When looking for an apartment for you and your pet, you have a lot to consider. Besides considering aspects such as safety, commute time, and finding the right neighborhood for you and your family, you also have to assess if the area is pet-friendly. From apartment amenities to neighborhood features, you must find somewhere to fit you and your pet. Many apartments require a pet deposit or other pet fees in the rental agreement, but they also include perks such as amenities for pets, like a pet spa or pet park. Talking to locals can be a great way to learn about neighborhoods, but that’s not always an option. To help you get started, let’s explore some of the most pet-friendly neighborhoods in Chicago so you and your pet can find a place to call home.
- What makes a neighborhood pet-friendly?
- Downtown Chicago
- North Side of Chicago
- South Side of Chicago
What Makes a Neighborhood Pet Friendly?
When living in a big city, pet owners have several factors to consider when choosing a neighborhood. Key features of a pet-friendly neighborhood include:
- Walkable and well-maintained sidewalks
- Garbage cans
- Pet waste bag dispensers
- Pet parks
- Green spaces
- Veterinary clinics/animal hospitals
- Pet stores
A clear sign of a pet-friendly neighborhood is the sight of pets and their owners out and about. Convenient placement of pet waste bag dispensers and trash cans makes walks easier by allowing you to easily clean up after your pet. Having nearby pet-friendly parks or green spaces allows your pet to get the exercise and socialization they need. Pet-friendly restaurants and businesses that offer water bowls or treats mean pets are not only welcome but included as well.
In addition to neighborhood features, the availability and ease of access to pet services are also a critical consideration. Proximity to veterinarians and emergency animal hospitals ensures medical care when needed. Nearby pet supply stores make it easy to get supplies and keep your pet happy with nutritious food, delicious treats, and fun toys. Pet groomers in the area can keep your pet looking good and having well-maintained hygiene. Often, restaurants, parks, or the community have events that include your pet to make sure pets don’t feel left out of the fun. Once you have decided on a neighborhood, you can start looking at apartments. Many apartments allow pets but there are differences between pet-friendly and pet-tolerable apartments. By prioritizing pet-friendly aspects, you can find a neighborhood that you and your pet can call home.
Public transport
Chicago’s public transportation by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is a convenient and efficient way to get around the city but traveling with a pet requires a bit more planning. The CTA’s guidelines about pets/animals say that small pets inside of a carrier are allowed onto CTA buses and trains though one person must be able to hold the carrier. The carrier must be able to fit under a seat but can be held on a rider’s lap instead. However, they cannot take up or obstruct pathways, seats, or their own seat.
For service animals, they are permitted onto any CTA property or vehicle at any time. Similarly, navigating the process of renting with a service animal or an emotional support animal has its own considerations. By keeping these guidelines and rules in mind, you can easily navigate Chicago and its public transport.
Owning a pet in Chicago
Chicago has specific requirements for pet ownership, depending on the type of pet you have. Cat owners don’t need to register their cat with the city, but dog owners must obtain a city dog license. If you want to use one of the many dog friendly areas (DFA) in Chicago, then you must have a permit and tag as well. To acquire a DFA permit and tag, you'll need to visit a participating veterinary office where the vets will help with paperwork and required proof. Dog owners must show a current dog license by the City of Chicago or proof that a dog has a current rabies vaccination along with examination within the past year for any communicable diseases including parasites. The dog must be up-to-date on current vaccinations as well. When entering a DFA, the dog owner must have the permit with them and a registration tag on the dog(s). Regardless of your pet type, most rentals have policies regarding pets, so be sure to read your lease and the pet policy, and as well as ask the right questions.
Downtown Chicago
Chicago Loop
The Chicago Loop offers the perfect balance for being at the heart of the city while staying in a pet-friendly neighborhood. Many of the high-rises in this neighborhood allow pets as well as having great pet amenities. For exercise and getting outside, Grant Park features tons of green areas for you and your pet to explore. Be sure to read the signs posted as Grant Park has certain zones where pets are not allowed, such as Millenium Park and Maggie Daley Park.
In between the Chicago Loop and South Loop, Grant Bark Park is a great option for off-leash dogs, located northwest of 9th Street. Many people bring their dogs to socialize and expend their energy in the mulch and concrete-covered area. During the summer, there are several hoses for dogs to drink from and cool off. Outdoor seating at restaurants such as Luke’s Lobster Chicago, Elephant & Castle, and Roanoke offers a perfect setting for you and your pet to enjoy a meal. For quality care close to home, consider Partners Animal Hospital or East Side Veterinary Clinic, both excellent choices for your pet’s health and well-being. Living in the Chicago Loop combines the essence of city living with a pet-friendly lifestyle.
