Don’t leave your furry friend at home! The world is full of dog-friendly hotel chains. Whether you are looking for a luxurious retreat, a hip place with modern decor, or budget-friendly lodgings — you can find a place for Fido.
When we travel with our pup, we look for hotels that not only tolerate dogs, but welcome them with open arms. First, we look for hotels that accept dogs larger than a chihuahua, and do not charge outrageous pet fees. We also prefer places that allow dogs in the common areas, not just the hotel room. Though not required, we are always thrilled when our pooch is given treats, bowls, dog beds, or other perks.
We have stayed at lots of pet-friendly boutique hotels, resorts, and B&Bs, but when it is your first visit to a destination, it is often easier to book with a brand you recognize. Below are some well-known hotel chains that cater to pets.
Luxury Hotels
Kimpton: This upscale tier of IHG® Hotels & Resorts is one of the best places to stay with a dog. Currently, there are over 80 Kimpton hotels worldwide, and the brand is expanding quickly. We have stayed at many Kimpton locations and are consistently impressed by their elegant decor, classy bars/restaurants, and convenient locations.
Kimpton hotels pride themselves on welcoming pets of any size, and owners are never charged a pet fee. Many locations offer pet-friendly amenities such as bowls, mats, and waste bags. If you are very lucky, the hotel may even have a doggy receptionist to greet you. Our favorite part of staying at a Kimpton hotel is attending the guest social hour. You, and your dog, can meet fellow travelers while enjoying complimentary wine.
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts: This French hotel chain (now owned by Accor) has 130 properties around the world, at least 30 of which accommodate dogs. Sofitels are often in gorgeous heritage buildings in city-center neighborhoods, and have eye-catching decorations. The food and service are consistently top-notch. One of our best dog-travel experiences was at the Sofitel Hotel in Mexico City. Upon arrival, a staff member brought freshly-baked dog treats with our dog’s name iced onto them up to our room. When we checked out, we received a handwritten note from the hotel manager saying how much they enjoyed having our pup stay at the hotel.
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts: If you are a traveler with sophisticated tastes, a Four Seasons hotel may be the right fit. The Canadian-based chain is known for its luxurious furnishings, gourmet dining experiences, and attention to detail. Its hotels often include gyms, spas, and other upscale amenities. The chain has over 130 hotels around the world, many of which accept pets. Your canine pal may even be spoiled with pet amenities and dog walking services. One Four Seasons we stayed at welcomed our pet inside the bar, and went as far as to ask the chef to warm up her food. Please note that the rules for dogs and pet fees vary according to each property.
Virgin Hotels: Virgin, Sir Richard Branson’s travel brand, includes a small portfolio of hotels in the US and UK. All seven hotels offer pet friendly rooms. The brand has no size or breed restrictions, owners are simply instructed to keep dogs on a leash in public areas. Additionally, dogs are given treats, dog beds, food & water dishes, and even a Virgin-branded bandana. At the majority of Virgin hotels pets stay free, but at the New York, New Orleans, and Las Vegas locations you should be prepared to pay pet fees as high as $100.
InterContinental Hotels and Resorts: With over 200 hotels to choose from, InterContinental is a great option if you are looking for an upscale hotel. It has everything from a skyscraper hotel in Shanghai, to a remote island resort in The Maldives. Fortunately, at least 40 of its locations are pet friendly. Some of the branches are fancier than others, but you will always find good quality bedding, on-site restaurants, and good service. Pet fees and restrictions vary, but the staff strive to make your pet feel welcome with treats, beds, and bowls.
W Hotels Worldwide: Dogs are welcome at more than 35 W Hotel locations worldwide. The chain has centrally located hotels with quirky modern decor. The high thread count sheets, plush robes, and quality toiletries appeal to any jet setter. However, the chain’s ambiance and events particularly appeal to chic travelers interested in parties, fashion, and design. Pet fees and weight restrictions vary, but typically the hotel allows you to bring one pet up to 40 lbs for an additional fee of $100 per stay.
