Crafting the Perfect Pet Policy: A Guide for Hotels

More travellers are hitting the road with their dogs in tow than ever before. For many guests, a dog or cat isn’t “just a pet” – it’s part of the family. This means hotels that welcome four-legged companions can tap into a growing market of dog owners who plan their trips around dog-friendly options. But simply allowing dogs isn’t enough; your pet policy should be an extension of your hotel’s brand identity and contribute positively to the overall guest experience. 

A pet policy defines the guidelines and amenities for guests who bring pets, covering everything from where pets can roam to what fees are charged. Importantly, it sets expectations that keep everyone happy and comfortable, including the animals. When aligned with your brand, a pet policy becomes a seamless part of your hotel’s story. For instance, a chic urban boutique might offer trendy pet amenities that fit its quirky image, while a five-star hotel might offer pampered pet services that mirror the white-glove treatment of human guests. 

In all cases, the goal is to enhance the guest experience (for pet owners and non-pet-owners alike) by providing clarity, consistency, and a touch of hospitality for furry friends. Below, we’ll dive into the key components of a pet policy, from access rules and fees to legal must-haves and staff training, and illustrate how to tailor each aspect to your brand’s unique style.

Why Your Pet Policy Should Be More Than Rules

Before writing this article, I reviewed over a hundred pet policies from hotels around the world, and the pattern was strikingly consistent. Far too many were nothing more than a laundry list of rules, restrictions, and fines, with no mention of services or amenities.  Not a single nod to the guest experience.

And yet, for many dog owners, this is their very first interaction with your hotel, the moment they ask, “Are you pet-friendly?” and are handed a sheet of paper that basically says, “Here’s what your dog can’t do.” 

But let’s be honest: you’d never treat a human guest this way. You wouldn’t greet them at check-in by listing everything they’re forbidden from doing. So why do it to dog owners? Imagine how different that moment could feel if you led with what you do offer—“Here’s the dog bed waiting in your room, the nearest walking trail, and the biscuit bar in the lobby”—before gently covering the necessary boundaries.

It’s not just a better guest experience; it’s better hospitality.

Why Your Pet Policy Should Reflect Your Brand

Your hotel’s brand isn’t just a logo or colour scheme, it’s the personality, values, and promise that guests associate with your property. Every policy you create should reinforce that brand promise, and your pet policy is no exception. If your brand prides itself on luxury and indulgence, your pet policy might include extravagant pet amenities and personalised services. If your brand is all about family-friendly comfort or adventurous travel, your pet policy should echo that by being welcoming and practical for guests travelling with pets.

In essence, the pet policy is an opportunity to extend your hotel’s hospitality philosophy to four-legged guests. Not aligning your pet policy with your brand can create disconnects and a poor guest experience for dog owners.

Imagine a “luxury” hotel that allows pets but has a confusing, punitive pet policy, one that inconsistency frustrates guests and tarnishes the upscale image (what I call the Five Star Lie). Or a hip boutique that bans pets entirely might turn away its target demographic of young, experience-driven travellers. The key is to find the balance where your policy protects your operations (noise, cleanliness, liability) while still feeling like a natural extension of your brand’s service culture. 

For example, the pet-friendly Kimpton Hotels chain welcomes any pet “no matter their size, weight, or breed, all at no extra charge”. This no-fuss, genuinely welcoming policy reinforces Kimpton’s brand as an exceptionally inclusive, dog-friendly boutique hotel group and is the reason why I stay with them when I can.

Ultimately, when your pet policy aligns with your brand, it doesn’t feel like a list of rules, it feels like part of the experience. It shows that your hotel recognises pets as valued guests and is willing to make accommodations in line with your brand’s level of hospitality. In the sections that follow, we’ll explore how to design each element of your pet policy with that philosophy in mind, ensuring your approach to pets complements your marketing, your customer service style, and your operational capabilities while correctly managing your guest's expectations.

Access: Pet-Friendly Zones vs. Off-Limits Areas

One of the first decisions in crafting a pet policy is deciding where pets are allowed in your hotel and where they are not. Clearly defining pet-friendly zones (and restricted areas) will set guest expectations and prevent awkward incidents, like a dog wandering into a fine dining room. These access rules should reflect both practical considerations (like health codes) and your hotel’s ambience.

Guest Rooms: It almost goes without saying that pets should be allowed in designated guest rooms. Traditionally, many hotels have set aside only a handful of “pet-friendly” rooms—often those with hard-surface flooring for easier cleaning and to contain dander or potential wear and tear. The intention is usually to protect guests with allergies by keeping the rest of the rooms pet-free. But here’s the problem: this limited-room approach creates artificial scarcity, and it’s a constant source of frustration for dog owners. We see this again and again; we show up after booking only to be told, “Sorry, our pet-friendly rooms are taken.” 

That’s not hospitality; that’s exclusion by design.

And it’s why we actively penalise hotels for this practice when certifying them. Best practice, and what we recommend to every hotel, is to make all of your rooms pet-friendly by default and instead designate a select number of hypoallergenic, pet-free rooms for guests with allergies or sensitivities. It flips the script in the right way; most of your rooms are available to everyone, including dog owners, ensuring availability, and the needs of allergy-prone guests are still met.

From a branding perspective, it’s also a win. Whether you’re a luxury hotel providing plush pet beds and gourmet treats or a budget hotel offering clean, practical pet-ready rooms, opening up your inventory to dog owners sends the message that you genuinely welcome them rather than treating them as a niche exception. Remember, more people travel with dogs than have allergies to dogs.

