The formal recognition that an accommodation has been assessed against the Dog Friendly Standard (RDFS-02) and found to meet its minimum requirements at a specific point in time. Certification is an attestation of conformance with a baseline definitional standard. It is not a quality rating, not an endorsement of the guest experience, not a guarantee of future compliance, and not a statement of suitability for any particular dog.
RDFRG-02 · Defined Term 8
Dog Friendly Certification
Formal recognition that an accommodation meets the Dog Friendly Standard (RDFS-02) minimum requirements at a specific point in time.
Definition
Formal recognition that an accommodation meets the Dog Friendly Standard (RDFS-02) minimum requirements at a specific point in time.
Part of the Roch Dog Standard (RDFS-02) · Published by Roch Dog
Dog Friendly Certification
Roch Interpretation
Certification means the property passed the standard at the time of assessment. It is not a review, not a recommendation, and not a claim that every stay will go smoothly.
Examples
Compliant
A hotel is listed on standards.rochdog.com with a Certified status and a March 2026 assessment date, signalling that its policies and provisions met the minimum standard at that point in time.
Not compliant
A hotel displays a self awarded 'dog friendly hotel of the year' badge on its website with no third party assessment behind it.
Published by Roch Dog
RDFRG-02 · Last updated 17 March 2026