April 1, 2024
How to Make the Most of a Virtual Apartment Tour
In today’s fast-paced digital world, apartment hunting has transformed, and the virtual apartment tour is leading the charge. Gone are the...
Bringing home a dog is exciting, but if you’re renting an apartment, you’ll need to do a few extra layers of planning before you can get to puppy kisses and couch snuggles.
Not every dog thrives in a small space, and not every apartment welcomes pets with open arms. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pet lover moving into your first rental, here’s what you need to know to find a pup that suits your space, schedule, and lifestyle.
Every dog deserves the right fit, and that starts with an honest look at your routine, environment, finances, and apartment pet policies. Here’s a lowdown of what you should consider before bringing home a new companion.
Do you work from home, or are you out of the apartment most of the day? Are you a runner who wants a canine companion—or more of a couch-and-cuddles type? How close is your building to a park, dog run, or quiet sidewalk loop?
These details matter. Apartment-friendly pets need more than square footage—they need structure and stimulation. If you’re surrounded by concrete, your best bet is a dog that doesn’t mind short, leash-led potty breaks and finds joy in chew toys and treat puzzles. If you live near greenspace or have a pet-friendly balcony, you might have a little more flexibility.
It’s also worth thinking about your building itself. Some dogs are more sensitive to sound, so if your unit shares thin walls or sits near the elevator, you’ll want a pup who’s content to snooze through the ruckus rather than bark at every creak.
You know that vet bills, food, toys, a crate, and a cute collar are expenses you’ll incur. But if this is your first time renting with a dog, it’s easy to overlook the financial side of things when it comes to your apartment.
Most pet-friendly apartments charge a one-time pet deposit—essentially a security deposit in case of pet damage.
Your dog doesn’t have an hourly wage or a salary… but that doesn’t mean apartments won’t charge them (you!) rent! Many properties also tack on a non-refundable pet fee and monthly “pet rent,” which can range from $15 to $50 per month.
Whether you’re looking for an apartment or already have your place, it’s crucial to know about your apartment complex’s rules up front–before you fall in love with a pup. Not all pet policies are straightforward, and you can be evicted or rejected from apartments for not knowing the rules or trying to bend them.
Even if you already have a pet, you should know that some apartments limit the number of pets allowed. Others may require proof of vaccinations or spay/neuter status.
If you’re planning to register your pup as an emotional support animal (ESA), be aware that emotional support dog apartment rules vary. Landlords may request documentation from a licensed provider.
It’s not enough for your dog to be apartment-friendly—your apartment also has to be dog-friendly. Many properties can have strict policies when it comes to breed restrictions and pet weight limits.
Strict breed bans often apply to larger dogs or those unfairly perceived as aggressive—think Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Huskies, or Dobermans. Even mixed breeds can be disqualified if they “look like” a restricted breed. Weight limits are also common and usually capped at 35–50 pounds.
These rules can feel frustrating, especially when your dog’s behavior doesn’t match the stereotype. That’s why it’s so important to read the fine print before you fall in love with a particular breed or a specific apartment—or better yet, use ApartmentSearch to filter listings. It helps to take the guesswork (and heartbreak) out of the equation when you’re figuring out how to get a dog in an apartment.
You’ve done your research on pet policies–now it’s time to determine if there’s a specific breed of canine that calls to you. Here’s what you need to know about picking out a dog breed that’s good for apartments.
When you’re short on space, personality actually matters more than size. The best dogs for apartments tend to be calm, quiet, and independent enough to nap away the afternoon if you’re stuck in meetings or running errands.
Greyhounds and Whippets are surprisingly well-suited for apartment life. Though they were bred for speed, these sleek pups are certified couch potatoes when indoors.
If you’re looking for something smaller, consider a Havanese or Miniature Schnauzer—both are affectionate, adaptable, and not prone to nuisance barking with the right training.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are another favorite. They’re happy in just about any environment as long as they’re with their people, and they don’t need tons of exercise to stay happy.
Toy or Miniature Poodles also make excellent apartment dogs—they’re smart, low-shedding, and easy to train, especially in smaller spaces.
All of these breeds are known for their manageable energy levels and quieter dispositions—ideal qualities for apartment dwellers who want to stay on good terms with their neighbors.
You don’t need a breeder to find your perfect match. In fact, the best apartment dogs are often waiting at your local shelter or rescue group! Adopting a dog comes with big benefits. Shelter staff can help match you with pups that are already housebroken, crate-trained, or used to apartment life.
Pro tip: If you’re worried about having enough time or energy for a puppy, older dogs can be a dream—they tend to be more mellow, need less training, and adapt easily to new routines.
Absolutely! If you’ve got your heart set on a particular type of dog, breed-specific rescues are a great resource. You’ll still get the traits you love, but with a dog who’s already had a second chance at life.
You don’t need a yard, a big house, or years of experience to be a great dog owner. With the right mindset—and the right match—you can absolutely thrive with a dog in an apartment.
Look for pups that suit your space, your routine, and your energy level, and don’t be afraid to consult adoption counselors, shelter staff, and apartment search tools to help you make the right decision!
Looking for a pet-friendly place that fits both your lifestyle and your pup’s? Use ApartmentSearch to filter by pet policies and discover apartments where you and your dog can truly feel at home.
