Searching for the best pet-friendly hotels can feel confusing. One place truly rolls out the red carpet for your dog or cat, while another quietly charges high fees and only allows pets to tiptoe through side entrances.
This guide is written for U.S. travelers who want:
• Clear examples of reliably pet-friendly hotel brands
• A breakdown of typical pet fees and rules
• Practical tips on traveling with dogs and cats
• Ideas to turn hotel memories into meaningful pet keepsakes at home
What “Pet-Friendly Hotel” Really Means
“Pet-friendly” can range from truly welcoming to “we tolerate your pet for a large fee.” Before you book, look for these details in the hotel’s pet policy:
- Allowed species: Many hotels accept dogs only; some allow cats or other small animals.
- Weight or size limits: Common caps are 40–80 lbs per pet. Large breeds may need special approval.
- Number of pets per room: Two pets per room is typical.
- Pet fee and deposit: Could be per night, per stay, or per pet, plus a possible refundable damage deposit.
- Where pets are allowed: Guest rooms are almost always okay; pools, gyms, and breakfast areas are usually off-limits.
- Unattended pets: Many hotels do not allow pets to be left alone unless they’re crated and you can be reached by phone.
- Relief areas: Some properties list on-site relief areas or nearby parks, which is especially useful in cities.
Top Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains in the U.S.
Below are examples of national hotel brands that are consistently mentioned as pet-friendly in the United States. Policies can still vary by location, so always check the exact hotel’s website before you book.
| Hotel Brand (U.S.) | Typical Pet Fee & Limits (Always confirm with the specific hotel) |
Max Pets / Typical Size | Standout Perks for Pets | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kimpton Hotels (IHG) Boutique / Upscale | No pet fee at most properties; pets of any size, weight, or breed are welcome at many locations. | Commonly up to 2 pets; no formal weight limit at many hotels. | Pet beds, bowls, and treats by request; many locations welcome pets at evening social hours. | Kimpton pet policy |
| Motel 6 Budget | Well-behaved pets typically stay free at U.S. Motel 6 locations. | Up to 2 pets per room, with a combined weight limit (often around 150 lbs). | Simple, no-frills rooms at roadside locations that make quick overnight stops easy on road trips. | Motel 6 pet policy |
| Red Roof Inn Budget | The first pet often stays free; a second pet may incur a nightly fee (for example, around $15/night at many locations). | Up to 2 dogs or cats per room in many properties, typically up to 80 lbs per pet. | Many locations advertise “pets stay free,” making it attractive for budget-minded travelers. | Red Roof pet policy |
| La Quinta by Wyndham Mid-scale | Most locations welcome dogs and cats; common pet fees range from free to about $20 per night (often capped per stay). | Often up to 2 pets per room; some locations set weight limits. | Comfortable rooms plus free breakfast at many hotels; widely available near highways and suburbs. | La Quinta pet-friendly info |
| Extended Stay America Long-stay | Charges a per-day cleaning fee (commonly around $25/day per pet for the first several nights, with a monthly cap). | Typically up to 2 pets per suite; weight limits may apply by property. | Kitchenettes and extra space, which are helpful if you’re relocating or staying several weeks with a pet. | Extended Stay pet policy |
| Best Western Mid-scale | Many locations allow pets for a daily fee (often up to about $30–$40 per room) and may require a refundable damage deposit. | Usually up to 2 dogs per room, commonly up to 80 lbs each; other pet types may be accepted with approval. | Large U.S. footprint including smaller towns; some hotels provide designated pet rooms and outdoor relief areas. | Best Western pet-friendly page |
| Embassy Suites by Hilton Upper mid-scale | Many locations charge a set pet fee per stay (for example, around $75 for 1–4 nights and $125 for 5+ nights at some properties). | Typically up to 2 pets per suite, with weight limits (often around 75 lbs). | Spacious two-room suites and cooked-to-order breakfast make it easier to manage pets and people in one space. | Embassy Suites pet overview |
Data based on publicly available pet policies and pet-travel guides as of 2024–2025. Policies differ by hotel and can change at any time, so always confirm details directly with the property before booking.
Independent boutique hotels and resorts can also be very pet-friendly, especially in outdoorsy destinations (mountain towns, coastal areas, wine regions). When you search on major booking sites, use filters for “pets allowed” and then click through to read each hotel’s detailed policy.
How to Choose the Best Pet-Friendly Hotel
1. Match the hotel to your travel style
- Road trip / one-night stopovers: Budget chains like Motel 6 or Red Roof can be practical because they’re easy to access from the highway and often keep fees low.
