Flying with Large Breed Dogs in Cargo

What Pet Parents Need to Know About Traveling with Big Dogs by Plane

Flying with your dog isn’t just for Chihuahuas and Frenchies.
But let’s be real—if you’ve got a Lab, Husky, or Great Dane, you already know your dog isn’t squeezing under the seat in front of you.

When your large breed dog doesn’t qualify as a service animal, and is too big to ride in-cabin, cargo is the only airline-approved option. And while that might sound intimidating, here’s the truth:

Flying a large dog in cargo can be done safely—with the right airline, preparation, and support.

Let’s break it down.

Why Large Dogs Fly Cargo (and What That Actually Means)

Airlines only allow small pets in cabin—usually under 20 lbs and in a carrier that fits under the seat. So if your Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retriever, or Doberman can’t meet those requirements? They fly in the pressurized, climate-controlled cargo hold.

Don’t worry—they’re not packed in with the luggage.

Airlines with pet-safe cargo programs follow strict protocols to protect animals during transit. These include:

• Temperature-controlled compartments
• Pressurized cabins
• Priority loading and unloading
• Staff trained in live animal handling

Currently, the top two airlines I recommend for pet cargo travel in the U.S. are American Airlines and Alaska Airlines.

🚨 Not all airlines offer pet cargo services, and some only allow only for active-duty military or State Department employees.

What You’ll Need Before You Fly Cargo with Your Dog

Flying with a large dog as cargo isn’t as simple as showing up to the airport. You’ll need to plan ahead—sometimes weeks in advance.

Here’s your big dog air travel checklist:

✅ Airline-Approved Crate

Your crate must meet IATA standards:

• Hard-sided
• Ventilated on at least 3 sides
• Large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
• Leak-proof bottom
• Securely fastened with metal bolts (no plastic clips)

🔐 Pro Tip: Zip ties are often required by airlines to reinforce doors and corners.

✅ Health Certificate (international)

A USDA-accredited vet must issue a health certificate within 10-14 days of travel. This confirms your dog is fit to fly.

💉 Don’t forget up-to-date rabies vaccination records and microchip information (especially for international flights).

✅ Feeding & Water Instructions

Attach clear feeding/watering instructions and frozen water bowls to the crate. Frozen water melts slowly and avoids early spills.

Prepping Your Dog for a Smooth Flight

Crate training is non-negotiable. Your dog needs to feel safe, calm, and relaxed in their crate—not panicked.

How to Prep:

• Start crate training at least 2–4 weeks before travel
• Feed meals in the crate
• Add familiar bedding or a shirt that smells like you
• Keep training sessions short and positive
• Never use the crate as punishment

🎯 Your goal: A confident, relaxed dog who sees their crate as a cozy den, not a trap.

Is Cargo Safe for My Dog?

Yes—when done right. But not all dogs are ideal candidates.

Avoid flying cargo if your dog:

• Has severe anxiety or panic in confined spaces
• Is a brachycephalic (short-nosed) breed like a Boxer or Bulldog
• Has a medical condition or is in poor health

For healthy, well-prepared dogs flying with reputable airlines, cargo can be a safe option—especially when the only alternative is not traveling at all.

 
🗺️ Alternatives to Cargo (If You’d Rather Not)

If you’re not comfortable flying your big dog in cargo, there are alternatives:

🚗 Ground transport companies – Some specialize in long-distance pet relocation
🛩️ Private jet charters or JetShare flights – Expensive, but ideal for cross-country moves
🧍 Flying separately while shipping your dog through a licensed pet relocation service – Helpful when moving internationally

Common Questions from Pet Parents

❓ Can I buy my dog a seat on the plane?

No. Airlines do not allow dogs (even in carriers) to sit in the footprint of the seat unless they’re fully task-trained service animals.

❓ Can I sedate my dog for a cargo flight?

Most vets strongly advise against sedation during air travel—it can interfere with your dog’s ability to regulate body temperature and increase health risks at altitude.

❓ How much does it cost to fly a dog in cargo?

Prices vary by airline, crate size, and destination.

Need help training and prepping a travel-ready dog?

Paws on Planes Inc. offers step-by-step training programs and travel prep support for both Service Dog Handlers and Pet Parents.
🎁 Message us HERE for a free Pet or Service Dog travel guide.
✈️ Because a calm, confident dog starts with a calm, confident you.