By Tasha Mesina, Cindra Grooming Products
Updated April 7, 2026
I get this question constantly from clients gearing up for a show weekend: which dog friendly hotels are actually worth booking, and how do their pet policies work in practice? While many hotels allow dogs, policies vary widely between brands and locations, making it important to know what to expect before booking.
Whether you are traveling for a dog show, training weekend, or a simple overnight road trip, choosing the right dog friendly hotel can make a significant difference in how comfortable your dog is during the stay.
What Are Dog Friendly Hotels?
Dog friendly hotels are accommodations that allow dogs to stay with their owners. Some hotels welcome dogs with minimal restrictions, while others limit size, number of pets, or charge additional fees.
The term “pet friendly hotel” often includes both dogs and cats, but most policies are written with dogs in mind.
Even within the same brand, policies can vary by location, so confirming details ahead of time is always worth it.
What “Pet Friendly” Really Means at Hotels
Pet friendly does not mean the same thing everywhere. Some hotels allow dogs of any size with no fee. Others restrict weight, number of dogs, or where dogs are allowed on the property.
It is also common for hotels to require dogs to be crated if left alone in the room, or to prohibit leaving dogs unattended entirely.
Always confirm the specific property’s policy before booking. Brand guidelines are helpful, but individual locations may enforce stricter rules.
Major Dog Friendly Hotel Chains
Kimpton Hotels
Kimpton is the one I recommend most for multi-dog handlers — no weight limit, no fee at most properties, and I've never had a front desk blink at bringing in more than one dog.
Best for: large dogs, show dogs, multi-dog households.
La Quinta
The reliable road-trip option. Weight limits are rare here, though a few properties cap the number of dogs per room, so it's worth a quick call if you're traveling with a crew.
Best for: long-distance travel and overnight stops.
Motel 6
Probably the easiest pet policy in the country — most locations let dogs stay with no extra fee at all, which makes it my go-to when I just need a clean, no-fuss stop between shows.
Best for: quick overnight travel.
Aloft Hotels
Generally dog friendly, and some properties run actual pet programs (treats at check-in, that kind of thing), but size limits and fees do show up at certain locations — check before you book.
Best for: short city stays.
Element Hotels
Built for longer stays, and that extra square footage makes a real difference with a dog in tow — more room to set up a crate and let them actually settle in.
Best for: extended stays and training weekends.
Best Western
A mixed bag — plenty of pet-friendly locations, but policy varies enough property to property that I always call ahead rather than assume.
Best for: flexible travel with confirmation.
Red Roof Inn
Known for allowing one dog per room with no fee at a lot of locations, which makes it a solid budget pick, though it's worth confirming restrictions before you commit.
Best for: budget-friendly stays.
What to Expect When Staying in a Dog Friendly Hotel
Pet fees and deposits
Some hotels charge per night, while others charge per stay. Fees can vary significantly.
Noise policies
Barking complaints are one of the most common issues. Dogs that are used to travel routines tend to settle more easily.
Crating requirements
Many hotels require dogs to be crated if left alone. Even when not required, crating is often the safest option.
Cleanliness expectations
Dogs track in dirt, debris, and outdoor elements. Keeping the coat brushed and maintained helps avoid extra cleaning fees and keeps your dog more comfortable.
Travel Grooming Matters More Than You Think
Travel changes a dog’s environment, routine, and exposure to allergens. Small grooming adjustments can prevent bigger issues during your stay.
- Brush daily to remove dirt and debris
- Keep paws clean after outdoor walks
- Use a light leave-in conditioner to prevent dryness
- Maintain routine as much as possible
For longer trips, using a coat-appropriate shampoo before travel helps reduce buildup and keeps the coat balanced during your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all dog friendly hotels allow large dogs?
No — weight limits show up often enough that I never assume. Kimpton and La Quinta rarely enforce them, but plenty of budget chains do, so it's worth a call before you book with a bigger dog.
Can I leave my dog alone in a hotel room?
Depends on the property. Some require crating, some prohibit it outright, and a few don't say anything until you ask at the desk — I always confirm this at check-in rather than assume.
Are pet fees refundable?
It's a mix — some hotels treat it as a refundable damage deposit, others charge it as a flat non-refundable fee. Read the fine print when you book, not when you check out.
What should I bring for my dog when staying in a hotel?
Bedding, food, bowls, a travel-size grooming kit, waste bags, and a crate if the property requires one — the grooming kit is the thing people forget most and regret leaving behind.
What I've Learned From Show-Weekend Travel
After more shows and overnight trips than I can count, I've learned dog friendly hotels make traveling easier, but preparation is what actually makes or breaks the stay. Understanding policies, maintaining your dog’s routine, and keeping the coat clean and comfortable all contribute to a smoother trip.
The goal is not just finding a hotel that allows dogs—it is choosing one where your dog can settle, rest, and travel well alongside you.
Tasha Mesina
Owner of Cindra Grooming Products, a USA-made brand focused on coat-correct grooming and skin health. With over 20 years of experience in grooming, breeding, and working dogs, she helps owners maintain balance, structure, and long-term coat health—even on the road.
