Dog-Friendly Hotels in the UK Are Driving Big Gains: Higher Occupancy, More Spending, and Loyal Customers

Published on October 11, 2025

Traveling with pets, especially dogs, has become an essential consideration for many travelers. As more people bring their pets along on their adventures, the hospitality industry has had to adapt. Hotels are increasingly embracing the demand for dog-friendly accommodations, recognizing the financial benefits while providing pet owners with a smoother travel experience. A new research report from Roch Dog, titled The Business Case for Dog-Friendly Hospitality, highlights the significant advantages hotels experience when they cater to travelers with dogs. From higher occupancy rates to increased guest spending and loyalty, the report shows how dog-friendly hotels are capitalizing on this growing trend.

Higher Occupancy and Revenue Potential for Dog-Friendly Hotels

According to the report, hotels that welcome dogs experience occupancy rates that are 15 to 20 percent higher than those that do not. This is a clear indication that dog-owning travelers are actively seeking out accommodations that allow their pets to stay with them, and they are willing to pay for the privilege. This increased demand for dog-friendly options opens up new revenue streams for hotels, as more guests book stays where they can bring their pets along.

For pet owners, this trend is a game-changer, offering more choices for accommodations, especially when traveling with dogs. Hotels that are dog-friendly make it easier for families, business travelers, and tourists to plan trips with their pets without the stress of finding last-minute pet-sitting or kennel arrangements.

More Spending by Pet-Traveling Guests

The Roch Dog report also found that guests traveling with dogs tend to spend significantly more during their stay. These pet owners spend about 30 percent more on amenities such as food, beverages, spa treatments, and retail, mainly because they are reluctant to leave their dogs unattended. This behavior leads them to explore more hotel amenities together with their pets.

For pet owners, this means more opportunities to enjoy hotel services with their dogs, making their stay more enjoyable and convenient. From pet-friendly dining options to on-site dog spas, having these services available not only enhances the travel experience but also encourages pet owners to spend more on hotel amenities. Hotels that recognize the needs of pet owners can offer these services to enhance the stay, making it a profitable decision for both parties.

Longer Stays and Increased Loyalty

The report also highlights that dog-owning guests tend to stay longer than other travelers. On average, pet-owning guests stay 2.56 nights, compared to just 2.1 nights for non-dog travelers. This extended stay means guests are using more of the hotel’s amenities, further increasing revenue potential for the property.

For pet owners, the ability to stay longer without worrying about their dogs is a huge benefit. Instead of rushing through their trip, travelers with pets can enjoy a more relaxed experience, knowing their pets are comfortable and taken care of. This extended length of stay also translates to a better overall experience for pet owners, making them more likely to return to these dog-friendly hotels in the future.

One of the most appealing aspects of staying in a dog-friendly hotel is the loyalty it builds. The research found that about 76 percent of pet-owning guests return to dog-friendly hotels, which is more than double the typical loyalty rate in the hospitality industry. This strong loyalty is a direct result of the positive experiences pet owners have when staying in these accommodations, and it signals that the pet-friendly trend is not just a passing phase but a long-term business strategy.

Specialized Pet Services Enhance Guest Satisfaction

In addition to the basic accommodations for pets, many hotels are now offering specialized pet services. These include dog grooming, dog-sitting, and unique experiences such as dog massages, dog yoga, and even dog surfing lessons. These specialized services not only enhance the guest experience but also contribute significantly to the hotel’s bottom line, with some hotels seeing an additional 5 to 8 percent of total revenue from these offerings.

For pet owners, these services create a memorable travel experience, adding extra joy to the trip. The convenience of having pet-related services on-site means they don’t have to make extra arrangements for their dogs, and they can fully enjoy the amenities of the hotel without worry. These unique offerings also make the stay more enjoyable, with many dog owners eager to share their experiences on social media, offering free publicity for the hotel.

Importance of Staff Training and Clear Pet Policies

While pet-friendly amenities and services are key to success, proper staff training is essential in maintaining a smooth and enjoyable experience for both guests and hotel staff. Hotels must ensure that their team is well-prepared to handle pet-related requests, from in-room amenities for dogs to managing specific needs or concerns.

Hotels that invest in training their staff to be accommodating to dog owners can significantly enhance the guest experience. Additionally, establishing clear pet policies is crucial in avoiding any misunderstandings. These policies should address pet fees, cleanliness standards, and the hotel’s expectations regarding pet behavior, ensuring that both pet owners and non-pet owners are satisfied with their stay.

A Growing Trend in the Hospitality Industry

The demand for dog-friendly accommodations is only expected to grow, and hotels that are slow to embrace this trend may find themselves falling behind. With nearly half of urban hotels already welcoming dogs and more than 60 percent of hotels in leisure travel markets offering dog-friendly amenities, the future of pet-friendly hospitality is bright.

The increasing number of pet-owning households—70 percent of U.S. households own pets, with 78 percent of dog owners traveling with their dogs—makes it clear that this segment of the market is not a niche but a rapidly growing sector of the travel industry. Hotels that adopt comprehensive dog-friendly programs early on can build a strong market position, taking advantage of the growing demand for pet-friendly accommodations.

Conclusion

The research from Roch Dog highlights the growing importance of dog-friendly hospitality for both hotels and pet-owning travelers. By offering enhanced accommodations, specialized pet services, and a welcoming environment for dogs, hotels can increase occupancy, boost revenue, and foster loyal customers. For pet owners, the rise of dog-friendly hotels means more travel options that cater to their pets’ needs, allowing them to enjoy a relaxing and enjoyable vacation without leaving their dogs behind. As the demand for pet-friendly travel continues to grow, hotels that invest in comprehensive dog-friendly programs will reap the benefits of this booming market.

[Source: EIN Presswire]