I remember the first time I planned a trip with my dog. I felt a massive amount of stress. I worried about the hotel. I worried about the flight. I worried about the rules. However, I soon learned that travel with a pet is the best way to see the world. In 2026, the world is more open than ever before. Pups are family now.
They are not just tagalongs. I have spent years looking for the best Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals & Apartments. I want to share my secrets with you. This is a guide for the person who loves to travel but refuses to leave their best friend behind.
First of all, let us look at the numbers. They are truly shocking. About 66% of households in the U.S. now own at least one pet. That is a lot of furry family members.
However, only 57% of apartment listings are marked as pet-friendly. This gap is a big problem for us. On top of that, demand is sky-high. Properties that allow pets lease about 8 to 10 days faster in places like Austin. People are desperate for a place where their dog is a Welcome pet. I found that the market is finally catching up. In 2025, 78% of pet owners traveled with their animals. Compare that to only 45% in 2019. The shift is real.
I also noticed that Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals & Apartments earn much more money. They are not just “pets allowed.” They are a smart business. These rentals have an occupancy rate of 54% compared to 48% for those that ban animals. The average daily rate is higher too.
You might pay $379 per night for a pet-friendly spot, while a traditional one costs $346. Therefore, hosts have a 24% revenue advantage. It is smart for them and great for us.
Choosing the Right Platform
When I start my search, I usually look at two main sites. These are Airbnb and Vrbo. Both are good. However, they are very different. I found that Airbnb has a huge inventory.
They have 7.7 million listings. You can find anything there. I have seen tiny rooms and even huge castles. Additionally, they allow shared spaces. This is great if you want to save money. Though, the fees on Airbnb have increased a lot lately.
On the contrary, Vrbo is better for traditional family vacations. They only list whole homes. You do not have to share a kitchen with a stranger. I find that Vrbo is more user-friendly for us. They have a prominent “pets allowed” filter on the front page. On Airbnb, that filter is buried deep in the menus.
Plus, Vrbo often has lower fees. I once saved $300 by booking the same house on Vrbo instead of Airbnb. My pro tip? Search on Airbnb to see all the choices. Later, look for the same house on Vrbo to get a better price.
If you want something very specific, I suggest using Pet-friendly io. This is a PetFriendly marketplace that covers the whole USA. I love it because I can filter for fenced yards and hardwood floors. It makes Booking pet-friendly stays so much easier. You do not have to guess if the yard is safe.
The 10 Best Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals & Apartments
Here are my top picks. These places do not just “tolerate” pets. They celebrate them.
1. Cypress at Trinity Groves – Dallas, TX
This place is a dream for people who hate breed rules. They have no breed restrictions. First of all, that is very rare in a big city. The rent starts at about $1,467. I loved the signature amenities here. They have a full dog park and a dog wash station. I could let my dog run and then clean him up right away. “By far the best pet-friendly property in Dallas,” says resident Melanie A.. It is close to great restaurants too.
2. Ethos – Austin, TX
If your dog has a lot of energy, go to Ethos. It sits on a private five-acre park. It actually has two different dog parks. The rent starts at $1,103. I walked the trails every morning. It felt like a nature retreat. Additionally, the environment is very clean. It is one of those perfect Kid-friendly vacation rentals that also treats dogs like gold.
3. Blue Maple Cabins – Virginia & West Virginia
I found these cabins to be perfect for a quiet weekend. They are located in very scenic spots. Many of them have fenced yards and private wooded areas. I sat on the screened porch and watched my dog sniff the forest air. On top of that, they are close to pet-friendly wineries. It is a great spot to “unplug.”
4. Gables Cherry Creek – Denver, CO
This is for the person who wants a bit of luxury. It has a glass-enclosed grooming spa. I felt so fancy taking my dog there. The starting rent is $1,729. The pool has a great view of the city. Similarly, the local neighborhood is very walkable. It is a mix of high-end life and pet-first design.
5. Ovation – Seattle, WA
Ovation is a high-rise that understands dogs. They have two dedicated pet lounges and a grooming center. I loved the rooftop deck with grassy patches. My dog did not even miss having a backyard. The rent starts at $2,246. “The team is ALWAYS timely in cleaning up,” says one happy resident. Therefore, you do not have to worry about a messy building.
6. San Diego Vacation Rentals – San Diego, CA
San Diego is the #1 place for dogs in my book. These rentals are near the Ocean Beach Dog Beach. I watched my dog chase waves without a leash. It was pure joy. Many of these homes have private patios and fenced yards. Gradually, I realized that the whole city is a pet playground. You will see dogs on surfboards there.
7. Banyan on Washington – Phoenix, AZ
Desert living can be hot. However, this place has smart thermostats to keep your pet cool. It has a fenced dog park and is near a great walking path along the canal. The rent starts at $1,450. I met so many other dog owners here. It feels like a real community.
8. Morningside Courts – Atlanta, GA
This spot is in the green Ansley Park area. It is very quiet. I loved the shady sidewalks for afternoon walks. The rent is a bit lower, starting at $1,355. It is close to local groomers and pet shops. Plus, the maintenance team is very quick. It is a solid, charming choice.
