A Guide to Staying with Dogs at Dufflebird Properties

While we adore dogs (we have two of our own and love taking them on holidays), dog-friendly isn’t exactly a “Dufflebird specialty.” We’re not a one-stop shop for dog owners, and we don’t actively chase the dog-friendly market.

For us, allowing pets is more of a bonus — something we can usually make work for the right guests, as long as everyone plays their part. Our non-pet-owner guests are just as important and make up a big part of our bookings, so it’s about keeping the balance right for future guests, our team, and property owners alike.

That said, we do try to accommodate pets when we can, for the right guests.

Where possible, we allow dogs. While they naturally add to cleaning and wear, guests travelling with their dogs often move through a space more carefully. There is a different kind of attentiveness that comes with it. People are usually thrilled to bring some of their favourite family members on holiday, and they especially appreciate a property with lots of thought and attention to detail.

This guide focuses on dogs, but if you’re travelling with another kind of pet, please reach out. We try to be flexible, but we also need to consider future guests, including those with allergies. Cats in particular are almost never suitable. They are tricky to contain and manage, which is why checking with us first is essential.

If you’re hoping to bring your dog on holiday, this guide should help you decide which Dufflebird property is the right fit.

Leaving the space trace free

Don’t leave behind obvious traces: hair, marks, or yard mess. A little thought goes a long way in keeping the house fresh and considerate for the next guest.

Dogs should arrive clean and flea-treated. They are strictly not permitted on beds and should stay off furniture.

If your dog is a couch dweller at home and you’re secretly hoping they won’t claim the furniture in someone else’s space, we get it. It’s tricky to be certain. First and foremost, we really don’t want dogs on the furniture. But if there’s a slim chance your dog might be tempted, we recommend bringing your own coverings to protect surfaces.

Please don’t bring dogs that chew household items. Young pups are generally not suitable for this reason.

During your stay, a quick tidy-up, picking up waste, vacuuming any loose hair, wiping smudges on glass — is all that’s needed. You don’t need to return the house to guest-ready perfection, just leave it in a way that respects the space, the housekeeper, the owner, and the next guest.

A few things to keep in mind

Our properties are set in natural and often unfenced environments. If your dog is an escape artist, they’re unlikely to be contained.

If your dog is reactive or easily spooked by livestock or wildlife, some properties may not be suitable.

Property guide

Otways Loft, Forrest
Fenced, but not fully dog proof. There is a small dog run on the balcony, along with a dog bed and bowls. Some guests find the run useful for short periods, though it may not suit all dogs.

Steam Carriage, Forrest
Fenced, but not fully dog proof. The narrow train carriage and delicate furnishings mean it’s worth considering whether your dog suits this space.

Dogs aren’t permitted in nearby national parks, but are allowed on lead in state park areas such as Lake Elizabeth, so you may need to plan around this.

Bootmakers Cottage, Birregurra
Fenced, but not fully dog proof. Dogs are welcome inside and out.

Liptrap Loft, near Walkerville
Bounded by farm wire, so dogs can wander into neighbouring paddocks with sheep or cattle. There is a low-voltage electric fence, which most dogs quickly learn to avoid. There is also a small enclosed area (a former aviary) where dogs can be left for short periods. Many guests find it too small for their dogs, though some use it successfully. This property is not suitable for dogs that chase livestock.

Shearwater Beach House, Walkerville
Well-behaved dogs may be considered by prior arrangement. This is assessed case by case rather than an open dog policy, so please check with us before booking. As with all properties, dogs should stay off furniture and beds, and the house should be left trace free.

McQueen, Anglesea & Dufflebird Farm
These properties do not accommodate pets.

A final note

We totally understand that some guests would love to bring their dogs — it can be part of what makes a stay feel whole.

But each property is different, and not every dog will suit every place.

If you’re unsure, just ask. We’re always happy to help you find the right fit.

Fleur April 2026