Every Major Hotel Chain's Pet Policy Compared (2026)

Finding pet-friendly accommodation shouldn’t be a guessing game. Whether you’re planning a road trip with your dog or traveling with your cat, knowing which hotel chains welcome pets and understanding their specific policies can save you time, money, and stress. We’ve compiled the most comprehensive comparison of major hotel chains’ pet policies for 2026.

At-a-Glance Comparison

Before diving into details, here’s a quick reference guide:

Hotel Chain	Fee Type	Fee Amount	Weight Limit	# of Pets
Kimpton	None	Free	None	Unlimited
La Quinta	None	Free	None	2
Motel 6	None	Free	None	2
Red Roof Inn	None	Free	None	Varies
Best Western	Per stay	$10-25	Varies	2
Fairfield Inn	Per stay	$25-100	Varies	2
Four Seasons	Per stay	$0-100	Varies	2
Hilton Garden Inn	Per stay	$25-75	75 lbs	2
Marriott	Per stay	$25-100	Varies	2
Hyatt	Per stay	$25-100	50 lbs	2
IHG Hotels	Per stay	Varies	Varies	Varies
Sheraton	Per stay	$35-100	40-80 lbs	2
Westin	Per stay	$35-100	40 lbs	2
Aloft	Per stay	$25-100	40 lbs	2
Element	Per stay	$25-100	40 lbs	2

Note: Policies vary by property. Always call ahead to confirm.

The Most Pet-Friendly: No-Fee Hotels

Kimpton Hotels

Kimpton Hotels has earned its reputation as the gold standard for pet-friendly hospitality.

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: None
• Weight Limit: None
• Number of Pets: Unlimited (yes, really!)
• Pet Amenities: Welcome treats, water bowls, pet beds, treats at check-in
• Special Features: Pet-friendly happy hours at many locations, pet sitting services available

What Makes Them Special: Kimpton’s “Pets of Kimpton” program treats your furry friends like VIPs. Many properties offer specialized services like dog walking, pet spa services, and even a nightly wine hour where pets are welcome. They’ve hosted everything from dogs and cats to rabbits, birds, and even a potbellied pig.

Best For: Travelers with multiple pets, large dogs, or exotic pets

Properties: 70+ locations across North America

Photo by Helena Lopes on Pexels

La Quinta Inn & Suites (by Wyndham)

La Quinta has been a road-tripper’s favorite for decades, and their consistent pet-friendly policy across properties makes planning easy.

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: None
• Weight Limit: None
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Basic (varies by property)
• Special Features: Outdoor pet relief areas at most properties

What Makes Them Special: The predictability of La Quinta’s policy is its greatest strength. Unlike chains where policies vary wildly by property, La Quinta offers consistent pet-friendliness across nearly all locations.

Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, road trips with predictable stops

Properties: 900+ locations primarily in the US

Motel 6

The budget hotel chain maintains one of the simplest and most generous pet policies in the industry.

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: None
• Weight Limit: None
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Basic
• Special Features: “Pets Stay Free” guarantee

What Makes Them Special: Motel 6 pioneered the pet-friendly budget hotel concept. Their straightforward approach and widespread locations make them a reliable choice for cross-country travelers.

Best For: Budget travel, long-distance road trips, emergency accommodation

Properties: 1,400+ locations across US and Canada

Red Roof Inn

Red Roof Inn’s “Pets Stay Free” program welcomes furry friends at all locations.

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: None
• Weight Limit: None
• Number of Pets: 1-2 (varies by property)
• Pet Amenities: PetBowls available, pet relief areas
• Special Features: “Red Rover” program with pet perks

What Makes Them Special: Red Roof Inn’s commitment to pet travel includes special partnerships and the Red Rover Bring Fido app integration for easy booking.

Best For: Budget-friendly stays, families traveling with pets

Properties: 650+ locations

Premium Pet-Friendly Chains

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Luxury doesn’t mean leaving your pet behind. Four Seasons welcomes pets with five-star treatment.

