Thanks to the ever-growing canine travel movement, Fido isn’t confined to the doghouse anymore. Not only are more hotels opening their doors to pups every day, but renters are also increasingly catering to furry visitors. There are more than 100,000 vacation properties on BringFido to choose from, but which one is right for your next trip? How about a Hobbit house in Washington State? Or a sprawling space-themed property in Yucca Valley? Pack your bags for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure at these unique dog-friendly vacation rentals across North America.
Brooklyn’s Bungalow at The Paw House Inn West Rutland, VT
Slapping the title of pet-friendly on Brooklyn’s Bungalow would be doing it a disservice. It’s way more than just accommodating of pets. Located at the Paw House Inn & Cottages in Vermont, this cottage has only a few rules that dog owners should be aware of before reserving. Most importantly, there’s a $10 per night fee if you arrive dog-less. That’s right, unlike most vacation rentals, visitors are actually charged a fee for not bringing Fido. The bungalow is equipped with a built-in dog bed for luxurious naps after a day of playing on the agility apparatus in the fully fenced on-site dog park. And the Inn’s canine hangout, Mario's Playhouse, even provides doggy daycare at no extra charge.
Out There Yurt Nelson Island, BC
It’s not just the “one-percenters” who can enjoy the seclusion of their own private island. How about the 44 percent of Americans with dogs who want to taste that island life? The owners of Out There Yurt off the coast of Nelson Island in British Columbia will scoop you up from Government Dock in nearby Egmont and take you to the island. Hosts Liz and Andy provide visitors with a variety of evening meals prepared using local ingredients, some of which they catch in the waters surrounding the island. You have the choice of staying in one of two comfortable yurt rooms, piled with pillows and offering stunning views of the surrounding inlets, or in a private tent cabin surrounded by wilderness. Stroll with Fido around the island, see what wildlife you bump into and enjoy the break at this off-grid getaway. It won’t take long for Fido to see why the motto on the island is “out there, off-leash.”
Dog Park Inn B&B Cottonwood, ID
Getting sent to the dog house is a good thing at the Dog Bark Park Inn B&B. You and your pooch are invited to sleep inside the world's biggest beagle in Cottonwood, ID. The outside is designed to look like a giant dog, even down to the floppy ears and tail. After your own (slightly) smaller pup has finished barking at his new home away from home, head inside and check out the queen room. The dog-centric headboard is decorated with 26 individually carved hounds. You can finally find out what goes on inside a dog’s head at this B&B by spending the night in the cozy loft room located in the beagle’s noggin. During the day, enjoy vast prairie views and at night, head to the second story deck for some stargazing.
Idaho is more than just the potato capital of America. See what this beautiful state has to offer on a hike along the pet-friendly Puffer Butte Trail. The moderate trek leads to epic views of mountains and towering pine forests.
Underground Hygge Orondo, WA
Located across the Columbia River from Moody Canyon in Washington State, a mystical journey awaits you at Underground Hygge. As you approach this unique property built deep into the earth, you almost can’t help looking out for a hobbit or two. This one-bedroom house is ripped straight from the pages of Tolkien’s masterpiece, even down to the round front door. Once inside, you’ll find rustic decor that mimics the woodland surroundings. Wander along the dog-friendly trails of nearby Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and marvel at the 4-million-acre natural wonderland. Dog owners are reminded to keep Fido on a leash to prevent him from chasing any elves.
Sundance Lodge on Cypress Creek Wimberley, TX
The town of Wimberly is situated in Texas Hill Country, where Cypress Creek and the Blanco River meet. A haven for kayakers and pups who SUP, this is the place to bring dogs who feel one with the water. Sundance Lodge on Cypress Creek is the ideal pet-friendly basecamp for your stay. This rental is conveniently located a quarter-mile from the picturesque Blue Hole swimming hole, which you can reach on the kayaks and canoes provided. The three-bedroom lodge itself is an expansive property that goes above and beyond for four-legged guests. Dogs are invited inside with a “Furry Friends Welcome” stone placard and are provided with welcome packs with secret dog notes, pet beds, bowls, towels, treats and complimentary toys. You’ll even find a dog park on site for some off-leash recreation. Enjoy the day lounging in rocking chairs under the shade of the covered patio, or paddle down the river for some dog-diving fun.
Starship Landing Yucca Valley, CA
There’s no need to raid Area 51 to get a glimpse of the great beyond. Starship Landing offers two pet-friendly homes on a stunning ranch in Yucca Valley ideal for stargazing and spotting the occasional passing UFO. The three-bedroom Starship Landing: Aurora is located in a secluded valley surrounded by hilly terrain, giving guests the feeling that they’re the only earthlings in the universe. The property is equipped with a hot tub, outdoor cowboy tub, a fire pit area, a Mortal Kombat arcade machine, a six-person hammock circle and a covered patio.
The rest of your pack can stay in the neighboring Starship Landing: Luna. This sister house has three bedrooms and stunning views over the vast valley. It even comes with a life-sized alien butler. While you’re in the area, visit a nearby pet-friendly Christian theme park! Desert Christ Park is somewhat abandoned but eerily cool. It's well worth the trip with your leashed pup to see the remains of 35 biblical statues on a desolate mount overlooking the valley.
6-Bedroom Mountain-top Castle Cavendish, VT
Fido, Fido, let down your fur! Ever dreamed of being the king or queen of your very own castle? Well, you can be for a few nights at least at the 6-Bedroom Mountain-top Castle. The grand property, named Grahall Estate, sits atop Hawk's Mountain in Cavendish, VT, nestled among 300 acres of untouched land. You and your King Spaniel can relax together on the large balcony and admire the 270-degree view of the Green Mountains. The green space outside provides a bounty of walking opportunities. If you’re visiting during the cooler months, get your pooch to fetch your slippers while you doze in front of a roaring fire. Take a day trip to the charming town of Woodstock, where you can stroll through the village and wander the backroads of Vermont’s countryside. Along the way, stop for lunch at Soulfully Good Cafe. Dogs are welcome on the quaint patio and can order a Puppuccino from the menu.
Desert Gold Beatty, NV
There aren’t many properties in America as undisturbed as Desert Gold in Nevada. The centerpiece of an 80-acre property, this wonderfully designed three-bedroom house affords guests unobstructed views of the surrounding desert and mountains. While relatively small, the house complements the surroundings gracefully, giving the feeling of camping underneath a vast blanket of stars at night. Spend the evenings in the sunken hot tub while Fido lounges on the large deck.
Another pet-friendly perk of Desert Gold is its location 20 miles from Death Valley National Park. Leashed dogs are welcome in campgrounds, along roads and in picnic areas in the park, as long as they don’t mind the heat of the hottest and driest national park in the country.
Barkwells Mills River, NC
Barkwells provides a retreat for dogs and their people. This small, peaceful community of vacation homes is designed specifically for dog lovers. There are no guests complaining about pups running off leash at this pet-friendly resort because Fido can run freely around the acres of fenced-in, green meadows. Canine guests can swim in the pond, indulge in a picnic near the creek and warm themselves next to the firepit at nightfall. Privacy can still be found in one of the eight pet-friendly cabins, each equipped with private fenced yards, an XL dog door, gated porch and access to the shared space. Furry friends who take full advantage of the outdoor fun can clean off in the commercial dog wash with shampoo and towels provided. Visitors will also have a chance to meet some of Barkwell’s four-legged hosts. Fisher and Baxter, the resident dogs, can introduce your pooch to Princass Leia, Assley Judd and Neil DeGr“ass”e Tyson, the miniature donkeys; and Cookie, Moonpie, BonBon and Cupcake, the friendly goats.
Montana Treehouse Retreat Columbia Falls, MT
Treehouses have grown into something new in recent years. These days, staying in one of these elevated properties can be as luxurious as it is unique. Just ask the hosts of DIY Network’s popular show, “The Treehouse Guys," who ran a feature on Montana Treehouse Retreat. This pet-friendly one-bedroom property with four beds has two outdoor balconies overlooking the surrounding forest. The stunning house is built around four living trees, with two running through the house and another two through the deck.
When you’re back on the ground, Montana’s great outdoors is sure to keep you and your pooch entertained. Dogs have limited access to nearby Glacier National Park, but Fido might prefer the full access he’ll enjoy at Hugh Rogers WAG Park in Whitefish down the road. One of the best dog parks in the country, this gorgeous five-acre playground is surrounded by astonishing views of the Rocky Mountains.
The Tile House Twentynine Palms, CA
Located on the edge of Joshua Tree National Park, The Tile House is a unique meditation retreat in the desert. True to its name, the house is enveloped in a mosaic of tiles, stained glass, ceramics and other bric-a-brac that tell a colorful story. The whimsical design promotes a healing, peaceful environment where you and Fido can rejuvenate your spirits and souls. Equipped with an outdoor hot tub, gorgeous views of the surrounding valley and a gated courtyard with fire pit, this two-bedroom house is like nowhere else on the planet. Every inch of the property is artfully designed to weave a vivid yarn, from cowboy beads to floral chairs and glowing depictions of Saint Mary. The host has also taken measures to make your dog’s stay as restful as yours. The dog door opens out into a fenced and secured yard to ensure your pup doesn’t go on an adventure into the desert without you.
