On the far north end of the Las Vegas Strip, SAHARA Las Vegas sits as a reimagined icon. Once a staple of Old Vegas, today’s SAHARA is sleek, boutique-sized, and full of modern flair. It has all the essentials of a Strip resort — casino, restaurants, rooftop pool — but with a more laid-back, less overwhelming vibe. That makes it a tempting choice for travelers looking for something just outside the mayhem. But if you’re visiting Vegas with your dog, there’s an important question to answer before you book: Does SAHARA allow pets?

SAHARA’s Pet Policy

The short answer: no, SAHARA Las Vegas does not allow pets. Their policy is crystal clear — only ADA-compliant service animals are permitted on the property. That means emotional support animals, therapy pets, or regular companion dogs are all excluded, regardless of their size, behavior, or how quiet and well-trained they might be. Even if you’ve stayed at hotels with more flexible rules in the past, SAHARA draws a hard line.

It’s also worth noting that guests traveling with service animals must keep them with them at all times — they cannot be left unattended in hotel rooms. If they are, the hotel has the right to involve security or request the guest vacate. It’s a strict policy, and not ideal for most travelers bringing a pet.

Pet-Friendly Alternatives Near SAHARA Las Vegas

Staying on the north end of the Strip gives you easy access to downtown, Fremont Street, and quieter corners of Las Vegas Boulevard. And while pet-friendly options aren’t quite as dense here as in the heart of the Strip, there are several excellent alternatives within a few minutes’ drive — from stylish, design-forward resorts to budget-friendly favorites that make bringing your dog easy and affordable.

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

One of the standout options for dog owners in Las Vegas, Virgin Hotels is an easy recommendation. Located just east of the Strip in the former Hard Rock Hotel space, this rebranded, reimagined resort is built around inclusion — and that extends to pets. Their pet policy is one of the most relaxed and generous in the city: no pet fees, no weight or breed restrictions, and up to two dogs per room allowed.

What makes Virgin Hotels especially appealing is that it doesn’t just tolerate dogs — it welcomes them. When you check in, you’re offered a dog bed, bowls, a branded bandana, and treats, all of which are genuinely helpful rather than just symbolic. The rooms have easy-to-clean hard floors, and many open directly to outdoor walkways or patios, making late-night potty breaks less of a hassle. While there’s not a large fenced dog area, the layout of the resort allows for casual on-leash walks around the property, and you’re minutes from some of Vegas’s best urban parks. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly stay that still feels cool, fun, and a little bit elevated, this is a top-tier pick.

The LINQ Hotel + Experience

Right in the middle of the Strip, The LINQ is a high-energy resort that might not scream “dog haven” at first glance — but it’s actually part of Caesars’ PetStay program, which offers designated pet-friendly floors across several of their properties. Here, you can bring up to two dogs per room, as long as each weighs 50 pounds or less. While there is a nightly pet fee, it comes with some handy basics: pee pads, food bowls, treats, and waste bags, along with access to a small pet relief area on-site.

Rooms are modern and simple, with easy access to the LINQ Promenade — a walkable shopping and dining area that’s less chaotic than other parts of the Strip. It’s one of the few dog-friendly resorts that actually puts you within walking distance of major Strip attractions, so if you want to keep your dog close but still be in the center of it all, The LINQ is a great balance between access, energy, and pet accessibility.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Vegas Airport N. Convention

If your goal is to find a hotel that makes bringing your dog effortless, the La Quinta Inn & Suites near the Convention Center is a solid local favorite. This is a hotel that puts practicality and pet-friendliness first: dogs of any size are welcome, there are no additional pet fees, and you can bring up to two dogs per room. That alone makes it one of the most accessible options in Vegas, especially for owners of large dogs or those traveling on a budget.

The rooms are clean, spacious, and designed for comfort rather than flash. There’s a small grassy relief area on site, and the surrounding neighborhood has wide sidewalks and a handful of low-traffic routes for walks. Plus, you’re still just a 5–10 minute drive from SAHARA, making this a strong basecamp if you’re planning to explore both the Strip and downtown while keeping your pup close. It may not have spa services or a casino, but it delivers exactly what pet travelers need — no hassle, no hidden fees, just a straightforward, dog-welcoming experience.

Tips for Traveling to Las Vegas with a Dog

Bringing your dog to Las Vegas is absolutely doable, but it does require some planning—especially when it comes to staying cool, staying safe, and finding the right places to walk and relax. The city isn’t designed with dogs in mind, and between the heat, the noise, and the lack of widespread green space on the Strip, it can catch some pet owners off guard.

Whether you’re strolling through a quiet neighborhood in Summerlin, checking into a dog-friendly hotel just off the Strip, or mapping out relief areas before you arrive, a bit of preparation goes a long way. Your dog can absolutely enjoy the trip just as much as you do—it’s all about knowing where to go and what to avoid so that both of you can stay comfortable, happy, and stress-free.

Be Prepared for the Desert Heat

Las Vegas isn’t just hot — it’s desert hot, and that makes a big difference when it comes to your dog’s safety. Pavement temperatures can hit 130°F and higher, especially during peak hours in the summer. Even brief walks can cause burns to your dog’s paws, and dogs can become dehydrated or overheated much faster than most owners expect.

Plan to walk your dog early in the morning or after sunset, when the ground and air are cooler. Use the back of your hand to test the ground before stepping out — if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Booties, paw wax, and cooling bandanas or vests can also help prevent heat exhaustion. And always keep an eye out for signs of heat stress like excessive panting, drooling, or wobbliness.

Hydration Is a Constant Concer

Vegas’s dry climate can dehydrate both humans and dogs quickly. Whether you’re out for a walk, lounging by the pool (in a dog-friendly area), or just running errands, your dog needs access to water more often than you might think.

Bring a collapsible bowl and extra bottled water everywhere you go. If your dog’s used to long walks at home, shorten the distance here and take breaks often. For breeds prone to overheating—like Frenchies, bulldogs, or older dogs—consider using a cooling harness or mat back at the hotel to help them rest comfortably after being outside.

Plan Potty Breaks in Advance

Not all hotels have adequate pet relief areas — and some that do might leave you underwhelmed. Whether it’s a corner of gravel by the dumpster or a single patch of artificial turf, knowing what to expect is crucial.

That’s why we created Dog Friendly Las Vegas, which includes photos and field reports of hotel relief areas, so you don’t show up to disappointment. You’ll find clear info on which hotels have fenced dog runs, real grass, or just basic accommodations. Knowing this in advance makes life easier — for both you and your dog.

Have a Dog Care Backup Plan

You’re in Vegas. You’re going to want a night out — whether it’s a show, a cocktail lounge, or a romantic dinner at one of the city’s rooftop spots. But since most hotels won’t let you leave your dog alone in the room, it’s essential to book pet care ahead of time.

There are several reliable, background-checked dog sitters and walkers who cater specifically to travelers. Some services will even come directly to your hotel room and stay with your dog while you’re out. Booking a sitter in advance gives you peace of mind and avoids last-minute scrambling when you want to enjoy your evening guilt-free.

In a Nutshell

While SAHARA Las Vegas doesn’t allow dogs, you’ve got plenty of nearby alternatives that do — without compromising on style, convenience, or service. Whether you go with Virgin Hotels for a fun, pet-first experience, The LINQ for Strip access and walkability, or La Quinta for budget-friendly ease, there’s a solution for every kind of traveler and every kind of pup.

And when in doubt, Dog Friendly Las Vegas is here to help you map out the best hotels, the cleanest relief areas, and the most reliable pet services — all reviewed and written by people who actually travel with dogs.