Breed Restrictions Guide: Know Before You Move
Breed restrictions are one of the biggest hurdles for pet owners searching for housing. Understanding which breeds are commonly restricted, why restrictions exist, and how to find no-breed-restriction properties can save you time, stress, and heartbreak.
Commonly Restricted Breeds
The following breeds appear most frequently on restricted breed lists in rental housing across the United States and Canada. Restrictions vary by property, management company, and local legislation.
Pit Bull Terriers
Most restricted breed in the US. Includes American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Rottweilers
Second most restricted. Often restricted by insurance companies rather than landlord preference.
German Shepherds
Sometimes restricted despite widespread popularity. More common in smaller buildings.
Doberman Pinschers
Frequently on restricted lists. Some insurers are removing this breed from exclusions.
Chow Chows
Restricted due to perceived territorial behavior. Less commonly restricted than Pit Bulls.
Wolf Hybrids
Almost universally restricted. Also illegal to own in some states and municipalities.
Akitas
Restricted in some properties, especially those with shared common areas.
Mastiffs / Great Danes
Sometimes restricted by size rather than breed. Weight limits can effectively ban these breeds.
Why Do Breed Restrictions Exist?
Insurance Requirements
Many property insurance policies exclude liability coverage for certain breeds. Landlords restrict these breeds to maintain coverage and avoid being personally liable for incidents.
Local Legislation
Some cities and counties have breed-specific legislation (BSL) that bans or restricts ownership of certain breeds. Landlords in these areas must comply with local law.
Perceived Risk
Some landlords impose restrictions based on breed reputation rather than individual behavior. This is increasingly being challenged as studies show breed is a poor predictor of behavior.
Emotional Support Animals & Fair Housing Rights
Under the Fair Housing Act, emotional support animals (ESAs) are exempt from breed restrictions, weight limits, and pet fees. Landlords must provide reasonable accommodations if you have a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional.
What You Need:
- ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional
- Letter must be on official letterhead with license number
- Letter must be current (typically renewed annually)
- You do not need to disclose your specific disability
- Landlord cannot charge pet fees or deposits for ESAs
Important Limitations
- ESA protections do not apply to owner-occupied buildings with 4 or fewer units
- A landlord can deny an ESA if the specific animal poses a direct threat based on individual behavior
- Online-only ESA letters from companies you have never met with may not be accepted
- ESAs are not service animals and do not have public access rights
- You are still responsible for any damage caused by your ESA
Finding No-Breed-Restriction Housing
Explore More Resources
FAQ Frequently Asked Questions
What breeds are most commonly restricted in rental housing?
The most commonly restricted breeds include Pit Bull Terriers (American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier), Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, Chow Chows, Akitas, Great Danes, Mastiffs, Huskies, Malamutes, and wolf hybrids. Mixed breeds with these lineages may also be restricted.
Can my landlord restrict my emotional support animal by breed?
No. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must provide reasonable accommodations for emotional support animals (ESAs) regardless of breed, size, or weight. You need a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. However, a landlord can deny if the specific animal poses a direct threat based on its individual behavior.
How do I find apartments with no breed restrictions?
Use PetsVivo Compass to search for pet-inclusive buildings, which by definition have no breed restrictions. You can also filter search results by "No Breed Restrictions" to find welcoming properties. Private landlords and smaller buildings are often more flexible than large management companies.
Why do landlords have breed restrictions?
Breed restrictions are typically driven by insurance requirements. Many liability insurance policies exclude coverage for certain breeds considered "high risk." Some landlords also impose restrictions based on perceived risk, local ordinances, or HOA rules. The trend is shifting as more insurers adopt behavior-based policies.
Can I get around breed restrictions with a DNA test?
Some landlords accept DNA tests showing your dog is not a restricted breed. However, this only works if your dog is genuinely not the restricted breed. Some properties restrict "mixes" that include any percentage of a banned breed. Always ask the property manager about their specific policy on mixed breeds and DNA test acceptance.
Find Buildings With No Breed Restrictions
Pet-inclusive buildings welcome all breeds. Browse verified listings with no breed restrictions, no weight limits, and pet amenities.