The Best Dog Friendly Hotel Chains for Your Fur Baby
Whether you’re planning a road trip or a longer vacation, taking your pup along can make the experience even more fun. However, finding accommodation that allows dogs can sometimes be a challenge. In this article, I’ll outline some of the top hotel chains that are very pet friendly and the amenities they offer to make you and your canine companion feel right at home.
Best Western Hotels & Resorts
From my experience traveling with dogs, Best Western is one of the most consistently dog friendly hotel brands. All Best Western locations allow pets, with no size or breed restrictions. The pet fee is only $10-25 per night, which is quite reasonable compared to other chains.
Some Best Western properties even provide special doggie amenities. For example, the Best Western Plus near where I live provides dog beds, bowls, and treats. They also have designated grass areas so your pup can relieve itself without having to be contained to the room. I’ve found Best Western staff to be very accommodating to four-legged guests as well.
Choice Hotels
Under the Choice Hotels umbrella you’ll find brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Econo Lodge and more – all of which allow dogs. The pet fee is typically $25-50 per night depending on the location. Some locations may have size restrictions or limits of two pets per room.
From my experiences traveling with my border collie mix, most Choice properties provide designated pet-walking areas and some offer extra dog beds or bowls on request. Be aware that amenities can vary, so it’s best to check hotel policies in advance.
La Quinta Inns & Suites
La Quinta is generally a very pet friendly chain with over 900 locations across the U.S. and Mexico. They welcome dogs under 50 pounds with a fee of $25-75 per night depending on the location. Some resort-style La Quintas even have doggie daycare services!
In my experience, La Quintas tend to go above and beyond with amenities like doggie bags and bowls provided in each room. The spacious rooms also make it easy to keep pet areas separate. Another perk is that La Quintas often have outdoor areas where pups can run around off-leash, as long as other guests are not bothered.
Motel 6
While not the most luxurious brand, Motel 6 is one of the most budget friendly options for traveling with dogs. They have locations nationwide and allow up to two pets per room with a fee of only -20 per night. No size restrictions apply either.
From my stays at various Motel 6s over the years, amenities vary but they always provide bowls and bags. The rooms tend to be smaller but clean. One nice thing is that employees are used to pets staying since it’s such an affordable option for travelers on road trips. Just be aware noise may travel between rooms.
Red Roof Inns
As a very pet friendly economy brand, Red Roof Inns allow up to two dogs under 50 pounds with a fee of $25-40 per night. They have locations across the US and nearby outdoor areas where pets can play. From past experiences traveling with my Mini Aussie, most Red Roofs provide bowls, beds and bags in each room.
The pet areas tend to be well maintained with waste stations. Rooms can be small but are reasonably priced. Red Roof also has a rewards program where loyal pet parents can earn free nights. Overall I’d rate them as a solid budget option.
Other Considerations When Booking Dog Friendly Hotels
While the above chains tend to be the most consistently pet friendly overall, here are some other factors worth considering when finding lodging for your four-legged friend:
Hotel Policies
Always check individual hotel policies for details on: pet fees, size/weight limits, number of pets allowed, cleaning fees, if pets must stay crated, acceptable areas like rooms only or wandering. Policies can vary even within the same chain.
Amenities Provided
Look for extras like beds, bowls, food and water dishes, bag stations, play areas. Avoid places only providing the bare minimum as it may not be as relaxing for anxious pups.
Room and Facility Layout
Consider room size to see if separate areas can be designated. Check if doors/windows seal well for separation/barking issues. Locate loading areas away from high traffic for potty breaks.
Activities and Services Nearby
Find out about nearby parks, hiking trails or daycares where pups can play. Access to these extras can make or break a pet friendly stay.
Staff Friendliness
Friendly, accommodating staff can ease the stress of travel for pups and parents. Ask about staff experience with pets to gauge comfort levels.
Special Considerations
Inquire about protocol for barking dogs, clean up fees or extra charges for damaged property from anxious pets. Know expectations up front.
Tips for Stress-Free Hotel Stays with Dogs
While the above hotel chains aim to make pets comfortable, keeping your pup relaxed is key. Here are some additional tips based on my experiences:
- Prepare your dog. Practice short training sessions to get them used to staying in unfamiliar spaces.
- Bring solutions from home. Favorite toys, beds, food can ease the transition to an unfamiliar place.
