Crate training and other pet travel advice

[StillHope]

David,special thanks to you,since your experience is the closest to what I might encounter.
I have a question for you ( and everyone else ) - the type and the size of the crate.There are not too much to chose from .Too big is not recommended.I got 26' high,one inch higher that the one where boxers are mentioned on the label.
I know that it needs to be 3' over the dog's height.But I want to put a thick pad and he is about 22'(need to remeasure,he didn't want to do it yesterday,but I have a box from the pet door,it's 23' ,and he is about 1 inch less).
So if the crate is higher than 26',it's much bigger crate (which is not recommended).I don't know which is better.
My boxer is the biggest by standards.He is not fat,but "beefy".


P.S.Flash is adorable! I think I am getting hooked on boxers,though I wanted a different breed.Well,the treasure fell into my lap as a free gift(not "with purchase..")...

You sad - don't worry?
Do you know that I would fly cargo myself if they would allow me?
It's not a joke.I love him so much,that if my training fails,I might leave him with my ex..I want the best for him,so far it is with me...