Renting a car for a trip with your furry companion comes with a lot more fine print than you might expect. Some companies have no problem with it, others charge a supplement, and some flat-out refuse — and if you don't declare your dog and they find out, your deposit could be gone just like that.
This guide walks you through how the main rental companies handle it, what to ask before you sign anything, and how to reach your destination without any unpleasant surprises when you return the car.
The general policy — every company does it differently
There's no single regulation governing pets in rental cars. Each company sets its own terms, and within the same company they can vary by country, pickup location, or vehicle type.
The golden rule: always declare that you're traveling with a dog before picking up the car. Failing to do so — and getting caught out by dog hair, odor, or scratches on the upholstery — can cost you the full damage deposit. At some companies, that's over €1,000.
Policies of the main rental companies in Spain
Hertz
Hertz allows pets in their vehicles in Spain. There's no specific surcharge for bringing a dog, but the customer is responsible for any damage or additional cleaning resulting from transporting the animal. If the car needs special cleaning when you return it, that cost falls on you.
Our advice: always bring a seat cover or blanket. Return the car in good shape and there's nothing to worry about.
Europcar
Europcar has a similar policy: pets allowed, customer responsible for damage and cleaning. Some contracts include a specific pet damage clause — read it before you sign.
Avis
Avis allows pets in their vehicles in Spain in most cases. The policy varies by destination — in some European countries the restrictions are stricter. If your trip crosses borders, check the policy country by country.
Enterprise
Enterprise generally allows pets, with the same conditions around responsibility for damage and cleaning. Confirm at the time of booking, as the policy can vary by pickup location — some airport offices have their own rules.
Sixt
Sixt is more restrictive than the others. Some contracts explicitly prohibit pets or require prior authorization. Always confirm with the local office before booking.
Budget companies (Goldcar, OK Mobility, Record)
Budget rental companies tend to have stricter contracts when it comes to damage, and they're the most likely to apply cleaning or damage charges if you return the car with hair or scratches. Always read the damage conditions before booking.
The damage deposit — how it works and what it covers
Almost all rentals include a damage deposit that gets blocked on your card when you pick up the car. That deposit covers potential damage to the vehicle — including damage caused by your pet.
The most common pet-related charges companies apply:
- Deep cleaning for excessive dog hair: between €50 and €150 depending on the company
- Scratches on upholstery or bodywork: varies depending on the extent
- Persistent odor: some companies charge for this if it requires specialist treatment
- Interior damage: bite marks, scratches on door panels...
Most of these charges are easily avoidable with a bit of common sense: use a seat cover, remove hair before returning the car, and don't leave your dog alone in the car when they're stressed.
The Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and pets
The CDW or reduced-excess damage insurance offered by rental companies does not typically cover damage caused by pets. These are considered self-inflicted damages — the customer chose to bring the animal. Always check exactly what the insurance you're purchasing actually covers.
How to declare your pet properly
When booking online: look in the booking form for an option to declare a pet or add special notes. Some platforms (Rentalcars, Discover Cars) include this option.
By phone or at the desk: before signing the contract, let them know you're traveling with a dog and ask for it to be noted on the contract, or at least get written confirmation that the policy allows it. Keep any confirmation in writing (email or a note on the contract).
Don't rely on "it'll be fine": if the agent tells you verbally there's no problem but it's not written down anywhere, anything can happen when you return the car.
Tips for returning the car in perfect condition
Seat cover or blanket: protects the upholstery from hair, moisture, and scratches. There are covers made specifically for rental cars (waterproof, non-slip), but a regular one works too.
Tape roller or lint roller: remove hair before returning the car. Five minutes of cleaning could save you €80 in "special cleaning" charges.
Don't leave your dog alone in the car: a dog left alone and anxious can scratch the windows, chew the steering wheel, or claw at the door panels. If you need to stop, take them with you.
Take photos when you pick up the car: document the condition of the interior before you drive off. If there are pre-existing marks on the upholstery or bodywork, get them on record before they become "your" responsibility.
Return it before closing time: if there are any questions about the car's condition, it's much better to sort them out with an agent present than to find a charge on your card three days later.
Alternatives if you can't find a company that allows pets
If your destination or travel dates make it hard to find a pet-friendly rental company:
Peer-to-peer car rental platforms (Turo, Getaround): the car owner sets their own conditions. Many private owners are more flexible than companies, though it can be more hit-or-miss.
Private transfer with a driver: for one-off journeys, a private transfer can be easier to manage than a rental with all its conditions and fine print.
Drive your own car: if the distance allows it, this is always the option with the fewest complications.
Summary — what to do before renting
- Call or email the company before booking and confirm their pet policy
- Ask for the authorization to be noted on the contract or confirmed in writing
- Read the damage conditions carefully — especially what the CDW does not cover
- Bring a seat cover and basic cleaning supplies
- Photograph the interior when you pick up the car
- Spend 5 minutes removing hair before you return it
With all that sorted, renting a car with a dog is perfectly manageable at most companies. The problem almost always comes from not declaring the dog in the first place — and that really can end up costing you.