Are Dogs Allowed at Disney Springs (and Other Disney Properties)?

Disney is nicknamed “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” so it makes sense that you’d want to experience that magic with your furry friend. Even though I’m obsessed with both Disney and dogs, I’ve never thought about bringing my dog to Disney because I know it would be too much for her. Yet, it made me wonder if dogs are allowed anywhere at Disney. Are dogs allowed at Disney Springs? At any of the parks? What about the resorts? Let’s find out!

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Are Dogs Allowed in Disney World Parks?

No, unfortunately dogs aren’t allowed at the Disney World parks in Florida. That includes the four main parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom), along with the water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon). The only exception to this rule is service dogs. Emotional support dogs do not fall into that category because they don’t perform specific tasks.

Even though service dogs are allowed at Disney World, they cannot go on every attraction. They can go on slow rides like Haunted Mansion and It’s A Small World, but they’re not allowed on rides that are unsafe for them. This includes roller coasters like Space Mountain and Expedition Everest and simulation rides like Avatar Flight of Passage and Soarin’ Around the World.

Are Dogs Allowed at Disney Springs?

Disney Springs is the shopping area on Disney’s property that’s free to access. Even though a lot of it is outside, dogs aren’t allowed unless they’re service dogs. There are other outdoor shopping areas around Orlando that do allow dogs, so check out other places instead if you're traveling with your pup.

Are Dogs Allowed at Disney World Hotels?

Even though Disney World doesn’t allow dogs, some Disney hotels do. There are currently four Disney World hotels that allow pets: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort - Riverside, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. These locations have some pet-friendly accommodations, giving your canine a comfortable place to stay during your trip.

Dogs are currently the only pets allowed, and it’s a maximum of two dogs per room. Like any pet-friendly hotel, the dogs must be well-behaved, vaccinated, and leashed in public areas. You may be asked to leave if your dog is causing a disturbance for other guests, so only bring your dog along if you know they’ll be comfortable and calm.

Are Dogs Allowed in Disneyland?

No, dogs aren’t allowed at either of the two Disneyland parks in California (Disneyland and Disneyland California Adventure). Only service dogs are permitted.

Like Disney World, service dogs can only go on certain attractions for their own safety. Guests with service dogs are urged to talk to a cast member to find out details about service dogs, such as relief areas and dog-friendly rides.

Are Dogs Allowed in Downtown Disney?

Disneyland’s shopping area, known as Downtown Disney, doesn’t allow dogs besides service animals. This applies to both indoor and outdoor areas.

Are Dogs Allowed at Disneyland Hotels?

Unfortunately, no Disneyland resorts in California allow pets. Trained service animals can stay, but that’s it. Since Disneyland has a lot less land than Disney World, there are lots of hotels nearby that aren’t owned by Disney. So, if you’re set on bringing your dog to Anaheim, there are pet-friendly accommodations nearby.

Pet Policies at International Disney Parks

None of the Disney parks worldwide allow pets inside the parks. Like the United States locations, service animals are the exception. Some Disney hotels and other nearby hotels may allow dogs, but your dog won’t be able to join you during your theme park adventures.

Bring the Magic Home with Disney Products for Dogs

It’s sad that dogs can’t enjoy the magic of Disney like we can. However, theme parks are too overwhelming for most dogs anyways. Rather than dragging your dog along on a trip they might not enjoy, find ways to bring the fun to them. Getting Disney pet products is a great way to share your love of Disney with your furry friend.

Here are a few Disney-themed pet products I love:

• Pluto Knotty Rope Pet Toy with Squeaker

• Pixar's Monsters, Inc. Sulley Toy

• Stitch Dog Leash 60-Inch with Neoprene Padded Handle

• Pet Bandana with Mickey Mouse Ears

• Winnie The Pooh: Tigger Rope Pet Toy

I've also seen pet products for sale at Disney World shops before, so you can bring a souvenir home for your dog if you visit Disney without them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Service Dogs Allowed in Disney World?

Yes, trained service dogs are allowed at Disney World. However, they aren’t allowed on certain attractions for their own safety. If you’re planning to visit Disney with a service dog, contact them in advance to find out the details.

Are Emotional Support Dogs Allowed in Disney World?

No, emotional support dogs aren’t allowed at Disney World. They’re not trained to perform a specific task, so they don’t have the same rights as service dogs.

Can You Leave a Dog Alone in a Hotel?

It depends on the hotel. Some hotels don’t have any restrictions about pets in the room, as long as the pets aren’t disruptive to other guests. However, every hotel has different rules, so contact them directly to find out the details of their pet policy.

Do Any Theme Parks Allow Dogs?

While most theme parks are too overwhelming for dogs, there are a few dog-friendly amusement parks, such as Knoebels Amusement Park in Pennsylvania and Europa-Park in Germany. Dogs must be leashed at all times at these establishments.

What are the Best Dog-Friendly Vacations?

The best dog-friendly vacations are ones with attractions your dog can participate in, such as visiting outdoor places like dog-friendly trails and beaches. Dog-friendly campgrounds are a great option because they’re all outside, so dogs can easily join in on the fun.

Disney Isn’t a Dog-Friendly Vacation

I wish my dog could join me for every adventure, but the reality is that many vacations aren’t pet-friendly. Disney is one of them. Unless your dog is a service dog, they’re not allowed at any Disney parks. So, it’s best to leave your dog at home during trips to these famous theme parks.

Just because your dog can’t join this vacation doesn’t mean they always have to be left out. Book some other dog-friendly trips to make up for it, such as camping with dogs. It might not seem as exciting as Disney to you, but your dog will be overjoyed that they’re included.