Do dog houses really exist now? Every canine I know has moved up to the inside of the home. And when a dog owner is faced with purchasing a new home, the needs of their canine pals may determine which address is chosen. There are typical preferences like a nearby park or a fenced backyard but others factors can be equally important. For example, a couple I was recently working with found their ideal house but, when they entered the master bedroom, their biggest concern was: “Where will we put Skippie’s bed?” This lack of space was a deal breaker for them.
Some other items to consider for finding a dog-friendly property:
Too much mud
In new construction, sod in the backyard is often an option. While most dogs relish in mud, the high- maintenance dogs are forced to tippy toe through the dirt when nature calls. A grassless pasture in the back can pose a problem for unwanted dirt inside.
Flooring
Every floor has its benefits and pitfalls, but it seems the most popular choice for dog lovers is hardwoods or tile. Although tile and hardwoods can be cold and slippery, these surfaces are much easier to maintain and keep clean. If your dog sheds like a Himalayan cat, carpet could make for a daily Dyson routine and carpet is also a magnet for stains and fleas.
Flight of steps
For an older dog, even walls become an issue when their vision slips. A major obstacle for your aged pet is a flight of stairs. It makes for a painful visit to the backyard. So, in their retirement years, no steps would be an overall better choice.
A dog before them
In a resale home, every dog will wear his nose out by the second bedroom if there was another animal before him. But if she/he had a wish list, I bet they would prefer to be the first dog to show up, especially in the backyard.
Traffic
When the yorkie acts like a greyhound for the day, there is not much you can do other than watch. But, it is no picnic when Fido darts aimlessly in the front yard near a busy road. The choice of living on a road less-travelled can be easier on the nerves and a better choice for resale.
Close to work
For the quick lunch time visits, living near work has always been a priority to many. When you need to run home for a walk with puppy, who wouldn’t want to make sure it’s an easy commute?
These are just a few things to consider but I believe most dogs would be happy with just a good bed and a snack every five minutes.
Dan Betz Broker