Lobby and Common Areas: Decide if pets can traverse through the lobby freely or if there are any restrictions. Most pet-friendly hotels allow leashed pets in the lobby – after all, pets have to enter and exit – and many make it a point to greet pets at check-in with a treat or a welcome kit, which creates a positive first impression for pet owners. If your hotel’s vibe is relaxed and social, you might invite pets to linger in certain common areas. For example, some boutique and lifestyle hotels even allow pets at the lobby bar or host “yappy hours” where guests can bring their dogs to a social hour. On the other hand, a classic luxury hotel with a very formal atmosphere may prefer that pets walk through the lobby but not hang around in lounges or bars, maintaining a serene environment for all guests. 

Health regulations often dictate that pets (except service animals) cannot enter any area where food is prepared, and most hotels also keep them out of primary dining venues. However, there is wiggle room for creative solutions: perhaps your hotel offers outdoor patio dining where pets are welcome, or a section of a casual café where leashed pets can sit with their owners. Always make sure to comply with local health codes – typically, no pets in indoor dining areas or spas/pools for sanitation reasons, which many pet policies explicitly note.

Recreational Areas: Determine your stance on pets in places like fitness centers, pools, and gardens. It’s common to prohibit pets from pools and gyms (both for hygiene and safety). However, if your brand is a resort or outdoor retreat, you might have sprawling grounds or hiking trails where pets are allowed to join their owners. Clearly mark any pet-friendly outdoor areas, perhaps a section of the lawn or a walking trail, and any pet relief areas with waste bag stations. 

Some high-end resorts even go so far as to provide fenced dog run areas or agility equipment as part of their amenities. Wherever you allow pets, ensure your staff and signage guide guests to those areas. For example, if dogs are permitted on your hotel’s rooftop bar or garden, make it a feature in your marketing (“Enjoy sunset cocktails with your pup on our pet-friendly rooftop terrace!”) and have signs that indicate pet-friendly entrances or elevators if needed.

Restricted Areas: Be upfront about places pets are not allowed. Common restrictions include: restaurants (indoors), swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, kids’ play areas, and club or executive lounges. These restrictions often exist to preserve a certain level of atmosphere and cleanliness. For instance, a luxury spa likely wants to maintain a Zen-like calm – not compatible with a curious puppy sniffing around. When communicating these limits, frame them politely: e.g., “For the comfort of all guests, we ask that pets not be brought into the main restaurant or spa area." By explaining it as a comfort or safety issue, pet owners will understand that you’ve balanced their needs with those of other guests.

Ultimately, setting access levels is about creating a welcoming environment that still respects boundaries. Align with your brand by asking: Where would my typical guest expect to see pets? Where would it delight them, and where would it possibly bother them? A trendy, youthful hotel might allow a dog on the pool deck because their guests find it charming; a traditional hotel catering to business travellers might keep pets in the rooms and a pet relief garden only.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer – the key is to define it clearly in your pet policy and ensure everyone (guests and staff) knows the lay of the land.

By thoughtfully delineating pet access throughout your property, you enhance the experience for pet owners (who know exactly where they can go without hassle) and reassure guests without pets that there won’t be unpleasant surprises (like finding dog hair on the fine dining banquette). 

Restrictions: Size, Breed, and Behaviour Rules

Not every pet is the same, and it’s reasonable for a hotel to set certain limitations on the types of pets allowed to ensure safety and comfort. These restrictions can include pet species, breed or size limits, and behaviour expectations. The extent of your restrictions should align with your brand image and target clientele, as well as practical risk management. Here’s how to approach it:

Size & Breed Restrictions: Weight limits are one of the most commonly misused tools in hotel pet policies. Many properties, particularly in city centres or luxury spaces, cap pet weights at 25 to 40 pounds, often under the assumption that smaller dogs mean less mess, less noise, and less risk. But in practice, these arbitrary limits end up excluding many of the world’s most popular and well-mannered breeds, like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Standard Poodles, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and even calm-natured Greyhounds, while admitting untrained, yappy, or aggressive smaller dogs without even thinking about it.

At Roch Dog, we take a clear stance on this: we penalise hotels that impose blanket weight limits which exclude common family dogs like Labradors.

If your pet policy bans over half of all dog breeds by default, you’re not dog-friendly; you’re dog-restrictive. It creates real frustration and inconvenience for dog owners, especially when they arrive to discover that their beloved, well-behaved dog is “too big” to be allowed.  I have experienced this myself and have been turned away from hotels too many times, even though I have a Labrador, and we hear it constantly from dog-owning travellers; it's a major pain point.

We do not penalise hotels for excluding specific breeds that are banned under local or national law, such as those on the UK’s Dangerous Dogs List.

We also support hotels that choose to restrict breeds they reasonably believe pose a safety concern because the reality is sobering. In the U.S. alone, over a million people are hospitalised each year due to dog bites. Hotels have a duty to prioritise the safety and comfort of their guests and staff, and breed restrictions, if thoughtfully and legally applied, can be a reasonable part of that strategy.

But where weight limits fail, clear policies around behaviour and temperament succeed. That’s where a “friendly dog” policy comes in: any dog, of any breed or size, is welcome as long as it doesn’t make guests or staff feel uneasy or uncomfortable in any way. If a dog makes your reception team uncomfortable, it will probably make your guests uncomfortable too, and you are well within your rights to discriminate against specific dog breeds on that basis.

Behaviour & Etiquette: Regardless of breed, size, or pedigree, all dogs should be held to clear and enforceable standards of behaviour. Hotels are well within their rights to expect good manners from both pets and their owners, and your pet policy should spell this out. At a minimum, dogs should be fully housetrained, quiet, under control, and non-destructive. No excessive barking, no jumping on other guests, and no aggressive behaviour toward staff under any circumstances.

At Roch Dog, we actively encourage hotels to implement firm but fair behaviour policies. It’s perfectly reasonable to state that “if your dog causes disruption, discomfort, or poses a safety concern, you may be asked to leave.” This isn’t exclusion; it’s basic hospitality. And it protects the experience of all your guests, whether they’ve brought a dog with them to your hotel or not.

