What could be better than spending your vacation with your dog or cat? On the road by car or train is still comparatively easy. However, when traveling by air with a dog, there are a few things to consider. The flight must be sufficiently planned. Many airlines have different transport conditions for taking dogs and cats. But also your pet must be prepared for the trip.
Cabin or cargo hold
Depending on the species (and breed), weight and size of your pet, it is often possible to take it as additional carry-on baggage in the passenger cabin or as excess baggage in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Important: Not all airlines carry animals.
Small dogs and cats are often allowed to fly in the cabin. For this you need a suitable “carrying container”. Unfortunately, the requirements differ from airline to airline. Therefore, inform yourself in good time before booking, which requirements must be met.
Medium and large dogs are generally not allowed in the cabin. Exceptions apply to assistance dogs. Transport in the cargo hold of the aircraft usually means stress for both animal and owner. Proper preparation is therefore essential. It is best to start training months before the trip. Many experts advise against air travel with a dog in the cargo hold unless it is absolutely necessary.
You should only fly with young and healthy animals. If necessary, talk to your veterinarian. You should also check the entry regulations of the respective destination country (vaccinations, quarantine regulations) and also the re-entry regulations in good time. In the European Union, an animal must have an EU pet passport, be chipped and vaccinated against rabies.


The right “transport container”
Many airlines carry dogs and cats weighing up to 8 kg, including transport containers in the cabin. The usual dimensions for the transport container are 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm.
Our customers fly with all backpack models from TARIGS. However, the MountainRock Backpack from size Medium is officially at least 2 cm too deep. The PeakStone Backpack in the Small and Medium sizes meets the requirements for approved transport containers of many airlines. To be on the safe side, check with your airline in advance which requirements must be met before you are allowed to take your pet into the cabin.
A special dog transport box is required for transportation in the cargo hold. This must comply with the regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The crate must be stable and well ventilated. Your pet must be able to stand and turn around comfortably. Fresh water must be provided in the crate and must not be spilled during transportation. An absorbent pad is nevertheless mandatory.
The right “transport container”
Many airlines carry dogs and cats weighing up to 8 kg, including transport containers in the cabin. The usual dimensions for the transport container are 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm.
Our customers fly with all backpack models from TARIGS. However, the MountainRock Backpack from size Medium is officially at least 2 cm too deep. The PeakStone Backpack in the Small and Medium sizes meets the requirements for approved transport containers of many airlines. To be on the safe side, check with your airline in advance which requirements must be met before you are allowed to take your pet into the cabin.
A special dog transport box is required for transportation in the cargo hold. This must comply with the regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The crate must be stable and well ventilated. Your pet must be able to stand and turn around comfortably. Fresh water must be provided in the crate and must not be spilled during transportation. An absorbent pad is nevertheless mandatory.

Preparation is everything
Register your pet in good time, preferably when booking. Get your pet used to the transport container in good time. In our blog, you can find an idea of what the training could look like. Your dog should not drink anything shortly before the flight. You should go for another walk before he has to go into the carrier. Allow a little more time for check-in.
What should you bear in mind?
- Flying can be a major stress factor for animals
- Only young and healthy dogs should be taken on the plane
- Blunt-nosed dogs and cats are no longer transported in the cargo hold by Lufthansa, among others
- Sedatives should only be given after consultation with the vet (usually not recommended, however, homeopathic remedies can be an alternative)
- Traveling by car can be a less stressful option for dogs and humans
- In addition to family and friends, there are also boarding kennels and private dog sitters who will lovingly look after your pet

And don’t forget: Tag us on your next flight! #tarigs