- Weekend city break: Boutique brands such as Kimpton or independent downtown hotels may offer nicer pet amenities and walkable neighborhoods.
- Extended stays or relocation: Extended-stay brands with kitchenettes and on-site laundry make life easier when you’re traveling with pets for weeks instead of days.
- Special occasions: For anniversaries or birthdays, a pet-friendly resort or higher-end brand with room service and spa options lets humans celebrate without leaving pets behind.
2. Consider your pet’s personality
- High-energy dogs: Look for grass, nearby parks, or hiking trails.
- Shy or anxious pets: Quieter properties, rooms away from elevators, and ground-floor access can reduce stress.
- Senior pets: Elevators, short walks to relief areas, and soft bedding matter more than fancy decor.
3. Key questions to check before you book
- What is the exact pet fee (per night vs. per stay, per pet vs. per room)?
- Is there a refundable deposit? How is damage defined?
- Are there breed, size, or number limits?
- Can pets be left alone in the room? If so, must they be crated?
- Are pets allowed in common areas (lobby, patio, bar) or only in the room?
- Where are the relief areas, and are dog waste bags provided?
Pet Fees & Rules: Quick Comparison Table
Pet fees can affect the total cost of your trip as much as parking or resort fees. The table below shows illustrative examples for a 3-night stay with one dog, based on common policies. Actual fees vary by location.
| Hotel Brand | Example Pet Fee Structure | Sample Pet Cost for 3 Nights (1 Dog) | Good For Travelers Who... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kimpton Hotels | No pet fee at many locations; pets of any size are often welcome. | $0 in many cases | Want boutique style and amenities without paying extra for pets. |
| Motel 6 | Pets typically stay free at U.S. Motel 6 locations. | $0 | Need simple, budget-friendly overnights on long drives. |
| Red Roof Inn | First pet usually stays free; second pet may be around $15 per night. | $0 with one dog | Want to minimize fees while still having basic comfort. |
| La Quinta | Many locations charge a nightly pet fee (for example, around $20/night) with a cap per stay. | ~$60 (assuming $20/night) | Prefer mid-scale comfort and a large footprint of pet-friendly properties. |
| Extended Stay America | Commonly charges around $25/day per pet for the first several nights, with a monthly cap. | ~$75 (3 nights at $25/day) | Need a kitchenette and workspace for longer or more home-like stays. |
| Best Western | Daily pet fee at many locations (often up to $30–$40 per room) plus a possible refundable deposit. | ~$90 (3 nights at $30/day) | Want mid-scale comfort and wide coverage, including small towns. |
| Embassy Suites by Hilton | Many hotels charge a flat fee per stay, such as $75 for 1–4 nights. | ~$75 per stay | Value larger suites, free breakfast, and evening receptions. |
These numbers are examples based on common policies and public information. Always check your exact dates and location on the hotel’s website, since fees can be higher or lower.
Hotel Tips for Dogs vs. Cats
Traveling with dogs
- Request a ground-floor room near an exit if possible. Late-night bathroom breaks are much easier.
- Bring a crate or soft travel kennel if the hotel requires crating when pets are left alone.
- Pack a familiar blanket or bed to make the room smell like home.
- Use a harness and short leash in hallways so excited dogs don’t rush other guests when the elevator door opens.
- Feed dinner at least an hour before evening walks to reduce upset stomachs from long drives.
Traveling with cats
- Confirm that the hotel explicitly allows cats; some “pet-friendly” policies are dog-only.
- Set up a quiet corner for the travel litter box (bathroom or a tiled area) and use disposable liners for easy cleanup.
- Let your cat explore the bathroom first, then gradually open the rest of the room so they don’t feel overwhelmed.
- Consider a folding playpen or large carrier for anxious cats who feel safer in a contained space.
- Double-check vents, under-bed spaces, and behind furniture for potential hiding spots before opening the carrier.
