Can Big Dogs Go On Planes?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,


Yes, you can fly with large dogs so long as they are properly crated and prepared to fly

. Many require your pet to be at least 8-weeks old before flying. Any younger and dogs are thought to be too fragile for long flights.

How big can a dog be to fit on a plane?

Generally, if your dog in its carrier can fit under the seat in front of you, it can go in the cabin. So that means a dog weighing

up to about 20 pounds

.

Can large dogs fly first class?

Can large dogs fly in first class?

No airlines currently allow large dogs in-cabin

. When we say large, we are referring to dogs that cannot fit under a plane seat in an -approved pet carrier.

How do you travel with a big dog?

  1. Visit your vet. Visit your vet and let them know of your travel plans. …
  2. Invest in a proper crate. …
  3. Prepare your dog. …
  4. Create a plan for the day of your trip. …
  5. Fly Direct. …
  6. Do not fly in extreme temperatures. …
  7. Make sure your pet has proper identification and a working microchip.

Are dogs safe in cargo?


Only dogs and cats are allowed

, and no short-nosed breeds. If your pet's too big to fit beneath the seat and VIP travel isn't an option, your only choice on domestic airlines is to fly your pet in cargo. That always involves risk, no matter how good the airline's track record or what DOT numbers indicate.

Where do large dogs go on planes?

Though rules vary from airline to airline, your dog can typically only fly in the cabin—a.k.a. as a carry-on—if they are small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you. Any larger than that, and your pup will have to travel

in the cargo hold, with the luggage and freight

.

Can a corgi fit on a plane?

How do I fly with my big dog in the cabin?

To travel in the cabin

dogs must fit inside soft-sided carriers that can fit under a plane seat

. This automatically rules out bigger breeds. You can't fit a Labrador or Alsatian under a plane seat. According to Travel and Leisure, that means nothing exceeding 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches.

Can I bring an emotional support dog on a plane?

Airlines are required to permit trained service dogs to fly, unless the pets create a dangerous or disruptive environment. Unlike service dogs,

airlines are not required to permit emotional support dogs

, or any type of emotional support animal, to fly.

How do pets pee on flights?

Dogs must go to the bathroom

inside their carrier

. This is true for pets that travel in-cabin or in the hold, and even on cargo flights. Service dogs (and sometimes emotional support animals) are often the exception. They may be allowed to use the airplane's bathroom.

How much is it to fly a dog in cargo?

Example Estimate: Flying one small dog (like a Chihuahua) domestically via cargo with a pet-friendly airline, will likely cost between

$275 USD to $300 USD

. Larger dogs' airfreight (like a Great Dane) can go up to around $1000 USD for a domestic move, especially if you have a custom kennel.

How do you bring a puppy home on a plane?

You can

take your puppy outside or to a low-traffic area of the airport, put him on a pee pad, and give him a chance to go

. The Federal Aviation Administration considers the pet travel crate to be carry-on luggage, and it must be put through the carry-on luggage screening device – but your puppy does not.

Can I buy a first class ticket for my dog?


Yes, as long as they're at least eight weeks old and weaned

. Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Yes. The main cabin can accommodate up to five pet carriers per flight; first class can accommodate one.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.