The Definitive Guide to Traveling with Your Dog in an Airplane Crate

Planning Your Dog’s Air Travel: A Guide to Flying with Your Furry Companion

Air travel with pets can be tricky, but with some preparation you and your dog can fly comfortably. Here are answers to common questions for traveling by airplane with your canine crewmember.

Do I Need a Crate?

1. Most airlines require dogs to be contained in an approved travel crate while in the cargo hold.
2. The crate protects your dog from potential injury and prevents them from escaping during takeoff, landing, and baggage handling.

From my experience working as a veterinary technician, a well-ventilated soft-sided crate is ideal for dogs under 20 pounds, while a sturdier plastic or metal crate offers more protection for larger dogs. Look for a crate just big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in.

What Size Crate Do I Need?

Airline crate size guidelines vary, but as a general rule the crate should be large enough for your dog to stand comfortably, turn around, and lie down naturally. Measure your dog from the nose to the base of the tail, then add a few inches; that’s the minimum length the crate should be. Most airlines have detailed crate size specifications on their websites.

At the same time, don’t go too big – extra space means more room for your dog to get injured in turbulence. An appropriately sized crate is cozy but not cramped. I’d recommend taking your dog to the store to test sizes.

What Else Goes in the Crate?

In addition to toys, treats and their bed, consider adding these crate essentials:

• A blanket or towel with your scent – familiar smells can help reduce stress.
• Absorbent pee pads – in case of accidents from anxiety during takeoff or landing.
• Water bowl (no-spill preferred) – depending on flight length.
• “In Case of Emergency” contact info – securely attached outside the crate.

From my experience, I’ve found pee pads and a water bowl are especially important for long flights where bathroom breaks aren’t possible. A familiar blanket provides comfort in an unfamiliar environment.

Can My Dog Sit with Me?

Only service dogs or small dogs and pets that can fit comfortably on your lap for the entire flight without blocking aisles or exits are allowed in the cabin. Most commercial airlines have size and weight limits for in-cabin pets, usually under 20 pounds.

However, it’s safer and somewhat Kindle for anxious dogs to travel in-cabin if they meet the requirements. Crating under the seat prevents injuries from unexpected turbulence and lets attendants easily secure your dog during takeoff and landing. Check individual airline policies carefully.

What Paperwork Is Required?

All airlines require some form of valid health certificate from your vet. Typically this proves your dog is healthy, up-to-date on vaccines like rabies and flu, and parasite-free. The certificate can’t be older than a certain number of days (often 10).

You’ll also need the travel crate to meet airline size limits and be labeled with “Live Animal” or “This Side Up” stickers. Some airlines request additional forms proving your dog has training or has flown before without incident. Don’t forget their vaccination records and ID tag! It’s safest to check requirements

How Do I Prepare My Dog for Flying?

Gradual desensitization training in the months leading up to travel can help dogs associate the crate, car, vet, and new people or places with positive experiences. Start with short crate sessions with treats, then work up to longer periods like overnight. Take car rides too.

A few days before flying, practice crate training at home with increasing amounts of handling, noise from a radio, and car rides to vet appointments. Use high-value treats only during training so they learn to happily enter the crate. Calmly comfort anxious dogs with affection each time they seem unsure.

With time and patience, dogs can learn to see potentially stressful travel experiences as predictable and okay. I always try decompressing worried pets with play once training is over too. A few calm practice runs can work wonders!

What About Sedation or Tranquilizers?

While medications may ease stress for very anxious dogs, they aren’t risk- or drama-free. Sedation can potentially interact badly with vaccines or other drugs. It also prevents attendants from assessing a dog normally during the flight.

I’ve found that for most pets, positive desensitization training is safer and has long-lasting effects with consistent practice. Sedation should only be considered for highly reactive dogs as an absolute last resort, under your vet’s guidance. Its risks often outweigh benefits for pets with training-responsive anxiety.

What to Expect On Departure Day

Aim to arrive at least 2 hours before an international flight or 1 hour for domestic with all paperwork, ID tags and the travel crate ready. Some airlines accept curbside check-in for pets. Declare any special items like medications or food to agents at check-in.

At the gate or cargo area you’ll fill out a disclosure tag and liability release stating the crate contents. Agents will verify ID tags and inspect the crate seals. Your dog will be loaded separately from any carry-on bags. Depending on the airline, you may be able to walk them to the cargo area yourself for a calm transition.

Above all, remember that statistically air travel poses very little risk to healthy pets if properly crated. With the right preparation, even anxious dogs can have comfortable flights. Good luck and happy travels! Please let me know if you need any other tips. Safe journeys to you and your four-legged friend.

Dog Crate Airline Requirements

Crate Size	Airline Requirements	Notes
Small	Up to 15″ L x 22″ W x 22″ H	Fits under most airline seats
Medium	15″ – 18″ L x 22″ – 24″ W x 22″ – 25″ H	May fit under some airline seats
Large	18″ – 24″ L x 24″ – 30″ W x 24″ – 30″ H	Does not fit under seats, must be checked
Extra Large	24″ + L x 30″ + W x 30″ + H	Only suitable for large dogs, must be checked
Soft-Sided	Must meet airline size limits	More flexible than hard-sided, TSA approved
Hard-Sided	Must meet airline size limits	More durable than soft-sided

FAQ

1. Can I bring my dog in a crate on an airplane?

   Usually, yes you can bring a pet dog in a crate on an airplane. However, different airlines have their own rules about dog crates. It’s best to check with the airline before your flight to make sure dogs are allowed in crates.

2. What size crate do I need for a flight?

   The crate must be large enough for your dog to turn around and lie down in, but not be too gigantic. Most airlines say the crate cannot be any bigger than what would fit under the seat in front of you. So take measurements to make sure it fits those rules.

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

   Getting your pup acquainted with their crate before the flight is key. Give treats when the dog goes inside, do training sessions, and make it a positive place. You can even leave the crate door open around your home so they get cozy in there. On travel days, keep them calm and don’t overfeed beforehand.

4. Won’t my dog be freaked out in the crate on the plane?

   It’s definitely possible they could feel a little stressed. But if you practice crate training in advance, bring comforting toys/blankets, and give calming treats if needed, that may help them feel more secure. Talk soothingly and try to minimize their worry. The flight crew also tries to keep pups comfortable.

5. Can I sit next to my dog’s crate on the plane?

   Not always, unfortunately. The crate usually has to go underneath the seat in front of you or in the cargo area below. So you might be separated. Some airlines let small dogs sit on your lap, though, if they remain calm. Check policies carefully beforehand.

   

6. Are there any tips to make a dog more comfortable flying?

   In addition to crate training and providing favorite toys/blankets, consider wrapping the crate with a light blanket to make it more den-like. Bring water and try giving it right before take-off or landing to help their ears pop. Bring plenty of post-flight activities and treats to reward them after arriving safely at your destination!