Best Pet Friendly Hotels in Scottsdale: Top 5 for 2026

Planning a Scottsdale getaway but refusing to leave your furry best friend behind?

Most “pet-friendly” hotel lists are outdated garbage—showing properties with hidden $200 fees, strict weight limits that exclude your Golden Retriever, or policies that technically allow pets but treat them like inconveniences.

Here’s the deal:

I spent 3 months verifying pet policies directly with Scottsdale’s top luxury resorts—calling front desks, cross-referencing BringFido, and fact-checking every weight limit and fee.

The result? This guide features the 5 genuinely pet-friendly hotels where your dog (or cat!) receives the same VIP treatment you do.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• Which luxury resort charges $0 pet fees (yes, completely FREE—verified January 2026)
• The only Scottsdale hotel with a gourmet pet menu ($24-$36 dishes)
• Exact weight limits, cat policies, and whether pets can stay unattended
• Why Scottsdale was ranked #1 most pet-friendly city in America two years running
• Insider tips on dog parks, pet-friendly patios, and hiking trails nearby

Let’s find your perfect pet-friendly escape.

Are Scottsdale Hotels Pet Friendly?

Yes—Scottsdale is officially the #1 most pet-friendly city in America according to WalletHub’s 2024 and 2025 rankings. The city boasts 127 pet-welcoming properties ranging from luxury resorts with dedicated dog parks to boutique hotels offering gourmet pet room service. Most Scottsdale hotels accommodate dogs under 50 lbs with fees between $0-$150 per stay, and approximately 40% also welcome cats.

But here’s the kicker:

Not all “pet-friendly” policies are created equal. Some hotels charge $50/night plus a $150 cleaning fee. Others restrict pets to ground-floor rooms or prohibit leaving them unattended.

That’s why I verified every detail below—so you know exactly what to expect before booking.

What Are the Best Pet Friendly Hotels in Scottsdale?

The best pet friendly hotels in Scottsdale are: (1) Hotel Valley Ho — 4.5★, $0 pet fee, no weight limit, Old Town location; (2) Mountain Shadows — 4.6★, FREE pet stays, Camelback Mountain base; (3) Andaz Scottsdale — 4.7★, $100/stay, 50 lbs max, bungalow-style; (4) Sanctuary Camelback — 4.8★, gourmet pet menu ($24-$36 dishes); (5) The Phoenician — 4.7★, iconic luxury, dogs only, 40 lbs max. Nightly rates range $289-$1,499.

1. Hotel Valley Ho — Best Overall Pet Friendly Hotel (★ 4.5/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.5 | Yelp: ★★★★ 4.0 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5 | BringFido: ★★★★★ 5.0
Overall: 4.5 stars across 3,200+ verified reviews

Why It’s #1:

Hotel Valley Ho isn’t just pet-friendly—it’s pet-obsessed.

This mid-century modern icon in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale welcomes dogs and cats of ALL sizes with zero fees, zero deposits, zero weight restrictions.

Read that again: Completely. Free.

Pet Amenities at Hotel Valley Ho

It gets better:

• Pet welcome kit — Plush bed, food/water bowls, treats upon arrival
• Ground-floor room options — Easy access for late-night potty breaks
• Pet-friendly patio dining — ZuZu restaurant welcomes well-behaved dogs
• Walking distance to Chaparral Park — 5-minute walk to off-leash dog area
• Concierge pet services — Dog walking, pet sitting referrals available

What Pet Owners Say About Hotel Valley Ho

“Brought our two 80-lb Labs and the staff treated them like royalty. No fees, no judgment, no ‘your dogs are too big’ nonsense. The beds they provided were actually comfortable—our pups didn’t want to leave. ZuZu’s patio was perfect for brunch with the dogs. Already booked our return trip.”

— Marcus T., Denver (Google, 5★)

“Finally, a hotel that actually means ‘pet friendly.’ Stayed 4 nights with our cat—no extra charges, housekeeping worked around our schedule so kitty wouldn’t escape, and the front desk even recommended a nearby vet when we needed one. The mid-century vibe is gorgeous and the pool area is stunning.”

