For no extra charge, the pet-friendly Laurel offers such in-room amenities as dog beds, food and water bowls, a city guidebook for pet owners, a chew toy, and a personalized welcome note(e.g., "Dear Fido"). Dogs of any weight are welcome, with no deposits or fees, the lobby is stocked with tennis balls and treats, and apartment-style rooms provide plenty of space to spread out. Plus, Presidio National Park, with lots of hiking trails, is only five blocks away.

The Palomar, a sexy 198-room property that doubles as a hip art gallery, has an open-arms policy toward pets; almost any type and weight can stay for free. Guests can fill out a "Pet Preferences" card to ensure their animal gets the most out of its stay, and doggie food and water dishes are left out in the lobby. Some guests are lucky enough to be greeted by Maverick, the hotel's chocolate lab. On our stay, "Bowie" was the guest dog of the day.

The Argonaut welcomes pets 200 pounds and under (yes, we mean 200, not 20), for free. Pets are treated to free perks like pet beds (available in various sizes), food and water bowls, and treats, and the hotel is located next to the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, which has great trails for dog walks.

This casual, pop-themed Union Square property is full of character, with funky furnishings, a great restaurant, and a particularly welcoming pet policy. Pets under 200 pounds can stay for free, and there's no limit on the number of pets, though rooms are on the small side so it may not be the best choice for a Great Dane owner. The hotel can provide a list of pet sitters and doggie day care, and offers treats, feeding bowls, a mat, bottled water, a bed, and pickup bags for owners.

No weight restrictions and no fees make the Kabuki a solid pet-friendly choice in Japantown. The 218-room hotel offers a low-key alternative to the crowds and noise of downtown, and has a serene vibe and traditional Japanese decor. All rooms except the Japanese Suite, which features a sand garden, are available to pets; guests can bring up to two per visit.

Pets stay for free at the Serrano, where a fun-and-games theme and special VIP packages make dogs, cats, and other critters welcome. Reserve the "Pet Palace" package at this Tenderloin District property and get deluxe accommodations, designer mineral water, special doggy biscuits, after-dinner disposable cleanup bags, and any number of pet-friendly goods (gourmet lamb and rice dog food, leashes, rawhide fetch-it sticks). Food and water dishes are provided outside the hotel entrance.