Are Dogs Allowed on Amtrak? Complete Guide to Amtrak's Pet Policy

The answer is yes, but with important restrictions and requirements you need to know before booking your ticket. Amtrak's pet policy allows small dogs on most routes, but there are strict size limits, time restrictions, and specific rules you must follow.

Whether you're traveling with a small pet, a service dog, or wondering about options for larger dogs, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about bringing your dog on Amtrak trains.

📌 Quick Answer: Are Dogs Allowed on Amtrak?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Amtrak, but with restrictions:

• ✅ Small dogs under 20 pounds (including carrier) are allowed on trips up to 7 hours
• ✅ Service dogs of any size are allowed on all Amtrak trains with no restrictions
• ❌ Dogs over 20 pounds cannot travel as pets (only as service animals)
• ❌ Emotional support animals must follow pet policy and pay fees
• 💵 Pet fees range from $29-$39 per segment

Quick requirements:

• Must be in an approved carrier (19" x 14" x 10.5" max)
• Only on trips up to 7 hours
• Maximum 5 pets per train
• Dogs and cats only
• Book in advance (pet spots fill quickly)

Read on for complete details about Amtrak's pet policy, service animal rules, and alternatives for large dogs.

Table of Contents

• Amtrak's Official Pet Policy
• Requirements for Traveling with Pets
• Amtrak Pet Fees by Route
• Pet Carrier Requirements and Specifications
• Service Dogs on Amtrak: Full Access Rights
• Can You Bring Dogs Over 20 Pounds on Amtrak?
• Emotional Support Animals on Amtrak
• How to Book Amtrak Travel with Your Dog
• Where Your Dog Can (and Can't) Go on the Train
• Alternatives for Owners of Large Dogs
• Frequently Asked Questions

Amtrak's Official Pet Policy

Amtrak officially welcomes small pets on board most trains, recognizing that many travelers want to bring their furry companions along for the journey. However, the policy has specific limitations designed to ensure passenger comfort and safety.

The Official Policy Statement

According to Amtrak's website:

"Dogs and cats up to 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier) are welcome on trips up to seven hours on most routes."

What This Means for Dog Owners

Amtrak's pet policy is more restrictive than what many pet owners hope for:

What's Allowed:

• Dogs and cats only (no other species)
• Maximum 20 pounds including carrier weight
• Trips up to 7 hours only
• Must remain in carrier entire time
• One pet per passenger
• Maximum 5 pets per train

What's NOT Allowed:

• Dogs over 20 pounds (unless service animals)
• Pets on trips longer than 7 hours
• Other species (rabbits, birds, ferrets, etc.)
• Multiple pets per passenger
• Pets traveling alone or as checked baggage

Routes Where Pets Are NOT Allowed

Some Amtrak services do not permit pets:

❌ Auto Train (Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL)
❌ Amtrak Cascades to/from Canada
❌ Adirondack (NYC to Montreal)
❌ Maple Leaf (NYC to Toronto)
❌ San Joaquins routes
❌ Thruway Bus Connections
❌ Amtrak Connection services

Always verify your specific route allows pets before booking.

Requirements for Traveling with Pets on Amtrak

To travel with your dog on Amtrak, you and your pet must meet several specific requirements. Amtrak enforces these rules to ensure safe, comfortable travel for all passengers.

Age and Health Requirements

Your Dog Must:

• Be at least 8 weeks old
• Be up to date on all vaccinations
• Be odorless and clean
• Be harmless and non-aggressive
• Be quiet and not disruptive
• Require no attention during travel
• Be housebroken

Behavioral Expectations

Amtrak maintains the right to refuse or remove any pet that:

• Barks, whines, or makes excessive noise
• Emits unpleasant odors
• Shows aggression toward passengers or staff
• Disrupts other passengers
• Cannot remain calm in the carrier

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has anxiety or behavioral issues in confined spaces, Amtrak travel may not be appropriate. Consider whether your dog can realistically remain calm and quiet in a carrier for several hours before booking.

