Having a flying kennel for your favorite dog during air travel is as important as how you fasten the seatbelt in a cabin. The best dog kennels for flying provide the dog with a temporary home while in transit which helps keep him secure and snug during a longer flight duration. The many flying pet carriers’ requirements are there simply to ensure that your dog stays comfy and secure.
Features that Make a Good Flying Kennel
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Appropriate Size
This is the most important feature to look out for when buying a flying dog kennel. Just like clothes, it shouldn’t be too small or too big. Instead, it should be of appropriate size that allows your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down effortlessly and comfortably. For most international and domestic travel flights, the appropriate kennel size should be a dog’s length plus half their leg.
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Comfortable Handles
It’s important that the kennel you choose has comfortable carrying handles. Typically, the more padding on the handles, the more comfortable the kennel becomes. The good thing about such kennels is that they are comfortable to hold and carry your dog to and from the airport.
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Potty Proofing
When traveling with your dog via plane, it’s quite important to use a kennel that’s potty-proof. Your flight might take long and your pup needs to have a place to relieve himself. Bring in some chew-proof puppy pads or sprinkle some crushed kibble where you would wish the dog to relieve themselves.
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Proper Ventilation
Whether your dog flies in either the cabin or cargo section, the kennel you are using must have adequate ventilation and visibility for the dog to have comfortable breathing. For short domestic flights, the kennel must have at least one door and two sides, and one door and three sides for international flights.
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Sufficient Labelling
Like any cargo, your dog’s kennels should be easy to identify especially if your dog travels in the cargo section. It should be marked with highly visible LIVE ANIMAL stickers. On top of that, it should have your dog’s original identification documents, the owner’s contact information, and the shipper’s declaration on when the dog was last fed or given water.
Advantages of the Dog Kennels for Flying
- Dog kennels ensure the safety of the dog throughout the flight.
- Flying kennels provide dogs with a temporary home during travel which provides them with a familiar setting.
- Dog kennels provide dogs with natural den instincts even during transit.
- Simple assembly process and easy to clean as well.
6 Best Dog Kennels for Flying With Your Fido
To help you choose the best dog kennels for flying, below is a review of the top-ranked kennels we believe are worth your consideration. Let’s take a look.
1) Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier
The ability to accessorize to meet your specific travel needs makes Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier stand out among the rest. Available in 6 different sizes, it is made to accommodate dogs up to 125lbs.
Crafted from durable plastic and corrosion-resistant wing nuts, you are assured of great durability and heavy-duty dog protection as well. Its raised interior and tie-down holes will offer the dog a safe and snug travel experience.
The 4-way vault interlocking wire door provides maximum security to keep the dog contained. During travel, your dog gets to enjoy maximum visibility and fresh air circulation thanks to the multiple openings on all sides. As one of the best dog kennels for flying the carrier also features a secure but easy to open latch which provides convenient access in and out of the crate.
Furthermore, it is easy to clean and comes with a pair of clip-on dog bowls from where you can feed the dog from. It is the best airline dog kennel that still provides the dog with natural den instincts even when on a plane.
Features
- 4-way vault interlocking wire door.
- Easy to clean.
- Wire vents that provide visibility and ample ventilation.
- Heavy-duty plastic shell construction.
- Adaptable for airplane travel.
- Raised interior and tie-down holes provide a safe and snug travel experience.
- A pair of clips on dog bowls included.
2) Petmate Compass Plastic Pet Kennel
Take your dog alongside you in every adventure you plan with the Petmate Compass Plastic Pet Kennel. Featuring a 2-way door design, this versatile kennel provides convenient access for both you and the dog. With a heavy-duty shell construction with a steel door, you are assured of maximum security for your pet.
This dog kennel is a solid choice to keep your dog safe during travel and you will be pleased to know that it comes in different colors and sizes to accommodate various dogs.
The top’s slide-on design makes it easy to assemble this kennel while the double-hinged door’s turn-dial latches make it easy to open the kennel at the top or completely remove the door for more convenient access. Without a doubt, the carrier is one of the best dog kennels for flying.
Ventilation openings on all sides enhance fresh air circulation and allow for better visibility during travel. The lightweight construction of this crate makes maneuverability especially at the airport very easy. The crate also features optional hardware for extra security. It’s easy to clean and meets most airline cargo requirements.
Features
- 2-way door design.
- Ventilated sides for ample airflow and great visibility.
- Heavy-duty shell construction ensures many years of use.
- Door latches for maximum security.
- Easy to assemble.
- Easy to clean.
- Approved for air travel.
- Included optional hardware for extra security.
- Available in different colors and sizes up to 90pounds.
- Lightweight and portable.
3) SportPet designs plastic kennel XXL
Ideal for extra-large dogs, the SportPet plastic kennel is among the best dog kennels for flying. This kennel is held together by locking snaps and constructed from heavy-duty plastic to ensure maximum security and long years of use.
If your large dog tries to escape, this crate is strong enough to withstand its weight, size, and determination as well. It uses metal slats to mitigate a chewing problem found in most dogs and an accidental moat that pull spills away from the pet’s body keeping it clean.
