Best Dog-Friendly Hotel Chains in the US: Complete Travel Guide

Traveling with your dog should be simple. Instead, it's often a nightmare: hidden pet fees, weight restrictions, breed bans, and the dreaded "service animal only" policies.

But some hotel chains genuinely welcome dogs—not as an afterthought, but as part of their core hospitality philosophy. Here's your complete guide to the best pet-friendly hotel chains and what to know before you book.

What "Pet-Friendly" Actually Means

Not all pet policies are created equal. Before booking, always check:

Weight limits: Many hotels cap at 25-40 lbs. If you have a Lab-sized dog, this matters.

Number of pets: Usually 1-2 per room.

Fees: Can range from $0 to $150+ per night.

Deposits: Refundable vs. non-refundable.

Breed restrictions: Some chains ban "aggressive breeds" (pit bulls, Rottweilers, etc.).

Room restrictions: Pets may only be allowed in certain room types or floors.

Where can pets go: Lobby? Restaurant? Pool area? Or room only?

Always call the specific hotel before booking. Policies can vary by location even within the same chain.

Tier 1: The Best of the Best

Kimpton Hotels — The Gold Standard

Why they're #1: Kimpton doesn't just allow pets—they celebrate them.

The policy:

• Size limit: None. "If your pet fits through the door, we'll welcome them."
• Weight limit: None
• Pet fee: $0 (completely free)
• Number of pets: No limit

Perks:

• Complimentary pet bed, bowls, and treats at check-in
• "Yappy Hour" at many locations (wine for you, treats for them)
• Pet walking and sitting can be arranged
• Some locations have "Director of Pet Relations" (usually a resident dog)

The catch: Kimpton is a boutique hotel brand, so locations are limited to major cities. Prices are higher than budget chains.

Best for: Urban travel, special occasions, anyone who wants their dog treated like royalty.

La Quinta by Wyndham — Best Budget Option

Why we love them: Consistent policy across ALL locations, no hidden fees, budget-friendly.

The policy:

• Weight limit: Two pets per room, total combined weight of 75 lbs (but they're usually lenient)
• Pet fee: Most locations charge $0; some charge $20/night
• Breed restrictions: None

What to know:

• Pet-friendly rooms are first-floor with outdoor access
• Not the most luxurious, but reliable and affordable
• Located near highways—great for road trips

Best for: Road trips, budget travelers, larger dogs who get rejected elsewhere.

Aloft Hotels — Modern and Millennial-Friendly

Why we like them: Part of Marriott Bonvoy, stylish, and dog-focused.

The policy:

• Weight limit: Pets up to 40 lbs
• Pet fee: Varies by location
• Breed restrictions: Some locations may have them

Perks:

• "Arf" (Animals R Fun) program: includes dog bed, bowls, toys, and treats
• Modern, Instagram-worthy spaces
• Dog-walking and pet-sitting available at some locations
• Outdoor spaces for walking

Best for: Young travelers, business trips with your dog, social media-friendly aesthetic.

Loews Hotels — Luxury with Purpose

The policy:

• Weight limit: None (breed/size restrictions at a few locations)
• Pet fee: $25-$150 depending on location
• Number of pets: 2 per room

Perks:

• "Loews Loves Pets" program
• Pet room service menu at some locations
• Pet-sitting and walking services
• Luxury level hospitality extended to your dog

Best for: Special occasions, travelers who want luxury without leaving their dog behind.

Tier 2: Reliable Options

Best Western

The policy:

• Pet-friendly at most (not all) locations
• Weight limits vary (often 80 lbs)
• Pet fee: $10-$30/night typically
• Must call ahead to confirm

What to know: Policies vary significantly by location. Always confirm before booking.

Motel 6 and Studio 6

The policy:

• Dogs only (no cats at Motel 6; Studio 6 allows cats)
• Up to 2 pets
• Pet fee: Usually around $10/night (maximum $50/week)
• No weight limit

What to know: Very basic accommodations, but consistent and budget-friendly. Good for emergency overnight stays.

Red Roof Inn

The policy:

• One well-behaved pet per room
• No pet fees at most locations
• Weight limit: 80 lbs at most locations

Best for: Budget road trips when La Quinta isn't available.

