Travel Tips for Flying With Your Large Dog by Plane: What to Know

Your Complete Guide to Flying with Large Dogs

Traveling long distances with your furry friend can seem daunting, but with proper planning it doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re going on vacation or moving to a new home, this guide will help you navigate flying with your big dog.

Booking Airline Tickets

1. Check with your airline about size and weight limits for pets in the cabin or cargo hold. Most airlines only allow dogs under 20 pounds in the cabin for flight times under 8 hours.
2. Book tickets well in advance as there may be restrictions on number of pets per flight. Summer and holidays tend to fill up fast.
3. Make sure to purchase a ticket for your dog – the cost ranges from $75-$200 each way depending on airline and size. Having a ticket proves your dog is an approved passenger.

From my experience booking flights, always get pet policies and restrictions in writing and buy travel insurance in case plans change last minute. Communication is key when flying with animals.

Pre-Flight Prep

To help your pup stay calm during the journey:

• Visit the vet 4-6 weeks before travel for a wellness checkup and any necessary medications or vaccines. She’ll need a Certificate of Health to present at the airport.
• Desensitize them to their crate by feeding meals inside it with the door open and closed for short periods so it becomes a comforting space rather than punishment.
• Consider anti-anxiety medication from your vet – start giving it a few days before travel to see how they tolerate it. Helpful for nervous fliers!

At the airport, make sure your dog is well-exercised, tired, and hasn’t eaten for a few hours before boarding to minimize stress and accidents. Arrive extra early to check in with plenty of time for delays.

In-Cabin vs Cargo Hold

There are pros and cons to consider for each option:
In-Cabin

• You’re with your dog for comfort and supervision, but…
• Many large dogs don’t fit under the seat, limiting airlines you can fly.
• You may need to purchase an extra seat at high added cost.

Cargo Hold

• Potentially less stress for dogs not used to new environments and noises. However…
• You won’t be with them so there are unknowns like temperature regulation or possible mishandling by ground crews.
• Some dogs simply don’t do well being away from owners in unfamiliar conditions.

I’ve basically found that comfort level depends on trust in the airline and individual dog’s confidence. Plenty of large dog owners always transport in cargo without issues too though, so what works best is highly personal.

Flying Day Tips

Okay, the big day is here! A few more reminders:

1. Arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure to allow time for check in. Some airlines require 3 hours for international/red eye flights.
2. Have health cert, proof of vaccinations, import paperwork if traveling abroad, and a leash, collar, and ID tag on your dog handy for checks.
3. Control excited dogs with a head halter or muzzle (if needed) to prevent unwanted interactions until boarding.
4. Take your dog’s crate onboard or check it at the gate as early luggage. Most airlines limit one carrier per passenger for in-cabin travel.
5. The crew may provide a “Relief Area” on the plane or tarmac where they’re allowed to do their business before takeoff. Utilize this!

Don’t stress if there are delays – be patient and stay with your pup for added reassurance. With preparation, most large dogs do surprisingly well on flights!

Post-Flight Care

After a long travel day, your dog will likely be mentally and physically exhausted. Here are some things to do as you arrive at your destination:

• Let them stretch their legs – take them for a potty break and short walk if it’s not too late.
• Offer water but wait a few hours before feeding to avoid upset stomachs from traveling.
• Give them medications/supplements as needed for the journey before bed. My dog always gets smelly treats as a “job well done!”
• Make sure they get extra love, rest, and comfort for the next couple days to fully recover!

If traveling internationally, be aware of entry requirements like vaccines, permits, and quarantine periods for your destination country. Having paperwork I kind proves darn important basically.

Well reader, I hope sharing my experience has sort of helped calm those travel nerves for getting Fido to Grandma’s place! Let me know if you have any other questions. Safe travels and happy landings to you both!

Info You Need to Know About Traveling with Your Big Dog on a Plane

Dog Size	Airline Requirements	Cabin Options
Under 20 lbs	Must travel in carrier under seat	Cabin (No extra fee)
20-50 lbs	Must travel in carrier under seat if fits, else in cargo hold	Cabin (Possible fee) or Cargo Hold
Over 50 lbs	Must travel in climate-controlled cargo hold	Cargo Hold (Fee applies)
Restricted Breeds	Many airlines do not accept pit bulls and related breeds	N/A
Health Requirements	Valid health certificate from vet within 10 days of travel	N/A

FAQ

1. Can I bring my big dog on the plane as a carry-on?

   Usually not. Most airlines only allow small dogs or cats in an approved carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. A large dog would not fit into the small carrier size limits. Nevertheless, sometimes on smaller planes flying shorter distances you may have a chance if your dog is well behaved. But don’t count on it.

2. What size dog can travel as a carry-on?

   Most airlines allow dogs weighing 20 pounds or less that can fit into an approved hard-sided carrier no bigger than 18x14x8 inches. I’m guessing a chihuahua or smaller would be basically your only option as a carry-on buddy. Anything bigger than that and you’ll have to check them below as cargo.

3. How do I travel with a big dog on a plane?

   For a great dane or saint bernard size pup, you’ll need to purchase them a ticket and travel in the cargo hold of the plane below deck. Make sure to book them as early as possible since there are usually limits to the number of animals allowed in cargo per flight. You also want to give them sedatives prescribed by your vet so they remain calm during take-off and landing. Yikes, is that worth the stress for Fido?

4. What paperwork is required for flying with a dog?

   Most airlines require a health certificate from your vet dated within 10 days of your flight. You’ll also need proof of updated vaccines and an traveled crate that is appropriately sized and ventilated. Don’t forget to put ID tags on your pup with your contact info in case you get separated at the airport! Kind of a dog owners worst nightmare if you lose each other.

   

5. How much does it cost to fly with a dog in cargo?

   The rates vary based on airline and the weight, size, and breed of your pooch. Generally expect to pay around $100-300 for flying a dog in the cargo hold. Whereas a smaller carry-on dog might cost around $75 each way within the USA. You’ll also need to purchase a ticket for them of course. So flying Fido could add $300-600 to the cost of your trip!

6. What are the risks of traveling by air with a dog?

   Unfortunately there are some risks involved with transporting dogs on planes that you should be aware of. Delays, lost animals, or even death from extreme temperatures are possible though rare. Ask your vet if sedatives are recommended to avoid over-stressing dogs during take-off and landing. At the same time, many animals also travel safely every day without incident. Just be prepared for potential problems despite everyone’s best efforts.

7. Is it too hard on a dog to fly in cargo?

   The experts seem to disagree on this one. According to some dog behaviorists, the loud noises, pressure changes, and lack of familiar surroundings can be quite traumatic and stressful for dogs confined below deck. However, millions of pets fly this way around the world every year without issue. If given sedatives and proper precautions, perhaps the experience is not amazingly different from travelling by car for some dogs? Only you know your pup’s personality and limits. Maybe drive if flights seem too much of a risk to their well-being.