Paw ratings explained
Every Paw, earned
Not every hotel that welcomes pets offers the same experience.
Some provide a few useful extras. Others offer dedicated dining, places to play and services that make travelling with a pet considerably easier. Our Paw ratings help you see the difference.
Properties earn points for the pet amenities, facilities and services they offer. The more points, the higher the rating—from small comforts to an exceptional range of pet provisions.
There is more than one way to earn each rating. A missing towel or door hanger will never outweigh an otherwise outstanding offering.
1 Paw · 3–6 points
Basic Comfort
A little help with feeling at home. These properties offer a small selection of pet provisions, giving you something useful beyond permission to bring your companion.
The offering may be simple, but knowing what is available helps you plan what to pack and what to arrange yourself.
A few useful provisions for your pet’s stay.
2 Paws · 7–11 points
Thoughtful Stay
More of the practical details are covered. These properties offer a selection of amenities that can help pets settle in and make the journey easier for their owners.
That might mean a comfortable bed and bowls, or a different combination of useful extras. Check the property’s amenity list to see what awaits.
Everyday comfort, with thoughtful extras.
3 Paws · 12–18 points
Genuine Welcome
A more rounded offering for travelling with a pet. These properties earn their rating through a broader selection of amenities or a combination that includes more substantial facilities and services.
From room comforts and practical supplies to outdoor spaces or help with pet care, there is more support for the everyday needs of your stay.
A well-equipped base for you and your companion.
4 Paws · 19–24 points
Elevated Hospitality
An extensive pet offering, with more to make the stay special. These properties bring together a substantial range of amenities, facilities or services that go beyond a few convenient extras.
Dedicated dining, spaces for exercise, grooming facilities or arranged care may form part of the experience. Each property earns its rating through its own combination.
More comfort, more choice and more support.
5 Paws · 25 or more points
Truly Exceptional
Our highest rating recognises an exceptional range of pet provisions. These properties earn substantial points through the breadth of their offering, the services available, or both.
From dedicated pet dining to hotel-arranged care and specialist facilities, there is much more available to help you shape a stay around your companion.
Five Paws does not mean every possible amenity. It means an outstanding overall offering.
An exceptional range of ways to care for your companion.
Images illustrate pet hospitality. Available amenities vary by property.
- Clearer information.
We bring together pet policies, fees, restrictions and amenities so you can plan beyond a “pet-friendly” label. Information gathered from available sources is distinguished from details confirmed by the hotel. Check the property listing for conditions and anything that needs arranging before arrival.
- One standard, wherever you travel.
Every property is scored using the same amenity weights and rating thresholds. A property in Madrid earns its Paws on the same basis as one in New York, Tokyo or the Alps. Different combinations of provisions can earn the same rating.
- A rating for pets, not hotels.
Paw ratings reflect the pet amenities, facilities and services available. They are separate from hotel stars and do not assess bedrooms, restaurants, spas or service for human guests. Pet fees and acceptance restrictions are shown separately to help you choose the right stay.
