Globella Buyers Realty > Resources > Dog Friendly Apartments and Condos in San Diego
 

Dog-Friendly Buildings in San Diego 

  Photo Credit: Flickr: Adrian Smalley 

San Diego is one of the most dog-friendly cities in America, with four-legged family members welcome on beaches and hiking trails and even in many bars and restaurants. Still, many San Diego HOAs and condo associations place pet restrictions on their properties, especially for large-breed dogs. These dog restrictions can limit the number, breed, and weight of dogs allowed in a home, and can even ban dogs or other pets from a property altogether.

Breeds sometimes found on the “dangerous breed list” include Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Akitas, Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, Great Dane, St. Bernards, and pit bulls (a catch-all term that includes American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Bullies, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers). These breeds in some cases are completely banned from many apartment buildings, townhomes, and condos in San Diego.

How to Find an Apartment or Condo that Allows Dogs in San Diego

First, let your San Diego realtor or San Diego exclusive buyer’s agent know that you need to find a property that allows dogs. Many properties do not list their specific pet policies on their website, so your buyers agent will need to contact each HOA or property manager directly to see whether your particular dog will be allowed.

Second, get references - for both you AND your dog. While they wield a lot of power, at the end of the day HOAs and condo associations are run by people, at least some of whom are probably dog lovers. And it never hurts to put a personal face on an offer! Draft up a “resume” for you and your dog to show why both of you will be a great asset to the property. Things to discuss could include:

• Your history as a dog owner - how you obey local and state dog laws, how you take care of your dog, etc. References from former landlords are great to include here!
   
• How long you’ve owned this particular dog.
   
• How old is your dog? Is he house-broken? Has he taken any kind of obedience or training classes or had any kind of behavior testing to see if he is good with kids, other animals, etc.? A letter from your trainer, if applicable, is a good idea here.
   
• Do you carry dog liability insurance? (ALWAYS a good idea - I’ll talk about this a little more below.)
   
• Is your dog healthy? A letter from your vet providing the status of your dog’s health, shot record, and spay/neuter status is very helpful.
   
• Finally, sell it a little bit! Tell them why your dog is so special. What does he like to do for fun? What is his favorite toy or treat? Remember, you want your dog to be recognized as an important part of your family!

Finally, make sure that dog-related incidents and injuries, like dog bites, are covered in your homeowner’s insurance policy (or your renter’s insurance policy, for that matter!). In California, pet owners are typically liable for any damages caused by their pet, so even if your dog has never had a problem, it’s best to protect yourself against the worst-case scenario.

San Diego is a great place for you AND your dog, and if you’re looking into buying an apartment or condo in San Diego, it’s definitely possible to find the perfect home for both of you. Contact me today to start your search for a dog-friendly property in San Diego!


Also Read: Buying a Condo in San Diego: 4 Tips That Will Save Money

Also Read: How to Check the Financial Health of an HOA Before Writing an Offer

Also Read: What is a Buyer Strategy Session?

Also Read: What is an Exclusive Buyer Agent?

Also Read: How Does a Buyer's Agent Get Paid?

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Justin Gramm is the founder and principal broker of Globella Buyers Realty, your San Diego Exclusive Buyer Brokerage.

Exclusive Buyer Agents do not list homes for sale and never represent sellers. They have no "inventory" to try to sell you. They can represent you in purchasing any home. They are specialists at representing buyers only on the buyers' side of the transaction. Exclusive Buyer Agents work to get buyers the best price and terms when they buy a home.

If you have excellent credit and plan to buy a home or condo in San Diego County within 90 days, contact Justin Gramm to hire an agent on your side of the transaction. Call Justin at 858-437-2662 or E-mail.


Globella Buyers Realty > Resources > Dog Friendly Apartments and Condos in San Diego