The New York 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 their 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, here’s what you need to know
What you’re up against: Because only select apartment buildings are pet-friendly, owning a pet limits where you can live, it’s as simple as that. Furthermore, cats are often welcomed over dogs.
But 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 landlord’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. Â 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.
Outdoor space: 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 apartment’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.
Photo by andreaarden/ C C 2.0
Natural light and windows to the world: 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. It’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.
Photo by andreaarden/ C C 2.0
Hardwood or tile floors: Easy-to-clean surfaces are paramount when training a puppy or dealing with the occasional mishap.
Photo by Laurel Fan / 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.
Letters of recommendation: If you haven’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 doesn’t hurt either.
Photo by Raffi Asdourian / 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.
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.
