Disney World is touted as this magical vacation destination for everyone, but what about the four-legged members of your family?

Traveling with pets is stressful

We’ve been asked many a time if fans are allowed to bring their dogs to Disney World. It’s a reasonable question, considering it can be hard for some to arrange alternate accommodations for their pets while the family is on vacation. So if you’re looking to bring your furry friend to Disney World, here’s everything you need to know.

Orlando was recently named one of the most pet-friendly cities in the U.S., ranking as #7 on WalletHub’s list. These cities were chosen based on a variety of factors, including the cost to own a pet, availability of vets and pet services, and the walkability of the city. But is the Orlando area just as accessible for pets on vacation? Let’s break down the rules for dogs in Disney World.

Are Dogs Allowed in the Parks?

The first thing you should know is that other than service animals, dogs are NOT allowed in the theme parks, water parks, or “common areas, such as restaurants, pools, and recreational spaces.” So no, the family dog won’t be able to take a stroll in Magic Kingdom or hop on Dumbo the Flying Elephant with you.

Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom

Pets are also not allowed on Disney transportation. The Disney security team will definitely make sure you abide by these guidelines, whether you’re at the parks or resorts. Keep in mind, these regulations are in place for the safety of other visitors, as well as your pets.

Are Dogs Allowed at the Hotels?

However, there ARE a select few dog-friendly Disney World Resorts. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Port Orleans Resort — Riverside, Yacht Club Resort, and Fort Wilderness Resort are all pet-friendly when it comes to your dogs.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

At this time, dogs are the only pets allowed, and there is a maximum limit of two dogs per guest room. Disney’s website states that all dogs are expected to be “well-behaved, leashed in public areas, and properly vaccinated.” If you’re staying at a campsite at Fort Wilderness, you may need to take additional security measures to make sure your spot is pet-friendly.

The Best Friends Pet Hotel in Disney World

Now, if you need someone to keep your dog happy and entertained while you’re in the theme parks, Disney World offers the Best Friends Pet Hotel as a paid service. Reservations are recommended, and you can book either daytime or overnight accommodations for your animal.

Best Friends Pet Resort!

Here, you can choose from a variety of services for dogs, cats, or “pocket pets.” They can’t accept venomous pets or primates, but your dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and rodents will be welcome. Vaccination documentation from your vet is required, and if your pet is in need of some pampering, they even offer grooming services.

Best Friends Pet Hotel

For more information, or to make an appointment, you can call (407) 209-3126 or visit the Best Friends Pet Hotel website. Their team here is made up of trained animal care professionals!

Guidelines for Service Animals

Now, if you’re planning on bringing your service animal to Disney World, the guidelines are a little different than those for regular pets. The Disney World website describes a service animal as “a dog or miniature horse that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.”

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Service animals are required to have a leash or harness at all times, and only trained service animals are allowed in the theme parks, water parks, or Disney Springs. Emotional support animals, comfort animals, and pets are only allowed at the designated pet-friendly resorts.

Disney Springs

Service animals must be well-behaved and not bark, growl, jump up on, or lunge at other guests. Due to the nature of some attractions, service animals may not be able to ride and may need to utilize Rider Switch or a portable kennel. The Disney World website includes more information about service animal relief areas and ride accommodations.

Service Animal Area

So there you have it — all the details on whether or not your dog can come on your vacation! For more information, see the Disney World website.

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Have you ever brought your dog to Disney World? Tell us in the comments!