This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This and display ads allow me to keep the site up to date and give back.
Train travel is one of my favorite ways to get around with Puglo. It’s much more relaxed than flying, often cheaper, and way more scenic. However, whether dogs can come on trains varies around the world. In this guide. I’ll share what you can expect traveling by train with your dog.
The first time I took Puglo on a train, je curled up in his carrier by my feet, the countryside rolled past the window, and there was no anxious check-in, no cargo hold, or long wait at baggage claim. If you have been nervous about flying your dog, train travel with a dog is often the calmer, more affordable option,.
Every railway has its own rules, and they range from very dog-friendly to pets not allowed at all. In North America, Amtrak and VIA Rail take small dogs in carriers on specific routes. Across much of Europe, dogs of any size can ride with the right ticket, leash, and muzzle. Below I break down the policies I have confirmed on the official sites, plus what I have learned traveling with my rescue pug through 22 countries, often by train.
Train travel with a dog in North America
Amtrak pet policy (United States)
Amtrak allows dogs and cats on most routes, and it is one of the easier systems to use once you know the limits. Here is what the official Amtrak pet policy spells out.
How much can a dog weigh on Amtrak?
Your dog plus its carrier must weigh 20 pounds or less. The carrier can be hard or soft-sided but has to be leak-proof, well ventilated, and no larger than 19 inches long by 14 inches wide by 10.5 inches high. Your dog must be able to sit, stand, turn around, and lie down inside without touching the sides.
How long can a train trip be with a dog?
Amtrak limits pet reservations to a total of 7 hours of travel time, including any transfer time between connecting trains. Your dog has to stay inside the carrier at all times in stations and onboard, and the carrier goes under your seat, not under the seat in front of you. On Amtrak Cascades you can place it on the floor by the next seat.
How much does it cost and how do I book?
Amtrak charges a pet fee for each segment of travel, and only a limited number of pet reservations are available per train. Because of that cap, book as early as you possibly can and add the pet when you buy your ticket. Service animals travel free and are not subject to the pet fee or the 7 hour limit.
Which Amtrak classes and routes actually allow dogs
Dogs are welcome in Coach Class and in Acela Business Class. They are not allowed in Acela First Class seating, First Class private rooms, non-Acela Business Class, food service cars, or the Quiet Car on Keystone and Pennsylvanian trains. Amtrak station lounges and First Class waiting areas are off limits too, so plan on waiting at the regular seating in the station.
Eleven routes go a step further and put pets in one designated Coach car: Amtrak Cascades, Carl Sandburg, Illinois Zephyr, Illini, Lincoln Service, Saluki, Pere Marquette, Wolverine, Blue Water, Hiawatha and Missouri River Runner. On every other pet-friendly route you can sit in any Coach car you like. And a few services take no pets at all: the Auto Train, Gold Runner and Amtrak Connection, plus cross-border travel with a pet on the Adirondack, Maple Leaf and Amtrak Cascades. Pets also cannot be added to multi-ride tickets or to a booking for an unaccompanied minor.
The paperwork and the 45-minute rule
This is the part that catches first-timers out. Amtrak asks you to read and sign a Pet Release and Indemnification Agreement for every travel segment. The form appears online at the end of your booking, and you can pull it up later through My Trip on amtrak.com or in the Amtrak app. Then, at a staffed station, you need to check in at the ticket office 45 minutes before departure so an agent can validate your pet and the paperwork. At unstaffed stations the conductor handles it onboard instead.
A few smaller things that are good to know before you book. One pet per customer and one pet per carrier. Your carrier counts as one of your carry-on bags. Your dog needs to be at least 8 weeks old, and you are certifying that vaccinations are current when you sign the release. Amtrak can refuse or remove a pet that is disruptive, so a nervous barker is a real risk on a long route. On the kinder side, if a service disruption strands you overnight, Amtrak says it will make reasonable efforts to find pet-friendly hotel accommodations, though it does not guarantee them.
VIA Rail pet policy (Canada)
VIA Rail is a great option if you are Canada, however, VIA Rail only accepts small cats and dogs within the Quebec City to Windsor Corridor, per its official travelling with pets page.
You must reserve your pet spot at the same time you buy your ticket and at least two days before departure, and space is capped at two pets per car. The carrier can be hard or soft-sided, must be leak-proof and well ventilated, and needs to be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Guide, service, and emotional support dogs travel on all VIA Rail trains under a separate policy.
