Holiday home with your dog: what to look out for
Holiday home with your dog: "pets on request" is not a yes. Here's how to read a listing: fencing, deposit, breed and weight restrictions, and hidden costs.
When renting a holiday home with your dog, there are mainly three things to check in the listing: does it explicitly say “pets allowed” (and not just “on request”), is the garden fully fenced, and are there any limits on number, weight or breed? Also read the fine print about a possible deposit or cleaning fee for pets. Still unsure which type of stay suits you? See choosing a dog-friendly stay, the difference between a B&B and a hotel, or camping with your dog.
Watch the exact wording
Listings sometimes use vague language like “pets possible” or “by arrangement”, that’s not a guarantee. Look for explicit confirmation, and if in doubt, always check directly before booking, including any extra costs.
Fencing and outdoor space
If your dog likes to run free in the garden, check whether it’s fully and safely fenced, not every photo shows this clearly. Ask about the height of the fence and whether there’s any standing water (pool, pond) you need to take into account.
Restrictions
Some landlords apply a maximum weight, a maximum number of dogs, or exclude certain breeds. This isn’t always prominently stated. Check the full house rules, not just the summary at the top.
Extra costs
A cleaning surcharge or deposit specifically for pets is common. Ask about this in advance so you’re not caught off guard when settling the bill.
Surroundings
Also check the surroundings: is there an off-leash area, park or walking route nearby? That’s the difference between a house where your dog can only get exercise indoors, and a place where a daily walk is easy.
Frequently asked questions
Is “pets on request” the same as allowed? No, that means you first have to ask for permission, don’t book without confirmation.
Do I have to pay a deposit for my dog? Often, yes; this varies by landlord and isn’t always mentioned by default in the listing.
Where do I check whether the garden is safe? Explicitly ask about the fencing (height, whether it’s complete) if it isn’t clearly visible in the photos.
Do breed restrictions apply? Sometimes, yes. Check the full house rules, not just the title of the listing.