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $0-100 per stay (property dependent)
• Weight Limit: Varies by property (many accept large dogs)
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Custom pet beds, food/water bowls, treats, pet menu at some locations
• Special Features: Pet walking services, pet spa services at select properties

What Makes Them Special: Four Seasons treats pets with the same attention to detail as human guests. Expect monogrammed pet beds, gourmet pet menus, and dedicated concierge services for your furry friend.

Best For: Luxury travelers unwilling to compromise on either pet-friendliness or amenities

Properties: 120+ worldwide (pet policies vary by country)

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Fairmont’s luxury properties welcome pets with style and sophistication.

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: Varies (many locations accept large dogs)
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, welcome treats, waste bags
• Special Features: Canine Ambassadors at some properties

What Makes Them Special: Several Fairmont properties have “Canine Ambassadors” - resident dogs that welcome furry guests. The Fairmont Southampton even has a dedicated pet concierge.

Best For: Luxury travel, special occasions with pets

Properties: 75+ worldwide

Photo by Blue Bird on Pexels

Major Chain Hotels: Marriott International

Marriott International’s vast portfolio includes multiple brands with varying pet policies.

Marriott Hotels & Resorts

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: Usually 50 lbs (varies by property)
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Basic (varies by property)
• Special Features: Some properties offer enhanced pet programs

Note: Always call ahead as many Marriott properties don’t accept pets at all.

Westin Hotels & Resorts

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $35-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: 40 lbs at most properties
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Westin Heavenly Dog Bed, food/water bowls, treats, waste bags
• Special Features: “Westin Workout for Dogs” program with running maps at select locations

What Makes Them Special: The Heavenly Dog Bed mirrors the famous Heavenly Bed luxury. Some properties offer special dog walking routes and pet-friendly amenities.

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $35-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: 40-80 lbs (varies by property)
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Dog Bed, bowls, treats
• Special Features: “Pet Play Date” at select properties

Aloft Hotels

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: 40 lbs at most properties
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Dog bowls, beds available
• Special Features: “ARF (Animals R Fun)” program with special pet check-in

What Makes Them Special: Aloft’s modern, pet-friendly vibe appeals to younger travelers. Some locations host pet-centric events.

Element Hotels

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: 40 lbs typically
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, designated outdoor areas
• Special Features: Extended stay pet-friendly option

Major Chain Hotels: Hilton Worldwide

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-75 per stay (some properties don’t accept pets)
• Weight Limit: 75 lbs at most properties
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Varies by property
• Special Features: Some properties participate in pet-friendly programs

Note: Pet policy varies significantly by property. Call ahead.

Hilton Garden Inn

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-75 per stay
• Weight Limit: 75 lbs typically
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Basic amenities, outdoor relief areas
• Special Features: Consistent pet policies across most properties

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: 75 lbs typically
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Pet relief areas, waste bag stations
• Special Features: Extended stay pet-friendly rooms with kitchen facilities

Best For: Extended stays with pets, apartment-style accommodation

Homewood Suites by Hilton

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: 75 lbs typically
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Pet relief areas, some properties have enhanced amenities
• Special Features: Suite-style rooms with separate living areas

Major Chain Hotels: IHG Hotels & Resorts

Holiday Inn & Holiday Inn Express

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: Varies widely by property ($25-100 typical)
• Weight Limit: Varies by property (25-80 lbs common)
• Number of Pets: Usually 2
• Pet Amenities: Basic (varies significantly)
• Special Features: IHG Rewards members may receive pet fee discounts at some properties

Note: Pet policies vary dramatically between properties. Always confirm.

Candlewood Suites

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-75 per stay
• Weight Limit: 80 lbs at most properties
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Designated pet relief areas with waste stations
• Special Features: Extended stay pet-friendly option with kitchen facilities

Best For: Extended stays, families with pets

Staybridge Suites

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: Varies by property
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Pet relief areas, waste bag stations
• Special Features: Suite-style accommodations for longer pet-friendly stays

Major Chain Hotels: Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: 50 lbs at most properties
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Varies by property
• Special Features: Some properties offer enhanced pet programs

Note: Many Hyatt properties don’t accept pets. Call ahead.

