3 Tips for Renting an Apartment With a Dog
Adopting a dog brings so much joy to your life, but can also bring some unexpected complications. Finding an apartment to rent becomes trickier since not all apartments allow dogs and those that do may have breed or size restrictions. While it may require a bit more research, it is possible to find the perfect apartment for both you and your little best friend.
Here are three tips for renting an apartment with a dog:
Consider Looking at Luxury Apartments
If you have the budget for it, consider looking at luxury apartments during your home search. Not all luxury apartment complexes allow dogs, but many do and are especially dog-friendly. For example, luxury apartment complexes are more likely to offer dog-friendly amenities, such as lots of green space, walking trails with bag stations, or even a small dog park for your apartment complex so your dog can play with neighbor dogs.
Luxury apartments also tend to be larger and more comfortable, meaning you and Fido will have plenty of space to stretch out.
Be Prepared to Pay a Bit More
Before looking for a new apartment, be sure to save up a bit more money than if you were renting an apartment without a dog. Most dog-friendly apartment complexes charge extra fees for dogs. You will likely have to pay an extra deposit for your dog to cover any damages they may cause. Hopefully, your dog doesn't cause any damage and you will get the deposit back at the end of your lease.
In addition to an extra deposit, some apartment complexes also charge monthly pet rent, though this is typically a nominal amount of money.
Have Great Pet References
If you live in a competitive rental market where there are more renters than available apartments, you may need to go above and beyond. Asking for pet references to keep on hand is a great idea. These references can be from former landlords or someone who knows your dog well but isn't a friend or relative, like the owner of a local doggy daycare.
Your pet references should be short written references describing your dog's temperament and behavior. Traits like being quiet, gentle, completely house-trained, and friendly with other dogs are all great things to mention in a pet reference.
You don't need to be intimidated by trying to find the perfect apartment with a dog. To learn more about an apartment's dog policies, talk to an apartment company like Flats at Springhurst.