7 luxury hotels that put the wow in bow wow

They're rolling out the grass carpet at the nation’s toniest hotels to attract America’s most finicky dogs – and their wealthy owners. This summer, well-to-do traveling pooches can count on receiving perks such as filet mignon steaks, bone-shaped doggie cookies and dreamy monogrammed beds.

Pet amenities have become such an important part of the high-end hotel business that well-known companies vie to offer the best dog perks.

Which lead the pack?

Lisa Porter, founder of the website Pet Hotels of America, has come up with a list of the top seven based on perks, pet-friendliness of the hotel staff and pet policies and fees.

"If pets aren't spoiled before they stay at one of these luxury hotels, they certainly will be after," Porter said.

The Little Nell, Aspen, Colo.: Upon arrival at this boutique five-star hotel, Rover receives a Puppy Jet Lag kit that includes a personalized ID tag, special bowls and a logo-embroidered doggie bed. Dogs have their own pet menu with a selection of such delicacies as beef tenderloin, grilled organic chicken breast and grilled salmon. The hotel offers group or solo dog walks and dog-sitting services.

Hotel Palomar, San Diego: There are no pet fees or size restrictions at this luxury downtown hotel where pet-loving staff members have been known to allow visiting dogs or cats to sit with them at the reception desk while owners step out for short periods. Basic pet amenities include cozy beds, dining bowls and special treats of biscuits and cookies placed in cookie jars throughout the hotel.

The Surrey, New York City: Privileged pets visiting the Big Apple can check out the Jet Set Pet Program at The Surrey, where plush pet beds and food and water bowls await arriving four-legged guests. The hotel, only a block from the dog-friendly vibes of Central Park, has no breed or size restrictions and charges only $25 per pet stay.

St. Regis San Francisco: This five-star delight proudly boasts that it is the most pet-friendly hotel in the City by the Bay. Guests receive room-service delivery of a dog bed with the hotel’s insignia toys and treats. There is a $150 non-refundable fee.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas: Pets are welcomed with insignia pet beds and receive water and food bowls that Rover may take with him when he leaves. Other perks: a monogrammed belt-attachable waste bag holder, treats and a portable water bottle to take on outings.

Kahala Hotel and Resort, Honolulu: This pet-friendly five-star hotel is a heaven for dogs. Pooches are greeted with cookies with their names on them and have been known to get a flower lei upon arrival. Each is given his own water bowl and mat. Visitors should keep in mind that Hawaii is a rabies-free state with stringent restrictions that require animals to be quarantined for a minimum of five days.

Four Seasons Hotel, New York City: Big dogs receive large pillow beds while little pups get cushy semi-circular ones at this luxurious Manhattan hotel. A mat and two bowls are set up in the room for food and water, along with a bottle of Evian. Dogs also get a warm in-room welcome with a biscuit made in the hotel bakery department along with a welcome letter. Central Park is approximately a five-minute walk away. There is no additional charge for dog stays.