West Loop
West Loop has a multitude of options for renting so you and your pet can find the perfect place. As a large neighborhood, West Loop has everything you need to live comfortably with your pet. From shopping at adorable pet boutiques to dining at pet-friendly spots, pets are not forgotten in this neighborhood. For restaurants, Black Barrel Tavern, District Brew Yards, and Mart Anthony’s Italian Restaurant all have options to dine with your pet. When it comes to supplies, Paw Naturals and Wigglyville Pet Boutique make sure your pet is pampered with the best. Numerous veterinary clinics and animal hospitals spread across the area make sure that veterinary services are close to you. For a day of play or a longer stay, Pet Care Plus or Tucker Pup’s Pet Resort has you covered. Both offer grooming as well so your pet can look fantastic when you come pick them up.
One of the highlights of this neighborhood for dog owners is West Loop 569 Bark Park, also known as Skinner Bark Park. This haven for dogs in the center of the city boasts shaded areas and a variety of surfaces from turf to pea gravel. Perfect for cooling off on hot days, the water features provide plenty of fun. This park also hosts a couple of events a year, making it a hub for the community. West Loop Veterinary Care, Animal Advocate Pet Hospital, and Partners Animal Hospital West Loop are some of the many animal care choices in this neighborhood to help your pet stay healthy. Whether it’s dining out or enjoying the outdoors, West Loop caters to pets and their owners with pet-friendly features.
South Loop
Alongside Lake Michigan, South Loop offers the tranquility of the shoreline in combination with the energy of a city. For pets and their owners, South Loop is convenient and pet-friendly where everything you need is not far. Kriser’s Natural Pet carries a range of natural and quality pet supplies. You’ll find plenty of options for veterinarians and animal hospitals including Burnham Park Animal Hospital, Partners Animal Hospital South Loop, Metropolitan Veterinary Center, and South Loop Animal Hospital. After a busy day, relax with your pet at one of the many restaurants with outdoor seating like Spoke & Bird Café, Reggies, Little Branch Care, or Tapas Valencia. If you need pet care, then DoGone Fun! or Out-U-Go! South Loop – Hyde Park can help with their services of pet day care, boarding, grooming, and more. For specifically grooming, Mau’s House or Sydnee’s Pet Grooming can give your pet a new look.
South Loop boasts several options for off-leash dogs to roam. Grant Bark Park to the north of South Loop is a good area to get rid of that last bit of your pet’s energy. If you want somewhere slightly large, then head to Fred Anderson Dog Park where there’s lots of turf and concrete for your dog to run free on. Adding to the urban design of the park are elevated concrete structures that your pet can climb, and some even have water gushing out when temperatures are high enough. With the blend of outdoor spaces and pet-friendly locations, South Loop is perfect for pets and their owners.
River North
River North has a lot of pet-friendly rentals located close to everything you or your pet could need. While getting an apartment with a pet may seem overwhelming, especially with all the questions about pet deposits and fees, living in this neighborhood makes it more than worthwhile. Being next to Navy Pier means you can take a stroll and gaze out on Lake Michigan with your pet. Leashed pets are allowed on Navy Pier unless signs say otherwise. From there, you can take off on a pet-friendly cruise with companies such as Seadog Cruises or Shoreline Sightseeing. Be sure to check their websites or give them a call to check on pet rules. When hunger strikes, you can sit at an outdoor patio and get a meal at one of the many restaurants on Navy Pier or in River North. The Kerryman, the Smith, Siena Tavern, and Pizzeria Due all have options to dine alongside your pet and sometimes host pet-friendly events!
Several of the stores on the Magnificent Mile allow pets, but it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm. To make sure your dog gets the best supplies, Kriser’s Natural Pet can provide everything you need. For grooming, pet daycare, pet boarding, and more, PUPS Pet Club is the place to check out. BLVD Vet River North or Companion Animal Hospital River North can take care of any veterinary services that your pet might need. River North embraces you and your pet, making you feel right at home.
River West
As a smaller neighborhood, River West offers a close-knit vibe that will include pets. With pet walkers and sitters located in the neighborhood, finding care for your pet is easy. If your dog wants some off-leash fun, Park No. 551 Dog Friendly Area in Fulton River Park is the perfect place. Before heading to the dog park, be sure to explore the large green space this park offers with your leashed pet.
Even though River West is not as big as other neighborhoods, it provides everything a pet owner could need. VCA Lake Shore Animal Hospital is nearby for your pet’s health. Just across the river are several pet stores like Petco and Kriser’s Natural Pet. Pet care services are convenient with PUPS Pet Club and Tucker Pup’s Pet Resort. Kamehachi will feed you and your pet at one of their outdoor tables. River West stands out as a small neighborhood that has it all.
North Side of Chicago
Rogers Park
A lovely neighborhood that goes at its own pace, Rogers Park is an ideal place to live with your pet. Loyola Beach has a one-mile walking trail so you both can get some exercise while enjoying the lake breeze. Keep in mind that pets are not allowed on the actual beach. For that you’ll have to head south to Montrose Beach. To let your pet off-leash, Pottawattomie Dog Friendly Area is a small park but has enough space for running and socialization. If your pet needs veterinary care, Oz Animal Hospital Rogers Park has everything handled.
