If you are planning a European train trip with your dog with Eurostar, their rules depend entirely on your route. While continental lines (formerly Thalys) welcome pets, trains crossing the English Channel to or from London maintain a strict pet ban. Here is all you need to know before boarding your next Eurostar train with a pet.
Overview of Eurostar’s pet policy
- Accepted Travel Options:
- ✅ In cabin (Continental): Yes (small dogs and cats up to 6 kg in a carrier)
- ✅ On a lead (Continental): Yes (dogs over 6 kg with a muzzle)
- ❌ UK Routes (London): No (strictly prohibited except for certified assistance dogs)
- ❌ Sun & Snow Routes: No (pets are not allowed on seasonal holiday trains)
- Carrier weight limit: Max 6 kg for free travel
- Booking deadline: No advance booking for pets; tickets are bought directly on board
- Pet fee: Free for small carriers; €30 fixed fare for larger dogs
- Link to the Eurostar website: Official Pet Policy
▸What you can find in this article (Click to expand)
Pick where you want to travel
1️⃣ Eurostar pet policy for UK routes (London <-> Europe)
Can you take dogs on the Eurostar to London? The answer is a simple no. Eurostar prohibits all pet dogs and cats on routes passing through the Channel Tunnel. You cannot board at London St Pancras with a pet. Direct travel from Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam to the UK with a dog is also impossible.
Only certified guide and assistance dogs are exempt. So if you travel with them, you must book their spot 24 to 48 hours in advance. Emotional support animals are not permitted.
You can read more information about traveling from/to UK with your pet here.
How to Get to the UK with a pet
Since Eurostar is not an option for ordinary pets, luckily there are alternatives to cross the English Channel.
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is the most popular choice. This car train runs between Folkestone and Calais. Your dog stays inside your vehicle with you for the 35-minute trip.
If you do not have a car, you can book a specialized pet taxi. These services drive you and your pet directly through the tunnel.
Another option is to book pet-friendly ferry. Operators like Brittany Ferries, Stena Line and DFDS offer routes from France and the Netherlands. Many of these ships now feature dedicated pet-friendly cabins so that’s one of the most comfortable ways of traveling.
2️⃣ Eurostar with pets on Continental routes (France, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands)
Dogs and cats are welcome on Eurostar routes connecting France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. ALso if your pet is smaller and under 6 kg, it travels for free. However they must stay in a secure carrier (max 45 x 30 x 25 cm) placed on your lap or at your feet. You can check out TOP 5 bags here.
Larger dogs are also allowed. In this case you must purchase a “dog fare” ticket from the Train Manager for €30. On board, large dogs must wear a muzzle and remain on a lead. They also must sit on the floor and are not allowed on the seats.
Travel documents for your pet in 2026
Like for any international travel, even here it’s necessary to have all your pet’s documents in order. What they need depends on your country of origin as well as your destination. However the basics are:
- a microchip,
- * rabies vaccine,
- a valid EU Pet Passport or an EU Health Certificate.
* A rabies vaccination is mandatory. It must be administered at least 21 days before your departure.
FAQ about Eurostar with pets
The most common questions about cats and dogs on the Eurostar trains for the quick summary.
Can you have pets on the Eurostar?
Only on continental routes (France, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands). Pets are banned on all trains traveling to or from London.
How much to take a dog on Eurostar?
Small dogs under 6 kg in a carrier travel for free. Larger dogs require a €30 ticket purchased on the train.
Can you take a dog on Eurostar to London?
No. Standard pets are completely banned. Only certified assistance dogs are allowed on UK routes.
Are emotional support dogs allowed on the Eurostar?
No. Eurostar only recognizes professionally trained and certified guide or assistance dogs.
Does Eurostar provide muzzles for dogs?
No. You must bring your own muzzle. Your dog will be denied boarding on continental routes without one.