Sit, Stay, Rent: Tips for Apartment Living with Your Pup
Because every good dog deserves a good home (with plenty of walks in between).
Happy National Dog Day! Whether your furry friend is a lap-loving pug or a trailblazing husky, renting an apartment with a dog comes with its own set of challenges—and rewards. Luckily, living in apartments in Madison, WI (especially on the West Side near Hilldale) means you’ve got great resources for keeping both you and your pup happy. Here are some tips:
1. Know the Rules (and the Fees)
Not all apartments allow pets, and those that do usually have fees or breed restrictions. For example, at The Overlook at Hilldale, it’s $45/month for a dog. Budgeting for that ahead of time saves surprises (and maybe keeps you from dipping into the treat jar fund).
2. Exercise is Everything
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean your dog has to miss out on adventures. Quarry Park is just a short stroll from the Shorewood Hills area and offers trails where your pup can sniff every leaf to their heart’s content. Bonus: you’ll get those steps in without even realizing it.
3. Keep It Neighbor-Friendly
Thin walls + excited bark = less-than-thrilled neighbors. A few tricks: puzzle toys for mental stimulation, window blinds to reduce “intruder alert” barking, and regular walks to burn off that zoomie energy.
4. Storage Solutions for Dog Gear
Leashes, toys, treats, dog sweaters (yes, Madison winters demand them)—they can pile up fast in apartment rentals in Madison, Wisconsin. Try a cute basket by the door or a wall hook for leashes so you’re not scrambling every time “walk” is mentioned.
5. Explore the Neighborhood Together
Living in apartments near Hilldale Madison means your weekend stroll can include a stop at Metcalfe’s for groceries, a lap around Hilldale Shopping Center, or a cozy outdoor coffee stop with your dog in tow. Walkable living = happy humans and even happier pups.
At the end of the day, renting with a dog comes down to finding a community that welcomes them as much as you do. At The Overlook at Hilldale, we’re proud to be a pet-friendly spot on Madison’s West Side, surrounded by trails, parks, and walkable hangouts.
So grab the leash, give your pup an extra belly rub for National Dog Day, and come see what Madison has to offer—whether you’re sniffing out a new apartment or just the best stick in the park.
