Guides for renting with a “restricted” breed
Short, practical and reviewed. Everything we have learned from confirming pet policies with hundreds of leasing offices.
How to get a pet reference letter (with a template your landlord can sign)
A one-paragraph letter from a previous landlord carries more weight than anything you can write yourself.
Read the guide Money · 5 min readRenters insurance for “restricted” breeds: what to look for
Many leases now require renters insurance — and many policies quietly exclude your dog. Here is how to pick one that actually covers you.
Read the guide Playbook · 4 min readSeven questions to email a leasing office before you apply with a dog
Get the pet policy in writing in one email — and avoid paying an application fee for a “no”.
Read the guide Your rights · 6 min readService animals and ESAs: what landlords can and can’t ask
Assistance animals aren’t pets under federal law — which means breed rules and pet fees don’t apply.
Read the guide Money · 5 min readPet deposit vs. pet fee vs. pet rent — what’s refundable?
The three charges look similar on a lease and behave very differently on move-out day.
Read the guide Playbook · 7 min readHow to rent with a “restricted” breed: the step-by-step playbook (2026)
Where to look first, what to ask by email before you tour, and how to get the policy in writing.
Read the guidePut the advice to work
Build a professional Pet Resume in about five minutes — no sign-up, prints to PDF.