Guide to Traveling with a Large Dog

If you’re flying and traveling with a large dog, you’ll need to plan your trip well because big dogs have more restrictions on airplanes and in other public places. As a large dog owner, I understand the struggle. I have traveled with my Akita all over the U.S. and Canada and I know how challenging it can be to travel with a big dog. But with some careful planning (and a willingness to pay extra in some cases), you can travel with your best fur friend and enjoy the world together. This guide will give you tips and resources to help you travel and fly with a large dog. 

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Guide to Traveling with a Large Dog

Traveling with a big dog is not as easy as some influencers make it seem on social media. For most of us regular people, there are rules to follow, pet fees to pay, and some restrictions. This guide will give you a realistic strategy for traveling with your large (over 50 pounds) dog so you can both make the most of your adventures together. 

Where to Stay: Pet-Friendly Hotels and Lodging

The first step for traveling with a large dog is to plan where you will go and how you will get there. You’ll want to find pet-friendly places including a dog-friendly hotel that accepts large dogs. Research pet-friendly destinations. The site BringFido is a great resource for finding pet-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. 

When you search for lodging, look at pet policies and see if there are any weight restrictions or fees, general pet fees, and other amenities that can be helpful for your pup such as a dog park or pet relief area.

Here are some popular pet-friendly hotel chains to check out:

• Kimpton Hotels are known for their strong pet-friendly policies, often with perks like pet amenities and no pet fees.

• Loews Hotels is another hotel chain with excellent pet policies, often offering amenities like pet beds and treats.

• Westin Hotels & Resorts include many pet-friendly locations. They often offer a “Heavenly Dog Bed” for your furry companion.

• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is a budget-friendly hotel option with generally pet-friendly policies.

• Hampton Inn by Hilton is another affordable option with many pet-friendly locations.

• Hilton Hotels often allow dogs with a pet fee. I have stayed at a few Hiltons with my Akita and have always had good experiences.

• Best Western is a large pet-friendly chain with many pet-friendly locations.

• Red Roof Inn is known for its pet-friendly policies and typically lower rates.

If you’re willing to pay a pet fee and follow the hotel’s rules (some may say your dog cannot be left unattended, for instance), then you shouldn’t have too much of a problem finding a pet-friendly place to stay. Keep in mind though that within a specific hotel chain, pet policies can vary by location. Before booking any lodgings, make sure you know the specific location’s pet policies and fees. Some hotels may have breed or weight restrictions. 

Many pet-friendly hotels charge a pet fee per night or per stay. If you are staying for several nights or on a budget, look for hotels that have a one-time pet fee instead of a nightly one. If you have multiple pets, see if there is a fee per pet or just a general pet fee. 

Traveling by Car

Traveling by car is the most popular option for large dog owners because it’s relatively affordable and accessible. When you’re preparing for your trip, make sure you pack all of your dog’s essentials and consider safety measures such as having a seat belt or crate to secure your dog on the road. 

Stash your dog’s food, water, medications, and poop bags in an accessible place for easy access during long road trips. Also bring paw wipes, a towel, a comfortable bed, toys, and any other items your dog needs for a comfortable trip. 

Related: Best Portable Dog Ramp for Large Dogs

Traveling by Train

Traveling with a large dog is not easy if you’re going by train, but this depends on the train line. Amtrak only allows dogs up to 20 pounds, according to their pet policy, which is of course no help for those of us with big dogs. 

There are other trains though that allow dogs, usually smaller, local options. For instance, where I live in New York City, you can take a dog on the subway (with some rules) and also well-behaved dogs are welcome on the Metro-North train as long as they are leashed and well-behaved. Here is the full MTA subway and train pet policy.

Flying with a Large Dog

The most common issue we all face about traveling with a large dog is how to fly with a dog. Most airlines require dogs to fit into crates that would fit under a seat, which completely leaves out large dogs. They often have options for putting your dog in the baggage compartment but I do not recommend this for safety reasons. Dogs can be susceptible to extreme temperatures, extreme anxiety, and even breathing difficulties in the cargo area. 

Airlines that generally allow large dogs in cargo include:

• American Airlines   

• United Airlines

• Delta Air Lines

• Alaska Airlines

Southwest Airlines does not allow pets in cargo and allows only small dogs that fit in a pet carrier under seats in the plane cabin.

Here are some better (although more expensive) options for flying with a larger dog in the plane cabin:

• Bark Air is a dog airline that allows you to book a ticket for you and your pup between major U.S. airports and Europe. You can fly with your furry friend in style with comfortable seating and a dog-centric experience. Flight route options include NYC, Fort Lauderdale, London, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, and Paris. Although most flights are a few thousand dollars, Bark Air is starting to offer more routes and lower prices, including an under $1000 flight between NYC and Miami and between Milwaukee and NYC. So keep them bookmarked as a future option even if they don’t have what you want right now. 

