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I’ve been using London’s public transport from buses to tubes, trains to boats and even a rickshaw with all my dogs for over 25 years. I get all my dogs familiar and calm with buses, tubes and trains. However, when summer arrives, I completely change our routine.
We stopped using the Underground.
It’s not about being overprotective. It’s about temperature, and even I don’t like the underground in the summer as it can be a sauna. Some Tube lines get dangerously hot during warm spells, and that heat is much more brutal on dogs than on people. You can’t always see the risk, but it’s there. And once a dog starts overheating, it can become serious very quickly.
During the 2022 heatwave, the Victoria line recorded internal temperatures of 36°C. That’s on top of a 30°C day outside. And if you’re sitting in the middle of the carriage, your dog might be lying above the motors – the hottest part of the train. I’ve made that mistake before. Now I avoid it altogether.
The good news is that there are alternatives. And if you have to take the Tube, there are ways to reduce the risk.
Why the Tube Gets So Hot
Poor ventilation and deep tunnels
Older Tube lines, such as the Central, Victoria, and Northern, are deep underground with limited ventilation. Trapped heat builds up and stays. With no air conditioning, temperatures quickly rise.
No air con on most lines
Only a few lines have air-conditioned trains, like the Elizabeth line, parts of the Metropolitan, and the Overground. Most others, including the Victoria and Piccadilly, don’t. You feel the heat as soon as the doors shut.
Dogs are often found in the hottest zones.
Heat rises, but the train motors, located under the floor, create hot spots below. Dogs, especially medium to large breeds, spend the journey right on top of these. Their body takes the full impact.
How Heat Affects Dogs
Dogs don’t cool down like people.
We sweat. Dogs pant. It’s not as effective. And it doesn’t work well in stuffy, humid spaces, such as a packed Tube carriage.
Overheating can happen fast.
Signs include heavy panting, drooling, confusion, and wobbling. Without fast action, it can lead to collapse or worse. Short-nosed breeds, older dogs, and those with health issues are more vulnerable.
Lying on hot surfaces adds risk.
When your dog lies on a hot floor above the motors, their body temperature can rise faster. Even if they seem okay, they may already be overheating.
What I Do Instead
- I walk shorter routes and stay local
- I use buses – they’re usually cooler and more open
- I travel in the early morning or late evening
- I avoid peak times and busy routes
It takes a bit more planning, but it keeps us safe.
What to Do If You Have to Use the London Tube with Your Dog
Sometimes there’s no other option. Vet visits, emergencies, or unexpected changes happen. If you must travel by Tube with your dog during warm weather, do the following:
Choose the coolest spot on the tube o sit with your dog
- Sit at either end of the carriage
- Avoid the middle where the motors are
- If your dog is small, hold them on your lap
- If they must lie down, use a towel or mat as a barrier
Travel outside of peak hours
- Before 8 a.m.
- After 7 p.m.
- Avoid weekends if temperatures are high
Quieter trains give you more space and reduce stress for your dog.
Carry water and offer it often.
Bring a collapsible bowl. Offer water before the journey and at each stop. You can also spray their paws and belly with cool water to help them cool down and regulate their body temperature.
Watch your dog closely.
Stop travelling if you see:
- Excessive panting
- Pale or red gums
- Unusual behaviour
- Slowing down or refusal to move
Get off the train, find shade, offer water, and call a vet if needed.
More Travel Tips
Plan your journey
Use TfL’s step-free map. Be aware of the locations of the lifts and quiet exits. Avoid routes that need long platform changes or stairs.
Avoid escalators
If your dog’s paws or claws get caught, it can cause serious injury. Use lifts. If none are available and your dog is too heavy to carry, look for an alternative route.
Use wide gates
These give you more space and make it easier to keep your dog calm while entering or exiting.
Find quieter platform spots.
Stand away from crowds. Avoid hot metal seating. Stay behind the yellow line. Keep your dog close and calm.
Take breaks
If you’re doing a multi-leg journey, break it up. Let your dog rest in the shade. Offer more water. Don’t rush.
Case Example: Missy and the Northern Line
A few summers ago, I had to get Missy to the vet in a hurry. The fastest route was the Northern Line. We boarded at Finchley Central (an escalator-free station).
I sat at the end of the carriage. Missy sat on a cooling mat, which helped insulate her from the hot floor. I brought water and offered it halfway through the ride. It wasn’t ideal, but planning helped keep Missy safe. I wouldn’t repeat that journey now unless it were critical.
Nowadays I would probably use Uber Pet to get to the vet
Safer Alternatives to the Tube
Buses
Air flow is better. You can open windows. You can get off easily if your dog needs a break.
Overground and Elizabeth line
These have air conditioning and are much more comfortable for dogs in hot weather.
Walking or taxis
For short distances, walk shaded routes. For longer ones, consider a dog-friendly cab.
FAQ
How hot does the Tube get in summer?
During the 2022 heatwave, parts of the Victoria line reached over 36°C inside the train. That’s several degrees above the outside temperature.
Can I take my dog on the Tube in hot weather?
Yes, but it’s risky. Dogs can overheat quickly on deep lines with no ventilation. If you must travel, choose air-conditioned lines and avoid busy, deep routes.
Are dogs allowed on escalators?
They are, but it’s not safe. Paws and claws can get caught. Always carry your dog or use a lift.
Wrap-Up
London is one of the most dog-friendly cities I am aware of. But the Tube in summer? It’s not made for dogs.
If you need to travel, make wise choices. Travel early. Stay above ground. Bring water. And if the journey can wait or be done another way, do that instead.
The heat isn’t going anywhere. But your dog’s comfort and safety should come first.
Plan. Travel smart. Skip the Tube when it’s hot