Travel Time Restrictions

7-Hour Maximum Rule:

The 7-hour limit includes:

• Total travel time on the train
• Any transfer time between trains for multi-segment trips
• Does NOT include time waiting at the station before departure

Examples:

• ✅ Washington DC to Boston (7 hours) = Allowed
• ✅ Chicago to Milwaukee (1.5 hours) = Allowed
• ❌ Chicago to San Francisco (52 hours) = NOT allowed for pets
• ❌ NYC to Miami (27 hours) = NOT allowed for pets

Capacity Limits

⚠️ Important: Only 5 pets are allowed per train departure. This means:

• Pet spots book up quickly on popular routes
• You should book as far in advance as possible
• If spots are full, you may need to choose a different train time
• Some routes have designated "pet cars" (specific coach car for all pet travelers)

Adult Supervision Required

• Pets cannot travel with unaccompanied minors
• The passenger must be 18+ years old
• Pets cannot be left unattended at any time
• The passenger is fully responsible for the pet's behavior

Amtrak Pet Fees by Route

Unlike service animals (which travel free), pets require a fee for each travel segment. The fee is non-refundable and varies by route.

Current Pet Fee Structure (2025)

Understanding "Per Segment" Fees

Important: If your trip involves connecting trains, you pay the pet fee for EACH segment.

Example:

• NYC to Chicago (direct train) = $29-$39 for one segment
• NYC to New Orleans (connecting through Washington DC) = $29-$39 × 2 segments = $58-$78 total

The fee appears in your price summary when booking your reservation online or can be confirmed when booking by phone.

Fee Policies

✅ Pet fees are:

• Non-refundable
• Assessed for each travel segment
• Included in your total ticket price at booking
• Required even for very short trips

❌ Pet fees do NOT apply to:

• Service animals
• Psychiatric service dogs
• Any animal performing trained tasks for a disability

Pet Carrier Requirements and Specifications

Amtrak has strict requirements for pet carriers to ensure safety and comfort for your pet and other passengers.

Maximum Carrier Dimensions

Your pet carrier cannot exceed:

📏 19" long × 14" wide × 10.5" high

This is a hard limit. Carriers larger than these dimensions will not be permitted, even if your pet fits the weight requirement.

Carrier Type and Features

Required Features:

• ✅ Hard-sided OR soft-sided (both allowed)
• ✅ Leak-proof bottom
• ✅ Well-ventilated (multiple air holes/mesh panels)
• ✅ Secure closures (zippers, latches that lock)
• ✅ Sturdy construction

Your Pet Must:

• Be able to sit comfortably without touching the top
• Be able to lie down fully stretched out
• Be able to turn around inside the carrier
• Remain entirely inside the carrier (no head or paws sticking out)

Carrier Placement on the Train

Standard Routes:

• Carrier must fit under YOUR seat (not the seat in front of you)
• Counts as one of your two carry-on baggage items
• Cannot be placed on seats or in overhead storage
• Cannot block the aisle

Amtrak Cascades Exception:

• On Amtrak Cascades trains, you can place your pet carrier on the floor in front of the seat NEXT to you
• This provides slightly more flexibility

Recommended Carriers

While Amtrak doesn't endorse specific brands, popular carriers that meet their requirements include:

• Sherpa Original Deluxe (airline-approved, soft-sided)
• Petmate Two Door Top Load (hard-sided, 19" model)
• AmazonBasics Soft-Sided Pet Carrier (various sizes up to 19")
• Petmate Sky Kennel (hard-sided, small size)

⚠️ Measure Carefully: Many "small" pet carriers still exceed Amtrak's 19" length limit. Always verify exact dimensions before purchasing.

Service Dogs on Amtrak: Full Access Rights

If you have a trained service dog, you have significantly more freedom than pet travelers. Service animals are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and receive full access rights on Amtrak.

What Is a Service Animal According to Amtrak?

Amtrak follows the ADA definition:

"Service animals are dogs individually trained to do work or perform tasks directly related to a person's disability and are permitted in all areas where passengers are allowed."

As of June 2024: Amtrak only recognizes dogs as service animals. Previously, miniature horses were also recognized, but this changed in mid-2024.