One thing worth knowing: there is no option to bring a large dog as a regular passenger on VIA Rail. Only small cats and dogs in carriers are accepted, and only on the Corridor, so if you have a bigger dog your realistic options in Canada are driving or a pet-friendly road trip instead.
Taking a dog on trains in Europe
Europe is where train travel with a dog really shines, and this informations pairs perfectly with my guide to traveling to Europe with a dog. Most national railways let dogs ride, and larger dogs are welcome in a way they rarely are on North American trains.
The network is huge, the rules are fairly consistent from country to country, and people are so used to seeing pets as part of daily life that no one blinks when you board with one.
Most European countries allow dogs on trains, with the rules varying mainly by size. Small dogs usually ride for free or for a very low fee, can travel in any class, and are often expected to stay in a carrier, though in my experience that part is rarely enforced. Medium and large dogs typically need their own ticket, should be leashed and sometimes muzzled, and can settle at your feet in standard seating.
Commuter and regional trains are where Europe really shines for dog owners. I have taken Puglo on regional trains in Germany, France, and Spain without a single issue, and no one batted an eye. As long as your dog is calm and under control, regional trains feel completely effortless.
Italy, France, and Spain
Italy is one of the most dog-friendly rail networks I have used, which fits everything I love about taking a dog to Italy and why Italy is so dog-friendly in general. On Trenitalia, small dogs ride free in a carrier no larger than 70 by 30 by 50 centimeters, one carrier per passenger. Larger dogs are welcome with a low-cost ticket, a leash, and a muzzle, and you carry the dog registration and health records. You can purchase a ticket for your dog on the Trentalia app.
France and Spain follow a similar pattern, which makes rail a lovely way to explore after reading my guides to taking a dog to France and taking a dog to Spain, or wandering dog-friendly Barcelona on foot.
Official pet policies for major European rail operators
Rules shift by operator and change often, so before you book it is worth checking the official pet page for the line you are taking. Here are some of them:
- Italy: Trenitalia and Italo
- Germany: Deutsche Bahn
- France: SNCF
- Spain: Renfe (small dogs only on AVE high-speed routes)
- Switzerland: SBB
- Austria: OBB
Purchase pet-friendly train tickets here
Eurostar Pet Policy
This is the big exception, so plan around it. Eurostar does not allow pets on trains to and from London, between Brussels or the Netherlands and Lille, or on its Sun and Snow routes. On its other routes between Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, small animals under 6 kilograms travel free in a carrier. Larger dogs that don’t fit in a carrier will need a ticket with a specific “dog” fare (single price of €30).
Guide and assistance dogs are allowed with at least 24 hours notice, and traveling into the UK requires a ticket plus documentation, per the official Eurostar pet policy. Emotional support animals are also allowed on Eurostar but you need to contact them directly as this information is not online.
Taking a dog on trains in the UK
The UK is one of the easiest places to travel by train with a dog. On National Rail services across England, Wales, and Scotland, you can bring up to two dogs per passenger free of charge, as long as they are on a lead or in a carrier, kept under control, and not taking up a seat.
The big exception is Eurostar, which I covered above. Dogs are not allowed on Eurostar to or from the UK, so you cannot take your dog by train between London and Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam. To cross the Channel with a dog you will need a ferry, the Le Shuttle vehicle train (only if you have a car), or a pet relocation service. If Europe is on your radar, my guide on taking your dog to Europe walks through the paperwork side.
Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland)
Scandinavia is one of the most dog-friendly corners of Europe for train travel, though each country handles it a little differently. The one thing to sort out first is cross-border paperwork: traveling between Norway and Sweden, your dog needs a microchip, a pet passport, and tapeworm (Echinococcus) treatment from a vet no more than 24 hours before you cross into Norway.
In Sweden, SJ lets each passenger bring up to two pets, but only in second class, either on a leash or in a carrier. When you book, you’re seated in a designated pet-friendly area of the train, which keeps things comfortable for allergy sufferers, and larger dogs cost a bit extra (about the price of a youth ticket). On overnight routes you can even book a pet couchette.
In Norway, Vy allows leashed dogs on all trains except the sleeping compartments, dining cars, and accessibility or children’s carriages. Dogs under 40 cm at the shoulder travel free, and anything taller is charged at half an adult fare.
In Denmark, DSB lets small dogs and pets ride free if they’re in a bag or box (up to 100 by 60 by 30 cm), while larger dogs on a leash need a child ticket. And Finland’s VR is famously pet-friendly, with cars where dogs are welcome, so it’s an easy one to travel with a dog.
Taking a dog on trains in Asia
Asia varies a lot from country to country. Some places have clear, workable rules, and others are more restrictive, so here is what to expect.
