New York City is well known for its complex and far reaching public transportation systems. It is one of the easiest American cities to live in, visit, and get around without any need for a personal car. But what is it like to get around the city with a dog? Surprisingly, New York City may be more dog friendly than you think, especially if you have a smaller dog. Large dogs can present a greater challenge with fewer options than their smaller counterparts, but some options do exist. There are numerous transport options that are welcome people traveling with their canine companions, albeit with restrictions. Here are some common modes of transportation for NYC dwellers and the restrictions in place for having pet dogs on board. Rules and regulations can change, so it is always advisable to check before you depart on an outing with your pooch.

Buses

The New York Metropolitan Transport Authority (MTA) allows dogs on buses contained in carriers. Dogs should also wear a collar or harness, rabies tag, and identification tag at all times. They state that dogs are allowed in carriers as long as they don’t bother other riders.

MTA Subway and Trains

To ride on the subway dogs must be in a “container”. That’s not an easy rule to meet if your dog is to large or too heavy to lift and fit in a carry on style bag/crate. There are some companies that make extra large carriers and backpacks for larger dogs, but you need to be pretty fit to utilize that option. As a result, people have gotten pretty creative in an attempt to include Fido in their plans while still being law-abiding. I have witnessed rolling wagons, strollers, and even larger IKEA bags with 4 holes cut in the bottom to allow the dogs legs to poke through and walk themselves while still technically being in a bag (but that really is a rule stretch). 

Tips For Traveling With Medium To Large dogs In NYC

If you have a large dog that needs transportation, consider a pet friendly car service, or Uber Pet. There are also dog limo and ambulances services to be aware of should you need one in an emergency. More and more companies are starting to offer options for pet transportation in order to meet the desire of people to include their canine companions even in their urban activities. It can’t be stated enough that training your dog to behave mannerly and be confident moving through an urban environment is crucial to being able to successfully include them in your travel plans. A train, subway, even a car can be a scary place for a fearful dog without systematic preparation.

New York City Ferry Vessels

Some good news for people with medium to large dogs is that the New York City Ferry system is expanding the service and routes they offer up and down Manhattan’s rivers, as well as to and from the surrounding boroughs. Pet dogs are allowed to join you on a NYC Ferry if they are in a pet carrier or muzzled. They are not permitted to occupy a seat or be fed on the Ferry. There is no size restriction, but if you have a dog that can not be transported in a carrier be sure to muzzle train you dog well before taking your canine buddy on a cruise. If you are not confident with how to use positive techniques to get your dog accustomed to having a muzzle put on and wear it comfortably, contact a professional trainer to help you. AndreaArden.com. This will be a skill your dog will have for their lifetime.

Taxis

Dogs of all sizes are allowed in taxis as long as the driver is OK with it.

You may need to hail a few cabs before one comes by that will take you and your fury beast. If you have a small dog it is best to have them in their travel bag or in your arms. If you have a large dog try keeping your dog sitting mannerly at your side in full view while you request your ride, and bring a towel for your dog to sit on. Don’t forget to tip. A courteous and grateful dog owner will boost the cabbies impression of responsible dog owners, keeping them open to picking up next canine rider.

LIRR and NJ Transit

On the Long Island Rail Road and NJ Transit, your pet must be in a carrier that can fit on your lap and carried in a way that does not annoy other riders. These restrictions make traveling with medium and large dogs on the LIRR and NJ Transit against the regulations.

Metro-North Railroad

Unlike many transit options in and around New York City, Metro-North Railroad says that as long as a dog is well-behaved, they are allowed on the train, without the need of a container or muzzle. You do not need to make prior arrangements by making a reservation or purchasing an extra ticket. Your dog must be carried in a kennel or similar container, or securely controlled on leash throughout the journey. The Metro-North uses language that states that your dog must not be offensive to other riders. For larger dogs, it would be wise to keep them on a short leash at your feet, and not allow them to jump on the seats or other passengers. 

Metro-North Railroad is unique in allowing medium and large dogs on board out of a container during off-peak hours only. All dog lovers would be wise to cherish this service by making sure their dogs are not disruptive to passengers.

Many New Yorkers do not have a car, but Metro north gives canine/human nature lovers and hikers a chance to spend the day out of the city. There are even a few trails hikers can access directly from a Metro-North train leaving Grand Central Terminal. You can take the train to Manitou Station, walk across the Bear Mountain Bridge, and enjoy a stroll around Hessian Lake or take off on the Appalachian Trail. A trip to Tuxedo Station or Sloatsburg will bring you to the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail just a short walk away. Other dog-friendly getaways are just a train ride away up the Hudson on Metro-North Railroad. To get your dog comfortable on a noisy, rocking train, it is advisable to take some shorter rides on the train or subway before committing to a longer journey.

Amtrak

Amtrak has a great deal more restrictions and specifications on pet travel than NYC transit. Dogs and Cats up to 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier) are welcome on trips totaling no more than seven hours long on most routes. There are some routes that do not allow pets, so be sure to check first. You will also need to make a reservation for your dog, and pay a fee. Pet reservations are limited to one pet per customer, and the fee is assessed for each travel segment. There are also restrictions on which trains and which cars on the trains that pets (in carriers only) can travel. Bottom line, if you are planning to take a trip with your dog on Amtrak, be sure to check on all the details well before your planned departure date ahead of booking tickets.

Emergencies

In general pets in carriers are allowed on MTA subways, buses, and trains. It is worth noting that when an evacuation order is declared, pets too large for carriers will also be allowed, provided those animals are muzzled and controlled on a sturdy leash no longer than your feet. Consider adding muzzle training, travel bag training, and a dog needs supply bag to your emergency preparation considerations. 

Setting Your Pet Travel Up For Success

It is clear that if you want to move around NYC and beyond on public transit  with your dog, it is easier to do so with a small dog that can fit in a bag that can be securely closed and placed on your lap. For medium and large dogs the transport options are more restrictive and potentially more expensive. Either way, preparing your dog to be comfortable using any transportation mode be it train, car, subway, or boat will require some training and socialization (positive exposure) to insure that your dog will be comfortable and well behaved on their journey. Developing a good relationship with a dog training school that offers many services to help you prepare your dog for new challenges throughout their lifetime such as New York City Andrea Arden Dog Training is a worthwhile investment. AndreaArden.com. Group classes can provide a strong foundation in all basic manners skills, while giving your dog the added challenge and benefit of performing skills in a distracting environment. Private in-person and virtual training can help teach specific skills such as travel bag training, and wearing a muzzle while walking through crowds and resting calmly at your feet.

Having a well behaved, confident dog is not only nice for you and your dog, it is also nice for the people around you. Being a courteous dog owner with a mannerly dog encourages businesses, venues, and the general public to be more tolerant and inclusive of having dogs present. We also need to be thoughtful and considerate to our dogs by making sure they are emotionally, and physically prepared for travel, and that you bring along what they need to be comfortable (such as food, water, poop collection bags, a chew toy, and possibly a towel or blanket). Being prepared sets both you and your dog up for a successful trip and a life of shared adventures in and around the wonderful Big Apple NYC.