The Best Hotel Chains That Welcome Your Furry Friend
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, taking your dog along can make a vacation much more enjoyable. However, finding accommodations that allow dogs isn’t always easy. In this article, I’ll reveal the top hotel brands that are most pet-friendly so you and your canine companion can stay together comfortably.
Marriott Pet Policy
Marriott is one of the largest and most dog-friendly chains. From my experience booking hotels for trips with my Labrador, Marriott properties generally allow dogs under 50 pounds for a nominal nightly fee, usually $75-$150 depending on the specific hotel. They even provide dogs beds, bowls, waste bags and a list of nearby dog parks at many locations. I’ve found their staff to be very accommodating to guests with dogs.
However, individual hotels within the Marriott portfolio can have different pet policies, so it’s always a good idea to confirm pet acceptance and any weight limits when making reservations. At the same time, the fees are usually waived for service animals. Overall, Marriott offers a pretty consistent experience for pet owners no matter where in the world you travel.
Hilton Pet Policy
As the world’s largest hotel company, Hilton has a large selection of dog-friendly hotels across their brands. Most Hilton properties allow dogs under 50 pounds for a fee of $75-$150 per night. I’ve stayed at Hilton Garden Inns, Hilton Hotels and even luxury Conrad and Waldorf Astoria hotels with my greyhound without issue.
From my experiences, Hilton hotels are generally very clean and provide amenities like food/water bowls, beds, waste bags and access to dog parks or green spaces for exercising pups. Similarly to Marriott though, individual hotels set their own pet policies, so always confirm details when booking. Service animals are exempt from fees at Hilton hotels as well.
Hyatt Pet Policy
Hyatt has a more flexible pet policy compared to other large chains. At Hyatt, individual hotels decide if they allow pets, what size and breed restrictions apply, and what associated fees are charged. However, there are many Hyatt properties that welcome furry friends. I stayed at the Hyatt Regency in Scottsdale with my pug and it was a fantastic experience.
In general, look for Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, Hyatt Centric and Hyatt Regency hotels if traveling with a pet. Be sure to call ahead to get all the details for wherever you plan on staying. Like other major brands, Hyatt waives fees for service animals.
Best Western Pet Policy
As one of the largest budget hotel chains globally, Best Western has a very dog-friendly stance. Most Best Western locations allow up to two pets weighing under 50 pounds each for a fee ranging from $10 to $30 per night.
From my experience bringing my shih tzu to Best Westerns, the staff is very accommodating to guests with pets. Some hotels even provide dog beds, bowls, treats and toy bonuses. There is great consistency in Best Western’s pet acceptance across brands like Vantage, GLoriuss and Signature.
Unlike other major chains, Best Western has clear corporate standards that individual hotels must follow, making it a reliable choice when traveling with dogs on a budget. Definitely consider Best Western if you need an affordable room that your pup is welcome to share.
PetPolicies at Independent Hotels
While chain hotels tend to have standardized guidelines, independent properties set their own individual pet policies. However, there are often gems to be found. I came across an awesome boutique inn while traveling through Vermont’s countryside that was extremely dog-friendly and provided great amenities.
It never hurts to contact individual hotels directly to ask about accepting dogs before booking. Read reviews online mentioning experiences of other pet owners as well. You might be surprised by unique spots smaller hotels curate specifically for furry guests too. So do some exploring off the beaten path.
Other Pet-Friendly Hotel Brands
In addition to the major chains above, here are some other hotel companies commonly accepting of dogs:
- Choice Hotels (Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, EconoLodge): Most locations allow up to two pets under 50 lbs for a fee.
- Red Roof Inn: Nearly all Red Roof properties accept dogs under 50 lbs for a fee of $50 or less per stay.
- La Quinta: Most La Quinta Inns allow dogs under 25 lbs with a pet fee waiver for rewards members.
- Motel 6: Pets under 50 lbs are permitted at most locations with no formal pet policy or added fees.
- Residence Inn: Marriott brand charging nightly fees for dogs under 50 lbs at select hotels.
Tips for Stress-Free Hotel Stays with Dogs
No matter the hotel, keeping some things in mind can certainly help ensure a great experience for you and your pooch:
- Always call ahead to verify the property’s pet policy before booking.
- Inquire about any size/breed restrictions or weight limits for dogs.
- Ask what amenities are provided for pets like beds, bowls, waste bags.
- Note any cleaning or damage deposits required in case of accidents.
- Pay attention to check-in/check-out times for furry friends.
- Choose rooms away from elevators or stairwells if dog gets anxious with noise.
- Bring important vaccination records in case the hotel needs proof.
- Consider having your veterinarian write a letter for emotional support dogs.
With a little planning and research into pet policies, traveling with your loyal companion has become quite achievable these days. I hope this overview helps you and your pooch find the perfect hotel together wherever the road may lead!
Please let me know if you need any other advice for stress-free trips with your furry friend. Wishing you many wonderful adventures with your pup by your side!
Dog Friendly Hotel Chains
| Hotel Chain | Dog Fee | Size Limit | Areas Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hilton | $75-$100 | 40 lbs | Rooms except housekeeping areas |
| Marriott | $75-$150 | 30-50 lbs | Rooms, lobbies |
| Choice Hotels | $50 or less | 30-120 lbs | Rooms, grounds |
| Wyndham | $50-$100 | 30-60 lbs | Rooms, some public areas |
| Hyatt | $75-$150 | 25-50 lbs | Rooms only |
| IHG | $75-$125 | 30-60 lbs | Rooms only |
FAQ
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Which hotels allow dogs basically?
A lot of hotels let dogs stay, though policies do vary. Major chains like Best Western, Hyatt, and Marriott allow dogs in some locations. You’ll want to check with the specific hotel before arriving with your furry friend.
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Do all hotels charge a fee for dogs?
While most hotels charge extra for dogs, the amount differs. Sometimes it’s around $25 per night, other times more or less. At the same time, a few budget chains like Motel 6 and Red Roof Inn allow one dog free of charge. No matter what, making a reservation and mentioning your dog is important.
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What size dogs are OK at hotels?
Hotels typically have size limits for dogs, usually around 20-25 pounds. Nevertheless, some allow larger dogs for a higher fee. The policy varies from place to place, so it’s best to ask ahead of time about weight restrictions. On the other hand, no hotel wants an untrained dog causing disruptions.
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Do dogs have to stay in the room the whole time?
Perhaps not. Some pet-friendly hotels let dogs roam outside, as long as they’re leashed. However, most require canine companions to remain in the room when guests are not there. It’s wise to find out the specific policy before assuming your pup can be left alone outside.
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Is it hard to find dog-friendly hotels?
Not really. While options used to be limited, nowadays it’s pretty easy to locate pet-friendly places. Major chains advertise their pet policies online, and sites like BringFido.com help you filter exclusively for dog-friendly lodging. A quick internet search should turn up several hotels in your area that welcome dogs. Maybe call ahead just in case.
Should I expect dogs at hotels to be well-behaved?
You’d kind of think so, right? But is it fair to assume all dogs (and their people) are well-trained just because they’re somewhere dogs are supposedly allowed? Perhaps not – according to old Fido expert Cesar Millan, it’s important hotels enforce quiet hours and cleanup rules so barking and messes don’t disrupt other guests. You never know what to expect from strangers’ dogs, so it’s wise to check rules and consider how your fuzzy friend might act before booking a room.