Rules and Advice for Taking Your Dog on a Train Journey

To help overcome this, we have compiled a list of rules and advice to follow when embarking on your trip.

Train rules:

You can bring up to two dogs on the train without charge, as long as the following rules are also obeyed:

• Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times, unless sat in a carrier.
• Dogs must not sit on the train seat and doing so could result in you being charged.
• Do not take your dog into the restaurant carriage. The only exception is if they are an assistance dog for the blind or deaf.
• Train staff are authorised to remove dogs from the train if their size or behaviour is, or is likely to cause, an inconvenience or danger to other customers.
• If another customer objects to your dog’s presence on the train, you are obliged to move it to another area, alternatively dogs that are muzzled and fitted with a collar and chain or placed in a carrier can be put in the luggage or guard’s compartment.

Tips and advice:

• Avoid rush hour: Consider the time of day you are travelling and ensure you arrive for your train in plenty of time. Rushing for your train and travelling at busy time periods, such as during the morning commute, will only result in your dog becoming anxious and stressed.
• Pack a bag: If you are travelling a great distance, the RSPCA recommend you pack a bag for your pet containing a water bowl, a bottle of water, vet details and any medication required.
• Go for a walk: Take your dog for a walk or run before you travel and bring them a rug to sit on, hopefully this should encourage them to sleep during the journey.
• Find a quiet seat: Try and find an area to sit where you will not be surrounded by a lot of people, as this will help your pet to settle. Encourage them to sit under your seat or table and remember to be aware of where your dog’s tail is…you don’t want anyone to stand on it!
• Prepare for travel sickness: If your pet suffers from travel sickness, the RSPCA recommend you not to feed them less than 3 to 4 hours before their trip. Planning breaks into you journey allowing them to stretch their legs may also help.
• Be aware of other pets: Remain aware of other animals that may also be travelling to avoid any potential disagreements that could arise.
• Be careful leaving the train: When you reach your destination, take care when stepping off the train. If your pet seems nervous or hesitant, gently lift them over the gap between the train and the platform.

To find more detailed information have a look at our Luggage and Animals page

Travelling with your dog? We’d love it if you could tweet us a picture to share on our website.