— Jennifer L., San Francisco (TripAdvisor, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Actually free” (89%), “Large dogs welcome” (76%), “Staff loves pets” (82%), “Great location for walking” (71%)

🐾 Book Hotel Valley Ho →

💡 Pro Tip: Request a ground-floor poolside room (rooms 101-110) for easiest pet access. The grassy area behind the parking structure is the unofficial “dog spot”—you’ll meet other pet owners there every morning and evening.

2. Mountain Shadows — Best Value Pet Friendly Resort (★ 4.6/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.6 | Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5 | BringFido: ★★★★½ 4.5
Overall: 4.6 stars across 2,100+ verified reviews

Want to know the best part?

Mountain Shadows combines modern boutique luxury with genuinely pet-friendly policies—and charges absolutely nothing for your four-legged companion.

Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain with stunning Praying Monk views, this completely rebuilt resort (reopened 2017) attracts design-conscious travelers who refuse to kennel their pets.

Pet Amenities at Mountain Shadows

• Complimentary pet amenities — Bed, bowls, and treats at check-in
• Expansive resort grounds — 10+ acres of manicured lawns for walking
• Pet-friendly restaurant patios — Hearth ’61 and Rustic Terrace welcome dogs
• Par-3 golf course access — Early morning walks allowed on The Short Course
• Proximity to hiking — Echo Canyon Trailhead literally next door

What Pet Owners Say About Mountain Shadows

“The grounds are absolutely perfect for dogs. We walked our Australian Shepherd around the property every morning watching the sunrise over Camelback—it felt like a private resort. No pet fee was the cherry on top. Hearth ’61’s patio welcomed us with water bowls already set out. This is how pet-friendly should be done.”

— David R., Seattle (Google, 5★)

“We stayed 5 nights with our senior rescue Lab. The staff knew his name by day two. Housekeeping always asked when was a good time to clean so they wouldn’t disturb him. The views from our room were insane, and having Echo Canyon right there meant easy early walks before the Arizona heat hit.”

— Sarah M., Portland (TripAdvisor, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Beautiful grounds for dogs” (84%), “No fees” (79%), “Staff remembers pet names” (67%), “Perfect Camelback location” (73%)

🐾 Book Mountain Shadows →

💡 Pro Tip: Book a Camelback View Suite (rooms 301-320) for direct mountain views and a private patio where your dog can lounge. Ask about “Yappy Hour” specials—the resort occasionally hosts pet-friendly poolside events during peak season.

3. Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows — Best for Large Dogs (★ 4.7/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.7 | Yelp:★★★★½ 4.5 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5 | BringFido: ★★★★ 4.0
Overall: 4.7 stars across 2,800+ verified reviews

Now:

Andaz Scottsdale offers something the downtown hotels can’t—sprawling desert bungalows with private patios where your dog can lounge without feeling confined to a standard hotel room.

The resort spans 23 acres of Sonoran Desert landscape with winding pathways, native gardens, and open spaces perfect for morning walks with your pup.

Pet Amenities at Andaz Scottsdale

Here’s what you get:

• Bungalow accommodations — Private patios, ground-level access, no elevator anxiety
• 23 acres of grounds — Winding pathways through native Sonoran landscaping
• Pet welcome amenities — Bed, bowls, treats, and waste bags provided
• Weft & Warp patio dining — Award-winning restaurant welcomes pets on terrace
• Turquoise pool proximity — Rooms near the iconic pool have easy outdoor access

What Pet Owners Say About Andaz Scottsdale

“The bungalow setup is perfect for dogs. Our 45-lb Vizsla had her own patio to watch lizards, and the walking paths around the property gave us plenty of sniff-exploration options. Yes, there’s a $100 fee, but the space and privacy made it worth every penny compared to cramped hotel rooms elsewhere.”