Taking a dog on trains in Japan
Japan has one of the best train systems in the world, and the rules are strict but simple. Small dogs and cats travel inside a dedicated carrier whose length, width, and height add up to 120 cm or less, with the animal and carrier together weighing 10 kg (about 22 lb) or less. You buy a small pet ticket at the station for around 290 yen, and your dog needs to stay fully inside the carrier the whole way. The upside is a system that is spotless, quiet, and reliable.
Taking a dog on trains in South Korea
Small dogs in carriers are generally allowed on Korean trains. Larger dogs often face restrictions, especially on the KTX high-speed lines, so check before you travel if your dog is on the bigger side.
Taking a dog on trains in Taiwan
Taiwan Railways Administration allows small pets in carriers, and some express trains even have designated pet areas. It is becoming more dog-friendly every year as more locals travel with their pets.
Taking a dog on trains in Thailand
Dogs are technically allowed on certain second-class trains in Thailand, but the experience can be loud, warm, and a bit chaotic. When I took the overnight train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, it was not the most comfortable ride for Puglo, so I would set your expectations accordingly.
Taking a dog on trains in China
China is the newest player here, and it’s a big deal. In April 2026, China Railway rolled out a nationwide Pet Travel service on its high-speed network, so for the first time you can officially bring a cat or dog along on the train.
The catch is that your pet doesn’t ride with you at your seat. Pets travel in dedicated climate-controlled boxes stored in special onboard lockers, so it feels more like supervised transport than having your dog at your feet. To qualify, your dog needs to weigh 15 kg (about 33 lb) or less, stand no taller than 40 cm at the shoulder, and measure no longer than 52 cm from nose to tail.
Booking happens through the Railway 12306 app, where you reserve the pet slot along with your ticket. You arrive at least two hours before departure with your ID and a valid animal quarantine certificate, and you can bring up to two pets per person. It’s only on select high-speed routes for now, but the network is expanding quickly, so China is worth watching if you travel with a dog.
Train travel with a dog in India
India has one of the world’s biggest rail networks, and you can travel with a dog, but the rules are specific. Pets are only allowed in First Class AC (1AC) or First Class, and to keep your dog in the compartment with you, you have to book the entire coupe or cabin under one booking. Otherwise your dog travels in a proper cage in the luggage or brake van. You book pet travel in person at the station parcel office, not online through IRCTC, and you need a vet health certificate showing an up-to-date rabies vaccination. Large breeds must be muzzled, and charges are based on luggage rates.
Trains in Latin America and Africa
Rail networks in both regions are limited and inconsistent when it comes to pets. A few tourist trains or short commuter lines may allow dogs, but there is no reliable, predictable policy to plan around. In most of Latin America and Africa, trains are not your main dog-travel option, so I lean on car travel and pet-friendly buses instead.
Train Travel in Australia and New Zealand with a dogs
In Australia, the major operators like NSW TrainLink and Queensland Rail do not allow pets on their trains, with exceptions only for certified assistance animals (Victoria has a few limited allowances). New Zealand is similar, with KiwiRail’s scenic trains generally restricted to certified assistance dogs. So across both countries, driving or a pet-friendly campervan is the realistic way to travel with your dog.
Train travel with a dog vs flying
I fly with Puglo often, and I have written a lot about airline rules like the American Airlines pet policy, the Air Canada pet policy, and Mexican carriers such as Aeromexico and Volaris. Flying is faster, but trains have real advantages for a dog. Your pup stays with you the whole time, there is no cargo hold, cabins are roomier, and stations are far less stressful than airport security. For shorter distances, a train is often the kinder choice for an anxious dog.
What to pack for train travel with a dog
My packing list for the train is shorter than for flying, but a few things matter. A well-ventilated soft-sided carrier that meets the size limits is the big one, and the same harness I use for Puglo doubles as a secure walking setup at stations. I bring a collapsible water bowl, a favorite blanket that smells like home, poop bags, and a long-lasting chew to keep him settled.
Train travel with a dog FAQ
Can I bring my dog on Amtrak if it weighs over 20 pounds?
No. Amtrak’s limit is 20 pounds including the carrier, and dogs over that can’t travel as pets. The only exception is a trained service dog, which rides free with no size limit.
Can I buy a seat for my dog on Amtrak?
No. Your dog has to stay in its carrier under the seat in front of you, so you can’t purchase a separate seat for it.
Can my dog sit on the seat of a train?