Service Dog Rights on Amtrak

Service dogs have the following rights:

Where Service Dogs Can Go

Service dogs are permitted in:

• ✅ All seating areas (Coach, Business, First Class)
• ✅ Private rooms and sleeper cars
• ✅ Dining cars
• ✅ Lounge cars
• ✅ Station waiting areas and lounges
• ✅ Observation cars

Position Requirements:

• Must sit under the passenger's seat or at their feet
• Cannot block the aisle
• Cannot occupy seats or beds
• Cannot be left unattended

Service Dog Behavior Requirements

Even with full access rights, service dogs must:

1. Be Under Control

• Must be leashed, harnessed, or tethered at all times
• Exception: If the handler's disability prevents use of a leash OR if it would interfere with the dog's trained tasks
• Must respond to handler's commands

2. Be Housebroken

• Must be trained to wait for appropriate relief stops
• Cannot relieve themselves on the train
• Handler responsible for walking dog at station stops

3. Not Pose a Threat

• Cannot display aggressive behavior
• Cannot bark excessively or uncontrollably
• Cannot jump on other passengers

Station Stops for Service Dog Relief

If your service dog needs a relief break:

1. Notify the conductor when you first board the train
2. Ask about station stops with sufficient time for relief
3. Stay close to the train during stops
4. Re-board promptly when notified

Some routes have limited or no stops during your journey, so plan accordingly.

What Amtrak Employees May Ask

Amtrak personnel may only ask:

1. "Is this a service animal required because of a disability?"
2. "What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?"

They CANNOT ask:

• About the nature of your disability
• For medical documentation
• For proof of training or certification
• To see service dog ID cards or vests
• For the dog to demonstrate tasks

When Amtrak Can Remove a Service Dog

Amtrak may require removal of a service dog if:

❌ The dog is out of control and the handler doesn't take effective action
❌ The dog is not housebroken
❌ The dog poses a direct threat to others (biting, growling, snapping)
❌ The dog causes significant disruption (uncontrollable barking)

If your service dog is removed, you may continue traveling without the animal if you make arrangements for someone to take custody of the dog.

Booking with a Service Dog

While not required, you can:

• Include your service dog on your reservation during booking
• Complete the online questionnaire about accessible travel needs
• Call 1-800-USA-RAIL to request accessible seating space for large service dogs
• Request specific accommodations in advance

💡 Need a Psychiatric Service Dog? If you have a mental health disability, your dog may qualify as a psychiatric service dog with proper task training. Learn more about psychiatric service dog evaluations to see if you qualify for full access rights.

Can You Bring Dogs Over 20 Pounds on Amtrak?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions, and unfortunately, the answer disappoints many dog owners.

The Short Answer: No (With One Exception)

Dogs over 20 pounds cannot travel on Amtrak as pets. The 20-pound limit (including carrier weight) is strictly enforced and applies to all pet travel.

The ONLY Exception: Service Animals

The only way a dog over 20 pounds can travel on Amtrak is if they are a trained service animal.

Service animals:

• Have NO weight limit
• Can be any size (small, medium, large, or giant breeds)
• Have NO breed restrictions
• Must be trained to perform specific tasks for a disability

Why the 20-Pound Limit Exists

Amtrak's weight restriction is based on several practical factors:

1. Carrier Size Constraints

• Carriers must fit under the passenger's seat
• Seat space is limited on trains
• Larger carriers would block aisles or take up extra space

2. Passenger Comfort

• Ensures all passengers have adequate leg room
• Prevents larger animals from disturbing other travelers
• Maintains cleanliness in passenger areas

3. Safety Considerations

• Smaller animals are easier to evacuate in emergencies
• Larger dogs could pose greater risk if not properly contained
• Reduces potential for incidents in confined spaces

What About "Eyeballing" the Weight?

Some pet owners wonder if Amtrak strictly weighs pets or just estimates.

Reality:

• Most stations don't have scales available
• Employees typically estimate based on visual assessment
• However, the carrier size limit (19" × 14" × 10.5") is enforced
• If your dog looks obviously over 20 pounds, you may be denied boarding

⚠️ Don't Risk It: Attempting to bring an oversized dog and being denied boarding means:

• You miss your train
• You lose your non-refundable pet fee
• You may lose your entire ticket cost
• You're stranded at the station with your dog

Comparing Amtrak to Airlines

Many dog owners are disappointed by Amtrak's restrictions, especially after airlines changed their policies:

Emotional Support Animals on Amtrak

If you have an emotional support animal (ESA), it's crucial to understand how Amtrak treats ESAs versus service animals.

