Christmas Trip with Dog

Christmas at a hotel with a dog is a completely different experience. Snow-covered landscapes, cozy evenings by the fire, and your best friend on the adventure.

We have celebrated Christmas at a hotel with Hugo three times now. The first time was a bit of a disaster – we hadn't thought about how the Christmas buffet and dogs don't always go together. But the other times? Magical.

Here is everything we've learned about celebrating Christmas at a hotel with a dog.

Why Celebrate Christmas at a Hotel?

There are many reasons to swap the Christmas ham at home for a hotel breakfast:

No stress – someone else cooks and cleans
New environment – break the power of habit and create new traditions
Activities – skiing, long-distance skating, winter hiking
Quality time – focus on each other instead of practical details

With a dog, it gets even better. Hugo loves snow, and there is nothing nicer than a morning walk in the winter landscape on Christmas Day.

Choose the Right Hotel

Book Early

Dog-friendly hotels with Christmas packages are in high demand. We book no later than September to get our favorite spots. If you wait until November, the best options are often fully booked.

Check the Dog Policy Extra Carefully

Christmas often means Christmas buffets and shared spaces. Ask specifically:

Can the dog join us at the Christmas buffet or are there alternatives?
Are there quiet times in the spa/pool if the hotel has one?
What are the walking options like – are there cleared paths?
Is room service offered if we want to eat in the room?

Consider the Location

We prefer hotels a bit outside the cities during Christmas. Mountain hotels in Dalarna or Jämtland, manors in the countryside, or coastal hotels in Bohuslän. Nature is a big part of the experience.

Christmas Eve at a Hotel with a Dog

The Morning Walk

Our new Christmas tradition: a long walk before breakfast. Hugo gets to run in the snow, we get fresh air and exercise before all the Christmas treats.

The Christmas Buffet – Plan for the Dog

Most hotels do not allow dogs in the dining room during the Christmas buffet. Our options:

Take turns – one eats first, then we switch
Room service – ask if they can pack Christmas food for the room
Dog babysitter – some hotels offer dog sitting
Bring into the room – if the hotel allows, eat in peace in the room

We usually take turns – it actually becomes cozy to return to the room with a plate of goodies and share with Hugo.

The Evening

Don't forget Hugo's Christmas gift! We usually pack a new toy or an extra tasty chew bone. Nothing big, but it is his Christmas too.

Practical Tips

Pack for the Cold

Winter shoes for Hugo if he is not used to the cold. Paw warmers if it is really cold. Fleece blanket for the room. Read more in our packing list for dog travel.

Avoid Dangerous Christmas Food

Remind everyone in the group that the dog MUST NOT eat:

Chocolate (toxic)
Raisins and grapes (toxic)
Onions and garlic (toxic)
Bones from Christmas food (can splinter)
Fatty food in large amounts (stomach problems)

Fireworks and Firecrackers

New Year's Eve can be tough for sensitive dogs. If you stay over New Year:

Check if the hotel is in an area with fireworks
Talk to the veterinarian about sedatives if needed
Have a safe place ready in the room
Be home with the dog at midnight

Our Favorite Destinations for Christmas with a Dog

Dalarna – Classic Swedish Christmas landscape with a snow guarantee. Many dog-friendly accommodations.

Jämtland – The mountains provide a true white Christmas. Perfect for active dogs.

Småland – Cozy manors and a calm pace. Good for smaller dogs.

Skåne – Milder winter but charming castles and estates.

Final Words

Christmas at a hotel with a dog requires a bit more planning, but the reward is a completely unique Christmas experience. No dishes, no cleaning, just quality time with family – including the four-legged member.

Book early, choose the right hotel, and be prepared for it to be different. Different is usually good.

/Love & Hugo