Passengers travelling on Renfe trains can now take dogs weighing up to 40kg on board.

It comes after the Spanish operator expanded its pet-friendly policy across almost all high-speed and long-distance services.

The new rules, which are now in force, extend a scheme that had previously been limited to certain AVE services.

Dogs can now travel on AVE, Avlo, Alvia, Intercity, Euromed, Avant and Media Distancia trains, provided they occupy their own seat next to their owner.

However, the move has raised questions about what happens if passengers are allergic to dogs or uncomfortable travelling close to them.

Renfe president Alvaro Fernandez Heredia said any such situations would be handled ‘professionally’ by the train’s onboard staff, although he did not explain exactly how conflicts would be resolved if a train was full.

The comments have sparked criticism because some Renfe services still operate with only one train manager – or, in some cases, none at all.

Earlier this year, Transport Minister Oscar Puente admitted that some trains carrying up to 580 passengers had just a single onboard staff member, while others had no train manager whatsoever.

Renfe has pledged to increase staffing levels, although recruitment has been delayed after irregularities forced the operator to repeat part of a recruitment exam for 600 onboard customer service staff.

New rules for travelling with dogs

Under the new policy:

• Dogs weighing 10kg to 40kg can travel on a passenger seat next to their owner.
• A maximum of two dogs per train will be allowed.
• They must travel in designated pet-friendly carriages.
• Dogs must wear a muzzle at all times in stations and on trains.
• They must remain on a non-extendable lead no longer than 1.5 metres.
• Owners must carry up-to-date vaccination records or a European pet passport.
• Passengers must also bring a cleaning kit, including absorbent pads, wipes, poo bags and disinfectant.

The previous requirement to arrive 44 minutes before departure with a dog has also been scrapped.

Dogs are no longer required to board only at the start of a journey and can now join trains from intermediate stations.

Tickets for larger dogs cost €40 on high-speed services, while they travel under standard fares on Avant and Media Distancia routes.

Potentially dangerous breeds, puppies under one year old and female dogs in heat are not permitted under the new rules.