Renter's guide

Pet Resume for Renters: How to Write One (With Template)

A pet resume (or dog resume, for an apartment application) is a one- or two-page document that introduces your dog to a landlord or property manager. It answers the questions they would otherwise ask one at a time, so your application reads as complete and considered.

Why a pet resume helps with “pets considered” listings

When a listing says pets are considered, the landlord is weighing risk: noise, damage, complaints from neighbors, and whether their insurance allows your dog. A clear pet resume gives them facts in one place instead of a back-and-forth over email. It won't decide the outcome for them, but it makes a yes easier to give.

What to include

1. Profile. Your dog's name, breed, age, weight, sex and spay/neuter status, microchip and city license number, and a clear photo.
2. Health and vaccinations. Rabies, DHPP and Bordetella dates, flea and tick prevention, and your vet's name and phone number. Attaching the records lets the landlord check them.
3. Temperament. An honest picture of energy indoors, barking, and how your dog is with strangers, other dogs, children and time alone.
4. Training. House-training, crate training, leash manners, and any classes or certificates such as the AKC Canine Good Citizen.
5. Care plan. Daily exercise, who looks after your dog on long workdays, waste pickup, grooming, an emergency contact and your liability insurance.
6. References. A previous landlord is best. A trainer, daycare or neighbor also helps. Only quote someone who agreed to it.
7. A short note from you. A few sincere sentences, in your own words, about your dog and how you'll handle living in their building.
8. Your commitments. For example: signing the pet addendum, keeping your dog leashed in common areas, and paying for any damage.

Keep it short and honest

Landlords read quickly. Two pages is plenty. A realistic description (“occasional barking when someone knocks”) earns more trust than a perfect one, and anything you write should be something you'd be comfortable seeing checked.

What a pet resume is not

It isn't a guarantee of approval, and it isn't legal advice. It also isn't the right document for a service or emotional support animal, which are covered by different rules. If you have questions about your lease or your rights, talk to a qualified attorney or a local tenant resource center.

A pet resume template you fill in by answering questions

Pawlease works like a pet resume template, except you answer plain questions and it lays out the pages for you. The sample pet resume for Biscuit shows the full two-page layout: profile and note on page one, health, training, care plan and commitments on page two. You can also read what landlords look for in a pet resume.