Do you take your dog’s opinion into making big decisions about where you live? A recent study from Harris Poll learned that 33% of millennial home buyers decide on buying a house based on providing for their dogs! For surveyed millennial home buyers were a higher priority in the decision to purchase a home vs. marriage or even human children. No matter if you’re looking to move around the corner or across the country it’s important to take your dog’s needs in mind when looking at new homes and if your dog will enjoy living there. Regardless of if you’re purchasing or renting a home, consider what will be best for your dog when looking for a new place to live.
Amenities & Supports:
Regardless of if you’re moving into a house or apartment, your dog would like you to consider the canine-focused amenities that exist at or near the potential new home. When looking at new homes, consider if there are steep stairs and if they will be difficult or uncomfortable for your dog to navigate at their age or size. Increasingly apartment complexes are adding amenities to cater to dogs and their people. Some apartment complexes are adding things like dog washes and even fenced dog play areas or dog parks for residents to utilize!
When looking for a new place to live, see what dog-specific amenities are included in different apartment buildings, or are located nearby to properties you are considering. Having a dog is a big responsibility. When selecting a new place to live your dog will benefit from you considering what kind of supports exist for you in a specific location. Will you be moving near friends or family who have a close relationship with your dog and could jump in to support you if you need help? If not, check reviews for dog walkers and pet sitters to ensure there are high-quality options in any area you’re considering moving – your dog will thank you later!
Consider Access to Outdoor Space:
If you’re moving into an apartment or townhouse look and see how close you are to parks and other dog-friendly outdoor recreational spaces so your dog can get some exercise, stretch their legs, and have some fun. If you’re considering renting or purchasing a house, pay attention to the yard and if it’s set up for your dog. Specific things to look for include if the yard has an adequate amount of space for how you and your dog enjoy playing.
You’ll also want to consider if the yard is landscaped in a way that prevents your dog from being able to play and if, you’re renting, if you’re allowed to change the yard. Pay special attention to the fencing in the yard making sure that it is secure and tall enough to make it possible for your dog to have off-leash playtime in the yard. If there is no fence your dog will thank you for making sure you’re allowed to add one (homeowner associations prohibit fencing or certain types of fencing) and to make sure you’ve got the space in your budget to have that work done!
Location, Location, Location:
If you’re considering a big move, think about what state or city you’re considering moving to and how overall dog friendly that location is. For these big moves don’t forget to consider how the weather and climate might impact the activities you and your dog most enjoy doing together. Is that area prone to thunderstorms? If you have a dog with storm anxiety your dog might prefer you pick a different state to move to. Some dogs and dog breeds are more sensitive than others to temperature. If you’re planning a big move, consider how your dog will handle a different climate. If you have a dog who is shy, nervous, reactive, or uncomfortable around groups of people or other dogs they might prefer you move to a quieter location as opposed to a high-density area, so every walk isn’t stressful.
Once you’ve settled on an area you think your dog will enjoy living in, you’ll want to consider your new home’s proximity to dog-related services. Check to see how close you’ll be to veterinarian clinics, as well as emergency veterinary hospitals. Consider if there are nice pet supply stores nearby to bring your dog to visit, and pickup up those last-minute supplies.
Also, check to see what kind of dog grooming and dog training options there are in the area. If you’re moving to another part of town, consider how long of a commute you’ll have to get your dog to any professionals you’re already working with like canine massage therapists, veterinarians, groomers, or trainers. Especially if you have a young or energetic dog you may want to consider getting involved recreationally with a dog sport or activity like Agility so it’s important to see if there are dog training facilities near you. Don’t forget to factor in your work commute when picking a location, the shorter the commute the more opportunity you’ll have to spend quality time with your dog.
Most Importantly:
Deciding where you’ll live is a big personal decision, but it’s important to take your dog’s comfort and needs into consideration. Ultimately your dog wants you to move somewhere where you’ll be happy and where you will spend time together. Although your dog might have some personal preferences for what type of location you will call home, and what will or won’t be stressful, at the end of the day dogs are highly adaptable. Dogs are happiest when they are with their people, so some homes will be better than others for your dog. The most important thing is for you to spend quality time together regardless of where you live.
