Most Dog-Friendly Hotels: The Best Chains for Dogs

Traveling with your dog can be a wonderful experience — but that doesn't mean it's stress-free. Luckily, it's never been easier to find dog-friendly hotels at all price ranges, meaning there are options to fit every type of traveler.

At Sniffspot, we know it's important to find safe, comfortable spaces for your pet, both at home and on the road. From pet friendly policies to high-end perks, we turned to our community to share their picks for the most dog-friendly hotels in the USA.

This guide compiled thousands of our real customer ratings to determine the best dog-friendly hotel chains in the USA. Here's what they had to say:

What Makes a Hotel Pet-Friendly?

Before we begin, what exactly is a pet-friendly hotel? All hotels in the US are required to accept service dogs, but that doesn't mean they're open to all furry friends. Even those that allow dogs typically put restrictions on breeds, sizes, number of pets, and more.

Yet, dog owners still love to travel with their furry friends. We asked our users how frequently they travel with their dogs, and here's what they said:

Community Stats: How often do you travel with your dog?

Source: Sniffspot User Travel Survey 2024

As you can see from the chart above, over 70% of our users travel with their dogs at least occasionally. When it comes to what makes a hotel pet-friendly, our community ranked the following factors as most important:

• Affordability: By far, the most important factor for our Sniffspot readers is that the hotel has reasonable rates for bringing along your pet. While the majority of hotels have pet fees, some are stopping them entirely.
• Accommodating: Our respondents also said they preferred it when their pet felt welcome and included. This could mean friendly staff, pet-friendly spaces, or accommodating rules for all breeds of dogs.
• Convenient: Of course, the easier it is to book the dog-friendly hotel chain, the better. Luckily, most regular hotels offer online booking.
• Clean: Nobody wants to stay somewhere unclean, and that goes for travelers with their pets as well. Well-maintained rooms were high on their list.
• Allow larger or multiple dogs: While more and more hotels today are dog-friendly, large or multi-dog restrictions are still common. Our readers prefer when hotels don't have strict size or breed restrictions, as well as restrictions on the number of dogs.
• Quiet: Considering over half of our readers reported their dogs as being anxious or reactive, quiet spaces were a main consideration.
• Dog-Friendly Amenities: Lastly, our readers wanted dog-friendly amenities like dog bowls, treats, and pet relief areas.

Believe it or not, a reported 75% of luxury, mid-scale, and economy hotels now allow pets according to the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Now that you know what factors matter most to the Sniffspot community, let's share their picks for the best pet-friendly hotel chains.

@EmbassySuites on Facebook

Dog-Friendly Hotels: Our Rankings

Dog owners know that no two pets are alike — so it's no surprise that our community's recommendations depended on factors like breed, pet weight, and the pet's temperament. Of those who had a notable hotel preference and loyalty, here are their rankings:

Source: Sniffspot User Travel Survey 2024

The Most Dog-Friendly Hotel Chains Overall

According to our users, the most dog-friendly hotel chains overall are:

• La Quinta
• Hampton Inn by Hilton
• Best Western

Skip below to our dog-friendly hotel chain breakdown to see why our users consistently ranked these picks amongst their favorite places to stay with Fido.

The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels for Big Dogs

A large dog is any breed over 75 lbs, and it can be more challenging to take the road with your big pooch. This was the most challenging factor for dog owners, and you'll notice that most properties have size restrictions for pets over 75 lbs.

Here are our users picks for the best dog-friendly hotels for big dogs:

• Kimpton Hotels
• Best Western
• La Quinta

If you have a large dog, these are the hotel chains to keep an eye on. They typically have zero size restrictions (based on location) or an additional fee for large pets.

The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels for Small Dogs

What about the opposite side of the spectrum? What are the best hotels for small dogs? If you're an owner of a dog under 40 lbs, you're in luck. These are welcome at just about any property. Still, here are our user's top recommendations:

• La Quinta
• Red Roof Inn
• Best Western

What makes these picks a favorite amongst small pet owners? They have limited (or no) fees for pets under 40 lbs.

The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels for Reactive or Anxious Dogs

If your pup is anxious or reactive, this throws another bone in your travel plans (pun intended). Our users applauded hotel chains that offered greater privacy and quiet spaces for pets in need of a bit more care. Their picks are:

• La Quinta
• Embassy Suites
• Home2Suites

Having a larger room or suite makes all the difference, according to our community. This cuts down on hallway noise, outside disturbances, and the likelihood of running into other furry friends.

