4 Things a Dog-Owner Should Consider When Renting an Apartment

Are you struggling to decide which pet-friendly apartment community is going to be the best fit for you and your dog? Maybe you don’t have one right now, but you’re hoping to pick one up down the line, and you want make sure you won’t run into any obstacles when you do.

HILLS Properties has seen many people come into our offices in this exact circumstance. That’s why we want to take a moment to outline four essential considerations you should make when you’re looking for an apartment that can accommodate a dog, and how we’ve prepared our communities to meet you and your needs where you’re at.

#1 – Living Situation

Dogs are wonderful companions, and their needs should be considered when choosing your next home.If you have a dog and are entertaining the possibility of moving, there are some things you need to take into account before making the commitment.

First, think about your roommates. Do they want a dog around? Do they have their own dog that doesn’t play well with others? Are they allergic to dogs? If you have roommates, it’s important to make sure everyone is on board with the idea of having your furry friend in the apartment. Second, consider your working hours. If you’re away all day, a cat might be a better alternative.

#2 – Yard or No Yard

One of the most important things to consider when deciding to get a dog is whether or not you have access to yard space.

Dogs need space to run and play, and a yard provides them with that opportunity. If you do not have access to yard space, you will need to be willing to take your dog on regular walks throughout the day.

Here at HILLS, we have dog parks at many of our apartments where your dog can be let off the leash and, let’s be frank, do their business in peace.

#3 – Apartment Pet Policies

It’s important to understand the pet policies when deciding on where to live. Not all pet-friendly apartment communities have the same policies and that could help you narrow down your options.

Most apartments, including here at HILLS, have weight limits for dogs, which is usually between 25 and 60 pounds. If your dog exceeds the weight limit, you’ll need to find another apartment that doesn’t have a weight limit or look into getting a house instead. Additionally, vaccination requirements with proper vet documentation are common.

Finally, some apartments don’t allow certain breeds of dogs, so it’s best to check before scheduling a tour. Some of the usual suspects include pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers, among others.

#4 – Nearby Dog Parks

If you’re considering living in an apartment, one important factor to think about is whether there are any nearby dog parks, inside or outside the community.

Dog parks are a great way to socialize your pet. Dogs need interaction with other dogs in order to stay happy and healthy. If there’s not a nearby dog park, it may be more difficult to find opportunities for your dog to socialize.

They’re also a convenient way to provide much needed exercise, especially for dogs with higher energy and playfulness. Dogs need plenty of exercise, and a nearby dog park makes it easy to fit in some playtime for your pup.

But the benefits aren’t for your dog only. Dog parks are a good way to meet people. If you’re looking for an opportunity to meet new people (especially if you’re new to an area), a dog park is a great place to start. With a little proactive momentum, you’ll start recognizing names and faces before long.

HILLS—We Understand and Accommodate

Pets are one of the most enriching things some of us can invite into our lives. They bring the best out of us. So, it’s unfortunate when we start running into problems and limitations because of them, but that’s the way of things, so the best we can do is look for an apartment property that understands the value of our pets and goes out of their way to create inclusive situations for our fur companions.

HILLS Properties want to respect the time, care, and desire you have to make life work with your pet, which is why we’ve tried to make properties that accommodate these things, from our policies down to our on-site amenities.

With apartment homes across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, we encourage you to seek out a property near you, so you can see for yourself the availability of dog parks and exact policies they have in place to make picking your next pet-friendly home easy and effortless. Talk to you soon!

Explore our Pet-Friendly Apartments: