Most DFW apartments "allow" pets but the fees and restrictions vary wildly. Here's what I've found.
Best pet-friendly complexes (by area):
Uptown/Oak Lawn:
- The Union Dallas — no breed restrictions, dog wash station, nearby Griggs Park for walks. Pet rent: $25/month. Deposit: $250.
- Gables Republic Tower — dog run on-site. Weight limit: 100lbs. Pet rent: $30/month.
Deep Ellum/East Dallas:
- The Epic Deep Ellum — pet-friendly with dog park on-site. Walking distance to Baylor dog park.
- The Hamilton — 2 pets allowed, no breed restrictions up to 50lbs.
Plano/Frisco/Richardson:
- Cortland at Stonebriar (Frisco) — dog park, dog wash, no breed restrictions. Pet rent: $20/month.
- The Katelyn at Valley Ranch (Irving) — dog park, bark park, pet spa.
Fort Worth:
- Crockett Row at West 7th — walkable to Trinity River trails for dogs. Pet-friendly patios nearby.
What to watch out for:
- Breed restrictions: Many complexes ban "aggressive breeds" (pit bulls, rottweilers, etc.). Ask specifically.
- Weight limits: Common. 25lb, 50lb, and 75lb limits are typical.
- Pet deposits: Non-refundable. $200-500 per pet.
- Monthly pet rent: $15-50/month per pet on top of regular rent.
How to find pet-friendly housing:
- Apartments.com — filter by "pets allowed" and specify breed/weight
- Zillow — pet filter available
- BringFido.com — apartments section
Sources:
- Apartment websites for current pet policies
- Personal experience leasing with a 70lb dog
- ApartmentGuide.com pet filter
Where does your pet live in DFW?
The pet deposit being non-refundable is basically a scam. $500 non-refundable "deposit" is just a fee. Budget for it.