Can a Landlord Make You Get Rid Of Your Dog?

Your landlord cannot make you get rid of your dog without going through the proper legal channels. But some will try, and many tenants have rehomed their dogs because of a threat from a landlord. Make sure you know your tenant’s rights before making such a drastic decision. You may be surprised to learn how many rental protections you have under the law. Laws and regulations vary greatly based on location and other factors, which is why doing your rehome research is a must.

Here are a few things to consider when renting with pets.

1. Never sign a lease that specifies no pets. 

You love the apartment, but the lease says “no pets.” The landlord assures you that it’s just an old lease, and pets are fine. Do not sign that lease. If the landlord changes their mind about pets down the road, all that will matter is what’s in the lease. Insist on only signing an updated lease that states that pets are allowed.

2. Your landlord cannot abruptly remove your pet.

Your landlord cannot enter your unit and remove your pet unannounced, even if there are disputes over your pet’s presence. They have to go through proper legal procedures. If a landlord feels you’re violating pet policies in your lease, they typically need to give you a chance to address the issue (such as rehoming the pet, paying fines, or other solutions) before escalating to eviction proceedings. Seek legal advice immediately if your landlord has threatened this type of action. 

Related article

Renting With Pets: What to Know Before You Sign a Lease

Considering renting with pets? Read more to learn about renter policies and how to navigate them.

3. Service animals are allowed.

Even if yours is a no-pet building, service animals are allowed, and you cannot be charged a pet fee. If your landlord is threatening eviction over a service animal, get the advice of a local advocacy group or attorney. 

4. Your lease remains valid even if there’s a new landlord.

In most cases, the new landlord must abide by current leases. There are exceptions, and that’s why it’s important to know your rights and to get advice from your local housing authority. Of course, once the current lease is up, the new landlord can include language that prohibits pets. 

5. A no-pet clause can be void in some cases 

In some locations, a no-pet clause becomes void if a pet has lived openly (not hidden from the property owners) in the rental for three months. This varies by type of unit and location.

What you can do to prevent issues with your landlord 

• Never sneak an animal into a rental where pets are prohibited.

• Be very clear about language in the lease as it relates to pets.

• Provide proper training for your dog so they’ll be well-behaved.

• Be honest when moving in about what type of dog and how many dogs you have.

• Don’t add additional pets without checking that they will be allowed.

• Always pay required pet fees on time.

• Pick up after your dog in common areas. 

While your landlord can’t usually demand you rehome your pet right away, if he or she really wants the dog off the property, they will eventually make it happen. As soon as you realize your landlord is not okay with your dog, start looking for a new place. That way, when your lease is up, you’ll already have a plan and won’t have to surrender your pet.