More hotels welcome dogs than in years past, but “pet-friendly” can mean very different things from one property to another. Some have dedicated pet floors, walking areas and amenities; others accept dogs only under strict limits. Asking the right questions before you book helps you avoid a surprise at the front desk.
Read the Policy, Then Call
Many hotel chains have a general pet policy, but individual locations may differ. Read the policy on the hotel’s own website, then call the property directly to confirm. Ask the same questions to each hotel you are considering so you can compare.
- How many dogs are allowed per room?
- Are there size or weight limits?
- Are any breeds restricted?
- What is the pet fee, and is it per night or per stay?
- Is there a refundable deposit?
- Are dogs allowed in all room types?
Get the answers in writing, such as in your confirmation email, if you can.
Rules About Being Left Alone
One of the most important questions is whether dogs may be left alone in the room. Some hotels prohibit it. Others allow it if the dog is crated or if you leave a phone number. If you plan to go to dinner or visit an attraction where dogs are not allowed, you will need to know this ahead of time.
Even where it is allowed, think carefully about whether your dog can handle being alone in a strange place. Dogs who are calm at home may bark or become anxious in an unfamiliar room, which can disturb other guests and stress your dog.
Space and Location
Ask where pet rooms are located. A first-floor room near an exit can make bathroom breaks much easier, especially late at night and early in the morning. Ask if there is a designated relief area and where the nearest grassy space or park is.
Consider the area around the hotel, too. A hotel near a quiet neighborhood or trail makes for better walks than one surrounded by highways and parking lots.
What to Bring
Even dog-friendly hotels rarely provide everything your dog needs.
- Your dog’s bed or a blanket from home
- A crate if your dog is crate-trained
- Food, bowls and water
- Waste bags and cleanup supplies
- A towel for muddy paws
- A sheet to cover furniture if your dog is allowed on it
Being a Good Hotel Guest
Hotels stay dog-friendly when guests make it easy. Keep your dog on leash in all public areas, including hallways and elevators. Pick up after your dog right away on hotel grounds. Do not let your dog on furniture unless the hotel permits it. Hang the do-not-disturb sign if your dog is in the room, so housekeeping does not walk in unexpectedly.
Make sure your dog wears a collar with current ID throughout the stay, and update your QR tag profile or other contact information with your hotel name if that is helpful. If your dog does slip out, hotel staff can help, and a tag with your cell number makes reuniting much faster.
A little research ahead of time turns a hotel stay into a comfortable part of the trip, not a source of stress.
