Hotels that allow dogs to be left alone

Hotels and motels provide a convenient option if you're on holidays or just staying overnight on your way through the area. There are usually specially designated pet-friendly rooms within the complex which cater for those wishing to share the accommodation with their dog. You will need to ensure your dog is properly house trained. Some motels that don't allow pets inside their rooms may instead provide kennels outside or securely fenced areas. This will ensure your dog has plenty of shelter and will be safe overnight, ready for the next stage of your journey in the morning.

What is a Pet-Friendly Hotel?

Pet-friendly hotels allow guests to check-in and stay with their pets. This may mean pets are allowed in the entire property or limited to certain rooms and areas of the hotel. Restrictions often apply -- such as size, weight, breed and number of pets that can check-in with you. Most allow dogs or dogs and cats. Some allow other kinds of pets.

*These are only guidelines as pet policies and amenities vary greatly across hotels. It is advisable to view details listed on each property page.

What can I expect from a pet-friendly hotel?

A comfortable stay with your pet. Most pet-friendly hotels function like regular hotels with all the usual amenities, simply with a category of rooms where pets are permitted. They may have some additional services or facilities for furry friends.

Generally, most hotels with pet-friendly policies allow:

• Dogs, or dogs and cats
• Up to a certain weight
• Limited to 1 or 2 pets per room
• Some hotels charge fees or deposits while others have a pets-stay-free policy.

Though less common, some pet-friendly hotels allow other pets. Usually only small ones.

A select few specialized pet-friendly hotels offer additional pet perks such as welcome pet treats, water bowls, pet beds, dog relief areas, pet-sitting service, tips on finding dog parks or dog-friendly restaurants nearby.

At the very top end, some luxury pet-friendly hotels even have a special pet concierge or room service menu for pets.

Are all hotels pet-friendly?

No. Most hotels do not accept pets. Only hotels that specify they are pet-friendly will allow your furry companions to stay. They usually have a limited number of pet-friendly rooms, available upon request. Always contact the hotel ahead of time. Walk-ins are not recommended.

Boutique hotels, due to their small size and independent management, are more likely to entertain special requests to bring a pet.

Note, service animals are an exception. Some hotels do not accept pets but welcome service animals.

Do pet-friendly hotels allow big dogs?

Some pet-friendly hotels do allow big dogs, however there will be fewer for you to choose from. Typically, pet-friendly hotels only allow smaller dogs up to a certain weight. The max weight can be anywhere from 22 lbs to 80 lbs at most properties.

Does pet-friendly include cats?

‘Pet-friendly’ doesn’t automatically mean the hotel takes cats, but there are indeed cat-friendly hotels. It’s best to check the details of the specific hotel’s policy to know which kinds of pets they welcome.

Majority of pet-friendly hotels allow only dogs. You may have fewer options to choose from when it comes to cat-friendly hotels. The good news though, is the next most common policy is one allowing both cats and dogs.

Do pet friendly hotels have breed restrictions?

Yes. All pet-friendly hotels have restrictions. These vary greatly across hotels but restrictions often indicate larger pets are not allowed, which effectively limits the breeds you can bring with you. It’s advisable to check the individual policy of any hotel you’re interested in.

Some common restrictions include:

• Dogs only, or dogs and cats only
• Other small pets considered
• Size/weight restrictions. Often under 25 lbs
• Maximum 1-2 pets per room

Are there extra fees for pet-friendly hotels?

Pet fees vary greatly across hotels. Few hotels have a pet-stay-free policy. It's more common that pet-friendly hotels do charge extra when guests check-in with pets. These fees may be per pet; first pet then each additional pet; per room; per day; and/or per stay. There may also be a deposit or hygiene fee required.

A select few pet-friendly hotels offer other pet perks, like treats and goodies, available for a fee.

It’s advisable to check the pet policy of the individual hotel. You can find more details on the property details page, or by contacting the hotel with the number on your booking confirmation.

Can pets be left alone in a hotel room?

Generally, no. You’ll often be required to use the hotel’s pet-sitting service or keep your pet in a crate while you’re out. These are two common options at pet-friendly hotels, but hotels may have other policies or services available.

It is advisable to contact a hotel beforehand and follow their pet guidelines.

Are pets allowed to roam free in a pet-friendly hotel?

That’s not usually the case. Your pet will likely only be allowed in your room and in certain areas of the hotel. Your pet must be on a leash at all times outside your room.

Most pet-friendly hotels are regular hotels with a few select rooms where pets are allowed. Majority of guests will not have pets. So it's the norm that your pets are not permitted in any common areas like the restaurant, bar or around the pool.

Though rare, a few hotels exist which puts their pet-friendly identity first. Here, pets may be allowed to roam freely. You might even find several resident animals on the property which help welcome your furry friends.

How do I book a pet-friendly hotel?

On Expedia, you can search for pet-friendly hotels using the filters on the left, to narrow down the list of hotels in to properties that welcome pets. When you’ve found some hotels you like, you can check the details of the hotel’s pet-friendly policy. You can also read guest reviews by travellers with pets.

When you’ve found a suitable hotel, place your booking and indicate in special requests that you plan to stay with your pet. You can then arrange to bring pets by contacting the property directly, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. This is required. Note that pet-friendly rooms are subject to availability.

Will my dog be okay in the hotel room?

How do hotels help dogs with anxiety?

Can dog sleep in bed at hotel?

Is the star hotel pet friendly?