Hip Hotels
Aloft: This brand is the fun and funky part of the Marriott portfolio. Aloft lobbies are always full of modern, colorful furniture, include a W XYZ® BAR, and often feature gaming options (pool tables, shuffleboard, ping pong, etc.). The rooms are basic but comfortable, and have all the amenities and outlets that tech-savvy travelers require.
There are at least 160 Aloft locations around the world, the majority of which (approx. 130) are pet friendly. Locations vary, but typically dogs under 40 lbs stay for free. Larger dogs may be accepted if you sign a waiver. The hotel chain has an official pet program called “ARF” or “Animals Are Fun” that provides canine guests with Aloft-branded beds, bowls, toys, and of course complimentary treats.
Moxy: Moxy hotels are relaxed, hip places to stay, and they won’t break the budget. Instead of a traditional front desk, you check in at the bar — and sometimes you will receive a complimentary welcome drink. You can also take advantage of Moxy’s “Grab & Go” snack and beverage stations that are open 24/7. Most of the brand’s 150 hotels accept dogs, but weight restrictions and pet fees vary.
Graduate Hotels: This small chain has hotels in at least 30 college towns across the USA, as well as in Cambridge and Oxford, UK. The mid-level hotels feature location-specific decor that highlights local heroes, sports, pop culture, and music. Your furry friend is welcome at all Graduate hotels, but fees and weight restrictions differ by location. Depending on the branch, your dog may be given perks such as a dog bed, bowl, and treats.
Motel One: This Munich-based hotel company currently operates 92 hotels in 13 countries (mainly within Europe). These mid-range hotels typically have comfortable rooms, onsite bars and restaurants, and large lobbies with stylish furniture that complements the blue Motel One logo. Most of the branches accept dogs and charge reasonable pet fees, but in some cases you may need to contact the hotel directly to confirm whether you are allowed to bring your dog.
Budget Hotels
Red Roof Inn: This no frills hotel chain is a solid option if you are bringing your dog on a road trip and need a quick stop for the night. So far, the brand only operates in the USA, Japan, and Brazil, but it has 670 locations that will welcome your four-legged family member — at no extra cost. As a rule, the hotel accepts one well-behaved pet per room, so long as the animal weighs less than 80 pounds. That being said, many properties will allow more than one pet, and larger breeds, if you make an inquiry prior to booking.
Motel 6: Motel 6 was the first American hospitality company to welcome pets, and pets stay free at all of its 1,400 locations in the USA and Canada. While the accommodations are far from luxurious, it is a budget-friendly option with convenient locations along national highways and close to most cities. The chain permits two pets to stay in each room, as long as each weighs less than 150 pounds.
Ibis Hotels: Ibis is Accor Hotel Group’s budget brand, and there are over 2000 locations worldwide. The brand is subdivided into Ibis budget, Ibis, and Ibis Styles. All the hotels are clean, modern, and include a 24/7 front desk. However, you will find more comfortable bedding, additional onsite amenities, and other perks the higher you go up on the chain. Many Ibis hotels accept dogs, especially in Europe and Latin America. You should research your chosen location to learn about its specific pet fees and restrictions.
La Quinta By Wyndham: This affordable, limited service chain has pet friendly rooms in the majority of its hotels. You can choose from over 800 locations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Honduras. No more than two pets are allowed per room, and size specifications vary. Some branches let pets stay for free, others charge fees up to $25 per night for a max of $75 per room per stay.
Best Western International: Best Western is one of the world’s largest hotel chains, and it offers budget-friendly lodgings as well as mid-range options. The organization has over 1600 global properties that allow pets (most of which are in the USA and Canada). Its hotels usually allow up to two dogs per room, with a maximum size of 80 lbs. per animal. Pet fees differ by location.
Regardless of your budget or travel plans, there are hotel chains that will accommodate your dog. A fluffy companion can make your trip so much more enjoyable, so please take the time to find dog-friendly hotels.
If you are a pet owner looking for more travel tips, please check out our related article Tips For Traveling With Your Dog.