We strongly support hotels adopting a “friendly dog” policy, which defines an acceptable guest as any dog that does not cause unease to people around them.

This puts the power where it belongs: with your team. If a dog’s behaviour makes guests uncomfortable—or if your staff are concerned—you have every right to deny access or ask the dog to leave. More importantly, this approach works both ways: it protects you from liability, and it gives responsible dog owners peace of mind.

They know that as long as their dog is well-behaved, they’ll be welcomed and that any truly disruptive animals won’t be tolerated. Ultimately, dog-friendliness should never come at the cost of safety or comfort. When in doubt, focus on behaviour, empower your staff to make the call, and make your expectations clear.

That’s the fairest and most effective way to welcome dogs into your hotel.

How Many Dogs Should You Allow? 

Decide how many pets a guest can bring. Hotels commonly allow 1 or 2 pets per room. Loews Hotels, for example, allows two pets per room as part of their “Loews Loves Pets” program, and many other brands do similarly. Some extremely pet-centric places might allow more (Kimpton has no formal limit on the number of pets), but keep in mind room size and the potential impact more dogs can have.

A practical approach might be “up to two domestic pets per room; please contact us for approval if you have more.” That gives you flexibility to potentially accommodate a guest with three little dogs in a suite, for instance, but also to say no if someone wanted to turn your room into an animal menagerie. For brands catering to families, allowing two pets aligns with the idea that a family might have a couple of dogs. For upscale brands, keeping it to one or two ensures the room doesn’t become a zoo and stays manageable for housekeeping.

Should Health Requirements Be Compulsory?

To keep all pets and people safe, consider requiring proof of up-to-date vaccinations and that pets are free of fleas/ticks. Some hotels ask for a vet record or the pet’s vaccination tag dates, particularly for rabies and other communicable issues. This is more commonly emphasised in pet resorts or high-end hotels and less so in casual stay settings, but it’s an extra layer of protection.

If your brand is very wellness-oriented (say, a wellness spa resort), requiring pet health records aligns with that ethos of health and safety. At a minimum, you could include in the policy: “By bringing a pet, you certify that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and free of parasites.” Especially if you are in a 'high risk' country, where rabies and other canine diseases are common in the general population.

Restrictions like size and behaviour rules are about setting reasonable limits that protect your property and guests without alienating pet owners. Be clear and transparent: pet owners are usually happy to comply as long as they know the rules upfront and feel they’re fair. The happier and more at ease the dog and owner are, the better their experience, and that positive experience reflects well on your brand. By filtering restrictions through your brand values (e.g., inclusivity, safety, luxury, etc.), you ensure these rules make sense in context.

Pet Fees: Charge Dog Owners Fairly

Money matters can be a sticky point if not handled thoughtfully. Will you charge extra for pets? If so, how much, and what are guests getting in return? Pet fees are extremely common and, in many cases, justifiable. After all, dogs can occasionally leave behind extra hair, muddy paw prints, or the odd nose smudge on a window.

But if you’re going to charge a fee, it needs to make sense. It should genuinely reflect additional costs incurred, not act as an easy way to tack on an extra $150 to the bill without offering anything of substance to dog owners in return.

Many hotels slap a high canine tax onto your bill while offering nothing in return but a water bowl in the corner and a vague reference to ‘extra cleaning’. It leaves us feeling gouged and taken advantage of.  I’ve found myself so irritated by this practice that I’ve gone out of my way to tip the housekeeping staff directly and deliberately ask them about the “extra” cleaning. 

More often than not, they tell me the same thing: “We clean all rooms to the same standard every time,, whether there’s a dog in it or not.” And here’s the kicker:  “It’s not the dogs who leave the biggest mess, it's usually the people.”

Exactly what you would expect, in other words.

We know most of you aren’t really “deep cleaning” a room after a dog has slept in it, and we are perfectly aware of exactly how much mess our dog has made when we check out. This is true for the vast majority of hotels, except ultra-luxury hotels, which will often do things like change the carpet of a room if there is a stain.

Don’t be that hotel. If you’re charging a pet fee, whether it’s per stay or per night, make sure guests feel like they’re getting something in return. A welcome kit with treats, a proper pet bed, food and water bowls, a walking map, maybe a complimentary toy or access to a dog-friendly space. These don’t have to be extravagant, but they should exist. Otherwise, it’s not a fee, it’s a fine. 

Your fee structure should also align with your brand. If you're a luxury property, a higher fee might be appropriate if it includes premium amenities or services. If you’re a boutique or lifestyle brand that wants to welcome dogs wholeheartedly, you might skip the fee entirely or charge a nominal one as a courtesy gesture. Either way, be transparent. Pet owners don’t mind paying when it feels fair and when the value is clear—they just don’t want to be punished for travelling with their dog. Let’s break down the different options we often see.

No Fee (Pets Stay Free): Some hotels choose not to charge any pet fee at all, using this as a major selling point. This approach often aligns with brands that market themselves as passionately pet-friendly or those in the economy sector, where simplicity and value are key.

Offering no-fee pet stays can be a competitive differentiator; a 2023 survey found “75% of pet owners would pay more for a pet-friendly hotel”, and 64% were willing to pay up to $50/night extra, so a hotel that charges $0 is providing clear added value. If waiving fees fits your financial model, it can win you significant goodwill and more bookings to offset the cost.

One-Time vs. Nightly Fees: If you do charge, decide whether it’s per night or per stay. A one-time fee per stay (per room or per pet) is straightforward and often easier for guests to swallow, especially for longer stays. For example, a hotel might charge a flat $50 or $150 per stay regardless of nights. Luxury hotels often opt for one-time fees on the higher side – it’s not uncommon to see $100-$200 per stay at a high-end property.

