Finding The Perfect Travel Crate For Large Dogs

Traveling with large dogs can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to finding the perfect travel crate for large dogs that will ensure their comfort and safety throughout the journey.

With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your furry friend.

Whether you’re planning a road trip, flying to a different country, or simply need a reliable crate for everyday use, choosing the right travel crate is crucial for both your dog’s well-being and your peace of mind.

In this article, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting a travel crate for large dogs, including size, material, durability, and ease of transportation. This guide will also provide tips on how to choose one that best suits your furry friend’s needs.

Size Matters: Choosing The Right Dimensions For Your Large Dog

When selecting a travel crate for your large dog, it is crucial to consider the size of the crate. Your dog should have enough room to stand up comfortably, turn around easily, and lie down without feeling cramped.

Measure your dog from nose to the tip of the tail (without the tail), and from floor to top of the head (or ears if they are standing up). Use these measurements as a guideline for choosing the right travel crate.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• The crate should be at least 5 cm taller than your dog’s head (or ears).
• Make sure there is enough space for your dog to move around, but not too much that they feel insecure.
• Consider investing in a larger crate if you have a growing puppy or an older arthritic dog who needs more space.

By following these tips and selecting the right dimensions for your large dog’s travel crate, you can ensure their comfort and safety during their flight.

The Large Travel Crates Available In Israel

When traveling with large dogs, it is essential to find a sturdy and spacious travel crate that meets airline requirements. In Israel, there are several options available for pet owners that are looking for the perfect travel crate.

Here are some of the popular brands available in Israel:

• PetMate
• Bracco
• PP

One popular choice is the Petmate Giant, which comes in various sizes suitable for large breeds. These crates are manufactured in the US, they meet the standards set by IATA, are durable and well-ventilated, ensuring your furry friend stays comfortable during the journey.

Recently, we started importing the following travel crates for large dogs:

• BB75 – a dog travel crate that is 115 cm long and 80 cm high
• BB85 – a dog travel crate that is 115 cm long and 85 cm high
• PP90 – a dog travel crate that is 131 cm long and 85 cm high
• PP100 – a dog travel crate that is 131 cm long and 100 cm high. This is the largest plastic travel crate in the world!

It is important to note that the other large pet travel crates available in the market are great as well, and they of course meet the standards set by IATA.

The Issues With Travel Crates For Large Dogs

To address the issues with travel crates for large dogs, it’s important to understand both the logistical and regulatory aspects of air travel. Large dog crates are challenging for airlines due to spatial and weight constraints in aircraft cargo holds.

Modern passenger aircrafts are designed for efficiency, often prioritizing smaller, lighter cargo to optimize fuel consumption and space utilization. This results in a restrictive environment for transporting bulky items like large dog crates.

Furthermore, airlines vary significantly in their policies regarding pet transportation. These policies are influenced by customer demand, safety considerations, historical incidents, and financial viability. The aftermath of adverse incidents may lead to stricter regulations, as seen with United Airlines’ policy changes.

Here are some airlines that are not willing to transport large travel crates:

• Lufthansa – according to what is indicated on their website, the maximum dimensions for transporting flight crates are: 125 cm long, 75 cm wide and 85 cm high. If you want to fly a dog in a giant flight crate, you will have to do so as cargo and not as excess baggage. If you still want to fly with them, you can purchase the BB85 flight crate from us, since this is the largest travel crate allowed for flying with a large dog as excess baggage.
• United Airlines – Until a few years ago, United flew most of the largest dogs in the world. We had the opportunity to fly a Great Dane in a flight crate that was 120 cm high! Unfortunately, in recent years, the company has had several unfortunate incidents that caused them to change their pet policy. Since the change in procedures, animals can’t be flown in the belly of the plane.
• Delta – As of March 1, 2019, Delta has stopped flying large dogs. According to their website, the biggest flight crate they’ll accept is: 81 cm long, 57 cm wide and 61 cm high.
• EL AL – Israel’s national airline has not yet issued an official statement regarding the maximum dimensions for flying animals in their holds, but in practice, most of the company’s planes are not able to fly the giant flight crates. From our knowledge, most of the company’s planes can fly a travel crate up to 86 cm high. Those who actually manage to fly the giant flight crate with them are those who fly with them to the US and/or distant destinations. The reason for this is that the company launches larger planes to the US and distant destinations (such as Thailand and China) than the planes they launch to Europe.

You can read more about EL AL’s pet policy in the following article: EL AL Flying Dogs And Cats

Flying Large Dogs As Cargo (Freight)

As noted, most airlines won’t fly large travel crates.

So, how can you fly with a large dog? There is a high chance you will have to fly your dog as cargo (unaccompanied freight).

Flying a dog as cargo means that your dog will fly unaccompanied with an airway bill.

We recommend you check out the following article to understand more about flying pets as cargo – Flying Pets Unaccompanied

Flying Large Dogs In Unsuitable Travel Crates – An Unacceptable Solution

To clarify the order of things, we would like to point out that you are first required to purchase a flight crate that is suitable for your dog’s dimensions.

Under no circumstances should you purchase a smaller cage just because it is suitable for the airline you will be flying with.

If the flight crate is too small for your dog, keep in mind that airlines are obligated to refuse transport on grounds of animal welfare and safety regulations. This refusal protects the pet against stress, injury, or other health risks during the flight, and helps avoid liability issues for the airline.

Relocating with a pet requires months of preparation. After all your efforts, the airline might simply refuse to fly your dog. Won’t this be a shame?

Even if the airline staff won’t notice that the flight crate isn’t suitable for your dog, keep in mind that you are putting your dog at risk.

The requirement for a large enough crate is meant to ensure the safety and comfort of pets throughout the flight. Believe us, no one wants to impose unnecessary restrictions on you. On the contrary, the goal of IATA and the airlines is to protect the animals that fly with them.

By focusing on the correct crate size and preparing adequately, you can facilitate a smoother travel experience for both you and your pet. This approach not only adheres to airline regulations but also emphasizes the ethical responsibility to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety.

Travel Crate For Large Dogs – Purchase Your Dog’s Crate At Pets2Fly

Before you purchase a dog flight crate, it’s crucial you focus on factors like durability, safety features, and the size of the crate relative to your dog’s dimensions.

At Pets2Fly, we offer a range of durable and spacious crates designed specifically for larger dog breeds. Our crates are built to provide comfort and safety for your furry friend during their journey.

Purchase your dog’s flight crate at Pets2Fly and we will provide you with advice and critical information before you put yourself in a complex financial adventure.

Contact us today and we will help you choose the right travel crate for your large dog.