- Reserve rooms in quiet locations. Away from ice/vending machines that trigger some dogs. Consider bringing a white noise machine.
- Take short, regular walks. Let dogs potty, play and burn energy to prevent stress issues during stays.
- Calm play before entering. Tire pups out in open areas so they’re less likely to destroy or soil rooms in frustration.
- Introduce staff. A friendly greeting from hotel employees can help dogs adjust. Ask for treats!
- Leave TV or music on. Distract dogs from unfamiliar noises and prevent separation stress while away.
With preparation and the right hotel selection, most well-behaved dogs can enjoy trips just as much as their owners. Just remember that each pup is an individual – adjust plans as needed based on your fur baby’s temperament.
With so many dog friendly options these days, taking your canine BFF along on vacations is totally doable. I hope this guide helps you sort through the top hotel chains for stress-free traveling with pets. Safe journeys and happy tails to you and your furry co-pilot!
Dog Friendly Hotel Chains
| Hotel Chain | Dog Limit | Pet Fee | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Western | 2 dogs/room | $20-50/night | Food/water bowls, toys, treats, waste bags |
| Hilton Garden Inn | 1-2 dogs/room | $75-150 | Pet beds, outdoor areas, pet-friendly rooms |
| Hyatt | 2 dogs/room | $25-100 | Food/water bowls, pet beds, outdoor space |
| La Quinta | 2 dogs/room | $15-50 | Pet beds, outdoor seating, waste bags |
| Marriott | varies by hotel | $100-150 | Outdoor areas, pet waste stations, rooms away from others |
FAQ
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Which hotel chains are the most dog friendly?
Some of the major hotel chains that are pretty accommodating towards dogs include Best Western, La Quinta, Motel 6, Red Roof Inn, and Travelodge. These places generally allow dogs in most rooms for a small fee.
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Do all hotels charge a pet fee?
While most hotels will charge an extra fee for having a dog in the room, the amount can differ a lot. Apparently some smaller motels don’t always apply a fee. However, the larger brands basically always charge something like $10-100 per night depending on the hotel and dog size. It’s best to confirm the policy before booking.
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Are there weight limits for dogs?
Commonly hotels impose weight restrictions, frequently around 25-40 pounds. Nevertheless, some places allow larger breeds too, if you pay a higher pet fee. It really comes down to the individual property rules. You’ll want to question them on size limits to dodge surprises.
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What restrictions apply on dog breeds?
Despite sounding unfair, certain hotels prohibit dogs from breeds with a poor reputation, like pit bulls or rottweilers. Most establishments ban dangerous or aggressive breeds for liability concerns. Otherwise, routines like leashing and cleanup rules apply regardless of breed. But it’s always smart to double check policies before bringing along a restricted type.
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Can I leave my dog alone in the room?
Hotels generally do not recommend leaving dogs by themselves for extended periods. Not only can it stress out the pup, but there’s a chance of accidents or noise issues irritating other guests. Some places may charge cleaning fees if complaints arise. Perhaps it’s safer to bring a friend who can visit or walk your doggo during long days away. Always have a backup plan for your furry pal’s care.
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What are some dog-friendly hotel amenities?
Lots of pet-geared motels provide perks from dog beds and bowls to bags and poop-scooping stations outside. A few swanky spots may offer dog walkers, sitters, or daycare too – if you want to spoil your pup. Cushy suites with dog-size jacuzzis sound fun, but are pretty dang rare. So just basic pet supplies are usually theextent of “amenities”, unless you’re talking luxury resorts.
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“Is there a list of dog-friendly hotels I can review?”
Thankfully numerous websites compile listings of pet-accommodating lodgings coast-to-coast, with user reviews to help you choose. Types of dogs allowed, fees, and any extra rules are typically disclosed. You may find chains not mentioned above that fit your travel plans better. Several apps showcase filterable canine-welcoming hotels too. Doing research ahead leads to less stress traveling with man’s bestie!
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Any final tips for hoteling with dogs?
When booking, have vaccination records on hand in case asked. Call ahead to double check policies changed. Keep dogs leashed, use designated relief zones, and immediately clean up any messes. Let staff know of doggies during check-in to avoid shock. Consider their disruption level – hotels aren’t zoos after all! And most importantly, be a responsible owner who won’t negatively impact other guests’ experiences. Common courtesy goes a long way whether traveling with or without pets.