Can you take a dog in a taxi? UK rules and tips 2025

If you don’t drive and own a dog (or plan to get one), travelling locally with your pet can be challenging. Public transport like buses and trains aren’t always suitable for all dogs, and sometimes you need a more flexible option.

This guide explores whether you can take dogs in taxis, including black cabs, private hires, Uber, and Addison Lee in the UK, and what the legal and practical considerations are in 2025.

Can you take a dog in a black cab?

In London and many UK cities, black cabs are widely used. While these traditional taxis often carry dogs, they are not legally obliged to take pets except assistance dogs. Acceptance of a dog is ultimately at the taxi driver's discretion.

If you're hailing a cab on the street with a dog, a driver may refuse if they don’t want to take dogs or if your dog is large or not well behaved. At ranks, you can approach taxis in turn until you find one agreeable to carrying your pet.

Most black cabs are accommodating to well-mannered dogs, especially if approached politely, but you should always be prepared for a refusal.

Can you take a dog in a private hire vehicle?

Private hire vehicles, booked in advance via apps or phone, also have no legal obligation to carry pets other than assistance dogs. Many companies will permit dogs with prior notification.

When booking, always mention that you plan to bring a dog. Some companies may require a specific vehicle or driver experienced with dogs, especially for larger breeds. Keeping your dog on a lead and ensuring they remain calm during the trip are good practices.

How does Addison Lee handle dogs?

Addison Lee, serving London and nearby regions, offers a pet-friendly booking option via their app, allowing you to request a driver who will accept your dog.

If booking via phone or other methods, ask explicitly for a dog-friendly vehicle. While assistance dogs must be allowed by law, regular pets are accepted based on driver and company discretion.

What about Uber and similar ride-hailing apps?

Uber drivers in the UK must legally accept assistance dogs but can choose whether to accept other pets. Uber previously launched the "Uber Pet" option in some areas for pet owners to get drivers who accept animals, often for an additional fee.

Since the app doesn’t require disclosure of pets at booking, contact your assigned driver promptly after booking to confirm if your dog can travel.

Dogs like Cockapoos and many other breeds fare well in taxi journeys when owners prepare properly and respect driver concerns.

Are taxis obliged to carry dogs?

No UK taxi or private hire company must carry dogs except assistance dogs under the Equality Act 2010. Assistance dogs, including guide dogs, must be accepted without additional charges.

Drivers can only refuse assistance dogs if they hold a valid medical exemption (e.g., severe allergies). Refusing them otherwise is unlawful and can lead to fines and licence penalties.

For ordinary pet dogs, carriage is optional, so giving notice and choosing companies or drivers known for pet friendliness improves your chances.

Are there extra charges for carrying dogs in taxis?

Some private hire firms or drivers may apply a small supplement for regular dogs, but this must be clearly explained and agreed upon before the journey. There is never an extra charge for assistance dogs.

If your dog soils the vehicle, you are responsible for cleaning fees, which should be paid promptly and courteously.

Tips for travelling with your dog in a taxi

• Always notify the taxi company or driver in advance that you will be travelling with a dog.
• Use a secure harness, seatbelt, or travel crate to keep your dog safe during the journey.
• Bring a waterproof mat or blanket to protect the vehicle’s seats against fur and mess.
• Choose well-behaved, calm dogs for taxi travel, especially if unfamiliar with car rides.
• Be polite and patient if initially refused; try another driver or company.
• Ensure your dog is clean and free from parasites before the trip to maintain hygiene.

Summary

In the UK in 2025, you can take your dog in most taxis, private hires, and ride-hailing services, but acceptance (other than for assistance dogs) depends on driver or company policy. Black cabs tend to be flexible but not obliged, and private hire firms including Addison Lee often offer pet-friendly options with advance notice.

Legal requirement to carry assistance dogs is clear and strict; all other dogs must be managed with respect for driver discretion and safety requirements. Notifying drivers in advance, preparing your dog properly, and choosing companies offering pet-friendly rides will help make journeys as smooth as possible.

For more information on finding or adopting a dog, visit puppies on Pets4Homes.