Ovolo Sydney, Woolloomooloo

Ovolo Sydney sits in the heritage Finger Wharf at Woolloomooloo, and it runs one of the more organised dog programs of any Sydney hotel. The V.I.Pooch package is a named, bookable pet stay rather than a front desk favour: you book the package, the room is allocated accordingly, and the dog inclusions arrive before you do. Harbour views, a designer fit-out and a promenade at the door make it a genuinely city-slick stay with a dog in tow.

Dogs at the Ovolo

Book the V.I.Pooch package; a standard room cannot simply be upgraded to take a dog at check in. Up to two dogs are accepted per room, with no stated weight cap, and the package includes an orthopaedic memory foam dog bed, a mat, food and water bowls and a pack of treats. The fee runs around $120, though sources differ on whether that is per night or a surcharge for a second dog, so confirm the exact figure when you book. Dogs may be leashed in designated public areas including the lobby, but not in restaurants, bars, the pool or the gym, and they should not be left alone in the room for long stretches. Guests register the pet at booking and carry responsibility for any damage or extra cleaning.

Max: Book the package, not the room. The difference between a hotel that tolerates dogs and one that has planned for them shows up in the first five minutes, and this one has planned.

The place

The hotel occupies a working heritage wharf, with loft-style rooms, free minibar perks and a playful art-heavy interior. Valet parking is available for a fee; street parking on Cowper Wharf Roadway is limited and busy.

Walks from the door

The Finger Wharf promenade is an easy leash walk right outside, and the Royal Botanic Garden and The Domain are a short stroll away, though leash rules vary by zone so follow signage. Embarkation Park up at Potts Point is a small terrace green with a dog area, and Cook + Phillip Park near the Australian Museum gives a bigger lawn run behind the CBD. For coffee, RayRay Cafe on Macleay Street welcomes dogs at outdoor tables. If you are comparing hotels, Ace Hotel Sydney in Surry Hills also runs a pet program with in-room dog amenities.

See more pet friendly stays in New South Wales or plan around Woolloomooloo.