First time landlord, need tenant advice

[Matthew Rayl]

BP, requesting a sanity check. I am about to be a landlord for my first time and I am in the military. Transitioning existing San Diego, CA SFR into a rental. I will only be moving 20 minutes away. Lived in existing house for 9 years and have great relationships with neighbors around my house. House was new construction.

1)  I have three prospective single tenants.  All three are military from different commands, but only one wants his name on the lease due to the three being of different ranks.   I have performed credit checks on all three (mid-600s), have copies of LES (paystub), currently reaching out to past landlords and contacting command supervisors.   The one prospective tenant that wants only his name on the lease is the highest ranking (E-7) and about to go on shore duty (i.e. he will not be deployable for the next 3 years).   It was explained that he would be assuming all the risk and be responsible for the whole lease.  Anyone see a big issue if I acquiesce to this request for only one of the three people to be on the lease?

2)  Same tenants request to have up to 3 total dogs (1 each).  They do not have the dogs yet, but request the option to get them during the lease.   Assuming the dog breeds are compliant with my homeowner's policy, I stated >35lbs = $25/mo/dog and <35lbs = $50/mo/dog.  Plus an additional $500/dog security deposit.  Commercial grade tile throughout downstairs, carpet upstairs.  Am I missing anything or are there any red flags I should consider?

Thanks in advance!

-Matt