Introduction
Many apartment buildings and rental properties have restrictions on certain dog breeds that tenants are allowed to have. These breed restrictions are in place for a variety of reasons relating to the size, aggression, noise, destructiveness, and shedding tendencies of some dogs. While these rules may seem unfair to some dog owners, apartment complexes institute them to protect other tenants and the property itself. This article will provide an overview of the most commonly prohibited dog breeds and the reasons they tend to be restricted by rental properties and apartments.
The thesis of this article is that certain breeds of dogs like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds face frequent apartment breed restrictions due to concerns over these dogs’ size, strength, aggression, and other factors that could potentially endanger neighbors or damage property.
Large Breeds
Many apartment complexes and landlords place restrictions on larger dog breeds due to size constraints and potential damage concerns. Common large dog breeds that are often banned or restricted in apartments include:
- Great Danes
- Mastiffs
- St. Bernards
- Newfoundlands
- Irish Wolfhounds
Size restrictions typically exclude dogs over 25 inches tall at the shoulder and over 75-100 pounds. Landlords worry that large dogs may be destructive and cause damage by knocking things over or scratching floors and doors in confined apartment spaces. There are also concerns about large dog waste and cleanliness issues (source).
Additionally, many apartment buildings have size limits for dogs based on their pet policies or insurance requirements. Most apartment insurers place restrictions on certain large dog breeds. Trying to override apartment pet policies related to size is difficult, but some landlords may make exceptions if you have a well-trained large breed dog with excellent references (source).
Aggressive Breeds
Certain breeds are often banned by apartments because they are stereotyped as aggressive. The most commonly restricted breeds due to perceptions of aggression include:
- Pit Bulls – Pit Bull breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier are often subject to apartment bans. According to the ASPCA, “Pit Bulls who pass the American Temperament Test…are less aggressive than many other breeds, including Beagles, Akitas, and Border Collies” (Source).
- Rottweilers – Rottweilers are known as guard dogs, which contributes to assumptions they are aggressive, but these intelligent, loyal dogs score an 83.9% passing rate on the American Temperament Test (Source). Their natural protectiveness requires training and socialization.
- Doberman Pinschers – While historically used as guard dogs, Dobermans today are commonly family companions. The breed passes temperament tests at a rate of 84.1% and are not inherently aggressive when properly trained (Source).
While some individuals of these breeds may display aggression, modern science does not categorize any breed as universally aggressive or dangerous. With proper training and care, even breeds with guarding instincts can make calm, loving pets.
Noisy Breeds
Certain breeds are known for being more vocal and prone to frequent barking and howling, which can easily disturb neighbors in an apartment building. Examples of notoriously noisy breeds often banned by apartments include Beagles, Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, Fox Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, and Siberian Huskies.
Dogs that bark excessively and howl can quickly lead to noise complaints from neighbors in an apartment community. Most apartments have quiet hours, typically from 10pm-8am, when dogs should not be barking or causing a disturbance. If a dog is barking or howling for over 10 minutes unprovoked, even during daytime hours, this can violate noise ordinances and lead to warnings or fines in many apartments.
While any breed can make noise, certain breeds are prone to barking and howling more than others due to their natural instincts and energy levels. Breeds like Huskies and Beagles were historically bred to vocalize while hunting and may struggle to adapt to apartment living. Apartments often restrict or ban the nosiest breeds to prevent excessive noise disturbances.
Sources:
https://www.petscreening.com/blog/breed-restrictions
Destructive Breeds
Certain dogs breeds are known for behaviors like excessive chewing and digging that can potentially cause property damage. This understandably raises concerns for landlords and property managers, which is why these breeds may face restrictions in apartments.
For example, Labrador Retrievers are an energetic breed prone to chewing and digging, especially when young and not properly exercised (Source). Australian Shepherds are also working dogs that may exhibit destructive behaviors if bored or under-stimulated. Both breeds require ample exercise and mental stimulation to prevent problem behaviors.
Other breeds like Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are known to be escape artists that will dig and chew to get out of confined spaces. Terrier breeds, developed to hunt vermin, may be diggers by instinct. Herding breeds like Border Collies can be destructive when their natural herding outlets are restricted (Source).