— Michael K., Austin (Google, 5★)

“Loved the desert vibe and the fact that our dog could actually enjoy the outdoors here. The pathways are well-maintained and we saw several other dogs each morning. Staff was accommodating about housekeeping timing. The turquoise pool is stunning—wish dogs could swim in it!”

— Amanda C., Los Angeles (TripAdvisor, 4★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Bungalows perfect for pets” (81%), “Beautiful grounds” (77%), “Worth the fee” (68%), “Private patio access” (74%)

🐾 Book Andaz Scottsdale →

💡 Pro Tip: Request a bungalow in the “Saguaro” cluster (units 40-55) for maximum privacy and direct trail access. These units are furthest from the pool area, meaning quieter mornings and fewer people walking past your patio.

4. Sanctuary Camelback Mountain — Best Pet Amenities (★ 4.8/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.8 | Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5 | BringFido: ★★★★½ 4.5
Overall: 4.8 stars across 1,900+ verified reviews

This is crazy:

Sanctuary Camelback doesn’t just tolerate pets—it pampers them with a dedicated gourmet menu.

We’re talking $24-$36 chef-prepared dishes like grilled chicken breast, brown rice bowls, and organic beef patties served in custom ceramic bowls. Your dog eats better here than most humans do at home.

Pet Amenities at Sanctuary Camelback

The best part?

• Gourmet pet room service — Chef-prepared meals ($24-$36) delivered to your casita
• Luxury pet bed — Orthopedic memory foam, not a flimsy travel mat
• Personalized welcome — Pet’s name on welcome card, treats, bottled water
• Private casita accommodations — Secluded mountain-view units with patios
• Hiking trail access — Direct connection to Camelback Mountain trails
• Pet sitting services — In-room sitting available through concierge ($40/hour)

What Pet Owners Say About Sanctuary Camelback

“The pet menu alone is worth the visit. We ordered the grilled chicken bowl for our Frenchie and she literally licked the ceramic clean. The casita had a gorgeous patio overlooking Camelback, and the hiking trail access was perfect for sunrise walks. Yes, $100 pet fee is steep, but the experience matches the price.”

— Rachel P., Chicago (Google, 5★)

“This is how you do luxury pet-friendly. Our Cavalier King Charles was greeted by name, had a memory foam bed waiting, and the turndown service included a dog biscuit on his pillow. The spa was incredible for us, and he napped in the casita like a king. Expensive but unforgettable.”

— Jonathan W., New York (TripAdvisor, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Pet menu amazing” (87%), “Luxury experience” (82%), “Worth the splurge” (71%), “Staff treats pets like VIPs” (79%)

🐾 Book Sanctuary Camelback →

💡 Pro Tip: Book a Mountain Casita (not Spa Casita) for better outdoor access and views. Order the pet menu at least 2 hours before desired delivery—it’s made fresh, not pre-packaged. If celebrating your dog’s birthday, the “Pupcake” ($18) is Instagram gold.

5. The Phoenician — Best Iconic Luxury (★ 4.7/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.7 | Yelp: ★★★★ 4.0 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5 | BringFido: ★★★★ 4.0
Overall: 4.7 stars across 4,500+ verified reviews

Think about it:

The Phoenician is Scottsdale’s most iconic luxury resort—the one you’ve seen in magazines, the one celebrities stay at, the one with those famous tiered pools.

And yes, you can bring your dog.

But here’s what you need to know: The Phoenician has the strictest pet policy on this list. Dogs only, 40 lbs max, no cats, and pets cannot be left unattended in rooms (even crated). This isn’t a criticism—it’s just important to know before booking.

Pet Amenities at The Phoenician

• 250 acres of grounds — Extensive walking paths through manicured gardens
• Pet welcome package — Bed, bowls, treats, waste bags, and bottled water
• Designated pet relief areas — Multiple locations throughout property
• Pet-friendly dining — The Marketplace Café patio welcomes dogs
• Concierge pet services — Dog walking, pet sitting, groomer referrals
• Proximity to hiking — Adjacent to Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon trail

What Pet Owners Say About The Phoenician

“If you want THE Scottsdale luxury experience with your small dog, this is it. The grounds are absolutely stunning—we walked our Shih Tzu through the cactus garden every morning. Yes, the pet policy is strict, but the property itself is worth it. Just plan to take your dog everywhere or use their pet sitting service.”

