Can dogs travel on trains?

National Rail

Most National Rail operators allow up to two dogs per adult passenger to travel free of charge. Dogs do not need a ticket. The national conditions of carriage state that dogs must be kept under control at all times and should be kept on a lead on the train. During busy periods, staff can ask you to ensure your dog is not causing a nuisance or taking up seats. Some operators specify that dogs must not be on seats; others leave it to the passenger's discretion. The welcome is genuine and consistent across the network.

London Underground and Overground

Dogs are permitted on the London Underground, the Elizabeth line, London Overground and the DLR. They travel free. The guidance asks that dogs are kept on leads in stations and on trains, and that they do not occupy seats during busy periods. During peak hours on busy lines, bringing a large dog in a crowded carriage is a practical issue rather than a rule problem. The rules are the same across TfL services. Assistance dogs travel free and without restriction on all services.

Regional and high-speed services

LNER, Avanti, GWR, CrossCountry and all major intercity operators accept dogs under the same National Rail conditions. There is no special booking requirement for dogs on UK intercity trains. Dogs travel in the standard passenger carriages with their owner. On Caledonian Sleeper services, dogs can travel in the seated lounge car overnight but are not permitted in sleeping compartments. Eurostar is a separate question with a different answer.

What about the US?

Amtrak allows small dogs and cats in carriers on most routes, for a fee of $26 each way, on trips of seven hours or less. The dog must stay in the carrier throughout the journey. The carrier must fit under the seat. Large dogs are not permitted on Amtrak services. Metro and commuter rail rules vary by operator: some allow dogs in carriers, some allow all dogs on leads during off-peak hours, and some prohibit dogs entirely outside of assistance animals.