Dogs are allowed on many Amtrak trains, but with important limits. Here’s a concise guide to current policies and practical tips. Overview of policy
- Eligible pets: Small dogs (and cats) up to 20 pounds total weight, including the carrier. Service animals have separate, broader allowances and travel free.
- Travel duration: Pets may accompany passengers on trips up to seven hours total (including transfers). Longer trips must be broken into shorter segments.
- Where they ride: Pets are generally allowed in the coach (not in first class, business class, or sleeping cars) on most routes. Some trains or routes may have designated pet cars or restrictions on certain services.
- Carriers: Pets must travel inside an enclosed carrier that fits under the seat; dimensions commonly cited are around 19" long x 14" wide x 10.5" high. The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, and the pet must be able to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably inside without touching the sides.
- Fees and counts: There is typically a per-pet fee per direction (often around $29), and a limit on how many pets can be booked on a single train (often a small number like five). The pet counts as one carry-on item in the traveler’s total carrying capacity.
- Stations and lounges: Pets may be restricted in certain lounge areas and quiet cars on some services. Service animals are exempt from most restrictions.
Practical steps to travel with a dog
- Plan ahead: Confirm eligibility for your specific route and train. Not all services permit pets (for example, some regional or corridor services may differ). If in doubt, contact Amtrak customer service or check the pet policy page for the latest details.
- Prepare the carrier: Ensure the carrier is leak-proof, well-ventilated, and appropriately sized for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
- Vaccinations and age: Your pet should be at least eight weeks old and up to date on vaccinations as required by policy.
- Booking: Reserve a pet spot in advance, as there are limits per train. Be ready for a per-direction fee.
- At the station and on board: Keep the pet inside the carrier while at stations and on the train, and do not leave the pet unattended. The carrier counts as a carry-on item.
If you’d like, tell me your origin, destination, travel date, and dog’s size/weight, and I can outline the exact likely restrictions for that route and provide a step-by-step plan.
