Paws, Play & Pampering: The Best Dog-Friendly Resorts in the U.S. (Where Dogs Are Treated Like VIPs)

Traveling with your dog can be one of the best bonding experiences out there -if you choose the right place to stay. A truly dog-friendly resort doesn’t just allow pets; it welcomes them, spoils them, and gives them room to be dogs.

Let’s be honest: if you’re planning to leave your pup alone in an unfamiliar hotel room most of the day, you might want to rethink bringing them along. But if your dog is part of the adventure, these dog-friendly resorts across the U.S. go all in- with plush beds, gourmet treats, trails to explore, and amenities that make tails wag.

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Here are some of the best dog-friendly resorts in the United States, where pets aren’t an afterthought- they’re honored guests.

 Resort at Paws Up – Greenough, Montana

If the name didn’t give it away, this place is serious about dogs.

For about $50 per night, your pup gets what they call “the last best doggie bed,” plus bowls, tennis balls, locally made treats, and even a welcome card from the owner’s dog, Coco (yes, really).

Set on 37,000 acres of Montana wilderness, Paws Up offers luxury homes and upscale glamping. Dogs can roam open pastures, hike miles of trails with you, and relax fireside in rustic-chic accommodations. This is one of the best dog resorts in the U.S. for outdoor-loving pups.

 San Ysidro Ranch – Montecito, California

San Ysidro Ranch is an ultra-luxury resort that proves glitz and dogs can mix.

Through its Pampered Pet Program, dogs are welcomed into select vine-covered cottages with plush bedding, branded designer toys, homemade treats and a room-service menu just for pets all for a one-time per stay $250 pet fee. Upon arrival, dogs even get to grab a welcome cookie from the front desk, because why shouldn’t they? 

Feeling extra indulgent? Book the 30-minute professional dog massage at the spa. Couples massage but with a canine twist.

Pro Tip: Be sure to bring some of your pup’s favorite food from home to assure they don’t get an upset stomach from too much unfamiliar food. We use this travel bag that comes with everything you need to store food and extras you may need.

Stanford Inn by the Sea – Mendocino, California

Eco-friendly, peaceful, and incredibly pet-welcoming.

Located on the rugged Mendocino Coast, this wellness-focused resort provides dog beds, bowls, and organic treats. You’ll find dog-friendly beaches and trails nearby, plus pet-friendly dining so your pup can stay by your side. There is a $45.00 charge per stay, for the first pet. Additional pets are $22.50.

Stanford Inn by the Sea is perfect for travelers who love sustainability, coastal views, and dogs who enjoy long sniff walks.

 Carmel Valley Ranch – Carmel, California

Carmel Valley Ranch doesn’t just allow dogs, it celebrates them.

At Carmel Valley Ranch dogs receive ceramic bowls, treats, bottled water, and a memory foam bed. Upgrade to the Playful Pup Package and get a designer leash, toy, and access to dog room service. Yes, that’s a thing here. The pet fee for all pet owners is $195 per pet. The Playful Pup Package is an additional $80.

With 500 acres of vineyards, lavender fields, and hiking trails, this is paradise for active dogs and their humans.

Pro Tip: Always keep your dog on a leash in unfamiliar open areas, just in case they get tempted to take off after a squirrel. We use this 16 ft. retractable leash, so they have some freedom but still close to us.

 Carneros Resort & Spa – Napa, California

Wine country meets dog country.

Carneros Resort welcomes pups to enjoy this 28 acrea resort.Guests can book private cottages with fenced yards, walking paths, and access to Kelso’s Dog Park for off-leash play. Dogs receive beds, bowls, toys, treats, leashes, paw wipes, and waste bags. They allow 2 pets of any size or weight. There is a $150 per pet cleaning fee.

Bonus: Dogs can even ride along in a pet trailer attached to Carneros bikes that you can rent.

 L’Auberge de Sedona – Sedona, Arizona

Creekside cottages, red rock views, and dogs welcome everywhere that matters.

L’Auberge welcomes pets in a limited number of cabins. Dogs receive beds, bowls, treats, and waste bags, plus access to walking trails along Oak Creek. The on-site restaurant, Cress, even offers pet-friendly patio dining. There is an overnight fee of $100 per pet per day.

