Pets have always been an important part of our lives, but during the pandemic, they have become even more vital. With more Americans becoming pet owners and spending more time with their pets, pet-friendly homes have become a top priority for buyers. A 2022 study from the National Association of REALTORS® found that 63% of pet owners would be willing to move to accommodate their pets, and 68% of pet owners surveyed by realtor.com® said they would pass on an otherwise perfect home if it didn’t meet their pet’s needs.

Here are the top requested pet friendly preferred features: 

1. Fenced-in Backyard: A secure outdoor space is essential for pet owners, and a fenced-in backyard is a must-have for most. This feature provides a safe and secure area for pets to run and play without the risk of running off or getting lost.

2. Durable Flooring: Pets can be tough on floors, so durable flooring is a key feature for pet owners. Hardwood, vinyl, and tile flooring are all popular options, as they are easy to clean and resistant to scratches and stains.

3. Trails and Sidewalks: For pet owners who enjoy walking their dogs, having access to nearby trails and sidewalks is a big plus. It provides a safe and convenient way to get some exercise and fresh air for both pets and their owners.

4. Adequate Square Footage: Pets need space to move around and feel comfortable, so adequate square footage is important when choosing a pet-friendly home. Small apartments or tiny homes may not be suitable for larger pets, so buyers should consider the size of their pet when looking for a home.

5. Outdoor Play Areas: An outdoor play area, such as a dog run or fenced-in play yard, is a popular feature for pet owners. It provides a safe and secure space for pets to play and socialize with other pets in the community.

But these are not the only features that pet owners are looking for. In recent years, two other features have become increasingly popular among pet owners - a dog wash station in the mudroom and hidden food and watering stations.

A dog wash station is a convenient feature for pet owners who like to take their dogs on outdoor adventures. This feature typically consists of a faucet with a flexible hose attachment and an elevated platform, providing easy step-in and step-out tub access to the pup. With a handheld showerhead and tiled area with a drain, pet owners can easily clean up muddy paws without making a mess in the house.

Hidden food and watering stations are another popular trend. These built-in feeding stations are often incorporated into the kitchen island, including a pot-filler faucet for the pet’s water bowl. Not only does this feature make feeding time much easier by creating an organized system that is convenient to use, but it also helps keep bowls off the floor to avoid spills or messes. This feature is immensely helpful for house-training puppies who need frequent access to water throughout the day.

In conclusion, pets have become a top priority for home buyers, and developers and designers are taking note.

If you can't move just yet, try out Sniff Spot to find fenced in yards you can rent for your puppies to run in.