Travelling on the AVE with your dog: 2026 guide

Renfe updated its policy in January 2026 and we can finally talk about travelling on the AVE with a dog without a giant asterisk. The essentials in five minutes.

Up to 10 kg (carrier included) travel free in any class. The carrier must measure 60×35×35 cm max and fit under the seat. Above 10 kg, only on selected routes and with a specific ticket (around 25% of the adult fare).

My trick: book the first AVE of the morning. Carriages are emptier, the AC isn't on full blast yet, and the station is calm. Bonita does a thousand times better that way.

At Atocha, the dog check-in zone is on the left as you enter — you skip the long queue. At Sants Barcelona, use the Numància street entrance, much faster.

And a reminder: always carry an up-to-date health card and a bag of tiny treats. Ten minutes before boarding, short walk + treat = happy dog for 2.5h. Scientifically proven by a galga called Bonita.