Flying a Large Dog from NYC to London with IAG Cargo (Full Review)
How to Relocate Abroad with a Large Dog (NYC to London Edition)
Our dog is family – plain and simple. He’s joined us on every road trip, every adventure, and now, even our international relocation. When we made the decision to move from New York City to London, we knew one thing for sure: our large dog was coming with us.
What we didn’t know was how complicated and intimidating it would be to figure out the logistics. Flying with a large dog isn’t just a matter of booking a seat. There’s paperwork, vet visits, airline rules, and a lot of uncertainty. But we did it – and we’re here to walk you through it all.
In this guide, based on our real-life journey flying our 90-lb Rottweiler from NYC to London using IAG Cargo, we’ll share exactly what to expect, how much it cost, and the things we wish we’d known before we started.
Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Can Large Dogs Fly in Cabin?
We get this question all the time and trust us, we wish the answer was yes. But unfortunately, the reality is:
No, large dogs cannot fly in the cabin on commercial international flights.
There are extremely rare exceptions (such as fully certified service dogs), but for the average traveler, airlines have cracked down on emotional support animal loopholes.
A slim number of airlines make exceptions for ESA (emotional support animals) which allow them to fly in cabin with passengers. However, your chance of finding an airline that allows larger dogs (or certain breeds) as support dogs, are low.
You should not rely on this tactic as your answer to bringing a large dog in the cabin. If your large dog is already certified, trained and qualifies as a service animal or health assistance animal, then this is a route you can pursue.
American Airlines is an example of an airline which accepts fully certified dogs in cabin, free of charge. Again, this is a large exception to the rule and should be not seen as the typical recourse.
A large dog is typically defined as anything over 20 – 25 lbs (9kg – 11kg) but each airline may have slightly different limits. Commonly speaking, if the dog cannot fit into a carry-on travel carrier, it is considered a large dog. In reality, any medium sized dogs are interpreted as large dogs to airlines.
What Are the Options for Flying a Large Dog?
Once you accept that your dog can’t sit by your feet, you’re left with two main options:
1. Checked Baggage (Domestic Only)
Some U.S. airlines like Alaska Airlines allow large dogs to fly as checked luggage. It’s one of the most affordable and straightforward methods – if you’re flying domestically.
However, this option isn’t available for most international flights. Also, some airlines limit pet travel during certain seasons due to weather conditions.
2. Cargo (Best for International Travel)
For international routes (especially long-haul like NYC to London) your large dog will need to fly as cargo. This sounds scary, but when handled through a trusted cargo company with a pet travel division (like IAG Cargo), it can be a surprisingly smooth process.
Pro Tip: Most airlines only allow pet cargo bookings if the owner is flying on the same plane.
Why We Chose IAG Cargo to Fly Our Dog from NYC to London
After weeks of researching, getting quotes, and emailing with pet relocation services, we landed on IAG Cargo – the cargo division of British Airways.
We were nervous (okay, terrified), but the experience turned out to be better than we could’ve imagined.
From the initial quote to pick-up at Heathrow, IAG Cargo kept us in the loop, answered every one of our anxious emails, and handled our dog with care and professionalism.
Our Rottweiler flew in a 48” crate, and the cost for cargo transport was $1,800. Worth every penny for the peace of mind.
Cost Breakdown for Flying a Large Dog from NYC to London
- Cargo transport (IAG Cargo): $1,800
- Crate (Giant size): $250
- Vet appointments & paperwork: $300
- Microchip & rabies update: $50
- Misc. supplies (pads, cooling mat, labels, etc.): $100
Total: ~$2,500
How to Move Abroad With a Large Dog (Step by Step)
Once you’ve committed to making the move and know your dog will be coming with you, it’s time to get strategic. This isn’t something you want to wing last minute. Here’s a clear overview of how to start planning for your large dog’s international move:
Step 1: Research the Pet Import Requirements for Your Destination
Every country has its own rules and regulations when it comes to importing pets. Start here before doing anything else. You’ll need to know:
- Required vaccinations (typically rabies, administered within a certain timeframe)
- Microchipping rules (often ISO 11784/11785 compliant)
- Health certificates or vet-endorsed paperwork
- Tapeworm or parasite treatments (required for the UK and others)
- Any mandatory quarantine upon arrival (some countries like Australia and New Zealand are strict about this)
Visit the official government site for the most up-to-date information. For example, if you’re moving to the UK, you can find everything you need on the UK government pet travel page. For EU countries, check with the specific country’s Ministry of Agriculture or equivalent.
We also recommend contacting your vet early on. Many vets familiar with international pet travel will have pre-made checklists and be able to guide you through the necessary medical steps and timing.
Step 2: Choose Your Airline or Pet Cargo Company
Unless your dog is under 25 lbs and qualifies as a trained service animal, they’ll need to fly in the cargo hold. Your main options are:
- Checked Baggage (if available): Only an option on some domestic flights and if your dog is under the airline’s weight limits.
