Mujer con su perro en brazos dentro de un vagón de tren

Travelling by train with your dog: Renfe now accepts dogs up to 40 kg

Photo: Unsplash (free licence).

Quick answer: since 21 July 2026 you can travel with your dog of up to 40 kg on all Renfe trains in Spain, without a carrier. You need a muzzle in the station and when boarding and getting off, a non-retractable 1.5-metre lead, an up-to-date vaccination record or EU pet passport, and a cleaning kit. On AVE, Avlo, Alvia, Euromed and Intercity services the supplement is 40 euros.

The measure was announced in July and came into force on International Dog Day, but many families are only discovering it now as they plan autumn breaks and the Christmas holidays. It is one of the most significant changes in recent years for anyone travelling around Spain with a medium or large dog.

What has changed at Renfe

Until now, on most trains only small dogs could travel, inside a carrier. Under the new rules, according to Renfe:

  • Dogs up to 40 kg are allowed on all its trains, both commercial (AVE, Avlo, Alvia, Euromed and Intercity) and public service (Avant and Media Distancia).
  • Each train accepts two dogs, which travel in the pet-friendly carriage.
  • The dog sits in the inner window seat next to its owner. When you buy the supplement, the system assigns two adjacent seats.
  • On commercial trains and Avant, a seat cover and a mat for the dog are handed out at the access control.
  • Tickets are sold on the Renfe website and app and through travel agents; trains that accept dogs without a carrier are marked with a paw icon.

Requirements and exclusions

  • A muzzle in the station and while boarding and leaving the train.
  • A non-retractable 1.5-metre lead.
  • An up-to-date vaccination record or EU pet passport.
  • A cleaning kit: wipes, bags, disinfectant and odour spray, among other items.

Dogs under one year old, potentially dangerous breeds and females in season cannot travel under this scheme. It is also not available on trains with connections, with alternative transport arrangements or on so-called “sinergiadas” seats.

Tips for a smooth journey

  • If your dog is not used to a muzzle, practise at home with treats in the days beforehand.
  • Go for a walk before reaching the station so your dog can relieve itself and travel more calmly.
  • Bring water and a collapsible bowl, especially on long journeys.
  • Book early: with only two dogs per train, places can sell out at busy times.
  • If your dog gets travel sick or anxious, talk to your vet beforehand.

See more dog muzzles, dog wipes and carriers and backpacks.

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog travel on the floor instead of the seat?

According to Renfe, the dog travels in the window seat next to its owner, on the seat cover and mat handed out at the access point.

How much does it cost to take a dog on Avant or Media Distancia?

The general fare applies on these services. Check the exact price on the Renfe website or app when you buy your ticket.

Can I travel with two dogs?

Each train accepts two dogs in total in the pet-friendly carriage. Check availability when booking.

This article is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. Travel conditions may change, so always confirm the current rules with Renfe before you travel.

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