Its removable wheels snap on and off when needed to enhance movement from one point to the other especially at the airport. This extra-large dog kennel is also easy to assemble without the need to use any tools and it meets the requirements required by most airlines. However, it is important to check with your airline to confirm since pet crating and shipment rules change regularly.
A metal hardware lockable door provides maximum security while ventilation holes on all sides offer maximum visibility and air aeration as well. Lastly, it’s easy to clean and comes with a waterproof bed.
Features
- Metal slats that mitigate chewing problems.
- Ventilation holes offer maximum visibility and air aeration as well.
- Meets most airline requirements.
- Durable and heavy-duty plastic construction.
- Removable caster wheels.
- A metal hardware lockable door provides maximum security.
- Easy to clean.
- Simple and straightforward assembly.
4) IRIS Medium Deluxe Pet Travel Carrier
The IRIS medium deluxe pet travel carrier is made to conform to under-seat dimensions of most airlines and if you want to keep your dog secure and snug during air travel, then you should consider looking at this travel carrier. It is well ventilated to ensure that the dog gets ample fresh air and better visibility.
As one of the best dog kennels for flying, the carrier guarantees comfort and safety for your pooch. This pet carrier features a single door design that opens from either side to provide both you and the dog with convenient accessibility.
The door is latched to ensure that the dog can’t open it from the inside and stays contained throughout the journey. A folding carry handle makes it easy to carry the crate especially at the airport and it comes with removable food and water tray. Its simple setup process saves you time and so does the simple cleanup. The carrier meets all of the size requirements to accommodate dogs of all life stages.
Features
- Well ventilated.
- Single access door design.
- Easy assembly process.
- Easy to clean.
- Includes 1 removable food and water tray.
- The latched door provides maximum dog security.
- Accommodates dogs of all life stages.
- Folding carry handle.
5) Favorite Portable Airline Pet Carrier
The Favorite Portable Airline Pet Carrier does what its name suggests. It provides your dog with a safe and snug resting place that they will certainly love. Featuring durable construction, this pet carrier is made to last.
The crate’s sturdy construction will keep the dog contained throughout the whole flight and it is crafted from safe materials that will not cause any harm to the dog’s health. Its easy assembly process makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Multiple openings on all sides provide ample fresh airflow and great visibility during travel. Furthermore, this pet carrier features caster wheels for convenient transportation, especially at the airport and its mesh door provides easy access in and out of the crate.
The door is locked to keep the dog contained and it can’t be easily opened by the dog. It also features two carrying methods one by hand while its hasp can be combined with a belt and carried by the shoulder.
Features
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
- IATA certified.
- Easy setup.
- Pet carrier with ample ventilation and great visibility.
- Durable and stable construction.
- Two carrying methods for easy transportation.
- Single door design.
- Caster wheels for convenient transportation.
6) Suncast Deluxe Pet Carrier
As one of the best dog kennels for flying, the Suncast Pet Carrier is suitable for both air and car travel. The Suncast deluxe pet carrier prides itself in providing your dog with a secure and snug place during travel.
It comes with a comfortable carrying handle which makes its transportability easier. Available in a range of shapes, sizes, and styles you get to choose one that fits your dog perfectly. Crafted from durable wire and resin, you are assured of your dog’s safety during travel.
Besides, this pet carrier is easy to clean and has a bowl for food and water. Multiple openings on all sides provide ample fresh airflow and great visibility during travel while the securely locked door ensures that your pet stays contained throughout the whole journey. You can ass tasteful and functional accessories to provide the dog with the most comfortable resting place.
Features
- Easy access storage compartment.
- Comfortable carrying handle.
- Dog crate with ample ventilation and visibility.
- Easy to clean.
- Designed to meet most airline standards.
- Wire and resin construction guarantees durability and great functionality.
- Included bowl for food and water
Criteria Choosing the Best Dog Kennels for Flying
For the dog to be safe throughout the flight, here are some of the important criteria that the best flying dog kennel should meet.
Sturdy and Durable Construction
The crate should be sturdy in design and construction as well. It should be created from heavy-duty and strong materials to withstand any rigorous handling. Its roof should be solid and can have ventilation openings as long as its strength isn’t impaired.
Most flying dog kennels are made of materials such as fiberglass, metal, heavy-duty plastic, and weld metal mesh among others. Note that some airlines don’t permit wood crates, therefore check on your specific airline and see which materials it accepts.
Size
The best dog kennels for flying come in different sizes to accommodate dog breeds with different sizes. For a flying kennel, the best one is one which allows the dog to walk inside it without crouching down and be able to comfortably move around when inside it. It should also have plenty of room to stand.
Go for the dog crate that is large enough to allow comfortable movements and refrain from getting a crate that’s too big because you will be giving your dog the chance to urinate and defecate as a result of too much anxiety.
On the other hand, a small-sized crate will cause discomfort to the dog which can end up hurting it or cause stress. Furthermore, a dog crate with a divider panel adds versatility to the dog kennel and saves you money by accommodating your growing puppy.
