAQ

1. What is the best size crate for flying with dogs?

   Basically, the best size crate is one that’s big enough for your pup to stand up, turn around, and lay down in comfortably. Too small can be kind of stressful. At the same time, don’t go bigger than needed since the crate takes up cargo space on the plane. A medium-sized soft-sided crate works well for most dogs.

2. Can all dogs fly in the cabin?

   Not exactly. The rules sort of vary by airline. Most allow small dogs under 20 pounds in the cabin as long as they stay in their crate under the seat. Bigger dogs have to ride in the cargo hold where temperatures can vary quite a bit. So if your pup is big, you’d better ask the airline’s policy.

3. Is it stressful for dogs to fly?

   Flying can absolutely be stressful for dogs! Changes in air pressure, unfamiliar noises and smells – it’s a lot for them. You can help by keeping your pup’s crate covered with a light blanket, playing calming music or books on tape, and talking to them soothingly. Maybe bring along a favorite toy or chew too. Also ask for sedatives from the vet if needed.

4. What should I pack in the crate for the flight?

   Definitely pack plenty of water, as well as treats. Dogs sometimes get dehydrated during flights due to dry cabin air. You’ll also want their favorite toy, a pee pad or two in case of accidents, id tag with your contact info, and medication if needed. Oh, and a note taped to the outside with your pup’s name and “please pet me” – you never know, it may work!

5. Don’t dogs pee and poop on flights often?

   More dogs have accidents than you might think, which is understandable given all the new experiences. Going potty before leaving and limiting food/water beforehand can help, but it’s no guarantee. Bring pee pads and plan on having to clean up if needed. Always use a waterproof crate liner too. Nevertheless, most seasoned travelers assure that with training and care, accidents are avoidable.

   

6. What if my dog barks or cries loudly on the flight?

   Barking or crying non-stop can disturb other passengers, so you want to avoid it if possible. Ask your vet about calming supplements or talk therapy in advance. Have chew toys or puzzles with treats in the crate to occupy them. Bring headphones to mask noises. At the same time, be considerate of flight attendants if they have to quiet your pup – they’re just doing their job. With some trial runs, most dogs adjust to flying calmly.

7. Anything else I need to know?

   Don’t forget documents! You’ll need health records showing vaccines if traveling internationally. You may need to buy your pup their own ticket too. Remember where immunization records are on that random Tuesday when you’re rushing to the airport. Reread the airline rules closely and contact them if doubtful. Maybe consider boarding your dog for the trip if they seem highly anxious – it may be less stress in the long run. Always focus on keeping your furry friend safe and happy when flying!