On Amtrak, no, dogs must stay inside their carrier at all times. In much of Europe and the UK, dogs can sit at your feet but are not meant to take up a seat.
Can my dog sit on my lap on Amtrak?
No. Your dog must remain fully inside its carrier for the whole trip, so lap time isn’t allowed on Amtrak.
How strict is Amtrak with dogs?
Fairly strict on the rules: the 20-pound limit, keeping your dog in a closed carrier under the seat, the 7-hour trip cap, and booking the pet spot in advance. Follow those and staff are generally relaxed and friendly.
Are there any dog-friendly sleeper trains in the USA?
Not really. Amtrak only allows pets on trips of 7 hours or less, so overnight and long-distance sleeper routes are limited to service animals.
Can I take my dog on the Eurostar train?
No. Eurostar does not allow pets on any of its routes, and only registered assistance dogs are permitted. To cross the Channel with a dog you’ll need a ferry, Le Shuttle (with a car), or a pet transport service.
What size dog can you take on a train?
It depends on the country. The US, Canada, and much of Asia limit you to small dogs in a carrier (usually around 10 to 20 pounds), while Europe and the UK welcome dogs of any size with a ticket, a leash, and sometimes a muzzle.
Can my dog sit on my lap on a train?
In Europe and the UK, small dogs often ride at your feet or on your lap informally, as long as they’re calm and off the seats. On stricter systems like Amtrak and Japan’s JR, your dog has to stay inside its carrier.
Can I take my dog on a train in Canada?
Yes, but only small cats and dogs in carriers, and only on VIA Rail’s Québec City to Windsor Corridor. It costs about $50 per direction, you must reserve at least 48 hours ahead, and larger dogs can’t travel as regular passengers.
Can you take a dog on a train?
Yes, in most of the world, though the rules vary by country and operator. Small dogs in carriers are widely accepted, many European and UK trains welcome dogs of any size with a ticket, and stricter systems like Amtrak cap you at 20 pounds. Always check the operator before you book.
Are dogs allowed on trains in Europe?
Yes, Europe is the most dog-friendly region for rail travel. Small dogs usually ride free or cheaply, larger dogs travel with a low-cost ticket and sometimes a muzzle, and staff are used to seeing dogs on board. Rules vary slightly by operator, so check the national railway’s pet page.
Do you need a reservation to bring a dog on a train?
It depends. Amtrak and VIA Rail require you to book a pet spot in advance because space is limited, while most European and UK trains let you turn up and buy a dog ticket on the day. When in doubt, reserve ahead.
Can I take my dog on a train in China?
Yes, on select high-speed routes since April 2026. China Railway’s Pet Travel service allows cats and dogs up to 15 kg, but they ride in dedicated onboard pet boxes rather than at your seat. You book through the 12306 app and need a valid animal quarantine certificate.
Which country is best for train travel with a dog?
Europe wins by a mile. Countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Switzerland have huge networks, clear pet policies, and a culture that treats dogs as normal travel companions, so you can bring a dog of almost any size with minimal fuss.
Do you need paperwork to bring a dog on Amtrak?
Yes. Amtrak requires a signed Pet Release and Indemnification Agreement for each travel segment. The form comes up online at the end of your booking and can also be found under My Trip on amtrak.com or in the Amtrak app. At staffed stations you then check in at the ticket office 45 minutes before departure so an agent can validate your pet and the paperwork.
Which Amtrak classes allow dogs?
Pets travel in Coach Class and Acela Business Class. They are not permitted in Acela First Class seating, First Class private rooms, non-Acela Business Class, food service cars, or the Quiet Car on Keystone and Pennsylvanian trains, and they are not allowed in station lounges or First Class waiting areas. Eleven routes also designate one specific Coach car for pets.
After years of riding the rails with Puglo, from smooth high-speed lines in Europe to the occasional chaotic overnight in Asia, I can say that train travel is one of the most rewarding ways to explore with a dog. You skip the stress of airline carriers and cargo holds, your dog gets to watch the world go by from your feet, and you arrive somewhere new without either of you feeling wiped out. The rules do vary a lot from country to country, so always check the specific operator’s pet policy before you book, pack a little patience, and keep your dog calm and leashed. Do that, and the train quickly becomes my favorite way to travel together.
Policies verified against official Amtrak, VIA Rail, Eurostar, and Trenitalia pages in August 2026. Always reconfirm current fees and reservation limits before you book.
The Amtrak rules in this post were verified against amtrak.com/pets on September 16, 2026. Rail operators update pet policies often, so check the official page for your route before you book.