Honorable Mentions

Our list only includes 10 of the most pet-friendly hotels as chosen by our readers. However, some top picks we still want to mention are:

• Homewood Suites
• SpringHill Suites
• Staybridge Suites
• Graduate Hotels
• Element Hotels
• Motel 6
• Hotel Indigo
• Candlewood Suites

With that in mind, Hotel Indigo, Homewood Suites, Motel 6, and the other hotel chains above simply didn't have enough votes to make it into the top recommendations found below. Still, we encourage you to consider them when looking for dog-friendly policies.

"Even your pets deserve a pawcation!" | @fairfield.luquillobeach on Instagram

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10. Fairfield Inn

With a high percentage of readers listing Fairfield Inn as their top choice, this Marriott chain is slowly rising in the ranks amongst pet owners. The vast majority of the Fairfield Inns in the United States are dog-friendly and welcome pets of any size and weight.

However, Fairfield Inn doesn't have a standard fee across all chains. You need to check the specific property to determine whether there is a fee or weight restriction. Mariott's website is the best place to explore dog-friendly Fairfield Inn properties.

Pet fee: Up to $75 per pet
Restrictions: Property-specific

Community reviews:

"Fairfield Inn has nice rooms and there's always something for the doggo!"

"I can often get a suite for not too much more here, which means my dog and I sleep better because he’s not reacting to the opening and closing of other doors in the hall. I’m also loyal to Marriott."

"Our furry friends also crave vacations from time to time." | @embassysuites on Instagram

9. Embassy Suites

Embassy Suites is a Hilton brand that welcomes pets at more than 110 of its US-based locations. Typically, Embassy Suites allows up to two pets per room, though there is an additional fee for pets over 75 lbs.

That being said, like other properties on this list, Embassy Suites has property-specific rules. A handful of properties don't allow dogs, so it's important to check the specific location before you book. Use the Embassy Suites Pet-Friendly Filter on their booking website to find the best options for your travel destination.

Pet fee: Typically $75 per pet with an additional $25 for pets over 75 lbs
Restrictions: Two pets per room

Community reviews:

"Typically very kind and easy check-in with a dog."

"Always a great stay, never any issues at Embassy!"

"Don't forget to pack the treats!" | @HotelMonaco.Seattle on Facebook

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8. Kimpton

An IHG brand, Kimpton boutique hotels are openly dog-friendly at all locations. Unlike others on this list, Kimpton has been a pet-friendly hotel since its founding in 1981. They even have a Director of Pet Relations (honorary staff of the dog variety).

Kimpton encourages you to bring every member of the family with you, including the hairy, feathery, and scaly. There are no breed or size restrictions, and there's no extra charge. This earns them major points with our team and our readers!

Pet fee: None
Restrictions: None

Community reviews:

"They don't charge for dogs and are prepared for people with dogs."

"I stayed at Kimpton Hotels when I traveled to OR to pick up my puppy and they were wonderful."

"Make sure your pets get to go on every fun, family adventure!" | @RedRoofLuvsPets on Facebook

7. Red Roof Inn

Red Roof Inn is a budget-friendly USA hotel chain that's been welcoming pets for years. Their pet policy applies to most US locations, and it's very straightforward. All Service Animals and ESAs are welcome at all properties. One well-behaved domestic pet (cat or dog) is allowed per guest room. Occasionally, additional pets are also approved with no extra fee. Considered one of the cheap hotels, Red Roof Inn stands apart with their pet policy.

However, there are some maximum weight restrictions depending on the individual hotel. At Red Roof Inn and Red Roof Plus+, your pet can't exceed 80 lbs. At the Red Collection locations, no pet is to exceed 40 lbs.

Pet fee: None
Restrictions: Pets must be under 80 lbs

Community reviews:

"Red Roof Inn is well priced and reliably dog-friendly. You can also park next to your room."

"They're always very welcoming and have no issue with dog staying."

@alofthotels on Facebook

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6. Aloft

While not all Aloft properties are pet-friendly, they are still ranked one of the best dog-friendly chains amongst travelers with pets. Aloft's Animals Are Fun (ARF) program welcomes pets at over 100 locations and provides special canine-friendly extra perks.

