The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Dog Carrier for Plane Travel

Everything You Need to Know About Traveling With Your Dog By Air

If you’ve ever considered taking your furry friend along on a plane trip, you’ve probably wondered “What’s the best way to transport my dog?” In this article, I’ll cover all the options for dog carriers that are aircraft-approved and give you insider tips for making flying with your pup as stress-free as possible.

Selecting the Right Type of Dog Carrier

When flying with dogs, they must be kept contained in an FAA-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Here are the three main options:

1. Hard-Sided Kennel: These sturdy plastic or aluminum carriers provide maximum security and are generally the top choice for anxious flyers. My neighbor Sally swears by her Petmate Sky Kennel–she said it got her pug through a pretty bumpy flight with no issues!
2. Soft-Sided Bag: Lighter and more portable than hard kennels, but less sturdy. Make sure the zippers are reinforced. I’ve used a Petsafe Solvit tag-along carrier which kind of folds up like a suitcase – it works, but you gotta tie it down tight or Fido might join the mile-high club!
3. Hand-Held Bag: Only suitable for truly tiny dogs under 20 pounds. Provides minimal protection from bumps and noises. I wouldn’t risk it myself since you never know what kind of turbulence might be in store!

From my experience, if your pup is a nervous flyer, a rigid kennel with plenty of padding is the way to go. The extra security seems to help them feel more comfy. But a soft bag can work too if they’re cool as a cucumber. But is it worth stressing them out to save a few bucks? You be the judge.

Important Carrier Regulations

All carriers must follow FAA guidelines:

• Fit completely under the seat in front of you
• Be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably
• Have proper ventilation including holes with a maximum 1/8 inch diameter
• Be made of sturdy, non-collapsible material like aluminum or plastic
• Remain closed at all times with a secure latch mechanism
• Clearly display owner name, address, and contact info on both sides and top

I know it seems like a lot, but these rules ensure safety for both pups and passengers. Once you find the right carrier, follow the guidelines to avoid any issues at check-in. And don’t try to sneak your Great Dane in there–they’ll know!

Preparing Your Dog for Takeoff

Getting your pup acclimated to their carrier well before the big day is KEY, guys. Start desensitizing them at home by feeding meals inside and leaving the carrier out for short periods. Gradually work up to longer increments over weeks.

Here are some other tricks I’ve used to get shy flyers carrier-trained:

1. Play “carrier games” – give treats for going in, coming out, laying calmly inside. Associate it with positive experiences.
2. Get them used to ambient plane noises on YouTube to minimize surprises.
3. Practice short “test drive ” car rides to simulate being confined for travel periods.
4. Consider calming aids like CBD/melatonin treats or calming apparel. But consult your vet first to be safe!

The more comfortable they are before takeoff, the less anxious they’ll feel 35,000 feet in the air. It’s kinda like when you gotta get on one of those crazy rollercoasters—you hype yourself up so it ain’t so scary!

Extra Flying Tips…

Now that you know how to properly contain and prep your dog, here’s a few other tricks I’ve picked up over the years:

• Bring water, a favorite toy or bone to chew on, and pee pads just in case. Distractions and accident insurance go a long way!
• Apply for a “Pet In Cabin” certificate from your vet if your dog is small enough. This allows them in the cabin with you versus cargo.
• Consider flying nonstop if possible. Less plane changes means less stress.
• Bring their ID tag in case the carrier gets lost somehow. Microchips are clutch too.
• Pack a bag with their leash, food, vets info, and potty supplies for layovers or emergencies.

I hope these tips give you peace of mind for your upcoming flight! Safe travels to you and your best pooch pal. Let me know if you have any other puppy-flying Qs–I try to help out however I can, ya know? Stay steezy my dudes ✌️

In closing, hopefully this mega helpful guide answered all your doggone carrier questions and has you feeling prepared to take to the friendly skies. Don’t forget to tag me on Insta if ya snap any cute in-flight pics of your fur baby! Wishing you and yours many more adventures together whether by land, sea or air. Now go book those tickets–your pup is waiting!

Choosing the Best Dog Carrier for Plane Travel

Type	Size Limit	Weight Limit	Pros	Cons
Soft-Sided Carrier	Small & Medium Dogs	15-30 lbs	Lightweight, Easy to Pack	Less Secure, Not as Comfortable
Hard-Sided Carrier	All Dog Sizes	No Limit	Secure, Comfortable, Durable	Heavy, Bulky
Vest/Harness Carrier	Small Dogs	15 lbs	Lightweight, Hands-Free	Less Secure, Not as Comfortable
Under-Seat Bag	Very Small Dogs	10 lbs	Fits Under Seat, Convenient Storage	Very Restricting, Less Comfortable

FAQ

1. Can I bring my dog on the plane in a carrier?

   Most airlines allow you to bring your dog on board in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. However, there are usually size and weight limits that apply. It’s best to check with your specific airline for their rules.

   

2. What size dog carrier can I use on a plane?

   In general, the maximum dimensions for a dog carrier that can fit under an airplane seat are approximately 18 inches high by 13 inches wide by 8 inches deep. The total weight limit for dog and carrier together is usually around 20 pounds. I’d say check the airline rules to be 100% sure of the limits though.

3. Do I need paperwork for my dog on a plane?

   Yup, you’ll need some important docs for your pup’s plane ride. Most importantly, you need proof that your dog is healthy and up to date on all vaccinations. An official health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel is standard. Your airline may require additional forms too, so it’s good to be prepared.

4. How do I prepare my dog for air travel?

   Getting your pup accustomed to their carrier before a flight is key. Have them hang out in it at home to get used to the space. Also do trial runs to the airport if possible. It helps to keep them comfortable, so bring favorite toys/blankets. And don’t feed them within a few hours of takeoff to reduce motion sickness. Calm them with relaxing music or calming treats on the plane if they seem nervous.

5. Is it safe to sedate my dog for a flight?

   While sedatives may seem like they would help an anxious pooch stay calm on a plane, vets actually do not recommend it. Sedation can potentially interfere with your pup’s basic functions like breathing and body temperature regulation. It’s better to do extensive training and desensitization to flying rather than rely on medication if possible.

   

6. How much does it cost to bring a dog on a plane as a passenger?

   Fees vary widely by airline,but on average you can expect to pay anywhere from $75-$200 or more just for your dog’s plane ticket. There may also be additional costs like documentation fees. A lot depends on the size of your pup and duration of the flight. You may find some airlines have better rates than others, so it can pay to shop around and check for any promos.

7. What happens if my dog is noisy or disruptive on the plane?

   If your pup basically causes a real ruckus on the flight, the crew has the right to remove them from the plane mid-flight if deemed a serious distraction or danger. I’d advise major training before flying to avoid stressing everybody out. Have backup motion sickness meds and a muzzle just in case. Being considerate of others is really important when traveling with pets.