Apartment searching…it’s for the dogs!

The New York City apartment hunt is complicated, but it’s even tougher with a four-legged friend at your side. RentHop spoke to some experienced New York pet owners to find out how they landed pads suitable for both themselves and for the dogs.

It all boils down to the details. All agreed that discovering the ideal abode is less about targeting a dog-friendly neighborhood and more about considering aspects like sun exposure. So, before you choose a place to live, or choose a pet for that matter, hereโ€™s what you need to know

What You’re Up Against

Only select apartment buildings are pet-friendly, and owning a pet limits where you can live. Itโ€™s as simple as that. Furthermore, landlords often prefer cats over dogs since they cause less damage.

However, a pet-friendly policy is not always enough when it comes to actually signing on the dotted line. New York apartment hunters have found that even when a building initially says pets are OK, it is really up to the landlordโ€™s whim whether or not your animal will be allowed. However, it is always possible to win your landlord over by establishing yourself as a respectful and courteous tenant prior to bringing a pet into the picture.

Finally, our experts suggest taking note of other pet owners in the building. Even if the apartment is pet-friendly, it is preferable to move into a building where there is a dog culture so as to avoid resentful neighbors.

My owner would be the best tenant ever. I promise!
My owner would be the best tenant ever. I promise!

Photoย byย nayrb7ย /ย C C 2.0

Outdoor Space for Dogs

Think creatively about exposure to outdoor space. While easy access to a yard is ideal for potty breaks, our group of pet owners actually said they use their apartmentโ€™s yard less than they thought they would. Parks, especially those with off-leash hours and dog runs, are great (Prospect Park in Brooklyn and Central Park in Manhattan offer these amenities), but also consider the amount of dog friendly restaurants in the neighborhood. Do you see people brunching with their dogs? If so, this could be a great place for you and your furry friend.

Outdoor space is the best space!
Outdoor space is the best space!

Photo byย andreaarden/ย C C 2.0

Natural Light and Windows

How you go about accommodating your pet with a view of the neighborhood is entirely up to the disposition of your animal, but natural light and having a perch for your pet are small details that will make a big difference in the quality of its life. If you have a jumpy, protective type, then the first floor is probably not for you. Itโ€™s a lot easier to open blinds and curtains throughout the day and night when you are on a higher floor. That having been said, trips down the stairs for walks are more of a hassle the higher you go.

Don't look at me like that. I didn't choose a sixth-floor walkup. That was your idea.
Don’t look at me like that. I didn’t choose a sixth-floor walkup. That was your idea.

Photoย byย andreaarden/ย C C 2.0

Hardwood or Tile Floors

Easy-to-clean surfaces are paramount when training a puppy or dealing with the occasional mishap.

Hardwood floors also, as it happens, are *perfect* for napping.
Hardwood floors also, as it happens, are *perfect* for napping.

Photoย byย Laurel Fanย /ย C C 2.0

Services in the Neighborhood

Our experts suggested there are more dog-friendly apartment buildings in Brooklyn than Manhattan, but less dog amenities like groomers and daycares. Once you are attached to the people who take care of your animal, it might be hard to switch. Ask for recommendations from friends and neighbors.

If you make fun of me I'll bite you.
If you make fun of me I’ll bite you.

Photo by Dave / C C 2.0

Letters of Recommendation

If you havenโ€™t been totally scared off of finding an apartment for you and your pet, be sure to arrive to your appointment armed with letters of recommendation from your veterinarian that provide proof of weight, size and vaccines. Stocking your arsenal with letters of recommendation from a previous landlord and dog daycare doesnโ€™t hurt either.

This much cuteness don't need no stinkin' recommendation letter
This much cuteness doesn’t need a recommendation letter.

Photo by Raffi Asdourianย / C C 2.0

Renters Insurance

Insuring your home can be harder when you have a pet, especially when you own what is considered a potential aggressor such as a pit bull or German shepherd. Insurance companies warn that if your dog attacks an intruder, the intruder can sue you for the damages. When renters acquire renter’s insurance, they should also look for policies that have pet protections.

...but *I'm* the reason we have these lame lights instead of candles. Uh, okay. Whatever you say.
…but *I’m* the reason we have these lame lights instead of candles. Uh, okay. Whatever you say.

Photo by MjaMes1408 / C C 2.0

Finally, even if the landlord loves pets and especially yours, be prepared to pay an additional security deposit for damages that might occur.

Editor’s Note: We updated this article to enhance readability.ย 

lawrence
lawrence
Lawrence part of the RentHop Data Science team with over a decade of experience in the real estate industry. In addition, he is a software developer and quantitative analyst with over 12 years of experience in software development and quantitative modeling. Lawrence merges two of his passions together to help renters across the nation with their home search.

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