If you’ve ever taken a long-haul flight, you know how uncomfortable travel can feel even with a full seat and extra legroom. Now imagine your pet experiencing that journey.
That’s why choosing the right travel carrier (seat) isn’t just a detail — it’s one of the most important factors in ensuring your pet’s safety, comfort, and reducing stress during their travel.
Whether you’re relocating from Canada to the UK, Europe, Australia, or Hong Kong, here’s how to properly size and select a pet carrier for air travel.
Why Proper Carrier Sizing Matters
Most airlines require pets to travel as manifest cargo for international relocations.
Airlines also enforce strict temperature restrictions and safety guidelines to protect animals during flights.
For example:
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- Pets may not be accepted for travel during extreme heat or cold.
- Certain dog breeds may have restrictions depending on airline safety policies.
- Travel crates must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards.
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If you don’t have an IATA-approved carrier, don’t worry, we can help. Through our Pet Travel Shop, we carry a full-line of IATA-approved carriers in various sizes as well as airline approved bedding and several other comfort accessories for your pet’s travel. Check out our carrier inventory.
Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds often require larger crates to allow for better airflow and breathing. Ask us for details.
Measure Your Pet Correctly
To find the right size carrier:
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- measure your pet from nose to tail (length)
- measure from ground to top of head or ears (height)
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Your pet should be able to:
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- stand without their head touching the top
- turn around easily
- sit comfortably without slouching
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Pro tip:
If your dog won’t stay still, have them stand next to you and mark their height against your leg — then measure that point.
For Dogs
Dog Length: Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Do not include the tail.
Dog Width: Measure your dog’s widest point (usually shoulders)
Dog Height: Measure height in normal standing position from the ground to top of head for pets with non-erect ears or to tip of ears for pets with erect ears
For Cats
Measurements are based on breed and weight; weigh yourself while holding your cat, then again without them, and subtract the difference.
Prioritize Ventilation & Airflow
Proper airflow is essential during travel.
When you use an IATA-approved carrier, you can rest assure that it will have:
- ventilation openings on all four sides
- allow consistent air circulation
Limited airflow can increase stress and discomfort — especially on long international flights. Make sure your carrier is IATA-approved. Airlines will not accept pets if the crate does not meet IATA requirements.
Ensure Proper Hydration Setup
Your pet must have access to water throughout their journey.
Our Pet Travel Shop carries a full-line of IATA-approved carriers that are equipped with a spill-resistant deep-water dish that is attached to the inside of the crate door.
Help Your Pet Get Comfortable Before Travel
One of the best ways to reduce stress is crate training before the trip.
We recommend:
- introducing the crate 3–4 weeks before travel
- keeping it in a familiar, high-traffic area of your home
- encouraging your pet to sleep and relax inside
The more familiar the crate feels, the calmer your pet will be during travel.
Common Mistake: Choosing the Wrong Size Carrier
Many pet owners assume “bigger is better” — but that’s not always true.
A carrier that is too large can:
- make your pet feel insecure
- increase movement during transit
- reduce stability
The goal is comfort and security, not excess space.
FAQs: Pet Travel Carrier Sizing
What size crate does my dog need for flying?
Your dog must be able to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably without touching the top of the crate.
Are soft carriers allowed for air travel?
Soft carriers are typically only allowed in-cabin for small pets. Cargo travel requires rigid, airline-approved crates.
Do airlines check crate size?
Yes. Airlines will not accept pets if the crate does not meet IATA requirements.
Can I buy a crate myself?
Yes, but many pet owners prefer to work with professionals to ensure the correct size and specifications are used.
Choosing the Right Carrier with Confidence
At Worldwide Animal Travel, helping pet owners choose the correct crate size and providing airline-approved carriers is so important to us that we have dedicated an online store to exactly that. From Canada to destinations around the world, we ensure every detail is handled properly.
Because when it comes to your pet’s journey, comfort and safety come first.
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