ESAs Are NOT Service Animals on Amtrak

Important Distinction:

Amtrak follows the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which does NOT recognize emotional support animals as service animals.

This means:

• ❌ ESAs have NO special public access rights
• ❌ ESAs must follow the standard pet policy
• ❌ ESA letters do NOT grant exceptions to pet rules
• ✅ ESAs are subject to the 20-pound limit
• ✅ ESAs must remain in carriers
• ✅ ESAs require payment of pet fees
• ✅ ESAs are subject to the 7-hour travel limit

Why Amtrak Changed Its ESA Policy

Prior to 2021, airlines recognized emotional support animals and provided accommodations. However:

What Changed:

• In 2021, the Department of Transportation revised Air Carrier Access Act rules
• Airlines were no longer required to accommodate ESAs
• Most airlines stopped recognizing ESAs as service animals
• Amtrak followed this trend

Current Status: Amtrak's official policy explicitly states:

"For the safety of all Amtrak passengers and staff, and the sanitation of our trains and facilities, passengers shall not misrepresent untrained animals as service animals, including pets, comfort or emotional support animals, animals in training, etc."

What About ESA Documentation?

Even if you have:

• ✅ A legitimate ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional
• ✅ Documentation of your mental health condition
• ✅ Proof that your animal provides emotional support

None of this documentation grants your ESA special privileges on Amtrak.

Your ESA must:

• ✅ Be 20 pounds or under (with carrier)
• ✅ Remain in an approved carrier the entire trip
• ✅ Only travel on trips 7 hours or less
• ✅ Pay the $29-$39 pet fee

ESAs vs. Psychiatric Service Dogs

There IS a way for individuals with mental health conditions to have their dog travel with full access rights: psychiatric service dogs (PSDs).

How PSDs Differ from ESAs

Psychiatric Service Dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with mental health disabilities:

Example PSD Tasks:

• Deep pressure therapy during panic attacks
• Medication reminders at specific times
• Interrupting self-harming behaviors
• Reality checking during dissociative episodes
• Creating space in crowded environments
• Guiding handler to exits during anxiety attacks
• Waking handler from nightmares
• Tactile stimulation during anxiety

Emotional Support Animals:

• Provide comfort through presence
• Not trained to perform specific tasks
• Reduce anxiety through companionship

💡 Could Your ESA Become a PSD? If you have a diagnosed mental health condition and your dog could be trained to perform specific tasks, they may qualify as a psychiatric service dog. Learn more about PSD evaluations and training. Learn the difference between ESA and PSD. 

What If You Misrepresent Your ESA?

⚠️ Serious Warning: Falsely claiming an ESA is a service animal can result in:

Legal Consequences:

• Criminal charges in many states
• Fines ranging from $50 to $1,000+ depending on jurisdiction
• Criminal record in some states

Immediate Consequences:

• Denial of boarding
• Removal from the train
• Ban from future Amtrak travel
• Loss of ticket cost and pet fees

States with Penalties for Fake Service Animals: California, Colorado, Florida, Arizona, Texas, New York, and 30+ other states have laws specifically criminalizing misrepresentation of service animals.

How to Book Amtrak Travel with Your Dog

Booking Amtrak travel with your pet requires advance planning. Here's the complete step-by-step process.

Step 1: Verify Your Route Allows Pets

Before booking, confirm your specific route permits pets:

❌ Routes that DON'T allow pets:

• Auto Train
• Amtrak Cascades to/from Canada
• Adirondack (to Montreal)
• Maple Leaf (to Toronto)
• San Joaquins
• Thruway Bus Connections

✅ Most other routes DO allow pets (up to 7 hours)

Step 2: Check Your Dog Meets Requirements

Before booking, confirm:

• ✅ Your dog weighs under 20 pounds (including carrier)
• ✅ Your dog is at least 8 weeks old
• ✅ You have an approved carrier (19" × 14" × 10.5" or smaller)
• ✅ Your trip is 7 hours or less
• ✅ Your dog has up-to-date vaccinations

Step 3: Book Your Reservation

Option A: Book Online at Amtrak.com

1. Visit Amtrak.com
2. Enter your travel details (from, to, date)
3. Select your train and fare type
4. During booking, look for the pet option
5. Add pet to your reservation

6. Most Asked Questions

   Are dogs allowed on Amtrak trains?

