Would you double think renting to someone with big dogs?

Question

Hello! I have a person interested in my rental. It's a nice home with engineered wood floors and laminate throughout the home. Applicants have two big furry dogs. Can't remember the breed right now, but are not an aggressive kind, just heavy weight, and I can imagine all the hair. The family was recommended by a friend and has spoken highly of them and pets. I am in the process of checking their background, etc but if they qualify, would you still recommend I look into other tenants that don't have big dogs? I have been told by someone to be very careful as they can damage doors and floors.

Recommendations?

Olivia Radziszewski · Answer

Hi,

This is definitely a decision of personal preference. Big dogs can be more well behaved than smaller dogs and less yappy. However, there is the chance that if the dog gets bored or is being destructive it can chew up your cabinets or trim etc. Their nails damaging the hardwood floor is also  a real concern. In my opinion I would take the time to meet the dogs. I think you can tell a lot about how well behaved they are if you interact with them. I definitely do not think they need to be written off completely just because they are big dogs.

Bruce Woodruff · Answer

Just no. Although we are animal lovers, we will not allow any pets in any of our properties. Just an accident waiting to happen.

Now a lot of people on here will cite statistics saying that X % of families own pets and by not allowing pets you are losing that percentage of renters. I don't care. I've never had a problem renting any place I ever owned. EVER.

So just say no and move on, you don't need these renters, there are plenty of renters out there that would love to rent your house. Why take a risk, especially with big furry dogs.

Laura Martinez · Answer

I personally think more like you Mose. Although anyone can say their dog is well trained and then they really aren't. At the end, my husband hinted he was concerned about being 60-100 lbs dogs and so they decided to keep looking elsewhere. It's tough to find a place that is willing to rent with two big dogs. Thank you all so much for your input! I appreciate it.

Mose Gebremeskel · Answer

It's definitely a personal preference that has pros and cons. My initial response to it is "no" because it's word of mouth and the hassle with untrained pets. Then I thought about some of the dog owners I know that live in my apartment building and how well trained they are. Things go smoothly. If the dogs are well trained then I would say yes but if they're not then no. I would think about what would be your requirements and expectations are before signing a lease. I would charge a pet fee as well. This can cover any damage that is done. Make sure you have a written lease documents that thoroughly explains what happens if the pet damages the property and what the requirements are for living on that property. You want your friend to know the expectations that need to be met.

Allan Smith · Answer

Don't rent to friends unless you see it as a charity and expect no rent.

I love collecting pet fees and deposits. Many many of my tenants have had pets and it has been extremely profitable for me. Sure there's more wear on the house if the dogs are bigger, but I've never found this to be excessive. I just take $200 - 300 out of deposit and replace the baseboard in the corner they kept the kennel or whatever.

Bruce Woodruff · Answer

1) Don't take friends as renters. 2) Don't take any dogs. You're asking for extra problems in both cases.....

You asked....

Theresa Harris · Answer

It really depends on the dogs and the owners.  I have one tenant who has a cat and the place is fine, but for the other places I say no pets.

Peter M. · Answer

@Laura Martinez is it part of your rental screening criteria? If not and they applied in good faith, you'd be taking their app fee. They should know up front. I personally would set a weight limit for the reasons you listed in addition to prohibited breeds based on your insurance

Billy Smith · Answer

Yes I would unless you have no action on the rental and need the dogs to keep her rented .

Robin Cornacchio · Answer

I have a renter with two very large dogs. I have her security deposit as well as a pet deposit for the two dogs. I'm lucky because the renter is very clean and responsible. I just renewed a lease with her for the 4th year.......do the background check, call past landlords etc.

Would you double think renting to someone with big dogs?

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