13 Best Dog-Friendly Hotel Chains in the United States
Remember when traveling with a dog meant settling for a sketchy motel on the edge of town? Thankfully, those days are gone.
Now, some of the biggest hotel chains roll out the red carpet for your people traveling with dogs.
Whether you’re road-tripping with your dog on a budget or looking for a little luxury, there’s a dog-friendly hotel chain that’ll fit the bill.
Here’s a look at some of the best hotel chains for dogs, plus tips for staying in hotels with your pup.
Best Dog-Friendly Hotel Chains in the U.S.
1. Kimpton Hotels
If you want true luxury for both you and your dog, Kimpton is hard to beat. They accept pets of any size, weight, or breed no extra charge.
Kimpton offers amenities like dog beds, food and water bowls, treats at check-in, and sometimes even a pet happy hour. Some properties even have Directors of Pet Relations (yes, that’s a real title and I need that job!).
- Pet Policy: No size, weight, or breed restrictions. No pet fees. Pets are welcomed with amenities like plush beds, food and water bowls, mats, and courtesy bags for walks.
- Region: Nationwide, primarily in major cities.
- Pro Tip: Pets are greeted by name, and some locations offer nightly wine receptions where pets are welcome.
2. Staypineapple Hotels
Staypineapple is a smaller boutique chain known for being super pet-friendly. They charge a $25 nightly pet fee, but it comes with a comfy dog bed, water bowl, treats, and a little room sign to let staff know there’s a dog inside.
Well-behaved dogs are even allowed to stay alone in the room if you need a night out.
- Pet Policy: Welcomes dogs of any size. Standard pet fee is $29.95 per night. The Pineapple Pup Package offers 50% off the pet fee when booked directly, including amenities like a collapsible water bowl, waste bag dispenser, treats, and a dog bed.
- Region: Locations in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, San Diego, Chicago, Boston, and New York.
- Pro Tip: Dogs can be left unattended in rooms; however, cats are not accepted.
3. Virgin Hotels
Virgin Hotels are newer on the scene, but they’re setting a high bar. Pets stay free, get cozy beds, food and water dishes, and treats.
Many locations have fenced-in dog parks or pet-friendly courtyards on-site.
- Pet Policy: No size or breed restrictions. Pets stay free and receive amenities like dog beds, food and water dishes, treats, and a Virgin Hotels bandana.
- Region: Locations include Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Las Vegas, and Edinburgh.
- Pro Tip: Pets must be leashed in public areas. Some locations have on-site pet relief areas.
4. Motel 6
If you’re looking for simple, affordable stays, Motel 6 is one of the most consistently dog-friendly chains out there. They allow two pets per room with no size restrictions and no extra pet fees.
Motel 6 is nicer than you might think. Many locations have vinyl floor (no gross carpet), and they’ve done away with those horrible 60s bedspreads. For a quick overnight, it’s really a good deal.
- Pet Policy: Allows up to two pets per room with a combined weight limit of 150 lbs. Pets stay free of charge.
- Region: Nationwide, including smaller towns and along major highways.
- Pro Tip: Some local regulations may restrict pet stays; always confirm with the specific location.
5. Red Roof Inn
Red Roof Inn is a great budget choice if you’re traveling with a dog. They allow one dog up to 80 pounds to stay free, and some managers allow an extra pet for a small fee.
Many locations have outdoor grassy areas for bathroom breaks, though the amenities are otherwise basic.
- Pet Policy: Allows one pet up to 80 lbs to stay free per room; a second pet is permitted for an additional $15 per night. Management may allow more pets at their discretion.
- Region: Nationwide, especially common along interstates and suburban areas.
- Pro Tip: Pets must be declared at check-in and should not be left unattended in rooms.
6. Aloft Hotels (by Marriott)
Aloft rolls out the welcome mat for pets through their ARF (Animals Are Fun) program. Dogs up to 40 pounds stay free and get a dog bed, water bowl, and a goodie bag filled with treats and toys.
Some locations are a little more flexible on size, but always check first.
- Pet Policy: Aloft’s ARF (Animals Are Fun) program welcomes dogs up to 40 lbs. Pets stay free and receive a complimentary bed, bowl, and doggie bag with treats and toys.
- Region: Nationwide, primarily in urban areas.
- Pro Tip: Policies can vary by location, so it’s best to call ahead to confirm specific pet policies.
7. Marriott and Westin Hotels
Marriott has a mix of pet-friendly brands, but Westin stands out by offering their signature “Heavenly Dog Beds” at many properties.
Fees and weight limits vary by location. Some Marriott brands, like Residence Inn and TownePlace Suites, are particularly dog-friendly, catering to longer stays.
- Pet Policy: Pet policies vary by brand and location. Some properties welcome pets with fees ranging from $75 to $200 per stay, while others do not allow pets.
