Does Best Western Allow Dogs in 2026? Pet Policy & Safety Tips

Finding dog-friendly accommodations can be quite challenging when traveling. Yet, some hotel chains like Best Western do allow visitors to stay with their dogs while on holiday. Indeed, pets are welcome in several of these hotel chains, but the right to admission will depend on hotel management.

Read on to learn more about the Best Western Pet Policy and tips to ensure you and your furry friend have a wonderful experience while at Great Western Hotels.

About Best Western

Started in 1946, Best Western Hotels and Resorts feature over 4,500 independently owned hotels spread out over the world.¹ It is considered a moderately priced hotel chain committed to providing value, superior customer service, and modern amenities.

While staying at Best Western, you will enjoy comfortable accommodations, contemporary-style rooms, and convenient amenities, including in-room beverages, free WI-FI, and complimentary breakfast in most locations.

With several locations and diverse pricing, Best Western hotels are the ideal place for you and your furry friend to stay while on road trips, extended vacations, and weekend getaways. All dog owners receive the same value, quality, and high standards that the hotels are popular for. However, there's a small surcharge per pet, which is highlighted on their website.

Note that all the individual dog-friendly hotels housed under the “Best Western” banner feature different pet policies that tend to fall within a very narrow range.

Generally, the hotel chain receives 5 stars for their pet friendliness, 4 stars for general value, and 4 stars for human friendliness. Visitors usually praise the hotel for comfort and cleanliness. They also like how well their pets are received by the staff.

Best Western Pet Policy

Pet-friendly Best Western hotels will allow up to two domesticated dogs per rented room. However, each dog should weigh at least 80 pounds.

Apart from dogs, other pets allowed include birds, cats, monkeys, snakes, and other small animals. However, you may require prior approval before taking your pet to the premises.

There is a charge of at least $30 per day for every room with one or multiple pets and at least $150 per week. The hotel also requires a damage deposit of $150 per stay for every visitor traveling with a pet, which is refundable. Some pet-friendly versions of the hotel also offer dedicated areas to walk your dog, waste facilities, as well as recommendations on pet-friendly stores, parks, and even restaurants.

However, since Best Western features different pet policies, it is wise to look at the individual hotel you wish to stay at to find out their specific pet policy to avoid surprises upon arrival. Many of the popular Best Western Hotels usually indicate that “pets are accepted “on their main website, but they never offer any details.

Tips to Keep Your Pet Healthy & Safe

1. Prepare for Your Trip

Visit your local veterinary officer for health certificates and any other proof of medication and necessary shots that your pet may need. If you're traveling via plane, your health certificates should be issued at least 10 days before your trip.

Furthermore, ensure that your pet has a proper ID with a current ID tag and a collar.

2. Park Smart

Before you start your trip, pack all the pet-friendly necessities.

3. Playtime

As soon as you arrive, take your pet for a long walk to drain their energy, stretch their limbs and enjoy the premises. Make sure your pet gets comfortable in the new environment.

Some Best Western Hotels often provide their customers with treats and new blankets to make sure that your pet feels right at home within the hotel environment.

4. Do Not Leave Your Dog Unattended in a Hotel Room

Most hotels usually have strict policies when it comes to pets. Leaving your dog alone in a hotel room can result in hefty fines or even eviction. Moreover, leaving your pet unattended in a strange environment can be quite stressful and dangerous for your furry companions.

If at all you leave your pet unattended, ensure that they have access to water, food, and toys to keep their minds mentally stimulated. You should also ensure that the room is safe and secure and that your pet cannot escape. Most importantly, make sure that the hotel staff is comfortable with you leaving your pet unattended in your room.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for an overnight stay in a pet-friendly hotel, Best Western is a solid choice. These hotel chains are well known for their modest fees and welcoming hospitality. They also offer a good combination of comfort, value, and location for the weary traveler accompanied by his/her dog.

However, since these hotel chains are independently owned, there is no general pet policy that applies to all the Best Western Branded properties. Some locations will allow one or two dogs at a fee, which varies by the hotel. Also, some of the Best Western branches will allow other small pets, such as birds and cats.

Either way, you shouldn’t assume that all Best Western hotels will accommodate your pets. It's best to call in advance and inquire about their specific pet policies.

• See Also: Does Motel 6 Allow Dogs? A Complete Guide

Featured Image Credit: Best-Western-Hotel-Sakae-Nagoya (Image Credit: HQA02330, Wikimedia Commons CC 4.0 International)