My then 9-week old (11 pound) Samoyed flew in the airplane cabin with me in '02 from Denver to DC (American Airlines, I believe, but not sure about that). So long as they can stand up and turn around in a "sherpa" bag designed for going under an airplane seat, it's allowed and a great way to go. A German Shepherd puppy probably is bigger, though. Perhaps you should go for the runt of the litter.

Gidget slept the entire way, endured a connection and never made a peep (as an adult, she's quite vocal). Her breeder had said that for puppies, the air pressure change is like a narcotic. Sure enough it was in that instance.

Airlines typically allow only a dog or two in the cabin. I recall that it cost $50. And if I had been unable to secure a place for her on the plane, I was prepared to rent a car and drive from Colorado to DC. Dog-friendly hotels are common. I've since driven across country twice with Gidget and never had a problem with hotels. Comfort Inn was my favorite cheaper chain but I believe the pet policy varies by location.

If you have to send the pup as luggage/cargo, at least November is about the best time of year, weather-wise. Sure would do a lot of research on precisely which container to transport them in. Some are better than others.

Definately get a non-stop flight to minimize time and opportunities for cargo handlers to screw up. On that note, below is a U.S. Department of Transportation link to the monthly reports of airline data, including stats and incidence reports on animals who have died while in possession of the airlines. The dead animal reports are a recent requirement.

Dogs should not be tranquilized when flying. If I had to fly my dog as cargo, I would need to tranquilize myself, whether or not I was on the plane.

http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/reports/atcr06.htm

And some tips on making air transport of pets safer:

http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer..._airtraveltips

http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/ca..._policies.html

Good luck and congrats on the new pup!