On the other hand, a per-night fee might be used by hotels to account for daily housekeeping challenges. Some mid-range and extended stay hotels use something like $25 per night (often capped at a max amount). Guests generally understand fees, but be mindful: extremely high or compounded fees can feel punitive. The average hotel pet fee is between $50 to $100 per stay, and many pet owners will accept that as reasonable. If you charge more, make sure the value is evident. Also, be clear if the fee is per pet or per room; many hotels charge per room.

One ‘Lifetime’ Pet Fee - One of the very best dog-friendly hotels we know about charges a one-off lifetime pet fee of $150, which entitles your dog to stay for free for the rest of their life once paid, which is a great way to encourage long term loyalty, their marketing director told me that it works. But this hotel also knows that they can make more money from dog owners by selling them services like dog walking, chef-designed dog food menus, and by selling cute bowls and leashes.

Refundable Deposits: Another model is a refundable pet deposit for security, sometimes combined with a smaller non-refundable fee. Deposits signal to guests that they will have to pay for any major damage, but if their pet is well-behaved, they won’t be unduly charged. Deposits are a bit more work (inspection and refund process), and some guests might prefer a straight fee rather than having money held. Decide if the added protection is worth it. Most hotels skip refundable deposits nowadays in favour of just charging for any actual damage post-checkout via the credit card on file and making guests aware of the terms.

Presenting Your Pet Policy Positively and Clearly

Having the best pet policy in the world won’t help if guests aren’t aware of it or don’t understand it. Clear, proactive communication of your pet policy is essential – it sets proper expectations, ensures compliance, and can even be used as a marketing advantage. The tone and channels you use to convey the policy should align with your brand voice: whether that’s formal and elegant, or friendly and fun.

Our research indicates that dog owners highly value clear and transparent information on what they can expect if they stay at your hotel with a dog, and presenting your pet policy where it is easy to find is a big part of this that many hotels forget. Here’s how to get the message across effectively:

On Your Website and Booking Platforms: The pet policy should be prominently displayed wherever guests make booking decisions. Typically, hotels include a “Pet Policy” section on their website (often under FAQs or policies or on the room pages). Make sure it’s easy to find. Include key points: allowed pets (dog/cat, etc.), weight limits, fees, any major restrictions, and details of any services, facilities, and amenities you provide at the same time. If you partner with third-party booking sites, ensure the pet information is up to date there as well. This prevents surprises and conflict at check-in and shows consistency.

During Reservation and Pre-Arrival: It’s a great practice to ask guests to indicate if they’re bringing a dog at the time of booking. If your booking engine has a checkbox or a field for “traveling with pet,” enable it. If not, a note asking them to call/email if bringing a pet helps you prepare. Once a reservation with a pet is noted, consider sending a pre-arrival email that reiterates the pet policy.

For instance: “We see you’re bringing your dog with you – wonderful! Just as a reminder, we allow up to two dogs (under 50 lbs each) in our pet-friendly rooms. A $75 cleaning fee per stay will be added. We’ll have a pet bed and bowls ready in your room. Please let us know if you need anything special for your dog!”

This kind of message both reminds them of rules/fees and simultaneously highlights the amenities, setting a positive tone. It’s part informative, part welcome letter. If your brand emphasises personalisation, you might even ask for the pet’s name in advance so you can greet the guest's dog by name at check-in.

At Check-In: Train your front desk to always review the pet policy with the guest at check-in – but frame it as a welcome and orientation, not a stern warning.

For example, instead of just thrusting a waiver form at the guest, the staff can say, “We’re so happy to have Snoopy with us! Here’s our pet welcome letter that goes over a few guidelines to make sure you, Snoopy, and all our guests have a great stay. Feel free to take a moment to read it, it covers things like where you can walk her and our quiet hours. And here’s a little map of nearby parks. Also, we do ask you to sign this acceptance of the pet policy; it is just routine.” 

This way, the guests don’t feel scolded; they feel guided. 

Provide any included amenities now (if not already in the room); some hotels give the pet welcome kit at check-in, and others place it in the room. If you have a waiver or liability form, make sure it’s written in plain language if possible, and have the staff highlight the key points (“This basically says you’ll be responsible for any damage and you’ll keep Snoopy on a leash in public areas, things like that”).

In-Room Information: In the pet-friendly guest rooms, it’s useful to place a printed copy of the pet policy and pet services info. Perhaps as part of a welcome letter addressed to the pet at the top, which adds a nice touch. This sheet can reiterate things like where the pet relief area is, what number to call for pet sitting, and a gentle reminder of rules (e.g., “Don’t forget, I can’t go to the main restaurant with you, but room service is available!”’). When phrased warmly, it doesn’t come off as policing, but rather as helpful. Make sure the important rules are clearly stated to avoid any “I didn’t know” excuses – for instance, if you strictly forbid leaving pets unattended, put that in your welcome email and in-room letter. 

Clarity is kindness, it helps dog owners to avoid complaints or additional fees.

Tone and Language: This is where branding really comes in. Keep the language consistent with your hotel’s vibe. A luxury hotel might use more polished, courteous language (“We kindly ask that your pet remains on leash… We are pleased to offer dog-walking service; inquire at the front desk.”).

A casual boutique can be playful (“Four legs on the floor, please: keep your pet leashed when wandering the halls so everyone stays safe and happy!”). Some hotels write policies from the pet’s perspective, which can be charming if done right (e.g., “Woof! I promise to be on my best behavior: no barking late at night and no accidents inside. My human will take me outside when I need to go.”).

This can defuse the sense of being given a list of rules. However, ensure that even in cute language, the meaning is crystal clear. Humor should not create ambiguity.

