Dog Friendly Accommodation – from luxe hotels to budget gems

The best verified places to stay with dogs – hotels, villas, cabins, holiday parks, farm-stays and pet-friendly rooms tested by real travellers.

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Why book dog-friendly stays with Pawtripper

Verified dog policies
We check pet fees, weight limits and fine print with hosts – no surprises at check-in.

🐾 Real-world testing
Stays are road-tested by dog owners for access, outdoor space and nearby walks.

🗺️ Local intel
On-leash / off-leash tips and council links for parks and beaches close to your stay.

Finding truly dog-friendly accommodation is more than a booking – it’s choosing hosts who get that the best moments are shared. We cut through generic listings to bring you hand-picked, editorially-vetted stays: from stylish city hotels to coastal retreats that embrace muddy paws and big smiles. Every pick is informed by our team’s on-the-ground experience, overseen by our Editor, and checked against local council policies for accuracy.

How we choose dog-friendly places to stay

We verify pet policies directly with the property (fees, weight limits, where dogs can/can’t go), confirm outdoor access and nearby green space and prefer listings with private courtyards or fenced yards. We cross-check local council rules for off-leash areas and keep our guides updated when policies change.

Disclosure: Some links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep Pawtripper free – and independent.

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Dog-friendly accommodation in Australia FAQ

How do I check if a hotel is dog friendly (and what should I ask)?

Read the property page, then confirm directly: pet fees/deposits, size or breed limits, where dogs can/can’t go (restaurant, pool, shared areas), outdoor access (courtyard/yard/nearby green space), and whether dogs may be left unattended (and if crating is required).

Are there extra pet fees or deposits?

Often yes. Many properties charge a nightly or per-stay cleaning fee and some take a refundable deposit. Ask what the fee covers, whether it’s per dog or per stay, and if any extra charges apply for damage or deep cleaning.

Can my dog be left alone in the room?

Policies vary. Many do not allow unattended pets, or only allow it if crated and you’re reachable by phone. Some stays offer pet sitting or walking — we call this out where available so you can plan meals or activities.

What’s usually included in a dog-friendly accommodation package?

Typically designated pet rooms, a clear pet policy, and essentials like a dog bed and bowls. Premium packages may add treats, toys, pet menus, fenced courtyards, or maps to nearby walks and off-leash areas.

How do I choose the right stay for my dog?

Match the stay to your dog’s needs: ground-floor access, a courtyard or fenced yard, nearby parks or beaches, quiet vs lively location, size limits, and house rules (e.g., no pets on furniture). Check check-in logistics if you’re arriving late. Don’t forget your own needs too! As a pawrent, do you prefer a luxury city stay, a cabin by the beach or a farm-stay experience with your pup?

Do I need to tell the hotel I’m bringing a dog?

Yes. Disclose at booking so you’re placed in a pet room and the correct fees and rules apply. This avoids check-in surprises and ensures staff prep the room (bed, bowls, cleaning).

Which hotel chains are best for dogs in Australia?

Policies differ by property more than by brand. Look for listings with published pet rooms and clear rules, then confirm details directly. Our Feature Stays highlight reliable options and note any size/fee limits.

What are some dog-friendly weekend getaways?

Try our hubs for Sydney, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast — they bundle verified stays with nearby parks and beaches.

About the Author

Michelle Hatch smiling outdoors, founder of the dog-friendly travel website Pawtripper.
Meet Michelle — dog mum, road tripper, and the human behind Pawtripper.

PawTripper co-founder Michelle Hatch calls Sydney home and has built a life around one thing—making every adventure better with dogs. She leads our accommodation reviews and neighbourhood guides, with a focus on practical details (pet fees, room types, parks nearby) and honest, first-hand advice for travelling with dogs.

When she’s not scouting stays, Michelle’s out exploring off-leash parks with Eliza or mapping out the next dog-friendly road trip. Say hi at hello@pawtripper.com.au.

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