Renting with a pet takes more planning, especially with a large dog or a breed on restriction lists. Start early and present yourself as a responsible owner.
Where to search
- Use the “pets allowed” filters on rental sites, then confirm the policy directly with the landlord: “cats OK” does not always mean dogs are welcome.
- Look at buildings managed by large companies, which often have written pet policies, and at private landlords, who may be more flexible.
- Ask local shelters, rescues and dog trainers; they often know pet-friendly buildings.
Understand restrictions and costs
- Weight limits (25 or 50 pounds are common) and breed restrictions, often linked to the landlord’s insurance policy.
- Number of pets allowed.
- Pet deposit: refundable, sometimes limited by state law.
- Pet fee: a one-time, non-refundable charge.
- Monthly pet rent.
Add these to your budget when comparing apartments.
Make a good impression
Prepare a short pet resume:
- Photo, age, breed, weight and spay/neuter status
- Vaccination and vet records
- Training certificates (an AKC Canine Good Citizen title can help)
- A reference from a previous landlord saying your pet caused no damage or complaints
- Proof of renters insurance with liability coverage
Offer to let the landlord meet your pet.
Check the apartment itself
- Is there a nearby park or green space for walks? For small dogs in high-rises, an indoor potty area can help, see how to train your dog to use a litter box.
- Are floors easy to clean?
- Is the unit quiet enough for a dog that barks at noises? See how to stop a dog from barking at everything.
- Do windows and balconies have secure screens for cats?
Read the lease
Make sure your pet is named in the lease or a pet addendum, with any rules (leash in common areas, waste pickup, noise). Take dated photos of the unit’s condition at move-in to protect your deposit.
Assistance animals
Under the federal Fair Housing Act, service animals and emotional support animals are generally not considered pets. Landlords usually must make reasonable accommodations for them even in no-pet buildings, without charging pet fees, although they can ask for reliable documentation of the need when the disability is not obvious. Misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal is illegal in many states. Check HUD guidance and your state’s rules.
Once you move, help your pet settle in, see how to help a cat adjust to a new home and ways to exercise a dog in small spaces.
