How to Get Around Breed Restrictions When Renting

If you’re interested in an apartment with dog breed restrictions that apply to your pet, you might still be able to get approved as a tenant. You could try building a “pet resume” that includes training certificates, vet records, or a short video of your dog’s behavior; or offering a higher pet deposit; getting pet liability insurance; or providing a DNA test to clarify your dog’s breed.

Below, we’ll break down exactly why breed restrictions exist, how they could affect your rental search, and what you can do to work around them.

What are breed restrictions?

Apartment breed restrictions are rules set by landlords or property managers that prohibit certain dog breeds from living on the property. These rules protect residents, reduce liability, and meet insurance requirements. They might restrict certain breeds perceived as aggressive or high-risk, even if an individual dog is friendly and well-trained. 

These policies often stem from insurance companies that refuse to cover damages caused by certain breeds or require higher premiums if they’re allowed. As a result, even pet-friendly apartments — or ones in the most dog-friendly cities — might still limit specific breeds. 

Why do apartments have breed restrictions?

Landlords and property managers implement breed restrictions to protect themselves, other tenants, and the property from potential issues. These policies are often shaped by a combination of insurance regulations, legal concerns, and public perception. Even though most dogs never cause problems, landlords rely on breed-based rules to manage risk without having to evaluate every pet individually.

Here’s a closer look at common reasons for breed restrictions:

• Liability reduction: Landlords use restrictions to reduce the chance of dog bites, injuries or property damage that could lead to costly lawsuits.
• Insurance requirements: Some property insurers mandate breed bans or charge higher rates for certain breeds.
• Perceived aggression: Some breeds are assumed to be aggressive or unpredictable, prompting bans even when individual pets demonstrate calm temperaments.
• Property management policies: Large apartment complexes often follow corporate guidelines, making it harder to get case-by-case approval.
• Size and energy: Large or high-energy breeds can cause unintentional property damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Breed restriction list 

This is the list of the most commonly restricted dog breeds. If your dog is or resembles one of these breeds, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t rent that apartment. You might just need to take extra steps to demonstrate your pet’s good behavior.

• Pit bulls (including American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Bulldog)
• German Shepherds
• Akitas
• Rottweilers
• Boxers
• Doberman Pinschers
• Mastiffs
• Malamutes
• Cane Corsos
• Huskies
• Chow Chows
• Great Danes
• Any wolf hybrid

How to get around breed restrictions when renting

Here are some ways you can get around breed restrictions when renting. 

Demonstrate reasons why your dog should be allowed

Create a ‘pet resume’

Showcase your dog’s best qualities by compiling photos, vaccination records and training experience or certificates. Include a short video showing your dog’s calm demeanor around people and pets.

Obtain references

Ask your vet, dog trainer, or former landlord for written testimonials highlighting your dog’s friendly and well-behaved nature. This can help reassure hesitant landlords.

Get a DNA test

If your dog resembles a banned breed, a DNA test can help clarify its true breed composition and reduce confusion during the approval process. This can sometimes convince landlords or insurance companies to make an exception.

Know your rights with assistance animals 

Do you have an assistance animal, such as a service dog or an emotional support animal (ESA)? Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords may be required to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with assistance animals, even in properties that normally prohibit pets. This means that, generally, they may not be able to enforce apartment dog breed restrictions or “no pet” policies when an assistance animal is involved. According to guidance from HUD, if your disability or the animal’s role is not obvious, the housing provider may request documentation showing both that you have a disability and that the animal supports that disability — for example, a letter from a licensed mental health professional for an ESA. If your disability is apparent, they cannot request additional information.

Negotiate with the landlord

Offer to pay a higher pet deposit

Your landlord might accept a larger, nonrefundable pet deposit to cover potential damage.

Suggest a monthly pet rent

Propose paying a small monthly fee as a gesture of goodwill and accountability, if the landlord does not already require one as part of the pet policy.

Check your renters insurance for pet-related liability coverage

Many renters insurance policies already include liability coverage for incidents involving pets, such as dog bites or damage to your rental unit. However, coverage can vary. Review your policy to confirm what’s included and note any exclusions — for example, some insurers limit coverage for certain breeds or types of incidents. If your policy has gaps or excludes your dog’s breed, consider adding supplemental coverage or exploring a policy that may offer broader protection.

If you don’t already have a renters insurance policy, explore coverage options offered through Zillow Insurance Services*.

Adjust your approach

Look for private landlords

Private landlords might have more flexibility than large property management companies and could consider breed exceptions for responsible pet owners.

Search for breed-friendly apartments

Some communities advertise themselves as “no breed restriction” or “breed-friendly.”

Be upfront about breed

Honesty helps build trust. If your dog is a purebred, share those details early in your conversations with the landlord. If not, your vet can list their status as a “mix” rather than specifying one dominant breed, which could help prevent automatic denials.

How do apartments verify dog breeds?

To confirm a dog’s breed, landlords often request supporting documentation, such as veterinary records or DNA test results. Some might request a pet meet-and-greet to observe the dog’s appearance and behavior in person. They might simply rely on the tenant to accurately declare the type of dog they’re bringing into the property.

Final thoughts

Presenting your dog as a responsible, well-trained companion, offering financial assurance, and targeting the right properties can make all the difference in getting past breed restrictions. When you’re ready to look for pet-friendly homes, try the Zillow renter search center to explore listings that fit both you and your furry friend.

*Zillow Insurance Services, LLC (“ZIS”) is a licensed insurance producer in all 50 states and Washington D.C. ZIS is a member of the Zillow family of businesses.