- Region: Nationwide and international.
- Pro Tip: Always check the specific hotel’s pet policy before booking, as fees and restrictions can differ.
8. Element by Westin
Element hotels are perfect for longer stays with dogs. They offer kitchenettes, easy-access outdoor areas, and dog-friendly rooms. Fees vary by property, but most are moderate and fair for the added space.
- Pet Policy: Generally welcomes dogs up to 40 lbs; some locations allow dogs up to 75 lbs. Pet fees vary by property. Amenities include dog beds, bowls, and clean-up supplies.
- Region: Nationwide, often near cities and airports.
- Pro Tip: Always verify the specific hotel’s pet policy, as weight limits and fees can differ.
9. Drury Hotels
Drury Hotels feel a little like a well-kept secret. They have a two-pet limit and pet fees ranging from $35 to $75 per night.
They offer lots of value, with free breakfasts and evening kickbacks (drinks and food) included in the stay. Many locations have dedicated grassy relief areas.
- Pet Policy: Allows up to two pets (cats or dogs) per room with a combined weight limit of 80 lbs. A daily pet fee of $50 plus tax applies.
- Region: Strong presence in the Midwest and Southern U.S.
- Pro Tip: Many locations feature pet relief areas and offer treats at check-in.
10. Loews Hotels
Loews Hotels are known for a more upscale, pet-loving experience. Most locations allow up to two pets and offer extras like pet beds, bowls, treats, and even gourmet room service menus for dogs and cats.
It’s definitely one of the fancier ways to travel with your pet.
- Pet Policy: Up to two pets per room. Fees and policies vary by location.
- Region: Select locations across the U.S.
- Pro Tip: Some properties may require proof of vaccination, so it’s advisable to have your pet’s records on hand
11. La Quinta by Wyndham
La Quinta is a favorite for budget-conscious travelers with dogs. Most locations are pet-friendly, though some now charge a small fee (typically around $20 per night).
They’re clean, consistent, and located near highways, making them easy for road trippers.
- Pet Policy: Allows up to two pets per room, with each pet weighing up to 75 lbs. A non-refundable pet fee of $25 per pet, per night, with a maximum of $75 per stay, applies.
- Region: Nationwide, with a strong presence in Texas and the Southwest.
- Pro Tip: Some locations may have different policies; always confirm with the specific hotel.
12. Best Western
Best Western is a solid mid-range option for pet owners. Over 1,600 properties across North America are dog-friendly.
Most allow up to two dogs per room, with a size limit of about 80 pounds per dog. Pet fees are typically around $30 per day, with a weekly cap.
- Pet Policy: Two dogs per room, max 80 lbs each. Fees around $30/day, max $150/week.
- Region: Nationwide, including Canada and the Caribbean.
- Pro Tip: Some locations may require a refundable damage deposit of up to $150 per stay.
13. Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels is an umbrella brand that includes Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn, Quality Inn, Clarion, EconoLodge, Rodeway Inn, and MainStay Suites.
Pet policies vary a lot between properties, but most allow two pets per room and charge reasonable fees.
- Pet Policy: Up to two pets per room. Fees range from $10 to $75 per pet, per night.
- Region: Nationwide.
- Pro Tip: Always call the hotel in advance to confirm their specific pet policies and any additional requirements.
Heads up: Always double-check pet policies with the specific hotel you plan to stay at. Even within the same brand, policies can vary by location.
Tips for Staying at Dog-Friendly Hotels
Finding a hotel that welcomes dogs is just step one. Here’s how to make sure your stay goes smoothly for you, your pup, and everyone else.
Double-Check the Fine Print
Hotel websites don’t always tell the full story. Call the front desk and ask:
- Are there weight or breed limits?
- What’s the pet fee – per night, per stay, or per pet?
- Are there any pet-free areas I should know about?
Nothing’s worse than showing up with your 70-pound lab and finding out the limit is 30 pounds.
Book Smart
- Request a ground-floor room if possible. It makes late-night potty trips way easier.
- Mention your dog when booking so they can assign you a pet-friendly room.
- Book early during peak travel seasons. Pet rooms are limited.
Respect the Space
Being a thoughtful guest keeps hotels dog-friendly for everyone:
- Clean up after your dog immediately, even outside
- Keep your dog leashed in common areas
- Don’t let your dog bark endlessly or disturb neighbors
- Use the “Do Not Disturb” sign to prevent housekeeping surprises
Wrap-Up: Best Dog-Friendly Hotel Chains
Traveling with your dog has never been easier or more fun. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly overnight stay or a luxury escape with doggy spa services, there’s a hotel chain ready to welcome you both.
The key is to do your homework and be a great guest. The more we show hotels that pets and owners can be respectful travelers, the more doors will keep opening for future adventures.