- Air Cargo: Best option for large dogs on international routes. Your dog is booked on a cargo manifest, either on your same flight or a separate one.
For international moves, we highly recommend working with a pet-focused cargo company. Some trusted names include:
- IAG Cargo (British Airways)
- Air France KLM Cargo (KLM Animal Hotel)
- Lufthansa Cargo
- PetRelocation (third-party pet relocation service)
- Airpets International
Reach out early to get quotes and understand which departure airports and routes they service. Some only fly animals from major hubs and crate size may determine which aircrafts are even possible.
Step 3: Measure Your Dog for a Crate
This step is critical and needs to be precise. Cargo companies price your dog’s journey based on crate dimensions, not just weight. You’ll also need a crate that meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards.
You’ll need to know:
- Length: Tip of nose to base of tail
- Height: Floor to the top of head or ears (whichever is higher)
- Width: Widest point of your dog
Use these measurements to choose an airline-approved crate. Many cargo companies require:
- Metal bolts (not plastic)
- Ventilation on all four sides
- No wheels
- Food and water bowls attached inside the door
- Absorbent bedding
We used the Petmate Sky Kennel, which met all requirements and is often recommended by major airlines.
Step 4: Book Your Own Flights First, Then Your Dog’s
In most cases, you’ll need to book your own flight before confirming your dog’s reservation. Cargo companies often won’t let you reserve a spot for your dog until about 14 days before departure, but you can get a quote and confirm availability in advance.
Tip: Try to book your flight on a weekday, early in the morning or evening. Avoid peak heat times if you’re flying during warmer months. Some airlines even restrict pet cargo during summer altogether.
Step 5: Crate Train Your Dog in Advance
Do not wait until the day before your flight to introduce your dog to their crate.
Even if your dog is well-behaved and confident, crate training is essential. Start weeks in advance by making the crate a safe, positive space. Feed meals inside it. Let your dog nap there. Gradually build up crate time to several hours with the door closed.
If your dog has crate anxiety, consult a vet or certified dog trainer. Some dogs may benefit from calming chews, pheromone sprays, or even a light vet-prescribed anti-anxiety medication (note: sedation is not recommended for flights).
Step 6: Prep Paperwork, Vet Visits & Final Logistics
Once you’re inside the 30-day travel window, the paperwork trail begins. This can include:
- Rabies vaccination (must be current and within timeframe)
- Vet-signed health certificate (some countries require endorsement by a government vet authority like USDA in the U.S.)
- Parasite treatments (must be given within a certain window—example: the UK requires a tapeworm treatment 1–5 days before arrival)
- Microchip paperwork
Ask your cargo company for a checklist – they’ll often provide templates or timelines.
Make copies of all documents and keep them with you during travel.
Step 7: Day of Departure
Prepare your dog and crate the morning of the flight:
- Ensure your dog has time to exercise and relieve themselves
- Add absorbent bedding (we used a cooling mat too)
- Freeze a water bowl the night before so it gradually melts
- Attach a copy of your dog’s paperwork to the crate
- Arrive early to drop off your dog as instructed
Try to stay calm – your dog picks up on your energy. We were definitely anxious, but the team we worked with was professional and kind.
Recommended Resources for Flying with a Large Dog
Here are a few helpful resources we personally used or would recommend looking into when planning international travel with a large dog:
- IAG Cargo – Pet travel division of British Airways and Iberia
- PetRelocation – Full-service pet relocation company
- Jet-A-Pet – Based in the US and experienced in international moves
- IPATA – International Pet and Animal Transportation Association
- UK Pet Travel Rules – Direct link for UK import guidance
- USDA APHIS Pet Travel – Health certificate and requirements if departing from the U.S.
- Petmate Sky Kennel – One of the most commonly approved crates
FAQs: Flying a Large Dog Internationally
How long before departure can you book cargo for a dog?
Most cargo companies only allow booking within 14 days of your flight. You can still get quotes earlier!
Will my dog fly on the same plane as me?
Usually, yes—especially if you book with a pet-friendly cargo provider like IAG Cargo.
Is sedation allowed?
No. It’s strongly discouraged. Instead, tire your dog out before the flight and make sure they’re comfortable in the crate.
Do dogs fly with the luggage?
No. Animal cargo is held in a separate, climate-controlled section of the plane.
What are the UK’s pet import rules?
You’ll need a microchip, valid rabies vaccine, tapeworm treatment within 24–120 hours before arrival, and an animal health certificate (AHC) from a USDA-certified vet.
Final Thoughts: Would We Do It Again?
Absolutely. While the idea of putting our dog on a plane without us was nerve-wracking, the reality was far more reassuring. IAG Cargo was transparent, timely, and genuinely cared about our dog’s well-being.
We would 100% use them again and now that we know the process, we hope our story makes yours a little easier.
