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.

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:

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.

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:

🔐 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.

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

​How to Prep:

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

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

​Avoid flying cargo if your dog:

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):
🚗 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

❓ 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.

Paws on Planes Inc. offers step-by-step training programs and travel prep support for both Service Dog Handlers and Pet Parents.

🎁 Email us at alison@pawsonplanes for a FREE Pet or Service Dog travel guide.
✈️ Because a calm, confident dog starts with a calm, confident you.