What to expect on buses and trains
Travelling with your dog on public transport in Northern Ireland is possible. The key is knowing what to expect before you travel.
Clear expectations help everyone. Dog owners feel more confident, other passengers know what’s happening around them, and transport staff are supported by consistent guidance. This guide reflects current public transport rules and conditions of carriage so you can plan calmly and responsibly.
Travelling with your dog on trains
Translink NI Railways:
NI Railways provides clear guidance for travelling with dogs, which makes planning straightforward.
What to know before you travel
- Dogs are permitted on trains after 9.30am. These off peak rules are in place for animal safety and passenger comfort, as peak commuter services are often very busy.
- Dogs must be kept under control and on a lead or in a suitable container.
- Dogs must stay on the floor and are not permitted to sit on seats.
- Assistance dogs are permitted at all times and are accommodated in priority seating areas.
These rules help ensure dogs have adequate space, reduce the risk of stress in crowded carriages, and keep journeys safe for everyone.
Travelling with your dog on buses
Translink Buses:
Bus travel is often where dog owners feel most uncertain, largely because experiences can vary. Based on Translink’s current conditions of carriage, here is what passengers should expect.
Current bus guidance (2026)
- There are no formal peak time restrictions for dogs on bus services.
- Dogs must be kept under control and on a lead or in a suitable container.
- Dogs must remain under or near the seat for the duration of the journey.
- Dogs are not permitted to occupy seats or multi purpose areas such as aisles, doorways, vestibules, or toilet areas.
- Decisions are based on factors such as control of the animal, cleanliness, and the impact on other passengers.
If a dog is refused travel, a valid reason should be explained to the passenger at the time. Dogs should not be refused arbitrarily.
Translink has also confirmed that work is underway to improve the clarity of public guidance so expectations are clearer for both passengers and drivers.
Travelling with your dog on the Glider (Belfast)
The Glider is part of Translink’s bus network and follows the same conditions of carriage as other bus services.
What to expect on the Glider:
- Dogs are permitted on Glider services and travel free of charge.
- There are no formal peak time restrictions specific to Glider services.
- Dogs must be kept under control and on a lead or in a suitable container.
- Dogs must remain on the floor, under or close to their owner, and must not occupy seats or obstruct aisles, doors, or multi purpose areas.
- Decisions are based on factors such as control of the animal, cleanliness, and impact on other passengers.
Because the Glider can be busy at certain times of day, travelling during quieter periods can help ensure a calmer experience for both dogs and passengers, but this is a practical consideration rather than a formal requirement.
Assistance dogs are accommodated at all times and have priority access to designated spaces.
As with all bus services, if a dog is refused travel, a valid reason should be explained to the passenger at the time.
Practical tips for travelling smoothly with your dog
Regardless of whether you are travelling by bus or train, a few simple steps can make journeys easier for everyone.
- Travel at quieter times where possible.
- Use a short lead so your dog stays close and settled.
- Bring a mat or towel to help your dog stay comfortable on the floor.
- Be mindful of other passengers, including those who may be nervous around dogs.
- If your dog becomes unsettled, consider stepping off and trying again later.
Being prepared helps reduce stress and supports positive experiences for all.
Why clarity matters
Dog owners tend to plan ahead. When rules are clear, people feel confident using public transport rather than avoiding it altogether. Clear guidance supports drivers, reduces awkward situations onboard, and helps passengers understand what is expected before they travel.
At Best Bark, our aim is always to remove guesswork and improve confidence for both dog owners and the places they visit. Sharing clear, accurate information is part of that mission.