   

   Yes, dogs are allowed on most Amtrak trains, but only if they weigh 20 pounds or less (including carrier). Dogs must remain in an approved carrier for the entire journey and are limited to trips of 7 hours or less. Service dogs of any size are allowed on all Amtrak trains without restrictions.

   How much does it cost to bring a dog on Amtrak?

   

   Amtrak pet fees range from $29 to $39 per travel segment, depending on your route. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid for each leg of your journey if you have connecting trains. Service animals travel free of charge.

   Can I bring a dog over 20 pounds on Amtrak?

   

   No, dogs over 20 pounds cannot travel on Amtrak as pets. The only exception is if your dog is a trained service animal performing specific tasks related to a disability. Service animals have no weight restrictions.

   What size pet carrier does Amtrak allow?

   

   Amtrak allows pet carriers up to 19 inches long × 14 inches wide × 10.5 inches high. Carriers can be hard-sided or soft-sided but must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and allow your dog to sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably.

   Are emotional support dogs allowed on Amtrak?

   

   No, emotional support animals do not have special privileges on Amtrak. ESAs must follow the standard pet policy, meaning they must be under 20 pounds, remain in a carrier, pay pet fees, and can only travel on trips up to 7 hours. ESA letters do not grant exceptions to these rules.

   Are service dogs allowed on Amtrak?

   

   Yes, service dogs are fully allowed on all Amtrak trains with no restrictions. Service dogs can be any size, don't require carriers, travel free of charge, and can accompany their handlers in all passenger areas including sleeper cars, dining cars, and First Class.

   How do I book Amtrak travel with my dog?

   

   You can book Amtrak travel with your pet by visiting Amtrak.com, calling 1-800-USA-RAIL, or booking at a staffed station. During booking, indicate you're traveling with a pet. After booking, complete the Pet Release and Indemnification Agreement. Arrive 45 minutes early at staffed stations for pet check-in.

   What questions can Amtrak ask about my service dog?

   

   Amtrak employees may only ask two questions: (1) Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? and (2) What work or task has the dog been trained to perform? They cannot ask about your disability, request documentation, or ask for demonstrations.

   Can I take my dog on long-distance Amtrak trips?

   

   Only if your travel time is 7 hours or less. Dogs traveling as pets cannot be on trains for more than 7 hours (including transfer time). Service dogs have no time restrictions and can travel on any length trip.

   What breeds of dogs are allowed on Amtrak?

   

   Amtrak has no breed restrictions for either pets or service animals. Any dog breed is allowed as long as it meets the weight requirement (for pets) or is task-trained (for service animals) and behaves appropriately.

   Can I take my dog in a stroller on Amtrak?

   

   No, dogs must remain in an approved carrier that fits under your seat. The carrier must meet Amtrak's size requirements (19 × 14 × 10.5). Strollers do not meet these specifications and are not allowed.

   Does Amtrak allow cats?

   

   Yes, Amtrak allows both dogs and cats. The same rules apply: maximum 20 pounds including carrier, trips up to 7 hours, must remain in carrier, and pet fees apply.

   Can I bring my dog on the Auto Train?

   

   No, pets are not allowed on the Auto Train (Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL). This is one of several routes where pets are prohibited. Service animals ARE allowed on all trains including the Auto Train.

   How many dogs can I bring on Amtrak?

   

   Only one pet per passenger is allowed. Additionally, only 5 total pets are allowed per train, so pet spots can fill up quickly on popular routes. Book as early as possible to secure your pet's spot.

   What if my dog barks or acts up on the train?

   

   If your dog barks excessively, acts aggressively, or disrupts other passengers, Amtrak staff may require you to remove your pet from the train. The pet must be odorless, harmless, not disruptive, and require no attention during travel. You could be asked to leave at the next station.