What Your Dog Wants to See in Your Next Home

If Fido likes to have puppy playdates now and again, walk around a neighborhood you’re considering with your furry pal in search of other dogs. Take a lap after work to up your chances of catching dogs out on their evening walks. Evaluate how well your pup engages with other dogs and chat up the owners to get a read on the pet-friendly vibe of the neighborhood. It’s also a good way to gauge how chummy dog owners in the 'hood are too.

While a neighborhood with lots of friendly dogs is nice, it’s equally fantastic to find a home near pup-friendly services and perks, like doggie daycare, dog parks, a well-rated vet and pet retailers. Even if you buy dog food online from Chewy or Amazon, find a back-up close to home if you’re in a bind and need kibble quickly. Also, keep your eyes open for teens eager to make a few bucks walking and caring for your dog while you’re on vacation or at work.

A yard without a fence doesn’t need to be a deal-breaker, but if the home you’re considering has a large, flat yard for your dog to run and play, a fence is a real plus. Otherwise, take into consideration the cost of a fence to stay within your overall homebuying budget. Check in with the local HOA if there is one. They may impose certain limitations with regard to style, height and material of fences.

The type of flooring in your new home should not be overlooked. For example, dark wood floors don't do much to hide dog hair, so you may spend more time than you’d like sweeping up. Worse, hardwood floors are more prone to water damage and scratches. "Think about the hardness and material of the flooring, as well as how easy it is to clean," notes Washington, DC-based real estate agent Amber Harris of At Home DC. Luxury vinyl plank, for example, is durable and resistant to moisture and scratches.