Ventilation
When it comes to flying dog kennels, the best kennel should have ample fresh air circulation. For domestic flights, the kennel should have a minimum of ventilation on two sides while for international flights, it should have 4 ventilation sides.
To add on ventilation and visibility, the kennel roof can have ventilation openings as long as its strength isn’t impaired. Furthermore, the ventilation holes must not be blocked or taped in a manner that affects the ventilation.
Type of carrier
Best dog kennels for flying are generally categorized into hard and soft varieties. Hard dog kennels offer more security as they are crafted from heavy-duty materials. Such kennels are ideal if your dog will need to travel as cargo which necessitates the need to have a carrier with superior protection.
On the other hand, soft carriers are usually lightweight and easier to maneuver in an airplane cabin. Such crates are suitable for smaller dogs that can be easily placed under your chair.
Types of Portable Dog Kennels
Here are the most common types of portable dog kennels to choose from.
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Hard-Sided Carriers
A hard-sided dog kennel has its walls made from heavy-duty molded plastic or polymer. Hard-sided dog carriers are mostly preferred for their rugged construction and durability. The hard outer shell provides better dog protection during travel.
Better yet, they offer the best airline travel solution for large-sized dog breeds which are too large to fit under the seat carriers. They are also easy to clean and require very minimal maintenance.
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Soft-Sided Carriers
Soft-sided carriers are commonly used to transport small-sized dog breeds. Unlike their hard-sized counterparts that are made from heavy-duty plastic polymers, soft-sided dog carriers have their walls constructed from soft fabrics.
They are typically lightweight, portable and great for travel. While some brands offer soft-sided dog carriers that are airline-approved to be used under the seat, others are suitable for land travel only. Other designs fold up for easy storage and transportation.
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Wearable Carriers
Over the past few years, the popularity of wearable dog carriers has been on the rise. They look like the common baby carriers that we are used to. They provide you with a hands-free operation that let you take your dog out for walks or hikes.
They are extremely lightweight, easy to clean, and come with zippers for extra security. You can either choose a design that allows the dog to nestle inside or have his head out to enjoy outdoor views. Their major drawback is that they are suitable for small-sized dogs only.
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Wheeled Carriers
Wheeled dog carriers provide the easiest way of carrying your dog by taking off the burden of carrying you on your hands or back. Using the best wheeled dog carrier, simply roll your dog through an airport, bus station, or walking yard.
Crate Sizing When Buying a Kennel for Flying
Finding the right flying kennel size for your dog is important to ensure a comfortable experience. If the crate is too little, your dog will end up feeling cramped and uncomfortable. On the other hand, too much space and possibilities of accidents increase.
The best kennel size is one that allows your dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog’s length from the nose to the base of the tail. Also measure his height from the top of the shoulder to the ground.
Add 2-3 inches to each of the measures recorded for soft-sided carriers and 3-5 inches for hard-sided carriers. Measure his weight and crosscheck it against the manufacturer’s weight charts. If your dog’s weight is in between sizes, go for the larger size.
While a majority of the airlines allow dogs to fly in either the cabin or cargo sections, the same airlines have very strict regulations in regards to pet carriers. Size and construction requirements differ from one airline to the other.
Make sure that you check on your local airlines’ rules before you buy any dog carrier. You wouldn’t want to get to the airport gate only to learn that the airline doesn’t allow such pet carriers on board.
Where Can I Put My Dog’s Crate for Flying?
When not in use, dog crates for flying should be put in a safe place before they can be used again. There is no specific place that you should put the crate for storage. You can choose to put it in the kitchen, in a corner of the family room, or in the basement.
Wherever you choose to put it, make sure it isn’t an enclosed place that’s cold and uncomfortable because of less air circulation. On the other hand, it shouldn’t be too close to a heat source such as a fireplace, heat radiator, or direct sunlight. It should be a comfortable place that’s neither too hot nor too cold.
During flights, your dog will fly either on the cabin or cargo section. In these two cases, the dog travels in temperature-controlled and pressured compartments. While most airlines accept to transport live animals as cargo with special provisions for their handling, some do not. You can always check with your local airlines and see what they permit and what they don’t.
Best Dog Kennels for Flying FAQs
Q: What Can Go in My Flying Kennel With the Dog?
Although the items placeable into the kennel should be kept to a minimum, the kennel should have 2 specialized crate bowls where water and food are put. A custom-fit kennel pad can also be included to add to the dog’s comfort.
Q: How Do I Know the Right Flying Kennel Size for My Pet?
The kennel must be spacious enough for the dog to stand, turn around and lie down effortlessly. Dog kennels for international flights should be one size larger than those of domestic flights. This is because the dog will be in there for a longer period and will therefore need more space to stay snug during the long flight duration.
Conclusion
Making sure that you have a dog crate that meets airline and IATA requirements is key to ensuring that the dog is safe and snug during transit. We have reviewed the best flying dog kennels and we hope that you get to love any one of those listed above.