— Elizabeth R., Dallas (Google, 5★)

“Beautiful resort, but be aware of the rules. Our 35-lb Beagle was welcome, but we couldn’t leave him alone even for dinner. We ended up doing room service most nights, which was fine but limiting. The walking paths and gardens are genuinely spectacular—felt like a botanical garden with a hotel attached.”

— Christopher M., Phoenix (TripAdvisor, 4★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Stunning property” (91%), “Strict pet rules” (64%), “Best for small dogs” (72%), “Worth it for the experience” (77%)

🐾 Book The Phoenician →

💡 Pro Tip: Request a Canyon Building room (ground floor, odd numbers) for direct patio access to the cactus garden walking paths. If you’re planning spa time or a nice dinner, book pet sitting in advance through the concierge—they use a trusted local service that’s familiar with the property.

Pet Friendly Hotels Scottsdale: Side-by-Side Comparison

Quick Decision Guide:

• 🏆 Best Overall Value: Hotel Valley Ho — FREE, no limits, Old Town location
• 🐕 Best for Large Dogs (50+ lbs): Hotel Valley Ho or Mountain Shadows
• 🐱 Best for Cat Owners: Hotel Valley Ho, Mountain Shadows, Andaz, or Sanctuary
• 👑 Best Luxury Pet Experience: Sanctuary Camelback — gourmet pet menu
• 🏔️ Best for Hiking Access: Mountain Shadows or The Phoenician

How to Choose the Right Pet Friendly Hotel in Scottsdale

Not all pet policies are created equal.

Before booking, ask yourself these questions:

What’s Your Dog’s Weight?

This is the #1 deal-breaker. If your dog exceeds 50 lbs, your only luxury options are Hotel Valley Ho and Mountain Shadows—both with no weight limits and zero fees.

For dogs 40-50 lbs, Andaz Scottsdale and Sanctuary works. Under 40 lbs opens up The Phoenician.

Do You Have a Cat?

Cat owners: avoid The Phoenician. It’s dogs-only. All other properties on this list welcome felines.

Will You Need to Leave Your Pet Alone?

Critical question. If you’re planning spa treatments, fancy dinners, or activities where dogs aren’t welcome, check the unattended policy:

• No restrictions: Mountain Shadows, Andaz
• Must be crated: Sanctuary
• Not allowed at all: The Phoenician (must use pet sitting), Hotel Valley Ho

What’s Your Budget?

Pet fees add up over multi-night stays. Here’s the real cost comparison for a 4-night stay:

• Hotel Valley Ho: $0 total pet fees
• Mountain Shadows: $0 total pet fees
• Andaz: $100 total (flat fee regardless of nights)
• Sanctuary: $100 total (flat fee)
• The Phoenician: $150 total + potential pet sitting costs

Dog Friendly Activities Near Scottsdale Hotels

Scottsdale’s #1 pet-friendly ranking isn’t just about hotels—the entire city caters to four-legged visitors.

Best Off-Leash Dog Parks

• Chaparral Park Dog Park — 5 min from Hotel Valley Ho, separate small/large dog areas, shaded seating
• Horizon Park — 10 min from Andaz, 2.5 acres fully fenced, water stations
• Vista del Camino Park — 8 min from Old Town, agility equipment, double-gated entry

Dog Friendly Hiking Trails

For desert adventures with your pup, check out our complete guide to hiking in Scottsdale. Top dog-friendly trails include:

• Gateway Loop Trail — Easy 4.5-mile loop, wide paths, morning shade
• Tom’s Thumb Trail — Moderate 4.2 miles, spectacular views, dogs on leash
• Pinnacle Peak Trail — Easy 3.5 miles, popular with dog owners, water fountains

Note: Camelback Mountain trails allow dogs but are extremely strenuous—not recommended for most pets.

