How Much Does It Cost to Fly with a Great Dane? Airline Fees & Travel Tips (2025 Guide)

Flying with a Great Dane requires more planning than with most breeds. Due to their giant size and weight, Great Danes almost always must travel as checked baggage or cargo, and in many cases, airlines impose special fees for oversized crates. Understanding the true cost to fly with a Great Dane, along with safety considerations, will help you budget and prepare for a smoother trip.

1. In-Cabin Travel: Not an Option for Great Danes
Great Danes are far too large to fly in-cabin. Most airlines restrict in-cabin pets to under 20 lbs including carrier.
In-Cabin Cost (for smaller breeds): $95 – $200 one-way (not possible for Great Danes).

2. Cargo Travel Costs for Great Danes
Since Great Danes can weigh over 100–180 lbs, and require oversized crates, airlines place them in the cargo hold (temperature-controlled and pressurized).
Average Domestic Cost: $400 – $1,000+ one-way
Average International Cost: $1,000 – $3,000+
Extra Fees: Oversized crate charges often add $150 – $400 per flight.
Tip: Book direct flights when possible to minimize stress and handling.

3. Oversized Crates for Great Danes
Airlines require IATA-approved crates that allow your dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. For Great Danes, this often means custom-built or XXL crates.
Crate Cost: $300 – $1,000+ for extra-large or custom builds
Shipping Fees: Oversized crates can add surcharges due to space and weight.

4. International Travel with a Great Dane
Traveling abroad with a Great Dane is more complex and costly:
Estimated Cost: $1,000 – $3,500+ (depending on airline and distance)

Requirements:
Veterinary health certificate (within 10 days of travel)
Rabies vaccination proof
ISO-compliant microchip
Import permits or quarantine in some countries
Important: Some airlines and countries restrict giant breeds due to handling and space limitations.

5. Airline Fee Comparison for Cargo
Airline Cargo Fee (Domestic) Cargo Fee (International) Notes
Delta Airlines $400 – $1,000+ $1,000 – $3,000+ Oversized crate fees apply
United Airlines $400 – $1,000+ $1,200 – $3,200+ Breed restrictions vary
American Airlines $400 – $900+ $1,000 – $2,800+ Heat restrictions may apply
Alaska Airlines $350 – $800+ $1,000 – $2,500+ Limited oversized capacity

6. Alternatives to Standard Airline Cargo
Since Great Danes are so large, many owners explore alternatives:
Pet Relocation Services: Handle paperwork, transport, and logistics. Costs $2,000 – $6,000+.
Private Charter Flights: Pet-friendly charters allow dogs in cabin but can cost $5,000 – $15,000+.
Ground Transport: Professional pet movers can drive your Dane across states. Costs range from $500 – $2,500 depending on distance.

7. Tips for Flying with a Great Dane
Crate Training: Acclimate your Dane to its oversized crate weeks before flying.
Hydration & Feeding: Feed 3–4 hours before departure; provide water bottles in the crate.
Exercise: Give plenty of exercise before travel to reduce anxiety.
Vet Check: Get clearance, especially for heart, joint, or respiratory conditions.
Book Early: Airlines only allow a limited number of large pets per flight.

8. Budgeting for Your Trip
The total cost to fly with a Great Dane depends on travel method and distance:
Domestic Cargo Flights: $400 – $1,000+
International Cargo Flights: $1,000 – $3,500+
Oversized Crates: $300 – $1,000+
Pet Relocation Services: $2,000 – $6,000+
Private Flights: $5,000 – $15,000+

Final Thoughts
Flying with a Great Dane is possible, but it comes with significant costs and logistics. Since they require oversized crates and special handling, fees are much higher compared to smaller breeds. Understanding the cost to fly with a Great Dane and preparing ahead with proper crates, documentation, and safe travel options ensures your gentle giant gets to their destination as comfortably and safely as possible.