Can dogs be taken on city buses?

Traveling with dogs: an increasingly popular practice

Nowadays, more and more people are choosing to take their four-legged friends with them on their travels in search of dog-friendly destinations. Dogs are not only loyal friends, but also great adventure companions. However, before embarking on a getaway with our furry friend, it is essential to familiarize ourselves with the regulations and options available for traveling safely and comfortably.
In this article, we provide a brief guide to traveling on city and intercity buses, where you will find relevant information to plan your trips with your dog in an informed and smooth manner.

Can dogs really be taken on city buses?

One of the most common concerns among pet owners is whether dogs are allowed on city buses. The answer depends on the city and its local regulations. Some cities in Spain have pet-friendly policies that allow dogs on buses, provided certain conditions are met. However, in other cities, the rules may be more restrictive.Spanish cities that allow dogs on city buses on a leash, without the need for a carrier:

In several Spanish cities such as Alcoi, Barakaldo, Cartagena, Donostia-San Sebastián, Fuengirola, Irun, Jaén, Ourense, Palma de Mallorca, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Valladolid, and in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Arona, Granadilla de Abona, and San Cristóbal de La Laguna in Tenerife, dogs can travel on city buses under different policies, some more restrictive than others.
Regulations vary widely between cities. For example, some cities such as Barakaldo and Donostia-San Sebastián only allow small dogs, while in Fuengirola dogs weighing up to 25 kg are accepted. In cities such as Irun and Fuengirola, dogs in heat and potentially dangerous dogs such as Pitbulls or similar breeds are not allowed. Malaga had plans to relax some restrictions in 2026. Regulations on where dogs must be located also differ: in Ourense, they can go under the seat; in Irun, only in the central area; and in Palma, they must go in the back of the vehicle. In Jaén, they must occupy the area near an exit door, and in Tenerife, the wheelchair area. Some cities restrict access during rush hour or on night services and limit the number of dogs per vehicle, such as one in Cartagena and Tenerife, two in Irun and Ourense, and five in Fuengirola.
In terms of additional fees, in Palma there is an extra charge of €0.30 per dog (except for transport), and in Fuengirola it is €0.57. In other cities, no additional charge applies. Ourense and Valladolid require a dog license, which can be obtained from the city council or the municipal transport company, with requirements such as civil liability insurance and a veterinary certificate of vaccinations and microchip.Spanish cities where only small dogs are allowed on city buses in transport cages:

In several Spanish cities, only small dogs are allowed on city buses if they are in a carrier. Normally, a maximum weight of ten kilos is specified, although some cities such as Paterna, Torrent, and Valencia may allow up to 15 kilos. In Valencia, you need to purchase a pet pass, which costs €5, in order to travel with your dog.
Regulations vary from city to city. Some cities apply their own ordinances, while others follow regulations set by supra-municipal entities, such as many city councils in Madrid, which adhere to the regulations of the Regional Transport Consortium of the Community of Madrid for interurban services.

In these cities, dogs must remain inside the carrier at all times and are not allowed to leave it. However, in some cases, the regulations may be more flexible, allowing small dogs to travel in bags or even in your arms.
Among the cities that apply these regulations are A Coruña, Albacete, Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, Málaga, Seville, Valencia and many others throughout Spain.
It is important to check the specific regulations of the city you will be visiting before traveling with your dog on the city bus.

Regulations for Urban Travel

Each municipality has its own rules regarding the transport of animals on public transportation. Generally, dogs are required to be well-trained, wear a collar and leash, and the owner must be responsible for their behavior during the trip. It is advisable to consult directly with the local transport company for detailed and updated information on their policies.

Regulations for Intercity Travel by Companies

Article 11 of the General Traffic Regulations prohibits the transport of animals in the passenger compartment of the bus, except for psychological support or assistance animals (e.g., guide dogs for blind people).

It is important to note that, as much as possible, dogs should be avoided traveling in the bus's cargo or luggage area, especially in adverse weather conditions such as temperatures above 20 degrees. Except in situations that require it, this practice can be stressful or uncomfortable for pets.
Here is a quick guide to some of the main bus companies in Spain and their policies for traveling with dogs:

Alsa

· A maximum of one companion animal is allowed per service.
· The animal's weight must not exceed 10 kg.
· It must travel in the vehicle's cargo area inside a carrier or secure container provided by the traveler.
· Avoid traveling with pets in temperatures above 20ºC.

Hife

· A maximum of one pet per service is allowed in the luggage compartments.
· The maximum allowed weight is 10 kg.
· They must be identified with a microchip and accompanied by the necessary health documentation.
· Transport of pregnant females is not allowed.

Monbus

· The pet must travel on the same service as its owner.
· Only one pet per ticket/trip is allowed.
· It must go in the vehicle's luggage compartment inside an approved cage or carrier.

For Aerobus BCN and Avanzabus, the regulations are different as they allow dogs to travel inside the vehicle:

Aerobus BCN

· Allows the transport of domestic animals inside the passenger space in approved cages/carriers.
· One animal per trip/ticket is allowed, accompanied by its caregiver.

Avanzabus

· It is possible to travel with pets by paying the corresponding fare.
· Dogs can travel inside the passenger space in an approved carrier.
· A form must be filled out as the responsible party for the animal before boarding.

Each company has its own regulations, so it is advisable to consult directly with the company before traveling to ensure compliance with all requirements and enjoy a hassle-free trip with your pet.

Traveling with your dog can be a wonderful experience, but it requires planning and understanding of local and transport company regulations. With a bit of preparation, you can ensure that both you and your faithful companion enjoy a smooth trip.