Finding a Dog-Friendly Apartment in Chicago
Apartment living can be stressful and adding on a dog to that can make finding a place to stay even harder. But, not in Chicago! The Windy City is extremely pet-friendly and furry friends are welcome in a lot of apartment buildings. This may come as no surprise to locals, but if you’re moving into Chicago as a new resident or just a new dog-owner, have no worries! You can find your perfect place and have your pooch by your side. Here are some tips if you’re looking for an apartment in Chicago with a canine companion!
Finding the Right Spot for Fido
Yes, you really can find a great apartment that is dog-friendly in Chicago, you just have to know where to start searching! There are a ton of options available from affordable apartments to high-rise luxury living that welcome dogs. Almost all new properties will accept dogs, especially if yours is on the smaller side, but if you have a bigger dog, don’t worry, you can still find apartments accepting of your furry best friend! Most apartments will have a pet fee to be paid as additional rent, ranging from $250-$650.
Green Space for Your Pup
With all the skyscrapers, it may seem hard to search for a green neighborhood to move into. But, there are actually around 29 green-space areas to explore! There are tons of dog parks to visit all around Chicago. Wanting to live in South Loop? Visit one of the few enclosed dog parks right around the corner. Or take a stroll to Montrose Dog Beach if you live around Lake Shore!
Socializing
A big part of Chicago’s downtown life is socializing! Bring your pooch along for some city fun at many of the dog-friendly happy hours the Windy City has to offer. Some apartments even host dog-friendly social events so you and Fido can get to know your neighbors and maybe even find a dog park buddy! Don’t be afraid to branch out too and visit a dog store or bakery to get some pooch-friendly treats or ice cream!
Pup-Friendly Apartment Amenities
If you really want to live large, look at one of the many luxury apartments that are now catering to dog owners. Research what type of amenities the apartment you’re looking at offers for you and your pup, you may be surprised! Some are even offering doggie daycare and pet washing stations!
Most Dog-Friendly Spots
Chicago is more than welcoming of dogs, but some areas are better than others when it comes to owning a dog in the city! The best dog-friendly areas to explore are:
- West Loop/Fulton River
- Lakeview
- Lakeshore East
- South Loop
Some great properties that fall under this category include:
- 777 South State
- Eight O Five
- K2 Apartments
- Burnham Pointe
- 1000 S Clark
Dog Restrictions at Apartments
Each apartment renting company and building has unique rules and regulations for what dogs are allowed by residents. Most buildings will have some type of weight restriction (usually 25-100 lbs), but some even ban different breeds of dogs from being allowed. Some commonly banned breeds include Mastiffs, American Staffordshire Terriers, Akitas, Miniature Pinscher, and Chows. Apartments that allow some banned breeds are:
For German Shepherds:
- Xavier
- AMLI 900 & Lofts
- Arrive South Loop & Lex
- 1401 S State
- 1407 Michigan
- 1140 S Wabash
For Pit Bulls:
- 1407 Michigan
For Huskies:
- 1407 Michigan
- Luxe on Madison
- Xavier
There’s nowhere better to live than in the Windy City, especially with your forever furball friend by your side! Finding a dog-friendly apartment is easy if you know exactly what to look for and to expect. Don’t forget to do research about the area and ask your potential landlord questions regarding your pet’s stay, like “How close is the nearest vet clinic and are there any that are 24-hour?”