Traveling with pets on German trains is possible and relatively straightforward. We explain the rules, costs and how to optimally plan your journey with dogs, cats or other pets.
Traveling with Pets: Key Facts
- Small dog: €5.50 per journey (up to 30 cm)
- Large dog: 50% of adult ticket
- Cat: Free in carrier (hand luggage)
- Muzzle: Required for dogs over 30 cm
1. Prices by Pet Type
Small Dog
up to 30 cm shoulder height
€5.50
- Must be leashed
- No muzzle required
- Can sit on lap
- Or on floor next to seat
Large Dog
over 30 cm shoulder height
50% of adult ticket
- Must be leashed
- Muzzle required
- Own seat (ticket required)
- Special area recommended
Cat
In carrier
Free
- Carrier max. 60x45x40 cm
- Counts as hand luggage
- Free of charge
- On lap or under seat
Small Animals
Hamsters, rabbits, etc.
Free
- In carrier
- Counts as hand luggage
- Free of charge
- No special requirements
2. Rules for Dogs
Small Dogs (up to 30 cm)
- Price: €5.50 per journey
- Leash: Must be leashed
- Muzzle: Not required
- Seating: Can sit on lap or on floor
Large Dogs (over 30 cm)
- Price: 50% of adult ticket
- Leash: Must be leashed
- Muzzle: Required (throughout entire journey)
- Seating: Own seat required (ticket)
3. Cats and Small Animals
Cats and small animals (hamsters, rabbits, etc.) can be taken in a carrier free of charge, as long as the carrier does not exceed the maximum size of 60x45x40 cm.
Carrier
- - Max. 60x45x40 cm
- - Counts as hand luggage
- - Free of charge
- - On lap or under seat
Benefits
- - No additional costs
- - Safe for the animal
- - No special requirements
- - Easy to transport
4. Pet Areas on Trains
Many ICE and IC trains have special pet areas, usually at the end of the carriage. These areas are ideal for pets:
- More space: Pets have more room to move
- Less disturbance: Other passengers are less disturbed
- Reservation: Recommended, especially for larger dogs
- Availability: Not available on all trains, check early
5. Tips for Relaxed Travel with Pets
Book early
Book early, especially for larger dogs. Spaces in pet areas are limited.
Bring a muzzle
Larger dogs must wear a muzzle. Bring a familiar muzzle so your dog feels comfortable.
Water & snacks
Bring water and snacks for your pet. This is especially important on longer journeys.
Use pet areas
Use the special pet areas on ICE and IC trains. Animals have more space here and disturb other passengers less.
Choose travel times
Avoid very crowded trains. Midday or afternoon trains are often less busy and more comfortable for pets.
Be considerate
Be considerate of other passengers. If your dog is restless, calm it down or walk through the train with it.
6. Example: Traveling with a Dog
Berlin to Munich with a large dog (40 cm shoulder height)
Costs:
- Adult: Saver fare (Saver fare)
- Dog (50%): 50% of fare
- Total: affordable total
Required:
- - Leash mandatory
- - Muzzle
- - Own seat (ticket)
- - Reservation recommended
Notice: All information is provided without guarantee. Schedules and availability may change at any time. For current and binding information, please visit the official provider websites. This website is not affiliated with Deutsche Bahn AG or other railway companies.
Last update: December 2025
Sources & More Information:
- Deutsche Bahn – Official Deutsche Bahn website
- DB Navigator – Official DB Navigator App
- Taking pets – Information on taking pets