While responsible ownership and training can curb destructive tendencies, landlords may see poorly supervised dogs of these breeds as liability risks. Pet policies help protect properties from damage, noise complaints, and injuries. Nonetheless, breed alone does not determine behavior – any dog can be destructive without proper care.
Shedding Breeds
Certain breeds that are known for heavy shedding, like German Shepherds (https://www.rent.com/blog/worst-dogs-for-apartments/) and Chow Chows, are typically restricted in apartments. Their thick double coats can lead to excessive amounts of fur being left around the home.
All that loose hair can present cleanliness issues and lead to frustration for owners who have to constantly vacuum and clean. The shedding can also aggravate allergies in residents who are sensitive to dander. Keeping up with the grooming demands of heavy shedders is difficult in smaller living spaces.
For potential owners looking to house these breeds in an apartment, investing in heavy duty vacuums and being diligent about grooming is a must. But even with proper care, these dogs will likely continue to shed more than is ideal for a small dwelling.
Insurance Limitations
Some insurance carriers restrict certain breeds of dogs from being covered under homeowners and renters insurance policies. This is primarily due to concerns about bites and aggression from larger or historically aggressive breeds. According to a Forbes report, common restricted breeds include Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, and Chows.
Because insurance coverage is critical for landlords and property managers, they may ban dogs based on the limitations set by their insurance carrier. According to ValuePenguin, some insurance companies will cancel a policy if a restricted breed is discovered on the property. As a result, many rental communities publish banned breed lists that align with their insurance restrictions.
Renters with dogs on these restricted breed lists may have difficulty finding affordable insurance and rental housing. However, some insurers will cover them for an additional premium. Renters should be aware of breed restrictions before signing a lease to avoid issues down the road.
Alternatives for Restricted Breeds
If you have your heart set on a breed that is typically banned by apartments, there are some alternatives to consider. Many breed-specific rescue organizations work to adopt out dogs in need of homes, including pit bulls, rottweilers, and other commonly restricted breeds. Adopting through a rescue is a great option since they can help match you with a dog that fits your lifestyle. Rescue groups often have experience working with apartment communities to get approval for their adoptable dogs.
Another option is to consider a mixed breed dog that contains some percentage of a restricted breed. Since mixed breeds exhibit a range of physical traits, they may not automatically fall under breed bans. For example, a dog that is half Labrador retriever and half pit bull may meet size and temperament requirements. Checking with your landlord is important, but mixed breeds can potentially offer the characteristics you want without limitations of purebreds.
According to this source, some regions have moved away from banning specific breeds and instead focus on individual dog behavior and temperament when granting approval.
Tips for Approved Breeds
Even though some dogs are allowed in apartments, it’s still important to be a responsible pet owner. Approved breeds like Dachshunds, Pugs, and French Bulldogs require training and daily exercise to prevent problem behaviors like excessive barking or destruction. Make sure to provide at least 30-60 minutes of exercise per day and invest time into positive reinforcement training. Attend obedience classes or hire a trainer if your dog develops any behavioral issues. Dogs left alone all day without stimulation may resort to barking or chewing which could lead to noise complaints or damage.
Being a responsible apartment dweller with a dog means ensuring your pet does not infringe on the rights of other tenants. Pick up all waste immediately, keep dogs leashed outdoors, and monitor barking. Introduce your dog to neighbors and provide your contact information in case of any issues. With the proper care and training, even excitable small dog breeds can thrive in apartments without disturbing other residents.
Conclusion
Finding housing that allows pets can be challenging, especially for dogs considered aggressive or noisy. While certain breeds are more likely to face rental restrictions, responsible pet owners can take steps to properly train and socialize their dogs. Setting dogs up for success through obedience classes and ensuring they get enough physical and mental exercise makes dogs calmer and less prone to boredom barking or destructive behaviors. Taking the time to find landlords open to pets, offering pet deposits or rent, and maintaining open communication sets responsible owners and their dogs on the right path. Although some breeds do face more hurdles in pet-friendly housing, a well-trained dog who is properly supervised offers the best chance at approval.