Hyatt Place

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-75 per stay
• Weight Limit: 50 lbs typically
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Basic amenities at pet-friendly properties
• Special Features: More consistent pet policies than flagship Hyatt

Hyatt House

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay
• Weight Limit: 50 lbs typically
• Number of Pets: Up to 2
• Pet Amenities: Pet relief areas
• Special Features: Extended stay pet-friendly suites with kitchens

Boutique and Specialty Chains

Best Western Hotels & Resorts

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $10-25 per night (some properties higher)
• Weight Limit: Varies widely by property
• Number of Pets: Usually 2
• Pet Amenities: Basic (varies by property)
• Special Features: “Best Friends” program partnership with animal rescue

What Makes Them Special: Best Western’s partnership with Best Friends Animal Society includes donations to animal welfare and special pet-friendly promotions.

Best For: Budget to mid-range travel, widespread availability

Properties: 4,000+ locations worldwide

Loews Hotels

Policy Highlights:

• Fee: $25-100 per stay (some properties waive fees)
• Weight Limit: None
• Number of Pets: Varies by property (generous)
• Pet Amenities: Welcome gift, pet room service menu, bowls, bed, waste bags
• Special Features: “Loews Loves Pets” program

What Makes Them Special: Loews offers one of the most comprehensive pet programs in luxury hospitality, including pet room service menus and specialized amenities.

Best For: Luxury travelers with pets, special occasions

Properties: 25+ locations

Photo by Anchor Lee on Pexels

What to Ask When Booking

Even within the same chain, policies can vary. Always ask these questions:

1. Is there a pet fee? If so, is it per night or per stay?
2. What’s the weight limit? Some properties enforce strictly, others are flexible.
3. How many pets are allowed? Confirm even if chain policy says 2.
4. Are there breed restrictions? Some properties ban specific breeds.
5. What amenities are provided? Beds, bowls, treats, relief areas?
6. Are pets allowed to be left alone in rooms? Many prohibit this.
7. Is there a refundable pet deposit? Separate from fees.
8. Are there designated pet floors or rooms? Request ground floor if available.
9. Are there nearby pet relief areas? Essential for convenience.
10. What are the property’s pet rules? Leash requirements, common area restrictions, etc.

Money-Saving Tips

Use Loyalty Programs

Many hotel loyalty programs offer benefits for pet travel:

• IHG Rewards: Some properties offer pet fee discounts for members
• Marriott Bonvoy: Elite members sometimes receive fee waivers
• World of Hyatt: Points bookings may include reduced pet fees
• Hilton Honors: Elite status can sometimes reduce fees

Book Directly

Booking directly with the hotel rather than third-party sites often provides:

• More flexibility with pet policies
• Better communication about pet amenities
• Easier special requests
• Sometimes fee reductions for direct bookings

Extended Stays

Many extended stay properties offer better value:

• Per-stay fees instead of per-night
• Suite accommodations give pets more space
• Kitchen facilities save on dining costs
• Weekly rates can reduce overall pet fees

Off-Season Travel

Hotels may be more flexible during low occupancy:

• More willing to waive or reduce fees
• Better room selection (ground floor, near exits)
• Less crowded common areas
• More attention from staff

Understanding Pet Deposits vs. Pet Fees

Pet Fee (Non-Refundable):

• Standard charge for bringing pets
• Covers extra cleaning, wear and tear
• Typically $25-100 per stay
• Not returned regardless of room condition

Pet Deposit (Refundable):

• Security against damage
• Returned if no pet-related damage occurs
• Typically $100-300
• Inspected before refund
• Less common than fees

Combination: Some hotels charge both a fee AND require a deposit.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious of properties that:

