Today, nearly 4 million Aussie households have a dog living under their roof. With road trips and local travel on the rise and the whole of Australia to explore, why not bring your four-legged friend along for the ride?
Whether you’re looking for a country retreat, a seaside escape or a city break with your best bud, these dog friendly hotels will tick all your boxes.
Spicers Balfour Hotel, Brisbane QLD
Taking your pup on an urban escape? In Brisbane’s trendy suburb of New Farm, Spicers Balfour Hotel offers a ‘Pooch Package’ where dogs can sleep soundly on the plushest of dog beds, go for a wander with a stylish lead equipped with doggy bags, and dive into dinner in a special Spicers food bowl (just in case you leave yours at home). This fabulous dog friendly hotel is located just a short walk from New Farm Dog Park (sometimes referred to as Powerhouse Park) with stunning river views and loads of space for pooches to roam around.
Find out more: spicersretreats.com
Must Love Dogs B&B, Rutherglen VIC
Consistently voted in the top 25 Bed & Breakfasts in the country’s since opening in 2010, this rural retreat is located in the heart of Victoria;s North East wine region, Rutherglen. Built in 1840, the quaint cottage has been lovingly restored to offer a luxury escape for pets and owners alike. Cosy up by the open fire, enjoy high tea with your fur babies and take a dip in the solar heated pool while your four-legged friends explore the tranquil gardens, all fenced for their safety. You can even book dog-friendly wine tours throughout the Rutherglen region. Ask your hosts when you stay.
Find out more: mustlovedogsbedandbreakfast.com.au
Yondah Beach House, Yorke Peninsula SA
Set on 150 acres and with 2 kilometres of coastline to explore, Yondah is the perfect escape for dogs with energy to burn. This secluded beach retreat sleeps up to 8 guests in a stunning architecturally designed abode overlooking the Yorke Peninsula. The property is fenced on three sides but is open to the coastline, so pups with a tendency to wander should perhaps be kept on a long lead while outside. Pets are welcome inside, just not on the lounges.
Find out more: yondah.com.au
More dog-friendly accommodation around Australia
Planning a trip with your furry friend? Holidays with Dogs and Holiday Paws are two great resources for finding pet-friendly accommodation and things to do around Australia. When browsing platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com and Stayz, you can use the search parameters to narrow the result to show only “pet-friendly” options. Make sure you read through the rules and regs before you book – many hotels and rentals appear to be pet-friendly but do not allows pets inside.
It’s also a good idea to check the council website of the destination you’re travelling to so you can find out which areas of town are dog-friendly and which parts are off limits. And of course, make sure your dog is wearing an ID tag with your up-to-date details just incase they go exploring a little too far and can’t find their way back.
Looking for more dog-friendly holiday inspiration? Why not take a trip to the beach:
