Dog-Friendly Hotels: Small Touches That Win 5-Star Reviews

Guests travelling with dogs write reviews differently to other guests. They mention the dog by name, describe exactly how they were welcomed, and those reviews get read closely by the next dog owner deciding where to book.

What actually gets mentioned in reviews

It is rarely the room itself. It is the treat waiting on arrival, the bowl already filled, the member of staff who asked the dog's name at check-in. These are the details covered in our dog-friendly hotels programme, and they cost very little to deliver consistently once the process is in place.

The arrival moment

A natural treat presented at check-in, alongside a personalised or branded water bowl in the room, sets the tone for the whole stay before the guest has even reached their room. Stocking Bark Ribs trade packs or Canine Cluck trade packs at reception means every four-legged guest gets the same welcome, regardless of which member of staff is on shift.

• Standardise the welcome so every dog gets a treat, not just when someone remembers
• Note dog names at booking so staff can use them at check-in
• Offer a small retail treat pack for guests to buy before checkout

Making it consistent

Our Venue Starter Pack is a straightforward way to trial this at one property before rolling it out across a group. Browse the trade range or speak to us via partnerships about setting up reception stock.