Would you like to use public transport with a dog? Whether for everyday use or on vacation, the exact regulations for taking dogs with you can vary depending on the transport company, country and region. We have summarized all the important information for you here so that your journey together is a relaxed one.

As a general rule:

On many means of transport, small dogs may be carried in a transport box or a closed bag, such as your TARIGS dog backpack. In these cases, carriage is usually free of charge.

Dogs outside of a transport box must generally be kept on a lead and muzzled. In addition, a separate ticket is often required for the dog.

Exceptions are guide dogs for the blind and assistance dogs, which may generally be transported without restrictions.

The same rules usually apply to other pets, e.g. domestic cats.

Important: Check the exact regulations for taking dogs on public transport on the transport company’s website or with local customer service before each journey. Whether your four-legged friend needs a separate ticket and what other conditions apply may vary depending on the means of transport and region.

With Deutsche Bahn, for example, small dogs only travel free of charge in transport boxes. Otherwise a separate ticket is required. A muzzle and lead are then also compulsory.

Rules and regulations: What you need to know

There are a number of largely uniform rules for dogs and their owners on public transport.

Not on the seats: Even with a ticket, the dog has no right to a seat. If it does not sit on the lap of its two-legged friend, it travels on the floor.

Dogs must be kept on a lead: Dogs must be kept on a lead on public transport, including on platforms and in stations.

Muzzle: As a rule, you must always put a muzzle on your dog if it is not traveling in a transport box or a closed bag, such as your TARIGS dog backpack. If you are traveling with a new line, it is best to check the rules beforehand. Depending on the goodwill, it may be enough to have the muzzle ready – as a sign that you can put it on if necessary.

Keep your distance: Dogs must be managed in such a way that they do not disturb other passengers.

Customer photo: Of Helene and her cat Spooky
Mountainrock Backpack – Medium, Light Gray

To avoid stress on public transport with your dog, you should plan your journeys so that you can avoid rush hour. And to make your dog and others feel comfortable, keep him firmly on the lead and make sure he doesn’t have any physical contact with other people. A little tip: On crowded public transport, it’s often safest to hold him between your legs or carry him in a carrier backpack. That way he is protected and can snuggle up.

Don’t forget to bring enough drinking water for your dog and keep public transport clean. Always have poop bags with you to clean up any messes quickly and easily.

Taking your dog on mountain railways

The rules for taking dogs on mountain railroads vary from region to region. While cable cars in countries such as Germany, Austria, Italy and Slovenia often allow dogs, they are sometimes not permitted on open means of transport such as ski lifts and chairlifts for safety reasons. A reduced ticket is often required for dogs.

How to get your dog used to public transport

If you want to use public transport with a dog, you should start getting your four-legged friend used to public transport as early as possible. We recommend starting with short journeys. Of course, the basic rule is always: keep calm. Dogs are a mirror of our behavior. That’s why we should walk calmly and upright and get on the bus before them. This is how we signal that there is no danger. On buses and trains, it is best to carry your dog between your legs or in a carrier backpack. This should be established beforehand as a safe space for your dog. This conveys a sense of security. Do not “pamper” your four-legged friend excessively. This is because too much attention could also signal to him “Attention, exceptional situation” and make him insecure. However, public transport should become normal for your dog.

Traveling with puppies: Young dogs that are still unsteady on their feet should be carried onto buses and trains. If only to prevent the puppy from stumbling over the steps or getting its legs caught in the gap between the platform and the train.

Traveling with old and/or handicapped dogs: The same applies here as for puppies. If your four-legged friend can no longer stand safely on its legs, you should carry it when boarding. If the dog is too heavy, this may mean that it can no longer travel on the subway or train.

Don’t forget muzzle training

Training to wear a muzzle is essential for all dogs that are not transported in a crate. Therefore, get your dog used to being carried early on. With a lot of patience and treats, muzzle carrying will quickly become routine.

Conclusion:

With a little planning and consideration, you can easily use public transportation with your dog. Often even free of charge. Find out about the applicable regulations, prepare yourself well and nothing will stand in the way of your journey together.

Do you already have experience of taking your dog on public transport? Share your tips, experiences and photos with us on our social media channels!

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