Okay, it may seem a little early to be thinking about fall and winter holiday travel, but there are some good reasons to plan ahead if you are taking your dog along for the fun. Not all hotels are dog friendly, and the ones that are only have a specific number of rooms which allow pets and those fill up quickly during the holidays. And you’ll want to arrange for grooming right before you leave so that you’ll be traveling with the freshest possible version of your pet. Both hotel rooms and grooming appointments can become scarce around the holidays, so book your accommodation and schedule a grooming appointment well in advance of your trip!

Here are the major US hotel chains that welcome canine travelers:

Hilton Hotels

This hotel welcomes dogs in style. Upon check in dogs receive two dog bowls, a placemat, and some organic treats.  Each room is limited to two dogs and each must weigh less than 75 pounds. There is a fee required per stay.

Kimpton Hotels

Called the most dog-friendly in the US, the Kimpton is a boutique hotel chain without dog size or number restrictions. The hotel offers dog beds and bowls, a list of nearby pet friendly restaurants, parks, and services, and hosts a nightly wine reception where dogs are welcome. They even have a canine Director of Pet Relations, which is usually an employee’s dog, to make guests feel welcomed.

Red Roof Inn

Pets stay free at Red Roof without a limit in size or breed, though there is a one dog per room limit. A handful of the chain’s locations do not allow dogs due to local laws, so call ahead to find out.

Motel 6

Motel 6 has thousands of locations, so what it may lack in puppy frills it makes up for in convenience of location.  There is no limit on the number or size of dogs which they welcome. The chain does not charge a fee with the exception of its Studio 6 locations which charge a small fee per night.

Best Western

Best Western is another huge hotel chain actively marketing to dog owners. The chain allows two dogs per room up to 80 pounds each. There is a small per day fee.

Most hotels will ask you to sign a waiver concerning pet damage, so read the fine print carefully. The hotel may also have a policy forbidding the dogs be left alone, and housekeepers will not enter a room if the dog is present. Some may have requirements such as proof of vaccination before you stay.  Call the hotel ahead of your stay and ask for the requirements and policies for your review.