From branded bed and bowl to complimentary treats, there's a reason this is a trusted pet-friendly dog chain (for both owners and four-legged guests). Always check Aloft's website, a part of the Marriott Bonvoy, when booking to review each location's rules and pet perks.

Pet fee: None for pets up to 40 lbs
Restrictions: Location-specific size limit may apply

Community reviews:

"Excellent experience had dog treats and not many dogs were there during my stay."

"Fun atmosphere for me, dog-friendly, usually fewer kids around than with other chains."

"Exploring new destinations with your pet." | @HyattPlace on Facebook

5. Hyatt Place

Hyatt Place is another dog-friendly chain that welcomes dogs at just about every US location. Their fees and restrictions are also standard, making it easy to know what to expect when you arrive. At Hyatt Place, up to two pets are welcome for a fee of $75 for stays of up to 6 nights. Longer stays require a fee of $175.

It's important to note that weight restrictions vary from property to property. Many require both pets to not equal more than 75 lbs combined. However, many Hyatt Place locations have a Pet Door hanger to let staff know there's a pet inside your room, as well as free pet waste bags.

Pet fee: $75 for 1-6 night stay
Pet restrictions: Size limit of 75 lbs

Community reviews:

"I had several good experiences here but haven’t tried many other hotel chains with my dog to compare."

"Hyatt Place is always clean and has lots of space."

"We're the top pick for pets." | @Home2Suites on Facebook

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4. Home2Suites

In 2022, Hilton announced that Home2Suites, their extended stay brand, would be 100% pet-friendly at over 1000 locations. Better yet, they partnered with Mars Petcares' to provide high-end perks to all guests bringing their furry friends.

While the pet fee starts at $50 per stay for four-legged friends, pets are treated to green spaces, treats, and on-demand access to Mars Petcare experts. Home2Suites is also equipped with dog-friendly dining and entertainment recommendations at every location.

Pet fee: $50 per stay
Restrictions: Property-specific

Community reviews:

"Clean, open spaces for dogs outside of the hotel make a big difference."

"They have always given us great service and don’t charge a huge extra fee to bring dogs."

"Raise your hand if you're as excited as Wiki!" | @exploringnoelle on Instagram

3. Best Western

Best Western sets itself apart by leading the way in dog-friendly policies with over 1,200 dog-friendly hotels in North America alone. At Best Western, you can bring up to two domestic dogs in a single room, with a max size of 80 lbs per dog.

For properties with a fee, there is a maximum charge of $30 per day for each room or $150 per week. Best Western encourages travelers to book directly on their website to ensure the specific location allows their pet.

Pet fee: $30 per day or $150 per week
Pet restrictions: 80 lbs weight limit

Community reviews:

"I know what to expect with this hotel and the amenities available. They have clear expectations when I bring my dog."

"Always seems to be available in the area we travel."

@HamptonbyHilton on Facebook

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2. Hampton Inn

Another Hilton brand, Hampton Inn doesn't want any furry guests to feel left out of your travel plans. All of the Hampton Inn locations in the USA welcome pets with open arms. However, weight and breed restrictions are at the discretion of every individual property.

With nearly half of Hampton Inns in the USA charging under $25 per night per pet, this is one of the most affordable options for traveling with your pet. Other perks are on-site pet relief areas and pet-friendly amenities.

Pet fee: Between $25 - $50 per pet
Restrictions: Individual restrictions depend on the location

Community reviews:

"I like the hotel itself and I’ve never had a bad stay here."

"Hampton Inn gives the most space for my dog to roam."

@LaQuinta on Facebook

1. La Quinta

Last but not least, with almost 10% of our users recommending this dog-friendly hotel chain, La Quinta tops the list. Wyndham's La Quinta welcomes pets at just about every location in North America, and you can rest easy knowing you're in a designated pet-friendly room.

La Quinta allows up to two domesticated pets per room, and there's even a limit on how much the hotel can charge for pets per stay. You'll never pay more than $75 per entire stay for your pet. Easily explore pet-friendly La Quintas on their website.

Pet fee: Up to $75 per stay
Restrictions: Location-specific

Community reviews:

"We've had good luck in getting quiet rooms away from large groups of people here and the dog amenities (in terms of outside space) are always great for her."

"Never have had any problems or issues because of size or breed."

