Topic: Pit Bulls, Dobermans, and other restricted breeds...do you take them?

Hi everyone,

Do any of you take these normally restricted breeds in your communities? If so, do you have any policies or practices meant to help mitigate issues with them, such as a pet interview, trainer certifications, etc? I’m trying to come up with a plan should we decide to do this and need ideas. Thanks!!!!

Hi: I manage a HUD property and if the animal is on property as an "assistive animal" we cannot prohibit by breed unless there is a "city" ordinance that bans that breed. We do not have an ordinance here like that so we accept any breed as assist/support. I have found that we do get a lot of Pitt Bulls and Pitt mixes, though we have never had any issues. They actually have been good dogs! Our issues have been with the labs and the little dogs that never stop barking!!!! Here in Pa the state requires yearly licensing and rabies vaccines so we require that these are kept up to date at all times including for assist/support animals. We do not allow dogs or cats as PETS.

If you are permitting dogs as pets maybe put something in the lease that addresses any future issues. I personally rented years ago from a NO pet apartment but I had 3 cats at the time. I worked a deal with my landlord that for the first full year he had the right to inspect my apartment anytime and without notice to check for any animal issues/damage, etc. If he found it to be unsatisfactory he would give me 30 days to remove the cats or move out (I would have moved out). He agreed....he never inspected though he was there many times due to furnace issues and he said that the cats were never an issue. Perhaps do something along those lines. During the first year any issues deemed unsatisfactory (make list so they understand what unsatisfactory really means!) will require removal of the dog or move out.

We don't but pet interview would be super important. I like the trainer's certificate as well. Also, would insist on insurance- really for any dog it would be a good idea, because any dog can bite. You may want to check with your insurance company...they just may not allow those breeds on properties they insure.

Just a reminder that even though you may restrict certain breeds as pets, you may not consider the breed for service/assist animals. I have a client with 20+ properties who chose six months or so ago to drop breed restrictions for pets as well. it has been amazing how many fewer residents/prospects are trying to 'cheat' by posing these animal pets as service animals. And there have been zero issues.
Also if your insurance company tells you to not to allow restricted breeds as service animals, get a new insurance company!

Thank you!