Pet friendly hotels
Your guide to pet friendly accommodation
How to find pet friendly hotels
How to find pet friendly hotels - complete guide. Traveling with your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but finding the right dog-friendly hotel requires a bit of planning. Not all accommodations that claim to be "pet-friendly" truly cater to dogs, and policies can vary widely. This guide walks you through how to find genuinely dog-friendly hotels, what to look for, and how to avoid common pitfalls so both you and your dog can enjoy a stress-free stay.
Find pet friendly accommodation
Start with pet-friendly search filters
The easiest way to begin your search is by using travel platforms that offer pet-friendly filters. Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb, and Hotels.com allow you to filter results specifically for pet-friendly accommodations. While this narrows down options quickly, don't stop there. "Pet-friendly" can sometimes mean cats only, size restrictions, or additional fees that aren't immediately clear.
Once you find a hotel labeled as dog-friendly, click through to read the fine print. Look for details about dog size limits, breed restrictions, extra charges, and whether multiple dogs are allowed.
Read hotel policies carefully
Every dog-friendly hotel has its own rules, and it's essential to read them closely. Some hotels allow dogs only in certain rooms or floors, while others may require dogs to be crated when left alone. There may also be restrictions on where dogs are allowed within the property, such as lobbies, restaurants, or outdoor areas.
Pay attention to cleaning fees or nightly pet fees, as these can vary significantly. A low nightly rate may become expensive once pet charges are added. Also check whether the hotel requires proof of vaccinations.
Look for hotels that truly cater to dogs
A genuinely dog-friendly hotel goes beyond simply allowing pets. Look for accommodations that offer amenities such as dog beds, food and water bowls, treats at check-in, or designated dog walking areas. Some hotels even provide dog-sitting services or partnerships with local pet care providers.
Reading photos and descriptions on the hotel's website can help you identify these features. If dogs are mentioned as a key part of the guest experience, that's usually a good sign.
Read Reviews From Other Dog Owners
Guest reviews are one of the most reliable ways to determine how dog-friendly a hotel really is. Search reviews for keywords like "dog," "pet," or "puppy" to see what other travelers experienced. Look for comments about staff attitudes toward dogs, noise tolerance, cleanliness, and nearby walking areas.
If multiple reviewers mention hidden fees, strict rules, or negative encounters, it's best to look elsewhere. On the other hand, enthusiastic reviews from fellow dog owners are a strong indicator that the hotel is a good choice.
Make a search and read reviews here
Consider the Location
The hotel's location is just as important as its pet policy. Look for hotels near parks, walking trails, beaches, or quiet neighborhoods where you can comfortably exercise your dog. Urban hotels may allow dogs but offer limited outdoor space, which can be challenging for larger or high-energy breeds.
Also consider nearby pet services such as veterinarians, pet stores, or grooming salons, especially if you're traveling for an extended period.
Call the hotel directly
Even if the website seems clear, calling the hotel directly is one of the best ways to avoid surprises. Ask specific questions about dog size limits, fees, rules about leaving your dog alone, and available amenities. Speaking to staff also gives you a sense of how welcoming they are toward pets.
Hotels sometimes make exceptions or offer better clarity over the phone than what's listed online.
Understand breed and size restrictions
Some hotels restrict certain breeds or limit dogs by weight. This is common in chain hotels and city accommodations. Always verify these rules before booking, especially if you have a large dog or a breed that's commonly restricted.
If your dog falls outside standard limits, consider boutique hotels, vacation rentals, or smaller inns, which often have more flexible policies.
Pack with the hotel stay in mind
Even the most dog-friendly hotel expects responsible pet ownership. Bring familiar items like your dog's bed, toys, food, and bowls to help them settle in. A familiar scent can reduce anxiety and minimize barking or restlessness.
It's also wise to bring cleaning supplies, waste bags, and a crate if your dog is used to one. Being prepared shows respect for the property and helps ensure a smooth stay.
Consider alternatives to traditional hotels
If hotel options are limited, consider alternatives such as vacation rentals, pet-friendly bed and breakfasts, or dog-friendly resorts. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo often offer entire homes with yards, making them ideal for dogs that need space.
Some campgrounds, cabins, and eco-lodges are also very dog-friendly and provide a more relaxed environment than standard hotels.
Plan ahead and book early
Dog-friendly rooms are often limited, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking early increases your chances of securing the best option and gives you more flexibility in choosing location and amenities.
Planning ahead also allows time to contact hotels, compare policies, and ensure your dog meets all requirements.