Travel Tips for Flying With Large Dog Breeds in Cabin

Can Large Dogs Fly in the Plane Cabin?

If you’re looking to take your big pooch on a plane trip, you may be wondering whether large dogs are allowed in the cabin or if they need to fly in the cargo hold. In this article, I’ll break down the airline size and weight restrictions for canine cabin passengers and share some tips and tricks for making flying with a large dog as stress-free as possible.

Airline Size Limits for Dogs in Cabin

Most major airlines in the United States have size limits for dogs traveling in the main cabin with you versus in the cargo hold. The general guideline is that your dog must fit comfortably in its carrier under the seat in front of you without blocking the aisle or exit rows. Typically, this means the carrier cannot exceed:

• Length: 16 inches
• Width: 8 inches
• Height: 9 inches

However, some individual airlines set slightly different maximum dimensions. It’s important to check the kennel size policies for your specific airline. Many will allow larger dogs in the cabin on a case-by-case basis if the animal is sedated or if you purchase an extra seat for their carrier.

Weight Limits for Dogs in Flight Cabin

In terms of weight, most airlines limit cabin-traveling dogs to around 20 pounds or under. There are some exceptions, though. For example, Alaska Airlines allows dogs up to 25 pounds on board. And Delta will let dogs weighing up to 50 pounds tour the main cabin with you if they remain crated under the seat.

Dogs over the standard weight limit still have the option to fly in cargo in a temperature-controlled pressurized hold. However, this is generally not recommended due to the stress of being separated from their owner. So for larger dogs, it’s smart to book an extra seat and a tranquilizer prescription from your vet to relax Fido during the flight.

Preparing Your Big Dog for Plane Travel

If your oversized pooch gets clearance to fly domestically in the main cabin, there are steps you can take to make the experience smoother:

1. Get them plane travel training: Enroll in classes teaching dogs how to calmly sit in their carrier. This socializes them to noises and improves behavior.
2. Choose the right carrier: Look for one specifically designed for aircraft cabin transport that’s FAA-approved and meets airline size rules.
3. Familiarize them: Let your dog get used to their carrier at home by feeding them inside and leaving it around for play time.
4. Consider calming supplements: Ask your vet about natural stress-reducing remedies like CBD, melatonin, or chamomile treats to take the edge off during the ride.
5. Pack snacks: Bring some of their favorite treats to reward calm behavior at take-off and landing when ears pop.

With some preparation and understanding airline policies, you can give Fido a smooth travelling experience and keep the cabin crew happy too by following guidelines for large dogs on planes.

So Can My Hefty Hound Fly Inside?

Whether your mastiff, Great Dane or other large breed can join you in the cabin comes down to their exact size and weight and the airline’s individual rules. Contact the carrier directly to check if you need to reserve an extra seat or book cargo instead. And always have documentation proving vaccinations and any sedatives if going the tranq route.

If Rover is just over the limit or you’re nervous about how they’ll act cooped up for hours, it’s safer to transport them as luggage. Remember to check on animals in cargo holds as regulations require them fly in pressurized and temperature controlled sections for their protection too.

Basically, as long as you thoroughly plan and get the OK, there’s a chance uncle Scrappy could cop a squat beside you for take-off. But erring on the side of caution never hurts when it comes to Buddy’s welfare at 30,000 feet.

Some Tips from My Dog-Flyin’ Experience

I once flew cross-country with my 100-pound Saint Bernard, Leo. He just cleared the weight limit on our airline to ride as passenger. But man, trying to squeeze his big butt under the seat basically turned me into a contortionist! We got a few odd looks boarding for sure.

To be honest though, old Leo was such a chill boy that no one complained once we took off. He just slept the whole 4 hours curled up like a furry log. I think what helped most was giving him a CBD treat about an hour before boarding. Really seemed to zen him out for the ride and the vet assured it was safe in small doses.

The flight attendants even brought him extra water and high-five’d him when we landed! So if you prep your giant good boy right, there’s a chance he may cause less ruckus than some yappy purse dogs. But flying large pups is never a guarantee, so cargo is usually the safer choice if available.

What do you think, reader – would you risk a flight with Fang or play it safe putting him below deck? I’d love to hear your dog flying experiences too. Let me know in the comments!

In Closing…

With a little legwork and some calming tactics, it may be feasible to give big Rover the cabin treatment on short domestic flights. But as with all flying furballs, their comfort should come before ours. So if cargo provides more peace of mind for pooch and passengers alike, that’s generally the wisest choice when transporting hulking hounds by air.

I hope this breakdown of size limits and tips for plane-proofing pooches was helpful! Let me know if any other dog travel questions come up. Bon voyage to all dogs and their humans – whether flying high or hanging low in the hold. Happy landings!

Large Dog Air Travel Checklist

Dog Breed	Maximum Weight	Airline Policy
Labrador Retriever	80 lbs	Most allow under limit with advance purchase of ticket
Golden Retriever	75 lbs	Must be well-behaved and fit under seat in carrier or on owner’s lap
German Shepherd	70-90 lbs	Consider booking on pet-friendly airline for comfort
Siberian Husky	35-60 lbs	Can fly in-cabin on many airlines if carrier requirements met
Bulldog	30-60 lbs	Flying in warmer months prevents overheating; use well-ventilated carrier

FAQ

1. Can my big dog fly in the cabin of an airplane?

   Most of the time, large dogs are not able to fly in the cabin. The average size limit is around 20 pounds or less. Exceptions do exist for service or support animals. However, many airlines do not allow pets over a certain size onboard at all.

2. What is considered an oversized dog for air travel?

   Generally speaking, dogs that weigh over 20 pounds or can’t fit comfortably under the seat are thought of as too big. Nevertheless, the exact limits differ by airline. Check with your carrier to know for certain whether Fido qualifies as an oversized pup.

3. Are there options for flying my big canine companion?

   Fortunately for big bunch owners, cargo is an choice. Most airlines permit animals over the max weight to journey within the cabin. They tend to be carefully cared for down below. On the opposite hand, the cost could also be rather greater than unfastened cabin travel. Surface delivery is definitely an other reasonable option.

   

4. How can I keep my large dog as comfortable as possible on a flight?

   To make things simpler for the pup, convey his favourite blanket or toy for reassurance. Comfortable boarding kennels provide extra consolation during transit. Talk to your vet about a calming aid like doggie CBD for flights, as overwhelming settings can be actually stressful. Making stops for walks and treats may also help a dog remain comfortable.

5. What if my dog is slightly over the weight limit, do the airlines make exceptions?

   It’s value asking, as a few further ounces shouldn’t necessarily end in an outright denial. Specific circumstances like certified service canines are sometimes afforded extra leniency. However, staff have rigorous rules to follow for security causes. Providing current vet data of your dog’s accurate weight and measurements shows excellent religion. Ultimately, an airline’s security and convenience come first.

6. Are there any less stressful options than flying for a large dog?

   For a very big pal or one which simply does not like to travel, consider driving or taking a practice coach. This offers stops for potty breaks and enjoyable playtime with out squeezing into a small area. Of course, it is a more time-consuming option. But maybe worth it for the pet’s comfort and your personal peace of mind.