Why I'm Bringing My Dog on My Next Dollywood Trip

We all know the feeling — the heartbreak in your dog’s eyes when you’re packing for your next vacation, which then makes YOUR heart break.

They’re Best Friends!

But there’s actually a way you can avoid this dreaded feeling — just bring your pooch with you! Now, you can’t bring them on every vacation, but you CAN bring them to Dollywood! How does it work? Here’s everything you need to know about bringing your dog to Dollywood!

Dollywood is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and is known for its immersive attractions, southern dishes, and immaculate theming based on the one-and-only Dolly Parton. You won’t be able to bring your dogs INTO the theme park (unless they are documented service animals), but there are accommodations for them while you’re enjoying the park — Doggywood!

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Located adjacent to Guest Services at Dollywood’s Front Gate, this space accommodates dogs in kennels and cottages during hours that coincide with Dollywood. Doggywood can start welcoming dogs 30 minutes prior to Dollywood’s opening time, and all dogs must be picked up no later than 15 minutes after park closing — no overnight boarding is allowed. Space is limited, so reservations are highly recommended, and those without a reservation are not guaranteed a space due to availability.

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There are some rules and requirements you’ll need to know before bringing your dog:

Vaccination records are required. Guests will need to complete a Doggywood Waiver where proof of vaccinations can be uploaded. (All dogs will need to be up to date on their Rabies and Bordetella vaccines).
You will need to provide your own food.
You will need to walk your own dog as needed. Dollywood Hosts are not permitted to walk your dog(s).
Doggywood only accepts dogs for Guests that are at Dollywood or Dollywood’s Splash Country. They cannot board dogs while owners are off property.

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So, how much does it cost and how many spaces are available? Well, there are 16 spaces available — 12 kennels and four cottages. The kennels are 4 ft. by 6 ft. and cost $25 per day, tax not included. The cottages are approximately 5 ft. by 5 ft. and cost $35 per day, tax not included. Dogs may share a kennel or cottage if they live in the same house, but a $5 fee will apply for each additional occupant. The total weight of the dog(s) in a single cottage must be 19 lbs. or less.

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Water will be provided, so guests don’t have to worry about providing that. And if you’re a Dollywood Gold Passholder, there are available discounts! It’s important to note that Doggywood ONLY accepts dogs, so you won’t be able to leave your cat, hamsters, snakes, or any other pets you may have with them. They also have the right to refuse to board a dog that appears to be ill.

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If you foresee any changes during your vacation, guests can receive a full reservation refund if you cancel your visit before 5 PM the day before your arrival. Cancellations made any time after are not subject to a refund. To receive a refund, guests can call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD and speak to a Dollywood Host.

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So, that settles it — I’m bringing my dog with me on my next Dollywood vacation! For more theme park news, updates, tips, and tricks, be sure to follow us at DFB, so you don’t miss a thing!

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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Would you bring your dog on vacation with you? Let us know in the comments!