When “Dog-Friendly” Rentals Miss the Mark
Traveling with Dogs: What “Pet-Friendly” Really Means
If you’ve ever traveled with your dog, you know the drill. You pack food and water bowls, leash, toys, bedding, towels for muddy paws, vaccination records — the list feels endless. Then you book a rental labeled “pet-friendly,” hoping it will be ready for your dog.
Sometimes, the place lives up to that promise. You walk in and find a clean, comfortable space with room for your dog to stretch out. Maybe there’s even a small welcome treat or a spot clearly meant for your pup. But often, “pet-friendly” feels more like “pet-allowed” — where dogs are tolerated but not fully accommodated.
You might notice things like an uncovered trash can within a dog’s reach, a carpet that’s probably seen better days but hasn’t been dog-proofed, or a lack of clean outdoor space for your dog to relieve themselves safely without sharp goatheads. Sometimes there’s no place to wash muddy paws, or no hook to hang a leash or towel. These small oversights add up.
Why It Matters to Dog Owners — and Hosts
Traveling with pets isn’t just about weekend getaways. Many dog owners bring their pets on family visits, work trips, moves, or even during stressful times like hospital visits of loved ones. When a rental misses the mark, it’s more than an inconvenience — it can affect the entire experience.
For example, an uncovered trash can might lead to messes or safety risks. Lost toys under heavy furniture can cause guests to move or scratch floors trying to retrieve them. Rugs without non-slip pads can become hazards during doggy zoomies.
From the host’s perspective, these small issues can lead to damage, extra cleaning, or negative reviews. A truly dog-friendly rental anticipates these challenges and minimizes them.
Hotels or Home Rentals? What Dog Owners Consider
When traveling, dog owners often weigh the pros and cons of hotels versus home rentals. Hotels might offer clear pet policies and designated pet areas but often have restrictions and additional fees. Home rentals provide more space and privacy but vary widely in how dog-friendly they really are.
While many rentals say “pet-friendly,” they don’t always provide safe outdoor spaces, covered trash cans, or hazard free furnishings. As a result, many dog owners come prepared to manage whatever the rental offers — sometimes bringing extra blankets, mats, or cleaning supplies just in case.
Small Changes with Big Impact
Luckily, many dog-friendly challenges can be addressed with simple fixes that benefit guests and hosts alike:
- Feeding mats or designated cleaning areas help keep floors clean during mealtime.
- Covered trash cans or in-cabinet storage prevent curious noses from causing messes.
- Dedicated dog blankets protect upholstery while letting dogs relax.
- Under-furniture barriers keep toys from getting lost and prevent guests from moving heavy furniture or. . . seeing just how many gross things have hidden under there missed by the cleaners.
- Rug grippers or non-slip pads reduce slip risks and potential damage to surrounding furniture, deco or electronics.
- Clean outdoor space picked up from the last guest
- Timely and thoughtful sprinkler timing to ensure generally utilized outside time doesn’t result in a mud pit outside the door
- Removal of plants that are poisonous to dogs
Outdoors, especially in sunny climates, shade is a plus and gated areas are a blessing. Adding a seat for the weary or relaxation focused dog owner is a significant bonus.
These thoughtful touches can transform a rental from “dog-allowed” to truly welcoming for dogs and their owners.
The Business Case: Why Dog-Friendly Matters
The dog-travel market is significant and growing. According to the 2023 AirDNA Vacation Rental Market Report, approximately 37% of U.S. travelers bring their dogs along when they travel. Yet only about 22% of vacation rentals are listed as pet-friendly.
Hotels generally have a higher percentage of pet-friendly rooms (around 60%), but many dog owners prefer home rentals for the space, privacy, and comfort they offer.
By making rentals genuinely dog-friendly, hosts tap into this growing market, increase bookings, and encourage positive reviews and repeat stays. When guests feel their dog is truly welcome, they’re more likely to care for the space and recommend it to others.
It’s not the bone shaped dog pool or ball filled bounce house that brings the average person back that travels with their dog, it’s the little things that truly make it homey and lets them know their dog is welcome. Putting up the leash rack or setting out a feeding mat could be all it takes. The pet industry as a whole is projected to reach $157 billion dollar industry, those of us who travel with our pets are committed to spending on our pups where the experience warrants it.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
What’s the one feature you wish every “dog-friendly” rental included? Have you found places that really get it right — or been frustrated by rentals that just allow dogs but don’t accommodate them? Share your experiences and tell us about hosts who are raising the bar for dog travel.
Because when rentals meet the needs of dogs and their humans, everyone benefits — the dogs, their people, and the hosts.
