Traveling by Plane with Your Big Dog – Tips for Flying with Large Breed Dogs

A Guide to Flying with Your Large Canine Companion

For many dog lovers, taking their furry friend on vacation can seem like an exciting adventure. However, flying with a large dog presents some unique challenges. In this article, I will address all the important considerations and provide answers to commonly asked questions about making air travel as stress-free as possible for you and your pooch.

Choosing the Right Airline

The first step is selecting an airline that is pet-friendly and accommodates larger dogs. Most major carriers allow one pet per passenger in the cabin as long as the dog is able to sit at your feet under the seat in front of you. From my experience booking flights, I’ve found that Delta tends to have some of the most generous size restrictions at 70 pounds or under and a combined length of dog plus carrier of no more than 43 inches.

Alternatively, you could consider flying your large dog as cargo, which many airlines permit for animals over a certain weight or height. However, be aware that cargo hold conditions are less climate-controlled than the cabin. You also won’t be able to check on your dog during the flight. I’d only recommend cargo for very large, calm dogs as a last resort.

Booking Your Flight

Once you’ve selected an airline, book well in advance—at least a month out—to increase your chances of getting seats together for you and your dog. Many airlines limit the number of pets allowed per flight for safety and space reasons. You’ll also need to purchase a ticket for your dog, which usually costs around $125 each way in addition to any usual baggage fees.

Be sure to have all your dog’s paperwork in order too, including vaccination records, health certificate if traveling internationally, and carry crate that meets size limits. I made the mistake of booking my flight without verifying all of Buddy’s documents first and had to scramble last-minute. Proper preparation saves stress later on.

Train Your Dog for the Big Day

Taking some time to acclimate your pup to the crate they’ll be traveling in is crucial. Get them comfortable being confined for increasing periods each day with chew toys and treats. My advice is to also accustom them to noises like luggage carts, slamming doors, and airport sounds that may trigger anxiety using positive reinforcement training at home.

Likewise, practice wearing them in the crate to get them used to how it will feel being confined at your feet on the plane. Some dogs I know even enjoy short car rides as a trial run. With dedicated training, your furry friend will be better prepared to handle the flying experience calmly.

What to Pack for Your Pet

In addition to required documents and an airline-approved carrier, be sure to bring:

1. Their favorite toys, chews, or treats to keep them occupied
2. Several bottles of water as planes can get dry
3. Clean-up bags and paper towels
4. Identification tag on their collar in case you get separated
5. Medications if needed and double dose in case of travel delays

I’d also suggest packing a small blanket or article of your clothing that smells like home to help your pup feel more secure. Proper supplies are key for ensuring everything goes smoothly with minimal stress for your furry friend.

The Big Day Arrives

On travel day, do not feed your dog within a few hours of departure to reduce likelihood of motion sickness. Only offer small amounts of water up until leaving for the airport. Once there, be sure to check-in early to allow time for any delays with your pet. Some airports get very busy!

Avoid crowded waiting areas as much as possible, and bring a leashed dog if the carrier needs to be checked at the gate. Seeing familiar faces and remaining in a calm, low-stimulus environment will work wonders to curb anxiety.

Do consider requesting a “puppy upstairs” if available once boarded. Being up higher provides a little more legroom during taxi, takeoff, and landing. Overall though, maintaining a relaxed, confident attitude yourselves is the best thing for canine passengers to pick up on. With preparation, your travel days together can make wonderful memories.

Arriving at Your Destination

Upon arrival, take time to thoroughly greet your pup and use a potty break opportunity if possible before collecting your luggage. While this air journey may have taken a lot of effort, you will both be glad you came along for the adventure. Just remember that next trip, your dog will be even more accustomed to flying.

With careful consideration of an airline’s rules and effective training at home, transporting a large dog by air need not be stressful. Patience and understanding their needs from a canine perspective will serve you well. Safe travels to you and your loyal companion! Feel free to share any other questions in the comments.

Important Considerations When Travelling With a Dog by Plane

Topic	Details
Booking a Ticket	Check airline policies for pet travel. Most require health papers and vaccines are up to date. Some don’t accept certain breeds.
Size of Dog	Small dogs can travel in the cabin while larger dogs must be in cargo. Cargo has lower temperature and noise.
Crate Requirements	The crate must be large, ventilated and sturdy. Some airlines provide loaner crates at the airport.
Transportation to Airport	Have all paperwork and ID tags ready. Consider sedation for nervous dogs. Arrive extra early for checks.
During Flight	Cargo area is pressurized but noisy. Dogs may be exercised during long layovers. Monitor weather for delays.

FAQ

1. Is it safe to bring a large dog on a plane?

   Taking a big dog on an airplane is typically okay if you prepare properly. Make sure your dog is calm, trained, and healthy. Contact the airline ahead of time to check any size or breed restrictions.Most large dogs can travel in the cargo hold if they seem chill during the flight.

   

2. How do I prepare my big pup for a plane ride?

   To get a giant pup ready to fly, practice getting them used to their crate or carrier beforehand. Do training sessions with treats so they associate it with something good. Desensitize them to loud noises too. On travel day, try to keep them calm at the airport. Maybe ask your vet about a pill to relax them if very anxious.

3. Won’t a big dog take up too much space?

   Size can kinda be a problem on planes with big dogs. Most airlines let one normal-sized pet fly free in the cabin, but huge dogs may need an extra seat that you pay for. Check dimensions and make sure your pet will fit comfy under the seat in front of you. Or else they gotta ride in cargo with no access during the flight.

4. How can I ensure my big buddy’s safety?

   To keep a large pup protected, doing plenty of research is key. Check airline rules and health documents needed. Make sure vaccinations are current in case of delays. Consider pet health insurance in case something happens mid-flight. Use a crate built for their size. And pray they don’t get airsick! Most importantly, only fly if your dog seems cool with short practice trips first.

5. Is it too expensive to bring a large dog on an airplane?

   Cost can surprisingly be not that awful depending on the airline and destination. A regular old fare is often comparable to bringing a medium pet. However, if a huge hound requires its own ticket, yikes that’s pricey! At the same time, leaving them with a sitter has expenses too. So in the long run, it sometimes evens out versus driving if flying is way quicker.

6. What are some alternatives if plane travel is too stressful?

   If flying stresses a big buddy to no end, thankfully other choices do exist. Driving yourself allows stops for stretching and is often more mellow. However, it can take ages versus flying. Another pick could be shipping them as air freight cargo, but then you miss their company. In the end, it seems the choices boil down to weighing time, money, convenience versus your pet’s well-being and comfort level.