Signage and On-Property Cues: Consider gentle reminders around the hotel. If you have designated pet elevators or routes, sign them. If there’s a pet relief area, signposting it with a paw print symbol and a trash can is helpful. If pets aren’t allowed beyond a certain point (say, spa-level or a pool area), a sign that says “Pet-Friendly Zone ends here – humans only beyond this point” could be a lighthearted way to mark it. In the room, providing a “Pet in Room” door hanger or magnet that guests can use is extremely helpful for both staff and the guests. 

When that hanger is on, housekeeping should not enter (to prevent a pet escape or fright), for example, give such door hangers and have a policy that housekeeping won’t enter if a pet is inside unless the owner is present. Communicate to the guests that if they want housekeeping service, they should arrange a time when they’ll take the dog out or be there to supervise. Clear communication avoids both missed housekeeping and surprise or accidental encounters.

Legal Considerations: Compliance & Protection

While it’s exciting to focus on the fun parts of a pet policy, hotels must also cover the legal and liability aspects. Ignoring these could result in lawsuits, fines, or reputational damage, and a good pet policy protects not just guests but also your business. Here are the key legal factors to consider and incorporate into your pet policy framework while you are developing it for your hotel.

Service Animals vs. Pets: In the UK, assistance dogs are protected under the Equality Act 2010 and must be allowed in all areas of your hotel—even if pets are normally not permitted. You cannot charge fees, apply pet restrictions, or refuse entry. These dogs may assist with mobility, sight, hearing, or other conditions, and do not need to be trained by a registered charity to qualify. You also cannot legally ask for documentation, though some guests may offer it voluntarily.

Best practice is to include clear guidance and messaging: “Assistance dogs are always welcome in our hotel and are exempt from pet fees and restrictions.”

In the US, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) grants similar protections for service animals. Staff may ask two questions only:

1. Is this a service animal required due to a disability?
2. What task has it been trained to perform? You cannot ask for ID, proof of training, or a demonstration.

In both countries, emotional support animals (ESAs) are not legally recognised under hotel access laws. That means ESAs can be treated as pets and subject to your standard fees and rules—though some hotels may choose to make exceptions on a case-by-case basis. In summary, know the legal differences, train your staff to handle service animals confidently and respectfully, and make your policies crystal clear. Doing so not only keeps you compliant but also shows your commitment to canine inclusivity and hospitality in your hotel when dog owners notice.

Liability Waivers: It’s common (and prudent) to have the pet owner sign a liability agreement upon check-in. This document basically states that the owner assumes responsibility for any injuries or damage caused by their pet, and that they will indemnify (protect) the hotel from claims. In practice, if a dog were to bite another guest, that guest could sue the hotel as well as the owner. 

A signed waiver is a layer of protection; it won’t stop someone from suing, but it helps demonstrate the owner accepted responsibility and was aware of the rules. Include statements such as “Guest agrees to be fully responsible for any injury or damage caused by their pet to any person or property on hotel premises” and maybe even mention that the hotel reserves the right to charge the credit card on file for such damages. Also, note that the hotel is not responsible for loss or injury to the pet. This covers you if, say, a dog slips out the lobby door, you don’t want to be liable if a pet is lost (aside from the moral duty to help find it). 

It’s a lot of legalese, but keep it concise. If you want to maintain a friendly brand tone, incorporate the waiver points into a combined “Pet Policy Agreement” that blends the rules and the legal bits into one document the guest signs.

Damage and Cleaning Fees: As part of the policy (and possibly reiterated in the waiver), clearly state how damages will be handled. We covered routine fees earlier, but for extraordinary damage, like a pet that chews up furniture or stains a carpet badly, you have the right to charge the cost of repairs or deep cleaning.

You might not need to quantify, but say, “Any additional cleaning or repair beyond normal pet cleanup will be charged to the guest’s account.” Let guests know that the room will be inspected and any damages added to the bill.

This tends to keep people honest about reporting issues. 

Local Laws and Regulations: Check if your city, state, or country has any specific laws regarding pets in lodging. Some places might require hotels to allow service animals or might have rules about how to dispose of pet waste, noise ordinances, etc. If you operate in an area with breed-specific legislation (some cities ban or restrict certain breeds), clarify how that interacts with your policy. For example, if local law prohibits pit bulls, your policy can’t allow them either, even if you personally would, you’d need to inform guests of that legal restriction. 

Also, consider zoning or health regulations. Many jurisdictions forbid animals in areas where food is served, which you likely cover in your access rules, but it’s legally backed. Ensuring your pet-friendly initiative complies with health department guidelines, and it’s wise to consult your insurance and perhaps an attorney when first drafting the policy to ensure you haven’t missed anything.

Insurance: Speak with your insurance provider to see if allowing pets impacts your liability coverage or if they require you to have certain rules. Some insurance policies might exclude incidents related to certain breeds or animals unless you take specific precautions. You may need to add a rider for animal liability if it’s not automatically covered. The last thing you want is to find out an incident isn’t covered because it was an excluded risk. If you have the waivers and reasonable rules, you’re showing “best efforts” to mitigate risk, which insurers like. 

Pet Left Alone & Emergency Procedures: If a pet is left unattended, against policy or with permission, and is causing a disturbance or appears to be in distress, your team should have a protocol. Many policies state that if the hotel must intervene (like remove a pet from a room due to constant barking or an emergency), the owner will be charged a handling fee (I saw one example of a “$10 per hour time-out fee” if a pet has to be taken out of a room by staff). 

While you don’t necessarily have to list a dollar amount, mention that if a pet is left alone and disturbing others, the hotel reserves the right to enter the room, remove the pet, and charge a fee. Also include wording to let the dog owner know that if a pet’s behaviour poses a threat, the hotel can contact animal control. 

This is to cover worst-case scenarios. It sounds harsh, but it’s important to have that authority in extreme cases if a dog is aggressively barking and lunging at staff and guests or a pet seems to be injured or in need of help.

