How to make sure an apartment is dog-friendly before you buy

Renting with pets can be very difficult, but many buyers are surprised to realise that buying when you have pets, especially dogs, also comes with its own special considerations. Dogs aren't the most low maintenance of animals, so it's important to consider the kind of lifestyle you're going to have in your new apartment and ensure it's compatible with the kind of lifestyle your dog needs. Here are our tips on things to look out for when you're buying a property if you intend to keep a dog.

Check by-laws and covenants

Depending on where you're buying, some regions can have by-laws which prevent the owning of dogs on the property, and some simply say that dogs are allowed with notice or permission. You should always check with your solicitor or conveyancer to ensure that there are no by-laws which prohibit you from owning a dog on the property you're buying, as this could mean that you cannot have a dog altogether.

Outdoor access

Depending on the breed of dog you own or are thinking of buying, most dogs need at least some physical exercise every day. The easiest way to make sure your dog will have the space it needs to run some energy off without damaging your property is to choose an apartment with some level of outdoor access, ideally directly from your apartment. Common garden areas which allow dogs are also useful for taking your dog for walks in, and to allow your dog to socialise with other dogs.

A dog-friendly interior

While the interior of a home is very much a subjective matter of taste, some stylistic choices will certainly make owning a dog in an apartment a little easier. For example, hard floors in living areas will make it easier to clean up if your dog does have an accident inside. You might also want to choose carpets in a similar shade to your dog's fur, particularly if you own a long-haired breed or your dog is a shedder.

Finally, if you aren't a dog owner just yet, consider carefully which breed you do buy, as some are much more well-suited to apartment living than others. Lower-maintenance breeds like bulldogs and greyhounds will fare better in a small apartment than very active dogs like sheepdogs, who need a lot of stimulation and exercise every day.