Drury Hotels

The policy:

• Pets allowed at most locations
• Weight limit: Usually 80 lbs
• Pet fee: $25+ at many locations
• Room deposit may be required

Perks: Known for excellent free breakfast and happy hour; if your dog can stay in the room, you'll save on food.

Tier 3: Hit or Miss

Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG Brands

These major chains have inconsistent pet policies because many locations are franchise-owned. What this means for you:

• One Marriott allows dogs; the next one doesn't
• Policies, fees, and weight limits vary wildly by location
• You MUST call the specific hotel before booking
• Don't rely on chain-wide promises

Within these families, look for:

• Marriott: Aloft, Element, TownePlace Suites tend to be more pet-friendly
• Hilton: Home2 Suites, Homewood Suites often allow pets
• IHG: Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites sometimes allow pets
• Hyatt: Hyatt House often allows pets

Pro tip: Use BringFido.com or call directly to confirm current policy at the exact location.

Extended Stay Hotels

If you're traveling for more than a few days:

Extended Stay America

The policy:

• Pets up to 80 lbs
• Up to 2 pets
• Pet fee: $25/day (maximum $150/week)

Residence Inn (Marriott)

The policy:

• Most locations allow pets
• Weight and size limits vary
• Non-refundable cleaning fee ($75-$150 typical)

WoodSpring Suites

The policy:

• Pets allowed at most locations
• Fee: $10/day or $60/week
• Good for long stays on a budget

Red Flags to Watch For

"Pet-Friendly" That Really Isn't

Watch out for policies that say "pet-friendly" but include:

• Weight limit under 25 lbs: Excludes most dogs
• Breed restrictions: May ban common breeds like pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Dobermans
• High non-refundable fees: Some charge $100+/night
• Room-only restrictions: Pet can't leave the room (no lobby, no outdoor areas)
• Pets must be crated when unattended: Not always enforced, but problematic if you planned dinner out

Hidden Fees and Policies

• "Refundable deposit" that requires inspection and takes weeks to return
• Cleaning fees charged regardless of damage
• Mandatory pet waiver with liability clauses
• Charges for pet amenities that sound complimentary

How to Be a Great Hotel Guest with Your Dog

Good behavior from dog owners ensures hotels remain pet-friendly. Follow these rules:

Before You Arrive

• Call ahead: Confirm the policy even if the website says pet-friendly
• Bring records: Vaccination records, especially rabies
• Know your dog: If they're anxious in new places or bark when alone, consider alternatives

During Your Stay

• Never leave your dog alone if they bark: This gets dogs banned from hotels
• Keep them off beds and furniture: Unless you're willing to pay for damage
• Pick up after them: Immediately, everywhere, every time
• Crate when unsupervised: If you must leave them alone briefly
• Alert housekeeping: Don't surprise staff with a dog in the room

Be Prepared for Damage Charges

Even if your dog does nothing wrong, hotels may charge for:

• Hair on furniture
• Odor (subjective)
• Any scratches or stains

Before leaving, check the room and remove visible hair. It's not fair, but it protects you.

Alternatives to Traditional Hotels

BringFido.com and Pet-Friendly Filters

Use BringFido.com to search for truly pet-friendly accommodations with verified policies.

Airbnb and VRBO

Many vacation rentals allow dogs:

• Filter specifically for "pets allowed"
• Read reviews from other pet owners
• Message hosts to confirm (especially for large dogs)
• Expect a cleaning fee

Pet-Friendly Campgrounds and RV Parks

For outdoor dogs, campgrounds are perfect:

• Most welcome dogs
• Plenty of outdoor space
• Affordable nightly rates
• KOA locations are reliably pet-friendly

The Bottom Line

For stress-free travel with your dog:

Best overall: Kimpton (luxury, no fees, no limits) Best budget: La Quinta (reliable, affordable, no drama) Best stylish option: Aloft (modern, dog-focused program)

Always:

• Call the specific location before booking
• Get confirmation in writing if possible
• Prepare for fees (even if advertised as "free")
• Be a responsible guest so hotels stay pet-friendly

Quick Reference Chart

Happy travels with your furry co-pilot!

Related: Flying with a Large Dog Related: Road Trip Checklist