"This is your dog's hint to take them to a cabin in the woods!" | @thewildewoodscabin on Instagram

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Bonus Dog-Friendly Travel Recommendation: Airbnb

It should come as no surprise that the best dog-friendly hotel chain isn't a hotel at all; it's a vacation rental service. A striking 32% of our users preferred booking an Airbnb or vacation rental over a traditional hotel.

Airbnb is a common choice because you have access to more space, privacy, and fewer dog restrictions. While Airbnb does usually charge a pet fee, this is comparable to the hotel chains on this list. Explore pet-friendly vacation rentals near your destination in seconds on Airbnb.

Pet fee: Depends on the property, typically between $50 - $100 per stay
Restrictions: Depends on the property

Community reviews:

"We use Airbnb because, with several reactive large dogs, we haven’t found any hotel that works for us."

"Our dog is too big for most hotels so Airbnb is our pick. We also prefer not having shared walls."

Tips for Traveling to a Dog-Friendly Hotel

Whether it's your first time traveling to one of the best dog-friendly hotel chains or your tenth, you can always teach an old dog (or human) new tricks. However, that doesn't mean traveling with your pet is easy. In fact, over 40% of our users said traveling with their dog is more difficult than traveling without their pet.

Community Stats: How does the difficulty of traveling with your dog compare to traveling without them?

Source: Sniffspot User Travel Survey 2024

Luckily, our dog loving community doesn't let this stop them from hitting the road. Here are their top tips on how to make traveling with Fido less of a challenge:

Plan Early When Traveling with Your Dog

When you're bringing your dog (or other kinds of pets), you can't leave things to chance. Researching dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and activities ahead of time saves you from a headache later on.

Additionally, confirm pet policies when making your reservations. Even if a hotel chain says it's pet friendly, always double-check with the specific location. From the nicest hotel to roadside motels, planning is key.

Community tips:

"Plan ahead. Is the area pet-friendly, are there parks, dog parks, Sniffspots? Research local area pet rules and laws. Allow your pet to adjust."

"Plan ahead — make sure everything you're planning to do is dog-friendly, check for vets in the area, bring water food treats cleaning supplies etc, keep the room clean (covers for furniture, lint brushes etc)."

Prepare Your Dog to Travel

Just like humans, dogs get stressed when they're in a new environment. Get your dog comfortable with the idea of traveling by practicing short trips, crate training, and car rides.

In some cases, you might also talk to your vet about calming aids or medications. These can make all the difference in your pet's anxiety when on the road. Above all, be patient and understanding.

Community tips:

"Don't be afraid to advocate for them! Don't be afraid to ask your vet for behavior meds, and make sure to have quiet time for both of you."

"Try to maintain a similar schedule as you do at home. For example, we start every day with a long walk at home and do the same while on vacation. A tired pup is a well-behaved pup."

"All breeds of dog welcome!" | @kimpton on Facebook

Pack with Your Dog's Needs in Mind

Another important tip when traveling with your dog is to focus on their needs when packing. You'll want to bring familiar items like toys, bedding, and blankets. Ensure they have enough food, water, and treats.

Consider bringing different leashes to allow less restricted play time, as well as high-value toys to provide a much-needed distraction. If you're flying by plane, make sure your dog's luggage meets airline requirements.

Community tips:

"Overpack so you don’t end up spending money or not being able to find what you need in unfamiliar places."

"Bring all updated vaccination records for each dog and pack much more food than you think you will need."

Prepare for the Unexpected

While nobody wants to think of an emergency when traveling, this is an important part of being a prepared pet parent. All types of pets require an emergency plan both in and out of the home.

Always research local vet clinics, make sure your dog's records are up-to-date, and bring any necessary medications.

Community tips:

"Make a packing checklist for them, and triple-check. Look up emergency vets in your area, and bring a pet first aid kit just in case."

"Check out emergency vets in the area before you go! Make sure you don't have to waste time on that should something happen during your trip."

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The Bottom Line

Ultimately, traveling with your pet is a great way to create memories. It can also give you peace of mind knowing your pet is safe with you. The nicest hotel is always the one that's the right match for you and your pet.

With over 50% of our readers reporting they travel at least occasionally with their dog, it's clear this is becoming more popular as hotel chains open their doors to furry friends. Who knows? Maybe all types of pets will be welcome at hotel chains soon!

A big thank you to our readers who took the time to share their experiences and tips with us! You're what makes this community so special. What is your favorite dog-friendly hotel chain?