Can You Take Dogs on the Bus
Most U.S. transit agencies allow dogs on buses, but rules vary by city and operator. In 2025, systems like New York MTA, Chicago CTA, and Los Angeles Metro still restrict dogs to carriers or require leashes and muzzles depending on the route. Smaller regional operators and commuter rail buses often have more flexible pet policies, while premium services like FlixBus and Greyhound allow dogs with a fee and advance booking. For the latest details, check the official transit authority page at mta.info.
Service dogs are legally required to be allowed on all public buses under the ADA, but emotional support animals and pets are not guaranteed access. Transit operators define service dogs as dogs individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability. In 2025, major U.S. bus companies continue to ask for clear identification and may request documentation. You can review federal guidelines at ada.gov.
Bus Dog Fees and Carrier Rules
Fees for dogs on buses in 2025 range from free for service animals to $1–$7.50 per pet on carriers. Greyhound charges a standard pet fee per trip, while FlixBus sets a fixed pet surcharge that must be added at booking. Most carriers require dogs to fit in a soft or hard carrier that does not exceed 18–25 lbs and blocks the aisle. Check the specific carrier’s pet page for weight limits and carrier dimensions.
Many city buses in 2025 still limit dogs to carriers that fit on a passenger’s lap or under the seat, while others allow leashed dogs if they do not occupy a seat. The Chicago CTA allows small pets in carriers, and the MTA requires dogs to be in carriers on subways and buses. For long-distance routes, operators like Amtrak Thruway and Megabus publish pet policies online, and Megabus allows dogs in carriers with a pre-booked pet add-on.
Major Transit Operators and 2025 Pet Policies
In 2025, Greyhound allows dogs on buses with a pet fee and advance reservation, while FlixBus requires a pet ticket and a compliant carrier. Amtrak Thruway buses follow Amtrak’s pet rules, allowing dogs in carriers for a fee. Regional operators like VIA Metropolitan Transit and King County Metro publish current pet rules on their websites, and many require advance notification for animals.
International bus operators also publish clear pet rules. In the UK, National Express and Megabus UK allow dogs in carriers for a small fee. In Canada, Greyhound Canada and Pacific Western have specific pet policies that can change seasonally. For the most current rules, always check the operator’s official site before booking, and confirm pet policies directly with customer service.