Renting with Dogs

A happy dog enjoying play time
A happy dog enjoying play time
Renters who have a dog or more than one dog may face additional challenges when renting an apartment or a house. One of the primary challenges the renters may face is finding a living situation which is acceptable to them and also willing to accept their pets. This can be difficult as many rental properties do not allow dogs at all. Those who do allow animals on the property may place certain restrictions on they size and breed of dog which may reside on the property.

Finding an Acceptable Living Situation

The first step in renting with dogs is to find an acceptable living situation. For those who wish to rent with dogs, the first question to be asked should be whether or not dogs are allowed to live on the property. This is important because it can save the renter a great deal of time. The renter may otherwise invest a great deal of time learning more about the property or even undergoing a credit check only to find out pet are not permitted.
Foxy in play pose
Condo Alexandria Associate "Foxy" greets visitors
For some dog owners, finding a rental situation which allows dogs is not the end of the search. The renter should also confirm the type of dog he owns will be allowed to live on the property. This may include both the size of the dog as well as the breed as some apartment complexes place limitations on the size of the dog and also prohibit certain breeds. Again confirming these facts early in the search for an apartment can be a tremendous time savings especially for those who own large or commonly banned breeds. Renters should also consider the surrounding area when selecting a rental property. An ideal location would be one in which there is an adequate location to walk and exercise the dogs. Areas with large grassy areas may be ideal while areas which do not have a location to walk a dog may be problematic.

Read Contracts Carefully

Renters who have dogs should read their contract carefully before making a decision to rent a particular property. This is important because many landlords may impose restrictions on renters who own dogs. These restrictions may include, but are not limited to, requiring an additional security deposit for the renter, requiring specific cleaning methods on the carpets after the renter vacates the apartment and holding the renter responsible if the dog engages in nuisance barking. Nuisance barking can be a problem in apartment situations where the apartments are located close together and even share a common wall. Renters should be aware that in some situations, nuisance barking can be a cause for eviction. For these reasons, renters who own dogs should take the time to familiarize themselves with the rental contract.

Take Care of Your Rental Property

Grover has lunch
Grover has lunch
Finally, renters who have dogs may have to take additional efforts to maintain their apartment. This may include more diligent cleaning, especially of the carpets. Renters with dogs should respond quickly to accidents in the house to minimize the possibility of permanent staining and odors. Each accident should be addressed immediately and every effort should be made to clean the affected area completely. Renters with dogs should also vacuum regularly especially if their dog is a heavy shedder. This will help to keep the living environment cleaner and will also minimize the amount of cleaning required when the renter vacates the property. Regularly vacuuming will prevent hair from being embedded into the carpet so deeply that it is difficult to remove. Finally, renters with dogs should take care to pick up after their dogs while on walks and to keep their dogs leashed while in common areas. Many cities have leash laws and laws regarding picking up after dogs. Even if these laws are not in effect, renters should follow these policies as a courtesy to their neighbors. Additionally, keeping dogs on leashes during walks helps to ensure their safety by preventing them from running into the street. Featured Rentals
3313 Wyndham Cir #2214

Stunning 1-bed, 1-bath second-floor condo in the gated community of The Pointe at Park Center with more perks than you can count! Enjoy an open floorplan living area highlighted by natural lighting flowing throughout the unit. Spacious kitchen boasts ample cabinetry, sparkling granite countertops, all stainless-steel appliances and two-tier breakfast bar overlooking living room with sliding door to outdoor living space. Large bedroom features a walk-in closet and en-suite full bath with tiled floor. Sizable private balcony is perfect for enjoying your morning coffee with courtyard views. Washer and dryer conveniently located in unit. Secure assigned parking spot, water, and trash included in monthly rent. Enjoy the building amenities including fitness center, sauna, outdoor pool with hot tub, tot lot, 24 hour gated security system, and Pentagon city shuttle. Fully furnished unit available for an additional $50/month! Take advantage of the prime location nestled between Rte 7 and 395 for a breezy commute to DC, Ronald Reagan Airport, The Pentagon, and military bases including Joint Base Andrews AFB, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling AFB, and Navy Yard. Looking for dining, shopping, and entertainment options, Old Town Alexandria is just a short drive away. Don’t miss this! **If prospective tenant would like the unit to remain furnished, rent would be $2,200/month** [Pointe At Park Center - $2,150]

1020 N Stafford St #103

Prime Location! Don't miss out on this rare gem – a cozy studio condo nestled in the vibrant heart of Ballston within the sought-after Summerwalk development. Step outside onto an expansive patio, perfect for enjoying outdoor living. Secure your convenience with an included parking spot in the underground garage. Positioned less than a block away from the Ballston Metro, this studio offers unparalleled accessibility to top-notch dining, nightlife, and shopping options within walking distance. With its seamless commute into DC, this studio condo is an ideal haven for urban dwellers seeking both comfort and convenience. Don't delay – seize the opportunity to move into this ready-to-go unit today! [Summerwalk - $1,600]

3600 S Glebe Rd #1115w

Welcome to National Landing, Fully finished (all inclusive) where luxury meets convenience. Step into this unparalleled Penthouse Condo, boasting million-dollar views and worry-free living with its fully furnished setup, including utilities internet and secure garage parking. Situated in the heart of the action, you'll find yourself mere blocks away from the new Potomac Yard Metro station and the cutting-edge Virginia Tech Innovation Alexandria Campus. Plus, there's exciting potential for new Alexandria sports arenas, potentially hosting the Washington Capitals and Wizards. Inside, marvel at the elegant kitchen featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and gas cooking. With recent upgrades including new hardwood floors, fresh paint, and custom-built closets, this home exudes modern sophistication. The 11-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while the private balcony offers front-row seats to the Fourth of July fireworks. For added convenience, enjoy amenities like the fitness center, pool, and 24-hour concierge. Indulge in retail therapy with Harris Teeter just downstairs, or explore nearby attractions like the Amazon HQ2 and the airport, all just minutes away. And don't forget to unwind in style at The Eclipse, where residents can enjoy a theater room, rooftop deck, outdoor pool, and fitness center. Experience the epitome of lifestyle living in National Landing, where every day brings new opportunities for excitement and growth. Embrace the future of urban living and make this vibrant community your home today! [Eclipse On Center Park - $3,500]

904 Rolfe Pl

Introducing your ideal home in Old Town! This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhouse offers hardwood floors, a kitchen with a spacious eat-in area, and a cozy living room with a fireplace leading to a small deck. The lower level features a den/family room opening to a stone patio. With a garage, guest parking, and street parking available, plus easy access to Braddock metro and trendy shops just two blocks away, this home combines convenience and comfort seamlessly. Don't miss out - schedule a viewing today! - $45 Application fee - Minimum requirements: income 2.5 times rent amount, 600 credit score. [Powhatan Place - $3,850]

dog at training academy by the River
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Julie Nesbitt

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Julie Nesbitt is an ABR who has served buyers in some of Alexandria’s most exclusive neighborhoods.  She is a top producing agent who has listed and sold property in Northern Virginia. In addition to helping folks buy, sell and rent property in Northern Virginia, Julie is the primary administrator of the property management services performed by Nesbitt Realty and Condo Alexandria. Call Julie at (703)765-0300.