The cottage: the number 1 choice for holidaymakers with dogs
If the hotel imposes constraints (additional charge per night, dog never alone, common areas prohibited), vacation rentals offer incomparable freedom. A cottage with a garden is a private space where your dog can relax and enjoy the holidays as much as you do. But it is still necessary find the right ad And avoid the pitfalls : “pets allowed” does not always mean what we think.
Comparison of rental platforms
Each platform has its strengths and weaknesses. The “pets allowed” filter is just a starting point.
| Platform | “Animals” filter | Number of announcements | Average price / night | Cancellation policy | Dog rules |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gîtes de France | Yes + dedicated label | 30,000+ lodgings | €70-120 | Moderate | Clear, reliable label |
| Airbnb | Yes | 400,000+ in France | €60-150 | Variable (host) | Variables, to check |
| HomeAway (Vrbo) | Yes | 100 000+ | €80-150 | Variable (host) | Variables, to check |
| Clévacances | Yes (less precise) | 25 000+ | €65-110 | Moderate | Correct |
Many ads check the “pets allowed” box with pets in mind. cats or small animals. Upon arrival, the owner may refuse your 35 kg German Shepherd. Others accept dogs but prohibit certain parts (rooms, sofa). Golden rule: always contact the owner before booking to describe your dog and obtain explicit agreement.
Find the perfect accommodation with your dog
Activate the “animals” filter, then read the full description. Look for mentions of maximum size, number of dogs, prohibited areas.
Use Ctrl+F to find “dog”, “animal”, “dog” in reviews. Feedback from other canine travelers is the best source of information.
Send a message with your dog's breed, weight, age and behavior. Ask explicitly if it is welcome and if there are any restrictions.
Ask for photos of the fence and its height. An 80 cm fence will not hold a Border Collie. Check for holes or poorly closed doors.
Some owners ask for a deposit of €100 to €500. Offer a certificate of liability insurance or opinions from previous owners to reduce the amount.
Obtain written confirmation with exact conditions: number of dogs, access areas, deposit, cleaning fees. In the event of a dispute, this is your protection.
Mentions to check in the ad
- Number of dogs allowed : most lodges limit 1 or 2 dogs.
- Maximum size/weight : “small dog accepted” often means less than 10 kg.
- Prohibited areas : some owners prohibit bedrooms, the sofa or the upper floor.
- Fenced garden and its height : “garden” does not mean “fenced garden”. Ask for photos.
- Neighborhood : an adjoining gîte or with a neighboring kennel may pose a problem if your dog reacts to other animals.
The best dog-friendly gîte is not the one that “tolerates” dogs, it’s the one that welcomes them.
— Traveler with two Golden Retrievers for 8 yearsArrival kit at gîte / rental
Compare all options in our complete accommodation guide. If you prefer the outdoors, our camping guide details dog-friendly campsites. And for your summer vacation, check out our summer guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can the owner withhold the deposit for damage caused by my dog?
Yes, if damage is observed and documented (photos, inventory). The deposit covers material damage: scratches, chewed furniture, soiled bedding. On the other hand, the owner can't hold back for simple hairs. Tip: do your own photo inventory upon arrival and departure.
Is a fenced garden really essential?
Not obligatory, but highly recommended. Without a fenced garden, your dog remains on a leash outside at all times. Alternatives: 10 m lanyard with stake, or foldable mesh playpen for small dogs. For large, active dogs, the fenced garden remains non-negotiable.
Can we get a refund if the dog is refused upon arrival?
If the ad mentions “pets allowed” and the owner refuses your dog, you can request a full refund. Contact the platform's customer service with your confirmation. This is why the specific written confirmation (breed, weight, agreement) is crucial.
Is the “pet” cleaning fee normal?
Yes, it is common and justified. Cleaning after a stay with a dog takes an additional 30 to 60 minutes. The package varies from 30 to 80 € depending on the size of the accommodation. It is a fixed cost (not per night), more advantageous than the hotel supplement for long stays.