What to Pack for a Pet-Friendly Hotel Stay
A little preparation prevents most hotel headaches. Use this packing checklist as a starting point for your next trip.
| Item Category | Examples | Why It Matters | Hotel-Friendly Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Documents & ID | Vet records, proof of rabies vaccine, microchip number, recent photo of your pet. | Some hotels or local areas may request proof of vaccines; a photo helps if your pet gets lost. | Store digital copies on your phone plus a printed copy in your overnight bag. |
| Collar, tags & leash | Collar with up-to-date ID tag, harness, 4–6 ft leash. | Required in most hotel common areas and city sidewalks. | Attach a temporary tag with your hotel name and room number. |
| Food & water supplies | Enough pet food for the trip plus extra, collapsible bowls, measuring scoop. | Keeping the same food reduces stomach upset while traveling. | Use a small plastic bin or tote so everything stays together in the room. |
| Bedding & comfort items | Favorite bed or blanket, a couple of toys, cat scratching pad. | Familiar scents help pets relax in a new environment. | Place beds away from the door and main hallway noise. |
| Health & grooming | Medications, flea/tick prevention, brush, wipes, waste bags, lint roller. | Helps keep your pet comfortable and the room clean. | Keep meds in your personal carry-on, not in checked luggage. |
| Cleanup & protection | Stain/odor remover, pee pads, extra poop bags, old towels. | Accidents happen; quick cleanup avoids extra cleaning fees. | Put a towel or pad under water bowls and near doors on rainy days. |
| Cat-specific gear | Travel litter box, litter, scoop, disposable liners, trash bags. | Cats often refuse unfamiliar litter; bring the brand they know. | Place the litter box in a low-traffic corner and clean frequently. |
| Safety items | Crate or travel kennel, seat belt harness, soft muzzle for vet emergencies. | Many hotels require crates if pets are left alone; safe car travel is essential. | Label the crate with your name, phone number, and room number. |
How to Make Your Hotel Room Safe & Comfortable
- Do a quick “pet safety sweep.” Check under the bed, behind curtains, and around cords or loose trash before letting your pet roam.
- Claim a feeding corner. Pick a spot for food and water bowls that isn’t in the main walking path to prevent spills.
- Use “Do Not Disturb.” Hang the sign whenever your pet is in the room so housekeeping doesn’t walk in unexpectedly.
- Control noise. Turn on a fan, white noise app, or TV at low volume to help mask hallway sounds that might trigger barking.
- Respect hotel rules. If the hotel asks you not to leave pets alone in the room, plan your activities around that or use local pet-sitting or daycare services.
Turning Hotel Memories into PetDecorArt Keepsakes
Once you’ve had a great hotel stay with your pet, the photos on your phone are often the best part — your dog sprawled on the crisp white duvet, your cat watching city lights from the window, or everyone piled on the bed after a long day of exploring.
If you’d like to turn those moments into something more permanent, PetDecorArt specializes in handcrafted keepsakes made directly from your pet photos, including:
- Wall Art Custom hand-painted pet oil paintings with frames that transform a favorite hotel snapshot into a lifelike portrait. These framed pieces are listed around $169.99–$199.99 at the time of writing and are painted to order from your photo.
- Wearable Art Hand-embroidered pet portraits on apparel like T-shirts, hoodies, caps, and pajamas. Each piece is stitched by artists rather than printed, with typical prices starting around $49.98–$64.98.
- 3D Keepsakes Custom wool-felt stuffed animals and framed 3D pet “clones” that recreate your pet’s markings and pose in sculpted wool. Premium full-body portraits are often listed near $499.99 and are fully handmade.
Because each item is made to order, prices and availability can change. It’s always best to check the current product details on the PetDecorArt website before you buy.
Even with these options in mind, treat PetDecorArt as a fun extra after your trip, not the focus of your hotel search. Your top priority should still be finding a safe, comfortable stay that fits you and your pet.
FAQs About Pet-Friendly Hotels
1. Do all pet-friendly hotels charge a pet fee?
No. Some brands, such as many Kimpton hotels and most Motel 6 locations, often allow pets to stay for free, while other chains charge per night or per stay. Always check the policy for your specific hotel.
2. Can I leave my dog or cat alone in the hotel room?
It depends on the property. Many hotels either forbid unattended pets or require them to be crated and reachable by phone. If your pet barks or cries when left alone, it’s kinder to arrange daycare or bring them along.
3. Are large dog breeds allowed at pet-friendly hotels?
Some brands welcome dogs of any size, while others impose weight limits (for example, 40–80 lbs). If you have a large or giant breed, call ahead to confirm written approval from the specific hotel.
4. How can I avoid pet-related extra charges?
Confirm fees in writing, bring cleanup supplies, crate your pet if required, and report any accidents immediately. Leaving the room clean and damage-free is the best way to avoid surprise charges.
5. What’s the simplest way to search for pet-friendly hotels?
Use the “pets allowed” or “pet-friendly” filters on major hotel or travel sites, then click through to each hotel’s own website to read the full pet policy. When in doubt, call the front desk and ask them to email you the information.
