Transporting Giant Dog Breeds: Logistics for Newfoundlands & Saints

Understanding Giant Breeds for Transport

Giant dog breeds require special planning and care for safe travel. Physical size, personality, and breed traits all influence the best solutions for transportation.

Characteristics of Newfoundlands

• Newfoundlands are among the largest working dogs, often weighing between 100 and 150 pounds. They are known for their remarkable strength and gentle temperament. These dogs have very dense, water-resistant coats because they were bred for water rescue.
• Transporting a Newfoundland means you must account for their sheer size and heavy build. Their thick fur can cause overheating, so make sure vehicles or crates have good ventilation. Because they are calm and friendly, they usually tolerate travel well with familiar comforts like bedding and toys.
• Their loyalty and gentle nature make them excellent companions, but their size means finding carriers, crates, or emergency stretchers designed for giant breeds is often necessary.

Traits of Saint Bernards

• Saint Bernards are another giant breed, with many adult dogs weighing from 120 to 180 pounds. They were bred for mountain rescue work, so they have strong, muscular bodies and thick, insulating fur for cold climates. Saint Bernards tend to be calm, patient, and loyal to their families.
• Their large size creates several challenges during transport. Large, sturdy crates are needed—standard sizes usually do not fit these dogs. Be cautious about the dog’s comfort, as their thick coats make temperature control important in warmer weather.
• Saint Bernards often drool and shed, so plan for cleaning supplies and regular breaks when traveling long distances. Their easygoing personality helps with travel, but space and climate remain top concerns.

Comparing Major Working Dog Breeds

• Giant working breeds—such as the Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, English Mastiff, Great Pyrenees, and Leonberger—share many challenges in transport, including crate size limits and the need for extra ventilation and support. For example, airlines may refuse crates taller than 34 inches, which impacts your options when shipping large dogs.
• You may also encounter Landseer Newfoundlands, a color variant with similar needs, and other mountain dog breeds like the Tibetan Mastiff. Most giant working dogs are gentle and loyal, but they need space and care due to their heavy weight, thick fur, and calm temperaments compared to smaller high-strung breeds.
• When planning travel, compare the size, coat type, and temperament across breeds. This helps you choose the best crate, climate control, and handling methods for safe, stress-free transport.

Pre-Transport Health and Safety Considerations

Traveling with Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards demands careful attention to their unique health needs. You must address common medical risks, manage underlying conditions, and check that each dog meets all rules for safe animal transport.

Preventing Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Issues

Large breeds like Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Before transport, schedule an exam with your vet to check joint health. X-rays can confirm if the dog has dysplasia or is at higher risk for discomfort during travel.

Tips to help reduce problems:

• Use padded bedding in the crate to protect joints.
• Allow for gentle, short walks before and after travel to keep joints loose.
• Keep your dog’s weight within the recommended range, as extra pounds put more stress on joints.
• Avoid excessive jumping in and out of vehicles.

If your veterinarian prescribes anti-inflammatory medication or joint supplements, pack these for the trip. Make sure you follow dosage instructions and offer them at the right times.

Managing SAS and Epilepsy Risks

• Subaortic stenosis (SAS) and epilepsy are serious concerns in giant breeds. Dogs with SAS need to be cleared by a vet before travel because stress or heat can worsen the condition. Ask your vet for advice on handling emergencies linked to SAS, like shortness of breath or fainting.
• Epilepsy requires extra steps during long trips. Bring enough medication for the whole travel period, plus a little extra in case of delays. Carry instructions for what to do during a seizure, including how to stay safe and keep the dog secure until the episode passes.
• Share health documents and emergency contacts with anyone who will care for your dog during transport. This helps others act quickly if your dog needs urgent support.

Addressing Health Standards for Travel

• Make sure your dog meets health requirements set by airlines and organizations like the AKC. Review the procedures for safe animal transport for tips on crate size, cleanliness, and documentation.
• Bring a health certificate from your vet dated within the required window, usually 10 days before departure. Check vaccination records and update shots as needed.
• If your dog has a history of aggression, anxiety, or other behavioral problems, talk to your vet about ways to manage them during travel. Clear identification—tags, microchips, and photos—should go with your dog in case of emergencies.

Selecting the Right Transport Vehicles and Equipment

Giant breeds like Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards need special consideration during transport. Their large size and thick double coat mean they have unique needs for safety, comfort, and space.

Choosing Sizing for Giant Breeds

Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards can weigh 100-180 pounds and may stand over 2 feet tall at the shoulder. This means regular cars and standard crates are usually too small. You need either a large SUV, van, or dedicated pet transport vehicle to fit their body size comfortably.

When measuring your dog for travel, measure nose to tail and from the ground to the top of the head. Add at least 6 inches to both measurements so your dog can turn and lie down safely. It’s important to review the vehicle floor space to avoid cramping, especially for giant rescue dogs who may be anxious or unused to travel.

