Let’s talk about something close to many travelers’ hearts: their dogs. If you’re running a short-term rental (STR) with fewer than six bedrooms, you may be wondering whether you should allow pets, specifically dogs. The short answer? Yes. Absolutely. Welcoming dogs into your rental can be one of the smartest and most rewarding decisions you make as a host.
In today’s travel climate, where families are looking for comfort, value, and the ability to bring the whole gang (paws included), pet-friendly accommodations are in high demand. And if you’re not on board yet, you might be missing out on a huge chunk of potential bookings.
Let’s break it down.
The Rise of Dog-Friendly Travel
During the COVID-19 pandemic, pet ownership skyrocketed. People were home more, and many adopted dogs for companionship. Naturally, those furry family members became part of everyday life, including travel.
Now, even as travel returns to normal, people are not leaving their pets behind. But here’s the rub: boarding dogs is expensive. It’s not unusual for people to spend hundreds of dollars on pet boarding while they’re away. That extra cost can be a dealbreaker, especially when families are already investing in a nice STR for their getaway. These days, money is tight for many, so allowing dogs at your rental not only makes travel more accessible, it makes your listing more attractive.
Booking Decisions Are Influenced by Pet Policies
Let’s be honest, finding a pet sitter or trusting a boarding facility can be stressful. Sometimes guests will shorten their trip or skip it altogether because they have no one to look after their dog. On the flip side, when people know they can bring their dog, they’re more likely to extend their stay, turning a weekend trip into a long getaway.
If your property is in a drivable location (think regional getaways or road-trip destinations), this is even more important. People are more inclined to travel with dogs by car than by air, so if you’re in a drive-to area and not allowing pets, you’re potentially turning away a large group of guests who would love to stay longer!
Still Not Convinced? Consider This…
If you’re struggling to fill your calendar, becoming dog-friendly might be the solution. In fact, some hosts have seen a significant increase in bookings after switching to pet-friendly policies. Plus, here’s a surprising (and maybe controversial) thought: kids can be messier than dogs.
Of course, allowing pets does come with extra responsibilities, but with the right systems in place, it doesn’t have to be a hassle. Which brings us to…
How to Prepare Your STR for Dogs (Without Sacrificing Peace of Mind)
If you’re nervous about damage, noise, or liability, you’re not alone. But with a few precautions, you can set boundaries, protect your property, and still be a great host to guests and their pups.
1. Screen the Dogs
Start with a screening process. Not every dog is a good fit for a short-term rental, and that’s okay.
At our property, we have a few basic rules:
- No dogs under 2 years old (puppies are adorable, but let’s face it, they chew everything).
- Dogs must be crated when guests are not home.
- We ask guests to provide details about their dog’s breed, age, and behavior.
- We do not allow breeds that are restricted by our insurance policy (we have 14 on the list).
- If a dog has a history of biting, we unfortunately have to say no both for safety and liability reasons.
It’s important to be transparent with your guests. Most pet owners will understand that you’re setting rules to protect your home and everyone who stays there.
2. Have a Dog Policy in Your House Rules
Write a clear, friendly pet policy in your house manual and listing description. Let guests know what’s expected of them, where dogs are allowed, whether they can be on furniture, if poop pickup is required (hint: it always is), and how they should secure the dog if they leave for the day.
3. Provide Dog-Friendly Amenities
Want to go the extra mile and stand out from the crowd? Add a few dog-friendly touches to your property:
- A washable dog bed
- Food and water bowls
- Waste bags
- A list of local pet-friendly parks or trails
These small additions can make a big impact on a guest’s experience and can even justify a slightly higher nightly rate or pet fee.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the Opportunity
Dog-friendly rentals aren’t just a trend; they’re becoming the norm. More and more people are looking for STRs where they can bring the whole family, fur-babies included. By saying “yes” to dogs (with the right precautions), you’re opening your doors to a much wider market of guests who are loyal, grateful, and often return year after year.
So, if you’re on the fence, consider giving it a try. Adjust your listing, put your screening system in place, and welcome those wagging tails with confidence. You just might find that becoming pet-friendly is one of the best moves you can make as a host.