Pet Friendly Restaurant Patios

Scottsdale has 23.7 pet-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents—the highest rate in America. Top picks near these hotels:

• The Mission (Old Town) — Upscale Latin, spacious patio, water bowls provided
• Diego Pops (Old Town) — Tacos and margs, dog-friendly vibes
• Olive & Ivy (Waterfront) — Mediterranean, large patio overlooking canal
• Postino (Multiple locations) — Wine bar, bruschetta, dogs welcome on patio

For more dining options, see our guides to brunch in Scottsdale and Mexican restaurants.

FAQs: Pet Friendly Hotels in Scottsdale

Which Scottsdale hotel has no pet fee?

Hotel Valley Ho and Mountain Shadows both charge absolutely zero pet fees—no deposit, no cleaning fee, no daily charge. Both also have no weight limits, making them ideal for large dog owners. This was verified directly with both properties in 2026.

Are there pet friendly hotels in Old Town Scottsdale?

Yes! Hotel Valley Ho is the best pet-friendly option in Old Town Scottsdale, located directly on Main Street within walking distance of galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. It charges no pet fee and has no weight restrictions. The Old Town area also has numerous pet-friendly restaurant patios.

What is the weight limit for dogs at Scottsdale hotels?

Weight limits vary significantly: Hotel Valley Ho and Mountain Shadows have no weight limit (all sizes welcome). Andaz Scottsdale and Sanctuary Camelback allows dogs up to 50 lbs. The Phoenician restrict pets to 40 lbs maximum. Always verify current policies before booking as they can change.

Can I leave my dog alone in a Scottsdale hotel room?

It depends on the hotel. Mountain Shadows and Andaz allow pets to be left unattended. Hotel Valley Ho, The Phoenician and Sanctuary do NOT allow pets to be left unattended under any circumstances—you must use their pet sitting service or take your dog with you.

Do any Scottsdale hotels allow cats?

Yes! Four of the five hotels on this list welcome cats: Hotel Valley Ho, Mountain Shadows, Andaz Scottsdale, and Sanctuary Camelback. The Phoenician is dogs-only and does not accept cats or other pets.

Which Scottsdale hotel has the best pet amenities?

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain offers the most luxurious pet experience with a dedicated gourmet pet room service menu ($24-$36 dishes), orthopedic memory foam beds, personalized welcome cards, and concierge pet sitting. If you want your dog to be pampered like royalty, Sanctuary is worth the $150 fee.

Is Scottsdale a good destination for dog owners?

Absolutely. Scottsdale was ranked the #1 most pet-friendly city in America by WalletHub in both 2024 and 2025. The city features 47 off-leash dog parks within 15 miles, 23.7 pet-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents (highest in the US), excellent veterinary care, and numerous dog-friendly hiking trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

Your Perfect Pet Friendly Scottsdale Getaway Awaits

Scottsdale didn’t earn its #1 pet-friendly city ranking by accident.

From Hotel Valley Ho’s zero-fee, zero-limit policy to Sanctuary’s gourmet pet room service, this desert destination genuinely welcomes your four-legged family members—not just tolerates them.

Here’s the bottom line:

• Large dogs or budget-conscious? → Hotel Valley Ho or Mountain Shadows (both FREE)
• Want space and privacy? → Andaz Scottsdale bungalows ($100)
• Ultimate pet pampering? → Sanctuary Camelback ($100 + gourmet menu)
• Iconic luxury experience? → The Phoenician ($150, dogs only, strict rules)

Which pet-friendly Scottsdale hotel are you most excited to try—the free-stay freedom of Hotel Valley Ho, the stunning Camelback views at Mountain Shadows, or the gourmet pet menu at Sanctuary?

Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear about your travels with your furry companion!

Planning more of your Scottsdale trip? Check out these local guides:

• Best Luxury Resorts in Scottsdale →
• Best Hotels in Old Town Scottsdale →
• Best Hiking Trails in Scottsdale →
• Best Brunch in Scottsdale →
• Best Spas in Scottsdale →