How to Find a Dog Friendly Airbnb [Step-by-Step]

by Jaron Lukas December 2, 2022

raveling with your dog can be a great experience for both of you, but it can also be stressful if you're not prepared. If you're like me and want to make sure that your stay is comfortable, it's time to do some research ahead of time so that you know exactly what to expect when you arrive at the Airbnb. I took my pups on a trip recently and here are some tips on how to find the perfect dog friendly home away from home:

Step 1: Check the Airbnb Pet Policy

Before you book a place, it's important to make sure that it allows dogs. Airbnb's pet policy isn't the same everywhere, so you'll want to check with your host before booking. Some hosts are more dog-friendly than others. And while some will allow housepets in their homes or apartments, others will only agree to host service animals — like guide dogs for blind people — if they're visiting an area with no other options available.

If you have a cat instead of a dog but still want to use Airbnb for your rental needs, the process is still similar: check out our guide on how to find an Airbnb that allows cats!

Step 2: Search for Pet Friendly Listings

Now that you've decided where to go, it's time to look for a place where your pup can come along. For this task, we'll be using the Airbnb app on your smartphone or computer. As a reminder: The first thing you should always do when booking any accommodation is check the Airbnb Pet Policy! There may be some restrictions on size and breed of pets allowed at each listing, so it's important that you know these before booking anything.

Next up: Searching for Dog Friendly Listings In Your Destination City. This step can be pretty easy if there aren't too many listings in your destination area—but if demand is high enough or supply low enough (or both), this might take some time! If all else fails and there are no pet friendly places available within walking distance from where you'll be staying while traveling with your dog(s), consider looking into whether other accommodations near there allow dogs as well—they might not have been searching specifically for such things since they don't own pets themselves but would still be happy to accommodate yours upon request (and/or with an extra fee).

Step 3: Narrow Down Your List

With your search results, you want to narrow down your list. In this step, you will see how many listings are dog friendly and where they allow pets. You can also check if there’s a pet fee or deposit required for your furry friend. If a listing shows that it accepts pets but does not have a photo of an animal in the photos section or doesn’t mention anything about dogs at all, that could be an indication that the host isn’t really looking for someone with a four-legged companion. In this case, try another listing!

Step 4: Connect with the Host

On this screen, you can ask the host any questions you have about the Airbnb. Ask if they're available to answer any questions via text or email before your stay. You should also ask how many other people will be staying at their Airbnb and whether they have a dog. If they do, ask if they have a pet policy in place (should something happen) and if there's any additional cleaning required after your pooch visits.

Step 5: Pack What You Need to Travel with Pets

Pack What You Need to Travel with Pets

Dogs are more than just beloved companions, they're also your travel partners! And traveling with a dog is almost always easier than without one. Before you leave home, make sure to pack the following items:

A leash and collar
Food bowls (one for dry food, one for water)
Toys (make sure they are safe for your pet)
A crate or carrier that can be easily transported in the car or on an airplane (if you have an especially active pup who needs something more secure than a cardboard box)

Searching for a dog friendly Airbnb can be time consuming but it is worth it to find a welcoming space.

Searching for a dog friendly Airbnb can be time consuming, but it is worth it to find a welcoming space. An Airbnb that welcomes pets is an investment in you and your pet's happiness. You will never have to worry about them being left behind at home when you travel with your dog, or worse yet, stuck in a kennel while you are away.

The benefits of finding a dog friendly Airbnb include:

Doggie companionship when traveling with friends or family who do not own pets. Your canine friend will provide company as well as entertainment during down time at the apartment or vacation home.
Pet care services allowed at some locations so that if your pet gets sick or injured during your stay there will be someone available to care for him/her 24/7 (assuming this service is offered).

Conclusion

Whether you’re traveling with your dog for work or pleasure, it is important to find a place that will welcome them. When searching for an Airbnb with pet-friendly amenities and policies, there are five steps you can follow: 1) Check the Airbnb Pet Policy 2) Search for Pet Friendly Listings 3) Narrow Down Your List 4) Connect with the Host 5) Pack What You Need to Travel with Pets.