Moving Internationally with a Great Dane: Giant Breed Relocation Guide
The Size Challenge
Everything about moving a Great Dane internationally centres on size:
- The crate must allow the dog to stand at full height, turn around, and lie down. Great Dane crates are typically 110+ cm long and 90+ cm tall.
- The aircraft hold door must be large enough for the crate to fit through.
- The combined weight (dog plus crate) is typically 80 to 120 kg – expensive to fly.
Before Booking: Confirm Aircraft Compatibility
Call the airline cargo department before booking any flight:
- State exact crate dimensions
- Confirm the dimensions fit through the cargo door of the aircraft type on your specific route
- Get written confirmation
Wide-body aircraft (Boeing 777, 787, 747; Airbus A330, A380) generally handle larger crates than narrow-body aircraft. The same route may use different aircraft on different dates – confirm for your specific travel date.
Crate Training
For a dog this size, crate training is not optional. A distressed Great Dane attempting to escape a large crate during a 10-hour flight creates dangerous situations. Months of positive crate training – the crate as a genuine sleeping and resting spot – are essential.
Health Considerations
Great Danes are prone to:
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) – cardiac function assessment before international flight is sensible
- Bloat/GDV – do not feed a large meal within 6 hours of travel
- Joint issues – adequate padding in the crate for long flights
Country Requirements
Great Danes are not banned by any country’s import regulations. Standard requirements (microchip, rabies vaccination, health certificate; titre test and quarantine for AU/NZ/Japan) apply.
Verify airline cargo dimensions and capacity for your specific route before booking. Information accurate as of May 2026.