Travelling on public transport with your puppy can feel overwhelming at first. From busy train platforms to noisy buses and crowded Underground journeys. But with the right preparation, your puppy can learn to travel calmly and confidently/

In this Teddy Maximus Puppy Hub guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about taking your puppy on trains, buses, taxis and the London Underground including rules, tips and essential travel advice.

Yes — most UK public transport services are dog-friendly, but rules vary:

• Trains: Dogs are usually allowed free of charge (typically up to two per passenger). You can find out more here
  
• Buses: Dogs are allowed at the driver’s discretion.
  
• London Underground & Metro: Dogs are permitted but must be on a lead or in a carrier. You can find out more here
  
• Taxis & Ride Shares: depends on the driver — always check in advance. Apps such as uber now have pet friendly options.
  

Before introducing public transport, ideally:

• Your puppy should be comfortable with short outings
  
• Basic training (name recognition, sit) should be underway
  
• They should be used to a collar, harness or carrier
  
• Vaccinations should be complete or approved by your vet
  

Remember to start small — even sitting near a station can be a good first step. Ease them in gently and offer plenty of treats and praise.

Train Travel Tips:

• Travel off-peak to avoid crowds at first
  
• Choose quieter carriages or sit near carriage ends
  
• Keep your puppy on the floor or in a carrier and offer plenty of reassurance
  
• Consider using a lift or stairs to start with and introduce the escalator (if there is one) once they've got used to the train. Little by little builds confidence.
  
• Be very careful of platform gaps - dog carriers can be a great solution to stay safe
  

Bringing a blanket or familiar item can help your puppy settle during the journey.

Bus travel can be slightly more unpredictable due to sudden stops and crowding.

Bus Travel Tips:

• Keep your puppy close on a short lead or in a carrier
  
• Sit in a quiet area if possible and offer plenty of reassurance
• Offer a treat as the bus arrives so your puppy associates it with a positive experience
  
• Avoid busy commuting hours to start with
  

Tips for Underground Travel:

• Start with short journeys (1–2 stops) - the London Underground and other UK metro systems can be overwhelming due to noise and movement.
  
• Use a secure carrier for smaller puppies
  
• Avoid rush hour
  
• Carry your puppy on escalators (for safety)
  
• Watch for hot pavements and crowded platforms
  

Gradual exposure helps puppies build confidence.

Taxis and ride-share services vary in their pet policies.

Before travelling:

• Confirm the driver accepts dogs - many taxi companies offer pet friendly car options when ordering, such as Uber.
  
• Use a secure carrier for smaller puppies where they feel safe and secure
  
• Bring a blanket to protect seats
  
• Keep your puppy calm and settled - a reassuring voice, plenty of strokes and treats can help!