Did you know that over 67% of U.S. households own a pet? In today’s travel climate, more and more visitors are bringing their furry companions with them. If you’re an Airbnb host, this presents an exciting opportunity to stand out. By creating a pet-friendly Airbnb, you’re not only tapping into a growing market — you’re offering joy, comfort, and convenience to pet-loving travelers. In this guide from EDEN’s Homes & Villas, we’ll show you exactly how to transform your space into a pet haven, while maximizing your guest satisfaction and your five-star ratings.
- Why Go Pet-Friendly with Your Airbnb
- Set Clear and Fair Pet House Rules
- How to Pet-Proof Your Airbnb Property
- Add Pet-Friendly Amenities Guests Will Love
- Update Your Airbnb Listing for Visibility
- Keep Your Space Clean and Maintain a Five-Star Reputation
- Final Thoughts – Partner with EDEN’s Homes & Villas
Why Go Pet-Friendly with Your Airbnb
Welcoming pets into your Airbnb isn’t just a kind gesture — it’s a smart business decision. A growing number of travelers refuse to leave their pets behind, and platforms like Airbnb even have dedicated filters for “pet-friendly” properties. According to Airbnb, listings that allow pets receive 20-25% more bookings on average.
Some hosts have seen significant revenue increases simply by opening their doors to four-legged guests. By offering a thoughtful, pet-welcome experience, your property can stand out in competitive locations and attract a loyal client base who values pet inclusivity.
Set Clear and Fair Pet House Rules
Clarity sets the tone for a smooth stay. Setting house rules specific to pet visitors is essential to protect your property and ensure a positive experience for everyone.
Here’s what to include:
- Types of pets allowed: State whether dogs, cats, or service animals are permitted. Be transparent if you are dog-only or size-specific (e.g., small dogs only).
- Number of pets allowed: Limit the number of pets per booking to maintain control over cleanliness and space.
- Supervision requirements: Require pets to be supervised in common areas or kept out of bedrooms if necessary.
- Vaccination policy: Ask guests to confirm their pet is up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Pet fees: Charge a modest pet fee to cover additional cleaning or occasional wear and tear.
- Clean-up responsibilities: Ask guests to pick up pet waste and clean up after their animals both indoors and outdoors.
“Transparency is key. When pet policies are clearly outlined, guests feel more confident and are less likely to break rules unknowingly.” – Sarah Kent, Property Management Expert at EDEN’s Homes & Villas
How to Pet-Proof Your Airbnb Property
Good design isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about functionality. Pet-proofing your Airbnb helps minimize damage, protect pets, and make cleaning between stays a breeze.
Upgrade with smart materials:
- Flooring: Switch from carpet to tile, laminate, or hardwood to simplify cleanup.
- Furniture: Use wipeable, scratch-resistant upholstery. Add washable throws on couches to protect against fur.
- Elevated items: Remove valuables from low surfaces, and store away anything fragile or harmful to animals.
Add physical boundaries:
- Install pet gates to block bedrooms or staircases.
- Ensure balconies and fences are secure.
- Use baby locks on cabinets, especially those containing chemicals or food.
Create a potty-friendly zone:
- Outdoor yard: Fence in grassy areas for a safe potty zone.
- Pet relief stations: Offer waste bags, litter trays, and disposable pads.
Add Pet-Friendly Amenities Guests Will Love
What transforms a “pet-allowed” stay into a “pet-loved” stay? Thoughtful amenities. Just like people, pets have comfort needs — and addressing them creates unforgettable experiences.
Consider adding:
- Food and water bowls
- Pet bed or washable blanket
- Welcome treats or bones
- Pet toys and chew options
- Lint rollers, stain remover, waste bags, and enzymatic spray
Don’t forget to provide a local pet guide! Include vetted recommendations for:
- Nearby dog parks and pet trails
- Pet-friendly cafes and restaurants
- Veterinarians and emergency clinics
- Local pet stores or doggy daycare options
Update Your Airbnb Listing for Visibility
A well-optimized Airbnb listing will help your pet-friendly status shine. Use keywords that help boost your visibility when guests filter by “pet-friendly.”
Checklist to update:
- Title and summary: Include “Pet-Friendly” or “Ideal for Pets” clearly in your title and highlights.
- Photos: Add snapshots of pet amenities like a fenced yard or cozy pet nook.
- Description: Elaborate on all systems in place for pets — amenities, nearby parks, safety features, and your rules.
- Policy section: Clearly display your pet fee and house rules to prevent post-booking surprises.
Transparency helps reduce cancellations and improves your chances of 5-star reviews.
Keep Your Space Clean and Maintain a Five-Star Reputation
Catering to pets does not mean compromising on cleanliness. Current guests — with or without pets — expect spotless conditions.
Smart cleaning strategies:
- Use a high-quality vacuum designed for pet hair, like those from Dyson or Shark.
- Apply enzymatic sprays and odor eliminators between stays, especially on fabric.
- Choose washable covers for couches, beds, and throws — and wash them frequently.
- If possible, hire a cleaning service familiar with post-pet stays to maintain consistency and speed.
Regular inspections can prevent long-term damage, allowing you to fix issues before future guests notice.
Final Thoughts – Partner with EDEN’s Homes & Villas
Pet-friendly hosting isn’t about just accepting animals — it’s about crafting a welcoming environment for both pets and their humans. By applying these steps, your Airbnb will become a go-to haven for animal lovers who value thoughtful, clean, and stress-free stays.
Need help managing your rental, handling the day-to-day guest experience, or scaling your short-term rental success?
Let EDEN’s Homes & Villas take the lead. Discover how our expert team supports Dubai-based property owners in maximizing their Airbnb income — without lifting a finger. From listing management to pet-proofing perfection, click here to list your property with EDEN’s Homes & Villas and join a dynamic portfolio of high-performing vacation rentals.
Create a space they’ll never forget — dogs and humans alike.