• Have inconsistent policies when you call multiple times
• Can’t provide written pet policy confirmation
• Have vague or unclear fee structures
• Lack basic pet amenities at allegedly “pet-friendly” properties
• Have no outdoor pet relief areas
• Prohibit pets being left alone even briefly
• Can’t direct you to nearby vet or pet stores

Alternatives to Traditional Hotels

Vacation Rentals

Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO often offer:

• More space for pets
• Fenced yards at some properties
• More flexible pet policies
• Kitchen facilities
• Often lower pet fees

Considerations:

• Policies vary dramatically by host
• Less consistent cleanliness standards
• No on-site staff for issues
• May have additional pet cleaning fees

Pet-Specific Lodging

Specialized pet-focused accommodations are emerging:

• Dog-specific resorts with doggy daycare
• Pet ranch stays with supervised play
• Pet-inclusive glamping
• Dedicated dog hotels with human accommodations

The Future of Pet-Friendly Hotels

Trends we’re seeing in 2026:

Technology Integration:

• Apps for booking pet services
• QR codes for local pet resources
• Digital pet check-in processes
• Smart room features for pet comfort

Enhanced Amenities:

• Pet spas and grooming services on-site
• Doggy daycares at hotels
• Pet menu expansion
• Specialized pet concierge services

Sustainability:

• Eco-friendly pet amenities
• Sustainable pet beds and bowls
• Organic pet food options
• Green pet relief areas

Inclusivity:

• Policies expanding to cats and other pets
• Recognition of different pet needs
• Accessible pet amenities for disabled pet owners
• Multi-pet accommodation becoming standard

Regional Differences

United States

• Most liberal pet policies globally
• Widespread availability of pet-friendly chains
• Competitive pet fee pricing
• Regional variations in policies

Canada

• Similar to US but fewer properties
• Higher pet fees at some chains
• Excellent outdoor access at many properties
• Cold weather considerations

Europe

• Extremely pet-friendly in Germany, France, Switzerland
• Higher pet fees typically
• Smaller rooms may limit large dogs
• Public transportation often allows pets

Asia

• More restrictive overall
• Luxury properties more likely to accept pets
• Higher fees common
• Limited to dogs and cats typically

Australia/New Zealand

• Growing pet-friendly options
• Strict quarantine laws affect travel
• Outdoor access emphasized
• Often charge per-pet rather than flat fee

Final Recommendations

Best Overall Value: La Quinta - Free, consistent, widespread

Best Luxury: Kimpton - Unlimited pets, no fees, exceptional amenities

Best for Budget Travelers: Motel 6 - Free, no weight limits, reliable

Best for Extended Stays: Candlewood Suites - Reasonable fees, suite-style, pet amenities

Best for Large Dogs: Kimpton or La Quinta - No weight restrictions

Best for Multiple Pets: Kimpton - Unlimited pets welcome

Best for International Travel: Fairmont - Global presence, consistent luxury

Best Loyalty Program Benefits: Marriott Bonvoy - Most properties, elite benefits

Conclusion

The landscape of pet-friendly hotel accommodations has never been better. From budget chains that welcome pets for free to luxury properties offering five-star pet amenities, there’s an option for every traveler and every budget.

The key to successful pet-friendly hotel stays is research and communication. Don’t assume a “pet-friendly” designation means the same thing at every property. Call ahead, confirm policies in writing, and ask detailed questions about amenities and restrictions.

As pet travel becomes increasingly mainstream, we’re seeing hotel chains compete on pet amenities rather than merely tolerating pets. This competition benefits pet owners with better policies, lower fees, and enhanced services.

Remember that being a responsible pet owner in hotels helps ensure these policies continue and expand. Always clean up after your pet, respect other guests, follow leash rules, and report any damage honestly. Your responsible behavior makes it easier for the next pet traveler.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended cross-country adventure, this guide should help you find the perfect pet-friendly accommodation that meets your needs and budget. Happy travels with your furry friend!