• K9 Jets is another airline designed for pets and their people to fly comfortably. K9 Jets currently has more international flights than Bark Air and fewer domestic flights. 

Regular airlines do allow service animals but not emotional support animals. If you have a service dog, check with your airline of choice to book enough space for you and your pup. 

Preparing Your Dog for Travel

Before you travel with your dog, schedule a vet appointment to make sure your dog is updated on all vaccines and is healthy for travel. You may need a pet travel certificate for airlines or customs if you are traveling to another country. If you will be traveling internationally, check to see what requirements you will need from your vet so you can get the mandatory paperwork.

Also, make sure your dog’s microchip information is up to date and your pup has current ID tags with your contact information. If you use a GPS tracker for your dog, such as a Fi Collar or Apple AirTag, make sure your information is current for emergencies. 

Socialization and training will also help your dog have the safest experience possible and make things more fun for everyone. If you haven’t already done so, enroll in an obedience class to brush up on your dog’s basic commands, including sit, stay, come, and leave it. Also, bring your dog to new places and around different people and animals to help socialize your dog and prepare for your trip. 

If you can, practice some traveling with your dog with short, positive experiences using the car, travel crate, and travel gear such as collapsible water and food bowls. 

Dog Packing List

• Food

• Water

• Travel bowls

• Regular medications, motion sickness medication

• Flea and tick preventative

• Leash, collar, harness

• Toys and chews

• Grooming supplies including towels and wipes

• Poop bags

• Comfort items (blankets, bed, etc). 

• Vaccine and medical records

Tips for Traveling with Your Dog

When you’re traveling with a large dog, it can be stressful for your pup because your usual routine is disrupted. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise before traveling to reduce stress. If your dog gets motion sickness, bring a motion sickness medication from your vet and be sure to give it to your pup before traveling. 

If you’re traveling by car, never leave your dog unattended in the car. I bring my dog in with me to rest area restrooms as they are usually park-style restrooms with plenty of space for larger dogs. Give your dog plenty of walks during your trip whenever you stop. Keep your car temperature-controlled with the air conditioning or heat on and windows cracked for some ventilation and smells. 

If you’re traveling by plane, arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time for check-in. Provide your dog with plenty of water during travel. Consider using a pheromone diffuser or calming aids to help your dog stay calm. 

Once you get to your destination, make your dog feel at home by getting out their bedding, bowls, and toys. Supervise your dog in unfamiliar environments such as hotel rooms. You can play calming music to reduce noise and put your dog at ease. 

Make the Most of Traveling with Your Dog

Before you embark on a trip with your dog, learn more about your destination. Check for leash laws, off-leash areas, and any specific restrictions. Find pet-friendly places you can explore with your dog, such as parks, camping, beaches, mountains, and outdoor attractions. 

Many cities have pet-friendly restaurants and cafes where you can bring your dog. If you have activities planned that do not allow dogs, find a local petsitting service or doggy daycare for your pup. 

Related: 20 Best Dog-Friendly Places in NYC

Pet owners should keep in mind that traveling can be stressful for dogs so activities to de-stress will make your trip much more enjoyable for your dog. Exercise and sniffing are great activities to help dogs relax. When you’re traveling with a large dog, give your dog plenty of bathroom breaks for relief, sniffing, and stretching. You can also make your pup’s space as soothing as possible by bringing comfort blankets, beds, or toys and playing soothing music. If your dog has high anxiety, consult with a vet or trainer for strategies to manage their stress.

Pet Travel Resources

• BringFido has a directory of dog-friendly hotels and lodging, parks, and attractions.

• Bark Air and K9 Jets are dog-centric airlines that allow large dogs and their human companions to fly around the U.S. and the world. 

FAQs

• Can you bring a large dog on a plane?

Regular airlines in the U.S. have regulations requiring dogs to be in carriers under seats if they fly in the cabin. This prevents large dog breeds from flying in the cabin. Some airlines allow large dogs to fly in the cargo hold but this is very stressful and can be dangerous for your dog. Luckily, there are now two dog airlines, Bark Air and K9 Jets, that allow large dogs to fly in comfort with their humans in the cabin. 

• How do you travel with a large breed dog?

• What is the largest size dog that can fly in a cabin?

On regular airlines, the largest size dog that can fly in the cabin is about 20 pounds. Airlines generally require dogs to fit in a carrier that goes under a plane seat. This does not leave enough room for big dogs. However, dog airlines such as Bark Air and K9 Jets allow large dogs to fly in the cabin with their owners. 

• How do I find pet-friendly hotels?

You can Google pet-friendly hotels and your destination location or check out BringFido for pet-friendly accommodation options and things to do with your dog when you’re traveling. 

Do you travel with your large dog? Leave a comment to let us know your tips.

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