Privacy and Sensitivities: One subtle point, instruct staff never to publicly call out a fee or policy in a way that might embarrass a guest. For instance, don’t shout across the lobby “Did you pay the pet fee?!” or similar. And if a guest claims their dog is a service animal and thus exempt from fees, staff should know how to handle that courteously and legally. Unfortunately, some people might try to game the system by pretending their pet is a service animal.

Train staff to ask the two ADA questions if it’s not obvious (note: they cannot ask for papers). If the guest says, "Yes, it’s a service animal", and gives a plausible task, you generally must accept that. It’s a tricky area, but having a clear internal procedure is part of legal risk management to avoid wrongful denial of a legitimate service dog or to avoid someone taking advantage and causing a problem.

In conclusion, addressing the legal considerations in your pet policy ensures that while you’re wooing dog owners, you’re also safeguarding your hotel’s interests.

A well-crafted policy document, even if the guest only sees the friendly version, will outline responsibilities and rights: the owner’s responsibility for their pet’s actions, the hotel’s rights to charge or act if needed, and compliance with laws like ADA. Once these bases are covered, you can operate with more confidence that welcoming pets won’t lead to unwelcome lawsuits or fines. 

Staff Training: Turning Policy into Practice

Even the most comprehensive pet policy will fall flat without staff understanding and enforcement. Your employees are the ones on the ground interacting with guests and pets, and their actions will determine how smoothly your pet-friendly operations run. Training your staff on the pet policy is as important as training them on any other standard or service in the hotel. Additionally, fostering a positive attitude towards pet guests among staff is key; dogs can sometimes be unpredictable, but if your team is prepared, they can handle issues calmly and keep the hospitality flowing. Here’s how to ensure your staff is empowered:

Train on Policy Details: All customer-facing staff (front desk, concierge, reservations, housekeeping, security, F&B where relevant) should know the pet policy inside and out. This includes seemingly small details like which floors are pet-friendly, where the pet relief area is, and what the fees are. Front desk should confidently answer questions like “Can I take my dog to the pool?” or “Is there a place I can get dog food nearby?” If you provide a local dog-walking map or vet info, ensure the concierge and front desk have it handy. Housekeepers should know a pet is in a room before entering, so there needs to be communication. 

Pet Handling 101: Not everyone is a “dog person,” and that’s okay, but in a dog-friendly hotel, staff at least need a basic comfort level around animals. Offer some training on animal behavior and handling – for example, how to safely approach a dog (ask the owner first, extend hand calmly for a sniff, no sudden movements). Remind staff never to surprise a pet, and to watch body language. If a pet is nervous or growling, staff should know to give it space and perhaps involve the owner. Some hotels make a policy that housekeeping only cleans a pet-occupied room if the owner is present; whatever you decide, train accordingly. 

Avoiding bites and scratches is part of workplace safety, for example, teach that if a dog is alone in a room against policy, don’t attempt to enter; call a supervisor.

Enforcement with Empathy: Enforcing rules is part of the staff’s job, but it should be done tactfully. Train your team to handle common issues diplomatically: if a dog is barking nonstop, instead of immediately threatening a fee, the front desk can call the guest and say, “We wanted to let you know Snoopy seems a little upset – he’s been barking. Is there a time you’ll be back to check on him? Other guests have noticed the noise, and we want to make sure he’s okay and keep everyone happy.” This approach frames it as a concern, not a complaint,

If the barking persists, the next step can be firmer: “We do need you to come back and attend to Snoopy as soon as possible, as per our pet policy regarding disturbances.” Provide your team with a protocol for escalating issues: first, a friendly call or reminder, then perhaps a manager for a second warning, then, if needed, charges or asking the guest to make other arrangements.

The staff should also know what to do if, say, a dog makes a mess in a public area. Probably, someone from housekeeping needs to be alerted for sanitation, and perhaps the owner should be kindly asked to use the relief area next time. Correcting behaviour without shaming the guest is a skilful art in hospitality.

Safety and Allergy Considerations: Staff should also be mindful of guests who are afraid of or allergic to animals. For example, if a non-pet guest complains that a dog in the next room is causing them allergies, staff need to handle both guests’ needs. Sometimes moving one of the parties to another room is the solution.

Make sure staff know which rooms are non-pet to relocate an allergic guest if needed. Also, brief them that some people might be uncomfortable around animals; thus, if they see a large dog bounding around off-leash, they shouldn’t hesitate to remind the owner to leash up, explaining it’s for everyone’s safety.

Empowerment and Support: Encourage your staff to embrace the dog-friendly culture rather than see it as an extra hassle. One way is to share positive outcomes: maybe read a great review that mentions staff by name for helping with a pet, or internally praise an employee who went above and beyond to make a pet’s stay special. When staff feel good about it, that positivity shows in their interactions.

Also, equip them with solutions: if a guest needs a vet, your staff should know the number to call; if a dog had an accident, have enzyme cleaners available and train on how to use them safely; if a pet is barking, perhaps a staff member can offer to walk the dog as a service to calm it, something a luxury hotel might do.

By having these solutions ready, staff won’t feel helpless or annoyed when issues arise; they’ll feel capable and able to deal with the situation.

Handling Unusual Situations: Pets can surprise us. What if a dog is roaming the hallway alone? Staff should approach carefully, try to read the tag or lure it safely, and then contact the owner (if identifiable) or call animal control if it’s lost and can’t be approached. These are things to cover in training so employees aren’t caught off guard when an unusual situation emerges.

Consistency: Consistency in enforcing the policy is crucial. If one staff member lets a guest off-leash in the lobby because they’re cute, and another enforces a leash, guests get mixed messages. Make sure the whole team is consistent. A tip is to have a quick debrief if any pet-related incident happens, so everyone knows how it was resolved and what the standard and protocol are. 