A table like below can help compare vehicle options:

Vehicle Type	Suitable For Giants?	Notes
Sedan	No	Too small for most giants
SUV/Minivan	Yes	Use third-row down/crates
Cargo Van	Yes	Most spacious, custom options

Securing Safe Crates and Kennels

• A secure crate or kennel is crucial for protecting your dog and everyone else in the vehicle. Look for crates designed for giant breeds, made from reinforced plastic or metal. The crate must have plenty of ventilation and an escape-proof lock.
• Position the crate so it cannot slide or tip during travel. Use built-in cargo tie-downs, ratchet straps, or seatbelt harnesses to anchor it tightly. Padded mats or thick blankets help cushion your dog, reducing stress on joints.
• If you don’t use a crate and opt for harnesses, be sure to select dog harnesses made for the car. These should attach to seatbelts and provide full chest support in case of a sudden stop or accident.

Climate Control and Comfort Solutions

• Giant breeds have thick double coats, making them prone to overheating. Always pick vehicles with strong air conditioning, and use sunshades on windows to block direct light. If your dog is a rescue, monitor them more closely since stress and thick fur increase heat risk.
• Check the temperature inside the vehicle throughout the trip. Keep extra water and a travel bowl on hand. Take breaks every 2-3 hours to give your dog a chance to cool down, stretch, and relieve themselves.
• For extra comfort, line crates with absorbent pads and bring familiar items such as a blanket or toy. This helps calm anxious dogs and provides insulation against cold in winter and heat in summer.

Preparing Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards for the Journey

Travel with giant breeds means planning for their size, temperament, and unique care needs. Attention to comfort, feeding, and anxiety will help ensure your dog arrives healthy and safe.

Developing an Acclimation Routine

• Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards are loyal and intelligent, but their size can make them uneasy in new situations. Start acclimating your dog to travel crates early.
• Leave the crate open in a familiar spot at home and encourage your dog to explore it with treats and praise. Gradually increase the time your dog spends inside, even closing the door for short periods as your dog gains confidence. Include favorite toys or a blanket to establish positive associations.
• Practice longer crate stays once your dog is comfortable. A routine of short car rides in the crate will help Newfoundlands, especially those with anxiety or high curiosity, get used to motion. This steady exposure builds courage and reduces stress before the main journey.

Exercise and Feeding Guidelines Before Transport

Dogs such as Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards need enough exercise before transport. A long walk and some playtime will help burn energy and make rest easier during travel. Feed your dog no later than four hours before departure to lower the risk of nausea and prevent accidents. Avoid giving new or rich foods, as large breeds are more sensitive to digestive changes. Keep water available up until departure, then offer it regularly during stops, or as suggested by your vet.

Below is a sample pre-travel schedule:

Time Before Departure	Activity
6 hours	Light meal, walk
4 hours	Bathroom break, water
2 hours	Final exercise, water
0 hours	Last bathroom, crate up

Managing Anxiety and Comfort Needs

• Both breeds often display calmness, but anxiety can happen when routines change. Bring a favorite toy, familiar bedding, or an item with your scent for comfort.
• Consider anxiety vests or natural calming sprays if your dog is especially worried. Calm speaking, a gentle touch, and sticking to normal routines helps giant breeds feel secure.
• Discuss with your vet if sedation is needed, although this is rarely recommended for air travel. If your Newfoundland or Saint Bernard is black or has thick fur, watch for signs of overheating and plan for extra hydration and cooling breaks.

Professional Transport and Handling Services

Transporting giant breeds like Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards requires careful planning in several areas. Security, comfort, and following the law all matter when moving these popular and large dogs long distances.

Selecting Specialized Canine Transporters

Choose a transporter experienced with giant breeds. Not all companies can handle dogs that weigh over 100 pounds or need extra space and care. Look for providers with climate-controlled vehicles, large kennels, and loading equipment built for heavy dogs. Many pet owners turn to professional dog shipping services to ensure safe handling and comfort for their Saint Bernards and Newfoundlands. These services often offer door-to-door options and have staff trained in animal behavior.

When deciding, check for:

• Positive customer reviews specific to large breeds
• Licensed and insured transporters
• Drivers with experience in handling large or anxious dogs

Comparing these factors will help you find a reliable partner for your dog’s journey.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

You must follow all state and federal rules about animal transport. This often requires paperwork such as health certificates signed by a licensed veterinarian within a certain time before travel. Vaccination records must be up to date for diseases like rabies and distemper. Some states have unique entry rules or quarantine periods. Working with a pet relocation company can simplify this process because they handle document preparation and keep up with changing regulations.

Make a list of legal requirements before booking transport:

• Health certificates
• Records of vaccinations
• Any breed-specific laws

Having these documents ready prevents delays or legal issues during your dog’s move.

Emergency Protocols and Contacts

Travel plans can change fast due to weather, health issues, or accidents. Choose a service that has clear emergency protocols in place. Ask about their process for medical emergencies and what steps they take if travel is delayed. Request a list of emergency contacts, including vets along the route and 24/7 support from the transport company. Companies staffed with veterinary technicians add extra reassurance that your dog will get care if issues arise.

Key safety steps to confirm:

• Emergency numbers provided before travel
• Direct line to the driver during transport
• Established plan for vet care in case of illness or injury

Knowing these details ensures fast action if something goes wrong, keeping your pet safe throughout the journey.