Dog-friendly hotels are establishments that welcome guests traveling with their dogs.
These hotels often provide additional features and services to ensure a comfortable stay for both humans and their pets.
Features and Services of a Dog-Friendly Hotel
The main feature of a dog-friendly hotel is that it allows the presence of dogs on its premises.
However, most hotels have restrictions regarding the size or number of dogs allowed.
Some dog-friendly hotels may have designated areas for dogs to relieve themselves and exercise, as well as offer special services for dogs, such as dog beds, food and water bowls, treats, toys, and pet welcome kits.
The hotel staff is usually friendly and welcoming to dogs, and can provide information about local pet services, such as veterinarians or nearby dog parks.
Pet-friendly hotels typically have clear rules and policies regarding pet stays, which include details on restrictions, additional fees, and owner responsibilities.
Furthermore, they usually maintain a high standard of cleanliness and maintenance to ensure that rooms and common areas are in optimal condition for both human guests and pets.
Some pet-friendly hotels may offer pet-sitting services or recommendations for nearby dog walking or pet care services, in case owners need to leave their dogs for a period.
Some dog-friendly hotels may organize special events or activities for dogs and their owners, such as group walks or training sessions.
It's important to remember that each dog-friendly hotel may have different features and policies, so it's always advisable to check with the specific hotel before making a reservation to ensure it meets your needs and those of your dog during your stay.
What to Consider When Staying at a Dog-Friendly Hotel
As a dog owner staying at a dog-friendly hotel, it's important to fulfill certain responsibilities to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet, as well as other guests:
- The main thing is to confirm the pet policy.
- Before making a reservation, be sure to check the hotel's specific pet policies.
- Some hotels may have restrictions on size, the number of pets allowed, or require certain vaccination documents.
- Make sure to keep your dog on a leash or in a carrier in common areas of the hotel, unless otherwise indicated.
- Even if your dog is friendly, some people may have fears or allergies to dogs, so respect others' space.
- Most hotels typically have restrictions on leaving your dog alone in the room.
- If you need to go out and cannot take your dog with you, consult with the hotel staff about available options for your pet's care.
- Always carry bags to pick up your dog's waste and make sure to clean up after them in all areas of the hotel, including outdoor spaces.
- Make sure your dog does not bark or disturb other guests or pets.
- If your dog tends to be noisy or anxious in new environments, consider using training techniques or consulting a professional before traveling.
- Protect the furniture and bedding in your room from potential damage caused by your dog.
- Some hotels may provide blankets or covers for sofas and beds, so be sure to use them if available.
- Finally, if you are in a city or destination with specific regulations for dogs, be sure to know and comply with them properly.
Remember that your dog's behavior can influence the reputation of dogs in hotels, so it's essential to be a responsible and considerate owner.
It's always best to communicate with hotel staff if you have any questions or concerns about staying with your pet.
Also, keep in mind that while these pet-friendly hotels admit pets and dogs, they may not specialize in it, so they won't have hygiene products for them.
Keeping your furry friend clean is up to you, which is why we recommend Bruma on the Go, which absorbs and eliminates odors so you can roll around wherever you want with your dog without worries, and in a small format so you can take it anywhere.
Complete List of the Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Spain
From personal experience, we can list the 8 best dog-friendly hotels in Spain:
- Augusta Eco Wellness in Sanxenxo. Incredible facilities, Spa, treatments, outdoor pool, exquisite and healthy food. Silgar Beach 10min walk away.
- Pierre & Vacances Cala en Blanes in Menorca. Super complete apartments with kitchen, living room, and terrace. Common areas like a pool and gardens. Mini-supermarket. Restaurant with a super complete buffet.
- Hotel Rural La Figar in Asturias. If you're looking to disconnect, feel at home, but also be well-located in Asturias, this is the place. They adore dogs and the homemade food is delicious.
- Mas de Torrent in Girona. One of the most incredible "masías" (country houses) we've seen, truly beautiful. They have many types of rooms, some of which include a private pool. The common pool is wonderful and a haven of peace. The breakfast is memorable and everything is delicious. They also have an excellent restaurant. Having tea calmly in one of their lounges is a pleasure. Dreamy gardens.
- Apartamentos Picabel in Asturias. Very close to the Picos de Europa. The views from the apartments are incredible. Unforgettable. Perfect location if you like hiking or sports activities. You can do the Sella river descent (dogs also allowed), the starting point is 15min by car.
- Park Hotel San Jorge in Costa Brava. The location is unbeatable, right on the beach. Direct access. You'll wake up seeing the sea (if you book a room with sea views). They also have a common pool.
Although not located in Spain, we want to mention 2 other charming hotels that admit pets:
- Dear Lisbon in Lisbon. Very central and with all amenities. The rooms have kitchens.
- The Jay Hotel in Nice. Very central, apartment-hotel style with kitchen. Very good value for money.
Other Hotels for Dogs and Alternative Accommodations
Currently, finding hotels that admit dogs is not complicated.
On Booking alone, 30% of hotels admit dogs, and since before the pandemic until this year, searches for hotels for dogs have increased by 90%.
Even so, given that dog-friendly hotels have limited spaces, many owners despair of not finding accommodation for their dog; however, there's no need to worry because there are other pet-friendly accommodation alternatives.
On Airbnb, policies are usually very similar to those of dog-friendly hotels, so I encourage you to try your luck on Airbnb if you don't find a stay at a hotel.
But you can also find dog-friendly accommodation in rural tourism houses, country houses, apartments, campsites, etc.
Of course, book in advance and always keep your dog's veterinary record up to date.
Wherever you go and however you travel with your dog, don't forget to pack Bruma on the Go, ideal for travel and essential for keeping your dog's fur clean, shiny, and hydrated.
Have a good trip!
Want to know more about destinations to enjoy with your pet? Read our article on the best beach destinations for your dog.