Confident, knowledgeable staff leads to happy pets, happy owners, and minimal friction. Also, staff who enjoy pets often find this aspect of the job fun—interacting with cute cats and dogs can brighten their day. To gamify it, you might even consider a small incentive or contest for most pet mentions in positive reviews.

Staff training turns your pet policy from words on paper into real, tangible practice. When your team understands the why and how of the policy, they can enforce it in a way that is consistent with your brand’s hospitality values. They’ll ensure the safety and comfort of all and possibly create some heartwarming moments that guests will remember, like the doorman who always has a treat ready, or the housekeeper who took extra care to say hello to the guest’s dog each morning. A dog-friendly hotel is only as good as its people – so invest in them.

Adapting Your Pet Policy To Luxury, Boutique, and Chain Hotel Brand Standards

Every hotel is unique, and a pet policy isn’t one-size-fits-all. A chic boutique hotel, a sprawling luxury resort, and a nationwide chain property will have different brand promises and operational considerations, which should be reflected in their pet policies. Let’s explore how different hotel types might tailor their policies while still following the best practices we’ve discussed:

Luxury Hotels and Resorts: High-end hotels typically emphasise exquisite service, tranquil environments, and top-notch cleanliness. Their pet policies often aim to welcome pets in a way that augments the luxury experience rather than detracts from it. For example, a luxury hotel might allow only small pets (to minimise the risk of disturbances or damage) and charge a substantial fee, signalling that they will do an intense cleaning and perhaps provide upscale pet amenities. Many luxury hotels do not want to be seen as nickel-and-diming, so they will always justify a fee with tangible benefits or let dogs stay for free.

Luxury properties might also offer unique services like a pet concierge or dog butler, and have chefs prepare special pet meals on request. Their communication is often very bespoke: they might reach out pre-arrival to ask if the pet has any preferences, treating the pet as a VIP. An example policy for a luxury hotel could read: “We welcome dogs up to 30 lbs unless it's a Labrador. No pet fee is required, but a deep-cleaning fee of $200 will be applied if there is significant pet-related cleaning needed post-stay. Your pet will be greeted with a sterling silver water bowl, a plush pillow, and gourmet pet treats baked by our pastry chef.” 

This shows no corners are cut for furry guests. That said, luxury places also tend to be strict about areas pets can go to, likely not in fine dining restaurants or spa/pool areas, to maintain the refined atmosphere. They often arrange pet-sitting if owners want to use those facilities. In essence, luxury hotels balance indulgence with discretion in their pet policies, and extend their brand through them.

Boutique and Lifestyle Hotels: Boutique hotels usually pride themselves on personalised service, local flavour, and sometimes a bit of whimsy. These hotels often seize the opportunity to make dog-friendliness part of their identity. Many boutiques (like Kimpton, Staypineapple, Ace Hotels, etc.) have extremely inclusive pet policies – no fees, no size limits, and all kinds of pets are welcome. This bold stance creates a buzz among pet owners and fits a brand that wants to be seen as hip, friendly, and different from stuffy traditional hotels. A boutique hotel might have a resident pet, a lobby dog that “greets” guests to underscore a homey vibe. 

Their amenities can be quirky and locally inspired: perhaps hand-made dog biscuits from a nearby bakery, or a list of local pet-friendly coffee shops for morning walks. They might host pet-related events, like charity adoption meet-and-greets or pet costume contests for Halloween.

The tone of boutique hotel pet policies is often very casual and enthusiastic:

“Pawsitively thrilled to host your pets! At Hotel XYZ, we love animals of all shapes and sizes – whether you have a Saint Bernard or a Siamese. No pet fees ever. We’ll outfit your room with a comfy bed and bowls, and our front desk has plenty of treats and local pet insider tips. Just promise us one thing: that you won’t leave your buddy unattended for too long, because they miss you!”

This fits the brand voice of a down-to-earth, personable hotel. Enforcement at boutiques is usually chill but present, they rely on the culture of their guests (often fellow dog owners) to self-police somewhat, stepping in only when needed. 

Because boutiques are smaller, they can often give more individualised attention. The Staypineapple hotel chain, for example, charges a modest nightly fee but has no size restrictions and provides fun perks, canine costume competitions, and a hotel mascot (Dash), which aligns with their vibrant and cheeky brand style.

Family and Mid-Range Chain Hotels: Mid-range chains (think Marriott Courtyard, Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn, etc.) often allow pets, but policies can vary by property. These hotels want to be welcoming to families, many of whom have dogs, but also need to manage consistency and cost because they operate at scale.

Some chains designate specific brands as pet-friendly: for instance, Residence Inn (Marriott) and Homewood Suites (Hilton) target long-stay travellers, and almost all of them allow pets, knowing people relocating or on long trips often bring animals. They tend to charge moderate fees (e.g., $50-$150 per stay, often with a cap for extended periods and allow larger dogs than luxury hotels might.

A chain might have a corporate guideline (like “max 2 dogs, up to 75 lbs, $75 fee”) but allow some local variance. Best Western allows two dogs up to 80 lbs with a fee of around $30/day, capped at $150/week. That’s an example of a mid-scale approach: flexible for roadtrippers but with some cost control. 

The brand image here is reliability and convenience, so the pet policy focuses on practical needs: a safe place for your pet, a fair fee for cleaning, and basic courtesy rules. They may not provide elaborate pet amenities (maybe a simple treat and a list of nearby parks), but they get the job done.

Communication is straightforward: “Yes, we’re pet-friendly. We know Snoopy is family, and for a small cleaning fee, we’re happy to have him stay. Please keep him leashed in public and not on the furniture, and don’t leave him alone too long. We have some designated pet rooms – request in advance.”

This appeals to the typical mid-range guest: they want clarity and ease.

