The Pet Friendly Airbnb Checklist: What Every Host Needs to Attract Traveling Pet Owners

More than ever, travelers are packing their bags — and their pets. As the demand for pet friendly Airbnb listings continues to grow, hosts who open their doors to four-legged guests are gaining an edge in a competitive rental market.

Whether you’re new to the idea or already dabbling in Airbnb for pets, one thing’s clear: welcoming pets the right way can lead to more bookings, higher guest satisfaction, and glowing reviews from grateful owners.

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to turn your vacation rental into a true dog-friendly Airbnb, including must-have amenities, safety considerations, outdoor upgrades, and pro tips that make hosting pets easy and rewarding.

Why Going Pet-Friendly Is a Smart Move

Let’s talk numbers. According to Airbnb, searches for pet-friendly listings have increased steadily year over year — especially for longer stays and remote getaways. With over 70% of U.S. households owning pets, it’s no surprise that more guests are looking for accommodations that welcome their furry family members.

Here’s what you gain by marketing your listing as a vacation rental for pet owners:

• Increased visibility: Pet-friendly filters on Airbnb help your listing appear in more searches.
  
• Higher occupancy: Fewer pet-welcoming properties = higher demand for yours.
  
• Longer bookings: Pet owners often travel slower and stay longer.
  
• Repeat guests: Pet-friendly hosts often earn loyalty and referrals from traveling pet parents.
  
• Stronger reviews: Thoughtful touches for pets often lead to standout reviews.
  

By offering a safe, welcoming experience for pets, you’re not just filling a niche — you’re tapping into a loyal, growing traveler segment.

The Pet Friendly Airbnb Essentials Checklist

Becoming a pet-friendly host doesn’t mean sacrificing your space or peace of mind. With a few strategic upgrades, you can create an environment that’s clean, safe, and enjoyable for all.

Here’s your complete Pet Friendly Airbnb Checklist:

1. Clear Pet Policy in Your Listing

Start with transparency. Let potential guests know exactly what your rules are:

• Number or size of pets allowed
  
• Pet fee (if applicable)
  
• Areas where pets are or aren’t allowed (indoors/outdoors)
  
• Local leash laws or nearby dog parks
  

Pro tip: Include pet-friendly language in your title or description like “Bring Your Pup!” or “Spacious Yard for Dogs.”

2. Pet-Friendly Furnishings and Surfaces

Durable, easy-to-clean materials are your friend. Opt for:

• Leather or synthetic sofas over fabric ones
• Area rugs that are washable or stain-resistant
• Flooring like tile, vinyl, or sealed wood instead of carpet
• Removable slipcovers or blankets on furniture
  

This doesn’t mean your space has to look utilitarian. With the right styling, a dog-friendly Airbnb can still feel luxurious.

3. Provide Pet Essentials (and a Few Perks)

Make your guests feel instantly welcomed by providing:

• Food and water bowls
  
• Waste bags and poop scoop
  
• An old towel for drying paws
  
• A lint roller or small vacuum
  
• A basic leash or tie-out cord (especially helpful for campers or hikers)
  

Want to go the extra mile? Include a welcome treat, pet bed, or a list of local dog-friendly restaurants and trails.

4. Create a Pet-Safe Outdoor Space

This is a huge selling point. If you have a yard, deck, or patio, make sure it’s secure and safe for animals.

Things to consider:

• A pet-safe outdoor space should have secure fencing or a tie-out zone.
• Avoid toxic plants (like lilies, sago palm, or azaleas).
• Ensure the gate latches are secure and fences are tall enough for jumpers.
• Shade and water access are a must in hot climates.
  

Bonus points for a grassy area where dogs can play or relieve themselves, especially in urban locations.

5. Easy Cleanup Features

Accidents happen. Make cleanup easier for you and your guests by stocking:

• Pet-safe cleaning spray and towels
  
• Trash bin with a liner near entry
  
• Hose or outdoor shower station for muddy paws
  

You could even install a rinse-off zone outside — especially helpful for properties near the beach or hiking trails.

6. Smart Cleaning Strategy Between Guests

Being pet-friendly means a little more diligence on the back end. Ensure:

• A HEPA filter vacuum or air purifier is used
• Extra lint rolling is done on upholstery
• Pet bedding or supplies are laundered or replaced
• Rugs and curtains are inspected for dander
  

It’s also smart to keep extra items on-hand so you can easily rotate pet towels or slipcovers between guests.

Outdoor Amenities That Make a Big Impact

Outdoor space is often a deciding factor for guests traveling with pets — and can even be the difference between booking your listing or not. Here are a few vacation rental upgrades worth considering:

Shade & Comfort

Dogs overheat quickly, especially in summer. Providing shaded areas with umbrellas, pergolas, or a covered porch helps your space feel more welcoming and safe.

Fenced Play Area

If you have a yard, a small fenced section for off-leash fun can be your biggest draw. Pet parents will love the peace of mind, and dogs will love the freedom.

Durable Outdoor Furniture

Choose outdoor furnishings that won’t get ruined by fur, claws, or the occasional muddy paw. Look for all-weather wicker, polywood, or metal with washable cushions.

Outdoor Rinse Station

An outdoor hose, rinse-off mat, or shower fixture is incredibly helpful for cleaning up sandy, muddy, or post-hike pets. It's also perfect for summer cooling.

Listing Optimization for Pet Owners

Once your rental is pet-friendly, make sure guests can easily find you and understand what you offer.

Update your listing:

• Add “Pet Friendly” or “Dog Friendly” to your title and summary.
• Use keywords like “fenced yard,” “dog-friendly Airbnb,” or “Airbnb for pets.”
• List nearby dog parks, pet stores, or emergency vets in your guidebook.
• Include a few high-quality photos of the pet amenities and outdoor space.
  
  

Handling Pet Guests With Confidence

Some hosts hesitate to allow pets due to concerns about damage or cleanliness. Here are tips to feel more secure:

• Charge a pet fee or a refundable deposit to cover cleaning or potential damage.
• Require guests to agree to pet rules through Airbnb’s message thread or your welcome guide.
• Use checklists for cleaning and inspection, specifically for pet-friendly bookings.
• Consider pet insurance or Airbnb’s AirCover to help mitigate risk.
  

You can also set limits — for example, “up to 2 dogs under 50 lbs” or “no puppies under 12 months.” Clear policies keep expectations aligned and protect your space.

Final Thoughts: Make Pets Part of the Experience

A pet friendly Airbnb isn’t just about tolerance — it’s about making pets and their people feel like welcome guests. With just a few thoughtful upgrades and clear communication, you can create a home-away-from-home that travelers — and their tail-wagging companions — will love.

The result? Better reviews, more loyal guests, and a listing that stands out in a competitive market.

At Optimal Outdoor Oasis, we believe your space should work for everyone — including the four-legged ones. Explore our selection of outdoor furnishings and host-friendly upgrades to create the ultimate vacation rental for pet owners.