If your dog had a calendar, International Dog Day would be circled, highlighted and probably chewed at the corners. 

Taking place every year on 26 August, it’s a day to celebrate dogs in all their loyal, chaotic, tail-wagging glory. It’s also a good excuse to swap the usual walk around the block for something a little more memorable, whether that’s a new park, a weekend away or a dog-friendly break designed with your four-legged plus-one in mind. 

With Park Plaza Pets, dogs are welcome at our hotels, with thoughtful touches including in-room treats, cosy dog beds, food and water bowls, quick outdoor access, selected dog-friendly restaurant and bar seating areas, and a personalised welcome letter on arrival. 

Here’s your practical guide to International Dog Day, dog-friendly hotel rooms and planning a trip where your dog is not just allowed, but genuinely welcome. 

When is International Dog Day? 

International Dog Day takes place every year on 26 August. It was founded in 2004 by animal welfare advocate and pet lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, who selected the date because it was the day her family adopted their first dog from a rescue centre. 

Today, International Dog Day is celebrated around the world as a way to recognise dogs of every breed and background, promote adoption, raise awareness of animal welfare and celebrate the companionship dogs bring to everyday life. 

What is International Dog Day? 

Think of International Dog Day as part celebration, part reminder. 

Yes, it’s a reason to spoil your dog with a longer walk, a new toy or an extra treat. But the history of International Dog Day is also rooted in adoption and animal welfare. It encourages people to recognise the number of dogs in rescue centres, support rescue organisations and celebrate working dogs, service dogs and family dogs alike. 

So, if you’re planning something special, why not make it useful too? A dog-friendly hotel break gives you quality time together, a change of scenery and a proper reason to explore somewhere new. 

Which hotels allow dogs? 

There’s a big difference between a hotel that simply allows dogs and one that makes travelling with them feel easy. 

The best dog-friendly hotels think beyond the room itself. They make space for the practical things, like quick outdoor access, water bowls and clear guidance before you arrive. They also help with the parts that make the trip feel enjoyable, from dog-friendly places to sit and eat to a team who can point you towards nearby walking routes. 

At Park Plaza, dogs are always welcome. Through Park Plaza Pets, you’ll find in-room treats, cosy dog beds, food and water bowls, rooms with quick outdoor access, selected dog-friendly restaurant and bar seating areas, and a personalised welcome letter on arrival. 

Are dogs allowed in hotel rooms at Park Plaza? 

Yes, dogs are allowed in selected Park Plaza hotel rooms as part of Park Plaza Pets. Up to two dogs can share the room with you, and you’re free to bring their usual food and treats from home. 

The process is simple: book your room as usual and select the pet-booking option when prompted, then check in at reception and sign the pet policy agreement. Once that’s done, you can head to your room and let your dog settle in with their treats. 

A few practical rules apply during your visit. Dogs need to be kept on a lead in public areas, cannot go into spa or fitness areas, and should not be left alone if you’re leaving the hotel. 

Where can I take my dog on holiday? 

The best dog-friendly holidays start with one question: what kind of trip would your dog actually enjoy? 

For dogs who love parks 

For dogs who love big walks, choose a destination with parks, riverside routes or wide pavements nearby. London is a strong choice if you want to combine a city break with green spaces, neighbourhood exploring and dog-friendly places to eat. 

For dogs who like city exploring 

For dogs who like being part of the day, Amsterdam works beautifully. Canal walks, compact streets and easy city exploring make it a great option for dogs who enjoy heading out with you rather than spending too much time indoors. 

For dogs who prefer a slower pace 

Park Plaza Vondelpark is an especially good fit for a slower-paced break. Set close to Amsterdam’s Vondelpark, it gives you easy access to one of the city’s best-loved green spaces, so you can plan gentle walks, relaxed coffee stops and plenty of downtime between outings. This is ideal for older dogs, smaller dogs or anyone who prefers a calmer rhythm. 

For dogs who travel with the family 

Park Plaza works particularly well for family-friendly city breaks because the experience is practical. You can bring up to two dogs, use the dog-friendly room amenities, and plan the day around nearby walks, meals and downtime. 

Can dogs go abroad on holiday? 

Yes, dogs can go abroad on holiday, but preparation matters. Requirements vary depending on where you’re travelling from, where you’re going and how you plan to get there, so always check the latest rules before booking. 

As a starting point, look into microchipping, vaccinations, documentation, carrier rules and any transport-specific policies for airlines, ferries or trains. If you’re travelling from the UK to Europe, you may also need an animal health certificate or other approved pet travel documentation. 

If you’re planning a dog-friendly break in Europe, Park Plaza has participating hotels across destinations including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, Croatia and Hungary. 

International Dog Day events: how to celebrate with your dog 

International Dog Day events do not have to mean crowded dog shows or complicated plans. The best celebrations are simple, thoughtful and built around what your dog enjoys. 

Here are a few ideas: 

1. Plan a new walking route: Choose a park, riverside path or neighbourhood you haven’t explored together before. 
2. Treat them to a dog-friendly hotel break: A change of scenery can be just as exciting for your dog as it is for you, especially if there are treats, a comfy bed and new routes to sniff. 
3. Support a dog charity: Donate, volunteer, share adoption listings or support a local rescue centre. 
4. Create a dog-friendly food stop: Pick a hotel, bar or restaurant with dog-friendly seating so they can stay close while you relax. 
5. Take the photo: You know the one. The ears, the head tilt, the expression that says they’ve never done anything wrong. 

What to pack for a hotel break with your dog 

Even when your hotel provides the essentials, packing a few familiar things from home can help your dog settle more quickly. 

Bring their lead, harness, collar with ID tag, usual food, favourite treats, waste bags and any medication they need. A toy, blanket or travel water bowl can also make the journey easier, especially if your dog likes having something familiar nearby. 

If you’re travelling abroad, check which vaccination records, travel documents or certificates you may need before you go. 

Celebrate International Dog Day with Park Plaza

International Dog Day only comes around once a year, but dog-friendly travel does not have to be a once-a-year thing. 

With treats, cosy beds, bowls, selected dog-friendly dining areas and a team ready to help with dog-related questions, Park Plaza Pets makes it easier to plan a hotel break with your dog by your side. 

Whether you’re planning a city break, a European escape or a simple change of scenery, Park Plaza helps make the trip feel easier from check-in to the final walk of the day.