And there’s even a pet psychic at the spa. Judge if you want. Your dog will not. Sedona is an extremely dog-friendly town where you will find many fun activities to do with your pup.

Read more: Dog-Friendly Sedona, AZ: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Sedona with Your Dog

 Mountain Shadows Resort – Scottsdale, Arizona

Mid-century vibes meet desert luxury and pets stay free.

Mountain Shadows allows pets of any size with no fee. Dogs are welcome in all guest rooms and select residences with private patios. Amenities include dog beds, bowls, bottled water, and waste bags, all with Camelback Mountain views in the background. There is plenty of space to walk around with your pup and you can take them to some of the restaurant patios.

Definitely pet-inclusive.

 Lake Austin Spa Resort – Austin, Texas

A wellness retreat that doesn’t leave your dog behind.

This lakeside resort offers pet-friendly accommodations, walking trails, and outdoor spaces perfect for exploring together. Dogs receive beds, bowls, and treats. You can even paddleboard together! Lake Austin resort even has life jackets for your pup.

Dogs are allowed to join in all outdoor activities but can’t go indoors for activities. The pet fee is $300 per stay.

 Inn by the Sea – Cape Elizabeth, Maine

If your dog loves the beach, this one is hard to beat.

Overlooking Maine’s coastline, Inn by the Sea offers direct access to dog-friendly beaches, plus pet dining options and grooming services. Expansive gardens and walking paths make it easy to start every morning with a seaside stroll.

The best part is there is no pet fee and all size dogs are welcome!

Pro Tip: We always bring this quick dry microfiber towel with us when we are going to be near water to help our pups get dry quicker when it’s chilly outside.

 Topnotch Resort – Stowe, Vermont

Green mountains, fresh air, and endless walkability, this what you’ll find at Topnotch Resort.

Dogs receive welcome kits with beds, bowls, and treats. Your pup will even get its own Topnotch bandana. Nearby trails and the Stowe Recreation Path provide miles of scenic exploring, and dog-walking services are available if you want a little solo time.

There is a $100 fee per night with no size restrictions. They allow 2 pets of any size.

 Wequassett Resort & Golf Club – Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Classic New England charm with plenty of space for dogs is what you’ll find at Wequassett.

This five-star resort offers plush pet beds, gourmet treats, and concierge services for grooming and playtime. Coastal cottages with private terraces make this an excellent option for families traveling with pets. Pups are allowed to enjoy all outdoor areas except the pool. You can walk around the grounds and along the bay.

Pets must weigh under 90 lbs.and must be on a leash. A nightly fee of $100 applies during spring, fall, and winter; $200 from Memorial Day to September 30.

 Scribner’s Catskill Lodge – Catskill, New York

A quick escape from New York City that’s big on dog hospitality.

Through the “Pupstater” program, dogs receive bandanas, toys, treats, bowls, and waste bags. Scribner’s is refreshingly transparent with its pet policies, helping ensure a smooth stay for everyone. Hike the many trails or just hang with your pup, either way your pup will approve of this getaway.

Scribner’s welcomes well behaved dogs into their Pupstater Program for a $100 nonrefundable fee per stay, per room, per dog, for up to two dogs. There are no size restrictions.

Tips for Choosing the Best Dog-Friendly Resort

Before booking your trip, keep these things in mind:

-Look beyond “pet-friendly” and seek resorts with dog-specific amenities

-Confirm pet fees, size limits, and all pet policies

-Check for nearby trails, beaches, or parks that allow dogs

-Read reviews from fellow dog travelers, sometimes even with great amenities it’s not as great as it sounds.

– Pack essentials like your dog’s favorite toys, food, and a leash to make their stay more enjoyable

Final Thoughts

Traveling with dogs is more popular than ever- and thankfully, resorts are stepping up. From gourmet dog menus to creekside trails and designer dog beds, these resorts prove you don’t have to choose between comfort and companionship.

Because the best trips are the ones where no one gets left behind, especially the one with four legs and unconditional love.

We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your next trip with your pup. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.