Renfe Runs Trial To Allow Large Dogs On Trains In Spain

Renfe is running a three-month trial to see if allowing medium to large dogs on trains in Spain is viable. Up until now, with the exception of guide and therapy dogs, passengers were only able to travel with small dogs, under 10 kilos (22 lbs). Moreover, they have to be kept in a carrier at all times during the journey.

However, many people love to travel with their pets, including international travelers. Now, Renfe will attempt to ascertain whether taking larger dogs on the trains is an viable option.

National rail provider Renfe running large dog trial in Spain

Recently, we reported that Italy was allowing dogs to travel on trains for free during the summer. Now, Spain is also getting dog-friendly by running a new trial. Basically, tickets will be on sale for the Madrid to Barcelona route for those with medium and large dogs.

With the exception of guide dogs, previously only small pups were allowed to travel by rail and in a carrier at all times. With Renfe’s new three-month trial, which kicked off on Tuesday, September 13, the national rail provider will assess the viability of allowing dogs of up to 40 kilos (9 lbs) on its trains.

How does this work?

During the trial period, only two large dogs will be allowed on each train, with the maximum being one per passenger. Meanwhile, a special dog-friendly area in one of the train’s carriages will be allocated for the medium to large pups.

Moreover, dog owners must follow a set of rules and recommendations. These include carrying a blanket for their pets to lie on. They must also avoid taking any dog toys that make noise. Meanwhile, owners must also avoid feeding them during the three hours prior to the journey. The latter is to prevent the dogs from doing their “business” on the train. Meanwhile, they are told to take their pets for a long walk before boarding the train.

Another rule is that dogs who can’t travel in a pet carrier must wear a muzzle. Moreover, they must be kept on a non-extendable leash, measuring a maximum of 3 meters (10 ft) at all times.

Which dog breeds will be allowed on trains in Spain?

The following small, medium and large dog breeds will be allowed on Renfe’s high-speed AVE and long-distance trains between Barcelona and Madrid:

Beagles, Bichons, Boxers, Bull Terriers, Bulldogs, Poodles, Pugs, Chow Chows, Cocker Spaniels, Dalmatians, Collies, Greyhounds (Galgos), Golden Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, Labradors, Alsatians, Pekinese, Pointers, Pomeranians, Rottweilers, Schnauzers, Setters, Shar Peis and various terrier breeds.

It should be noted, however, that given the weight restrictions, Bordeaux mastiffs, bull mastiffs. Great Danes, Newfoundland dogs, Saint Bernards, Spanish mastiffs, and Tosa Inus, cannot be included on the list. This is due to the fact that many of these breeds can weigh more than 60 kilos (132 lbs).

How can you book a ticket on Renfe?

Anyone wishing to book tickets for themselves and their pets during the Madrid to Barcelona trial can do so on the Renfe website. Here, they will find an option of adding their “mascot grande” (large pet).

However, it should be noted that while Renfe only charges €10 ($10) for smaller dogs and other pets (cats, ferrets, birds), larger dogs will cost more. Currently, for dogs weighing between 10 kg (22 lbs) and 40 kg (9 lbs) the fixed price per trip is €35 ($35).

Meanwhile, passengers traveling with medium or large dogs won’t be able to choose their seats. In fact, they must use the two spots pre-assigned for this purpose for themselves and their dog. Moreover, they will be required to complete a civil responsibility form at the train station 30 minutes prior to travel. To do so, they must visit the Centro de Servicios. At that time, dog owners will be handed a cover and a mat for the seat, along with a gift for their furry friend.

Happy travels with your canine best friend between Madrid and Barcelona on Renfe trains during the trial!