The short answer: not on trains to or from London. But there are alternatives, and the rules differ on continental routes.
Dogs and other pets are not allowed on any Eurostar service to or from London. This includes London–Paris, London–Brussels, and London–Amsterdam in both directions. The only exception is certified guide and assistance dogs. See our assistance animals guide for details.
Eurostar has maintained a blanket ban on pets on all London routes since the service launched in 1994. The reasons are a mix of regulatory, operational, and veterinary considerations. The Channel Tunnel operates under specific safety regulations, and Eurostar has chosen not to accommodate pets on its cross-Channel services.
This policy has been the subject of petitions and campaigns over the years — one on Change.org has gathered over 16,000 signatures. Despite this, Eurostar has stated there are no current plans to change the policy.
The ban applies to all pets: dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and any other animals. There are no exceptions for small dogs in carriers, emotional support animals, or any other category. Only professionally trained, certified guide and assistance dogs are exempt.
Since the Eurostar–Thalys merger in 2023, trains running between France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany also carry the Eurostar name. On these continental routes, dogs are welcome:
These pet-friendly rules apply on routes like Paris–Brussels, Paris–Amsterdam, Brussels–Cologne, and similar continental services. They do not apply on any route touching London, on Brussels–Lille, or on Eurostar Sun and Snow seasonal services.
If you have a car, this is by far the easiest way. Eurotunnel Le Shuttle runs vehicle-carrying trains between Folkestone and Calais. Your dog stays in your car with you for the 35-minute crossing. No kennels, no separation, no stress. Crossings run up to four times per hour.
No car? Specialist pet taxi services like Le Pet Express will drive you and your dog through the Eurotunnel. They handle the logistics and your pet stays with you throughout. Expect to pay £150–250+ depending on the route.
Several ferry operators welcome pets:
Particularly good if heading to the Netherlands, Belgium, or Germany. Take a train from London to Harwich (dogs travel free on UK trains), catch the overnight Stena Line ferry to Hook of Holland in a pet-friendly cabin, then connect to Dutch trains (which allow dogs) onward to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Brussels, or beyond. Longer than the Eurostar, but your dog can come the whole way.
The Animal Health Certificate process takes time. Book your vet appointment well in advance — not every vet is authorised to issue AHCs, and appointments can be hard to get at short notice, especially before school holidays.
No indication from Eurostar that the London route pet ban will be lifted. The company has consistently cited operational and safety reasons. However, public pressure continues, and as competitors explore entering the cross-Channel market, there may eventually be commercial pressure to reconsider. For now, the alternatives above are your best options.