Should You Allow Pets in Your Airbnb? How the Right Pet Policy Can Boost Bookings (or Break Them)

Every Host Faces the “Pets or No Pets?” Dilemma

If you’ve been hosting on Airbnb for a while, you’ve probably received this message:

“Hi! We love your listing — would it be okay to bring our dog, Max? He’s super well-behaved!”

And there it is — the great Airbnb host dilemma.

You stare at your screen, torn between saying yes (because you don’t want to lose a booking) and no (because you can already picture muddy paw prints on your white sofa).

Most hosts have been there.

So let’s talk honestly about it — the real-life ups and downs of having a pet-friendly Airbnb. Whether you’re thinking of switching your policy or just curious what other hosts experience, this guide lays out the true pros and cons of allowing pets, so you can make a decision that feels right for you and your space.

Why So Many Guests Want Pet-Friendly Airbnbs

It’s no secret — people love their pets. For many guests, leaving their dog behind feels like leaving a family member behind.

According to Airbnb, listings that allow pets often get 20–30% more bookings than those that don’t. That’s not a small number — that’s a full extra weekend each month, possibly more.

So if your calendar’s been a little quiet, allowing pets could be the boost your property needs.

But before you rush to buy dog bowls and treats, let’s break down both sides of the story.

The Pros of Allowing Pets in Your Airbnb

1. You’ll Attract More Guests (and More Loyal Ones)

Pet-friendly listings appear in more search results and appeal to travelers who often plan their entire trip around their pet.

When guests find a host who welcomes their furry family member, they tend to stick around — both figuratively and literally. Pet owners are some of the most loyal repeat customers in the short-term rental world.

2. You Can Charge Extra — Without the Guilt

Let’s be honest — extra cleaning, extra hair, and extra wear all mean extra work. But it also means extra income.

Most pet-friendly hosts add a pet fee ($25–$100 per stay), and travelers rarely hesitate to pay it. To them, it’s a small price for peace of mind.

You can also gently raise your nightly rate if your space caters to pet owners with things like a fenced yard, washable furniture, or outdoor lounging space.

3. It Adds a Human (and Emotional) Touch

Guests love when a host “gets it.”

When you show empathy — by providing a small water bowl, a pet towel, or a little welcome note like “We’re happy to host your best friend, too!” — guests feel seen and cared for.

Those thoughtful gestures often translate into 5-star reviews that mention words like “warm,” “understanding,” and “homey.”

And those reviews? They’re gold for your business.

4. You’ll Stand Out in Crowded Markets

If you’re in a busy area with dozens of similar listings, having a pet-friendly Airbnb can help you rise above the noise — literally.

While other hosts are competing on price or décor, you’re offering something more emotional: inclusion.

The Cons of Allowing Pets (and the Honest Realities)

Okay, now for the part every seasoned host will nod along to…

1. The Mess and the Smells

No matter how adorable they are, pets shed, drool, and sometimes have accidents. You’ll find fur in places you didn’t even know existed.

Even “non-shedding” breeds somehow manage to leave traces. And trust me, the nose of a future guest will pick up what your cleaning spray misses.

That means more laundry, extra vacuuming, and sometimes professional cleaning after long stays.

2. Damage Happens (Even When Owners Swear It Won’t)

Chewed chair legs. Scratched doors. A mysterious stain that “wasn’t there before.”

It happens. Pets are unpredictable, and not every owner is as responsible as they claim.

To minimize this risk, I always suggest sticking to durable materials — think weather-resistant outdoor furniture, machine-washable slipcovers, and sealed wood finishes. (You’ll find great options like that on Optimal Outdoor Oasis, by the way.)

3. Allergy and Odor Sensitivity

Even a perfectly clean rental can cause allergy flare-ups for sensitive guests. That means if you do allow pets, you’ll need to go the extra mile with HEPA filters, air purifiers, and deep cleans between stays.

4. Noise Complaints

You know what neighbors love? Barking. At 2 a.m.

If your Airbnb has shared walls or nearby properties, you’ll want to think carefully before allowing pets. Noise complaints can lead to bad reviews or strained neighbor relationships.

5. More Rules (and Potential Liability)

Hosting pets means writing a whole new rulebook.

You’ll need to be clear about:

• The number and size of pets allowed.
  
• Cleaning fees and deposits.
  
• No unattended pets.
  
• No pets on furniture or beds.
  

And remember — Airbnb’s Host Guarantee doesn’t cover pet damage, so you may want extra insurance if you decide to open your doors to furry guests.

How to Decide What’s Right for Your Rental

Let’s simplify it. Here’s a quick way to gauge what might work for you:

It’s all about balance — what you’re comfortable managing and what fits your property’s vibe.

If You Do Go Pet-Friendly, Do It Smart

Here’s how to make it work without losing your sanity (or your sofa):

1. Create a Pet Welcome Basket

Include:

• A washable mat or towel
  
• A small bowl
  
• Waste bags
  
• Local vet or dog park info
  

Guests will love it — and your reviews will show it.

2. Use Pet-Proof Décor

Opt for outdoor furniture that’s easy to clean and resistant to scratches or stains.
Brands like Optimal Outdoor Oasis offer weatherproof fire tables and furniture perfect for hosts who want to balance comfort with practicality.

3. Add Clear Rules to Your Listing

Keep it friendly but firm:

“We love pets! Please keep them off the furniture, and don’t leave them unattended indoors.”

This shows guests that you’re open, but also professional.

4. Collect a Pet Fee or Deposit

It’s not rude — it’s responsible. You can frame it as a cleaning fee to ensure the space stays spotless for all guests.

When to Say “No” to Pets

Even though pet-friendly hosting has perks, it’s okay to say no. In fact, sometimes it’s the smarter move.

If your property is high-maintenance, filled with fragile décor, or managed remotely without a cleaning team, enforcing pet rules can become a nightmare.

Your peace of mind matters, too. A host who feels anxious about pet messes won’t create the relaxed atmosphere guests love.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Pets — It’s About People

Here’s the truth — there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the “should I allow pets?” question.

The best Airbnb pet policy is the one that aligns with your hosting style, your space, and your boundaries.

If you love animals, have durable furniture, and want to reach a wider audience, go for it.
If you’d rather keep things simple and stress-free, that’s perfectly fine too.

Either way, it’s your business — and you get to decide what kind of experience you want to create.

At Optimal Outdoor Oasis, we believe in helping hosts create spaces that work for real life — where guests (and sometimes their pets) feel right at home.

Because whether your guests arrive on two feet or four paws, comfort is always worth designing for.