A first flight with your dog might seem complicated, but it’s mostly about knowing what to expect. This article walks you through the full process — booking the flight, going through the airport, time on board, and what happens after landing.
First flight with dog
If you’re flying with your dog for the first time, this article will help you understand what actually happens — from choosing the right airline and preparing the crate, to airport check-in, security, and arrival at your destination.
And if you’re looking for more general tips and rules, don’t miss our full guide: How to fly with a dog.
First time flying with dog made easy
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Before the flight
Choose pet friendly airline
It may seem as an obvious step, but it’s an important criterion when traveling, as not every airline transports animals.
For a quicker orientation, we’ve prepared an article, where you’ll find those European airlines that are pet-friendly.
How to prepare dog for flight
The preparation for a flight itself can look little bit different depending on what airline you travel with, if your pet is in cabin/hold/cargo or the destination of your journey.
But this list should give you a general idea:
- Vet check-up: Make sure your pet has mandatory and valid vaccinations, for some countries there’s necessary tapeworm treatment and some airlines can ask you for a fit-to-fly certificate.
- Carrier training: Geting your dog used to the travel bag or crate is one of the best things you can do pre-travel. It should feel like a safe space. Also check the approved dimensions of the bag as every airline has little bit different size requirements.
- Paperwork: Get an EU pet passport, microchip, proof of rabies vaccination, and any other forms required by your airline.
🐾 — Pet travel documents made easy — ✈️
Packing checklist
We have prepared a packing checklist for you for easy checking off. Just subscribe to our newsletter and the checklist will land in your inbox right away.
At the airport
Check-in and security
When you’re flying with a dog, most airlines won’t let you check in online. That means you’ll need to head to the check-in desk at the airport, where the staff will check not just your documents, but also your pet’s passport/ health certificate, and any other required paperwork.
If you’re flying with your dog in the cabin, you’ll probably have to take them out of their carrier at security. The carrier goes through the X-ray scanner, while you walk through the body scanner holding your dog in your arms.
Pet relief areas
Be sure to look around the airport for pet relief areas – some are before security check and some are after. You can find all the pet relief areas at European airports here.
Onboard
How to prepare yur dog for a flight in cabin
Smaller dogs that meet the maximum weight limit of 8 kg can travel in the cabin, but even that has its own rules. One of them is that the pet must remain in the bag at all times.
We at the Pet Abroad team always have some treats with us to chew on during take off and landing to release the pressure and once in a while we will offer him some water just to “secretly”. 😉
When you are in the air you can usually have your dog on your lap.
In hold travel
Some airlines allow medium-sized adn large dogs to travel in the hold as a checked baggage. It means the pet travels in a pressurised and temperature-controlled part of the plane.
You’ll need to check in early and hand your dog over at a special desk. Use a crate that your dog is used to and that meets airline rules, and put a soft pad inside. Also, attach a label with your contact details and a small bag of dry food on top.
Great thing is to have no-spill pet water bottle that your dog can easily drink from when he is thirsty.
Cargo Travel
If your dog is flying as cargo, you usually need to drop them off at a cargo terminal a few hours before the flight. You receive the exact drop-off time and location after booking the service.
After that, the airline staff will take care of your pet. Keep in mind that your pet will need a crate approved by IATA with a soft pad or blanket inside. Also, don’t forget to attach a no-spill water bottle as well as labels with your contact details.
The pick-up also happens at the cargo terminal, not at the baggage claim.
🐾 — Complete guide: Flying with cats — ✈️
After landing
Going through customs
In most EU countries, there’s no special customs lane for pets. If you’re flying with your dog in-cabin and all documents are in order, you’ll go through the regular arrivals process like everyone else.
But of course there can be exceptions such as Malta that requires pre-approval and a scheduled inspection by veterinary authorities before your pet is allowed to enter the country. In most cases you can do it online.
First walk
When you get your dog out of the airport, make sure he has plenty of time to relieve himself, stretch and just enjoy a bit of time outside.
Also, offer them some water, small snack and check for any signs of dehydratation or stress.
Flying with your dog for the first time is a big step—but it’s also the beginning of many, many adventures! And if you don’t underestimate the preparation, there’s nothing to worry about. And every next flight together will be easier and more fun.
First time flying with puppy
Airlines usually won’t let puppies fly until they’re at least 8–12 weeks old – the exact age depends on each airline. It is necessary to have all mandatory vaccinations too.
Before you book, we always recommend to check with your vet just to be sure that your pup is healthy and old enough to travel.
It is good to get them used to their carrier well ahead of time, keep meals light before flying, and always have some water with you. Also pack a soft blanket or a favorite toy – it really can make all the difference helping your puppy feel safe and calm on their very first flight.
Video from our travel: Helsinki to Prague
See how our flight with a dog in cabin went from Finland to the Czech Republic.
FAQs
What should I know before my dog’s first flight?
Check airline rules, book a pet-friendly ticket, and prepare all travel documents. Get your dog used to the carrier early.
How to prepare a dog for a flight?
Practice with the carrier at home, stick to normal routines, and see your vet for a health check and paperwork.
Is flying with a dog for the first time stressful?
It can be, but preparation helps A LOT. Stay calm, follow airline rules, and bring something familiar to comfort your dog.
Can I fly with a puppy for the first time?
Yes, but most airlines require puppies to be 8–12 weeks old and vaccinated. Keep the trip light, safe, and comfortable.
How to prepare your dog for a flight in cabin?
Use an airline-approved carrier, avoid big meals before departure, and carry water. Keep your dog calm and settled.