9. Luxe Haus – Deer Valley, UT
For a winter trip, I choose Luxe Haus. They have mountain chalets and modern townhomes. They offer a concierge service that can arrange dog walking and grooming. I hit the ski slopes while my dog was pampered. Additionally, many homes have private outdoor spaces. It is the ultimate luxury for a “multispecies family.”
10. Haven – Kansas City, MO
Haven has one of the largest off-leash parks I have ever seen. It feels like a country estate. The rent is very affordable, starting at only $865. I appreciated the recent upgrades like stainless steel appliances. Finally, it is a stress-free setup for any pet parent on a budget.
What to Look For Beyond “Pets Allowed”
I have made mistakes before. I once booked a place that said it was pet-friendly, but it had no grass. A simple checkbox is not enough. First of all, check the outdoor space. A fenced yard is the gold standard. It gives you peace of mind. You can let the dog out for a “potty break” without a leash.
On top of that, look at the floors. I prefer a mix of rugs and hard floors. Tile and luxury vinyl are much easier to clean. Carpet can hold smells and stains.
Read the fine print too. Some places charge a “pet fee” that is not refundable. Others charge “pet rent” every month. I have seen fees range from $100 to $400. However, if you have an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), the rules are different. Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), ESAs are not pets.
Landlords cannot charge you pet fees or deposits for them. You may need a letter from a mental health professional to prove your need. Therefore, always have your paperwork ready.
I also look for “pet-inclusive” places. This means they do not have arbitrary breed or weight limits. Many places ban “aggressive breeds” like Pit Bulls or Rottweilers. I find this unfair.
Fortunately, things are changing. In D.C., Roscoe’s Law will soon ban these breed and size limits in pet-friendly rentals. Gradually, the legal system is recognizing that dogs are individuals.
Planning and Packing for the Big Trip
Travel takes work. I start planning at least two to three months in advance for popular spots. First of all, I get a vet checkup.
I make sure vaccinations are up to date. I always carry a recent photo of my dog too. If we get separated, a photo is a lifesaver. Additionally, I update the ID tags with my new address or phone number.
My packing list is long. I bring the basics like food, water, and bowls. On top of that, I pack a first aid kit. I include gauze, tape, and a thermometer.
I also bring a “pet resume.” This is a document that shows my dog is well-behaved. It includes his age, breed, and training certificates. It helps me prove to landlords that I am a responsible owner.
I also bring familiar items. A favorite toy or a blanket that smells like home helps reduce stress. I once brought a Pupsicle from Woof to keep my dog busy during a long drive. It was a great distraction. Finally, I check for a 24-hour vet near my rental. It is better to be safe.
Living by the Rules
I want to keep these rentals open for everyone. Therefore, I follow the rules strictly. I keep my dog off the furniture if the host asks. I always clean up waste immediately. I also try to keep my dog from barking too much. Plus, I never leave him alone for too long. A lonely dog is often a loud or destructive dog.
I have found that being a good guest makes hosts happy. They are more likely to Welcome pet travelers in the future. I often leave a nice note about the pet amenities. I want them to know that I appreciate the dog bowls or the fenced yard. Similarly, I give honest reviews about the pet experience. This helps other travelers find the best spots.
Traveling with a dog is like bringing a piece of home with you on the road; it makes every sunset brighter and every trail more exciting. [i]
- 66% of U.S. households own a pet.
- 57% of listings allow pets.
- 54% occupancy for pet-friendly rentals vs 48% for others.
- $379 average daily rate for pet-friendly vs $346 for others.
- 24% revenue advantage for pet-friendly properties.
- 8 to 10 days faster leasing for pet-friendly units.
- 15% cap on pet security deposits under Roscoe’s Law.
- 1% cap on pet rent under Roscoe’s Law.
FAQ
Can I negotiate pet fees with a landlord?
Yes, You should act like a pro. You can show past landlord references or proof of pet insurance. Offer to sign a longer lease to get a lower price.
Do Emotional Support Animals count as pets?
No. They are assistance animals. Landlords cannot charge you pet rent or pet deposits for an ESA under the Fair Housing Act.
What is the difference between an ESA and a service animal?
Service animals have training for specific tasks. ESAs provide comfort for mental health but do not have task training. Both are different from traditional pets.
How can I make an “airline compliant” crate safe for cargo?
Most crates need extra work. You should use wire mesh on vents to make them nose and paw proof. Use metal nuts and bolts to secure the top and bottom.
Does the law stop landlords from banning specific dog breeds?
Many places still have bans. However, new rules like Roscoe’s Law in D.C. will ban breed and size limits in 2026. You should always check local rules before you travel.
Is it better to book through a third-party site or a management company?
Booking direct is best. You can save hundreds of dollars in fees. Sites like Airbnb often cost more for the same house.
What happens if my pet causes damage to a rental?
You are responsible for the cost of repairs. The landlord can take the money from your security deposit. Standard security deposits still apply to everyone.
Concluding Worlds
Gradually, the world of travel has become a better place for our furry friends. You can now find the best Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals & Apartments in amazing cities. These 10 spots prove that luxury and pets go together. However, you must plan well and check the fine print on fees.
Use sites like Pet-friendly io to find Kid-friendly vacation rentals that also Welcome pet guests. You save money when you choose Booking pet-friendly stays directly. It is a win for your wallet and your dog. Therefore, grab the leash and start your next tour. Simple as that.