One challenge for chains is consistency – a guest might assume all hotels in the brand allow pets when some don’t. So many chains list pet-friendly locations on their websites. As a chain operator, adhering to the broader brand standard while fine-tuning to your property (given your facilities and local demand) is key.

For example, if you’re a Marriott Autograph Collection in a national park area, you might push the envelope to allow big dogs because many travellers have them there, whereas an Autograph in a city high-rise might be limited to small dogs. Both can still be “on brand” as long as they serve the target guests' needs and maintain overall Marriott guidelines.

Budget Hotels and Motels: Economy hotels often have the simplest pet policies – partly to avoid the labor of extensive enforcement, and partly because their competitive edge is being hassle-free. Many roadside motels have long allowed pets, sometimes even advertising “Pets Stay Free” because it draws in road trip business (e.g., Motel 6’s famous pet-friendly stance: all locations pet-friendly, no fee, no weight limit, usually two pets allowed). This fits a budget brand’s identity: no frills, no extra charges, just the basics. Of course, the “basics” include maybe a tiled floor and easy access to outside for those pet rooms. 

Budget places may not supply fancy pet beds, but they typically have an area around the property for pet walking (even if just a corner of the parking lot with some grass). Their policies are usually short and sweet: “Pets welcome (dogs and cats). Up to 2 per room. No additional fees or deposits. Pets must not be left unattended and must be declared at check-in.” 

They rely on owners to be responsible, and if an issue arises, they handle it case-by-case (for instance, a motel manager might charge a cleaning fee if they discover a big mess; even if the policy says free, the fine print often allows them to charge for damage). The lack of breed/size restrictions is common at this tier (Red Roof imposes an 80-lb guideline, which covers almost all dogs except giant breeds).

Their staff training might be minimal, specifically for pets, beyond housekeeping knowing which rooms had pets for a slightly deeper clean. The brand selling point here is “convenience” – they capture travellers who just want to sleep with their dog in the room and move on without paying $100 extra for a one-night stop.

In all these categories, the core elements we discussed (access, restrictions, fees, amenities, etc.) are present; they’re just weighted differently. Luxury focuses on amenities and controlling impact, boutique focuses on inclusion and personality, mid-range focuses on practicality and consistency, and budget focuses on simplicity and value. Importantly, each type should still enforce cleanliness and safety; a budget motel might not give a dog a chew toy at check-in, but they still don’t want the dog destroying a room. A luxury hotel might allow only a teacup poodle, but they still must vacuum thoroughly post-stay for the next guest. 

So in every case, the policy needs to protect the hotel’s interests while pleasing the target guest. By studying best practices from similar hotels in your category and leveraging competitive intelligence from Roch Dog, you can fine-tune your policy. For example, if you’re opening a new boutique hotel, looking at Staypineapple’s or Ace Hotel’s pet policies can provide a template for an indie-cool, generous approach. If you manage a high-end resort, examining Ritz-Carlton or Mandarin Oriental policies shows how to maintain luxury standards with pets around.

Ultimately, you should try to align the strictness or leniency of each pet policy element with what your guests expect from your brand. A Ritz guest might be shocked if a muddy Labrador bounds through the lobby, so Ritz mostly limits size and has high fees, whereas a Kimpton hotel guest would be delighted to see a dog relaxing in the lounge. Know your clientele and brand image, and adjust accordingly; whether it’s a gold-plated dog bowl or just a smile at check-in, make sure it fits the story you want your hotel and brand to tell.

Just be aware that if you don't let my Labrador into your hotel, you can never win our highest ranks for dog friendliness, and will never win any of our awards.

Craft A Win-Win for Your Brand and Your Guests

Crafting a pet policy that aligns with your hotel’s brand is both an art and a science. It requires balancing rules and restrictions with warmth and welcome, ensuring safety and cleanliness while celebrating the joy that pets can bring to travel. When done thoughtfully, a pet policy enhances your brand integrity and creates a win-win scenario: pet owners feel truly appreciated and will return (and recommend you) at higher rates, and your hotel benefits from their business and goodwill – all without compromising the experience of guests who don’t have pets.

Remember that the best pet-friendly hotels integrate their policies seamlessly into their operations and culture. It’s not just a sign on the door that says “Pets Allowed”; it’s the doorman crouching down to greet a dog by name, the housekeeping team leaving a extra plush towel because they know dogs love to nest, the manager who resolved a barky dog situation at 2 AM with patience and care so that both the pet owner and the neighboring guest were satisfied. 

These little stories become part of your hotel’s lore and brand reputation.

By covering all aspects – access, restrictions, fees, amenities, communication, legal, and training – you create a comprehensive framework that leaves little to chance. It’s always easier to handle exceptions or surprises when 95% of the expectations are clearly set and met. And when issues do arise (perhaps the rare scratch on furniture or a noise complaint), you have protocols in place to resolve them smoothly, without drama or damage to your brand.

In implementing your pet policy, listen to feedback and be willing to adjust. Maybe you started with a weight limit but found that excluding big dogs wasn’t necessary, and you lifted it, or vice versa. Maybe you realise an amenity you offered isn’t used, and you can replace it with something guests actually ask for. Like any part of the hospitality business, it’s an iterative process. Encourage your staff to share their experiences – they might have great ideas on how to improve service or efficiency. 

In the end, a pet policy done right becomes a distinctive asset for your hotel’s brand. It tells a guest, “We thought about everything that matters to you, even the furry member of your family.” It demonstrates that your brand values extend to empathy and inclusivity. And for many guests, that message is powerful. 

They’ll repay it with loyalty and cheerleading for your hotel to fellow pet lovers. 

Do it with intention, keep it consistent with your brand’s voice and standards, and you’ll find that a pet policy isn’t just a set of rules, it’s a strategic extension of your hospitality, one that can help your hotel punch through the pet-friendly noise.