After expending all that energy, you and your pet can head to one of several pet-friendly restaurants, like R Public House, Jarvis Square Tavern, and Rogers Park Social. Some only allow pets in the outdoor seating area so be sure to call ahead and check. For pet supplies, you can head to Betley’s Pet Stuff Rogers Park. When your pet needs a touch-up at the salon, there are many options like Roger’s Bark Pet Salon Inc., Bark Place, the Grateful Dog of Rogers Park, and more. Rogers Park is a neighborhood where neither you nor your pet will be bored.
Uptown
Uptown is a neighborhood full of history that you can experience with your pet. Catering to cats and dogs, pet supply stores such as 4Legs Inc., Jameson Loves Danger, and Ruff Haus Pets offer premium products. For all your daycare, boarding, and grooming needs, look no further than Chicago Pet Club. Get some food at one of the many pet-friendly restaurants that hold fun events for pet owners too! The SoFo Tap, Lady Gregory’s Bar and Restaurant, Bar on Buena, or Ten Cat Tavern are all solid options. You can rely on Wagnolia Veterinary Clinic and GoodVets Uptown (Chicago) to keep your pet healthy and happy.
One of Uptown’s largest attractions for dog owners is Montrose Dog Beach. This dog-friendly, off-leash beach is fenced off on all sides except for the lake. Being well-maintained and stocked with dog waste bags and dog wash areas, it is the perfect place for your pet to cool off and have fun. Besides the beach, Puptown at Margate Park is a great dog park for off-leash time. With a surface of concrete and gravel, it keeps pups from getting too dirty but remember to check the surface temperature during hotter months. With a pedal-activated water sprinkler, dogs can get a drink easily. In Uptown, you and your pet can enjoy everything this neighborhood has to offer.
Lakeview
With several parks and a beach for you and your pet to explore, Lakeview has many places to exercise and unwind. The neighborhood is home to a variety of pet-friendly restaurants on the west side of Lakeview, making dining with your pet easy. Popular options include Four Moon Tavern, Frasca Pizzeria + Wine Bar, the Four Treys Tavern, and the Reveler. Barks N’ Rec and Bentley’s Pet Stuff Lakeview make sure that you are well-stocked on your pet supplies. To keep your pet feeling their best you can visit Wrigleyville Veterinary Center, BLVD Vet Lakeview Lincoln Park, Higgins Animal Clinic, or VCA Blum Animal Center.
With both Logan Square Dog Park, also known as Park 556, and Wiggly Field Dog Park, it is easy to let your pet run free close to home. Wiggly Field Dog Park is located within Noethling Park so there is plenty for you and your pet to explore before getting to the dog area. This dog park is covered in pea gravel and sand for a surface your dog can run on without getting muddy. Logan Square Dog Park (Park 556) is great for dogs of all sizes. Being covered in concrete means it is easy to clean up after your pet while keeping them mud-free, but be careful it isn’t too hot. Both parks provide drinking fountains to keep your pet hydrated during playtime. If your dog loves to splash around, Belmont Harbor Dog Beast is the spot. While small, it provides enough space for your pup to play in the water and burn some energy. Whether on land or in the water, Lakeview has many places for you and your pet to discover.
Ravenswood
Ravenswood is ideal for pet owners, offering plenty of pet-friendly listings as well as being close to Horner Park. This park is a great place to explore as it’s full of trees and fields of grass. Within Horner Park, you’ll find Horner Park Dog Park, a spacious area with plenty of shade and covered in woodchips. Drinking fountains make sure your dog is never dehydrated and for the summer, there is a water play area. A short distance away is t River Park, a spot for strolling and watching the North Branch Chicago River. If your dog still has some energy after your walk, River Park Dog Friendly Area is a great place to burn it off.
For grooming services, check out Paws & Claws or Kira Pet Cuts. Both are known for their fantastic work and cater to dogs and cats. On your way home you can stop by Ruff Hause Pets to pick up any supplies your pet might need. Local restaurants, like Jerry’s Lincoln Square, the Bad Apple, and Rockwell’s Neighborhood Grill, offer outdoor and patio seating so you can bring your pet along. Many vets are in this neighborhood, such as BLVD Vet Ravenswood, Lincoln Square Animal Hospital, and Ravenswood Animal Hospital LLC, so you don’t have to worry about going far to find good animal care services. Ravenswood gives you that pet-friendly neighborhood along with a cozy community.
South Side of Chicago
Hyde Park
With several parks close by, Hyde Park is a great neighborhood for pet owners. For breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, head to Promontory Point. This peninsula offers stunning waterfront scenery, grassy areas, and tree-lined paths that are perfect for a stroll. For a longer walk, Washington Park’s North Loop is a 2.1-mile loop trail shaded by trees and encircling an expansive field, perfect for you and your pet to get your steps in. To let your dog run off-leash, Jackson Park features Jackson Bark. This park is equipped with agility courses and other pet amenities so your dog can get some quality exercise in.
Hyde Park also caters to all your pet care needs. Treat your pet to a day of pampering at a spa or groomers like Bark N Bubble Doggy Spa-Hyde Park and Puppy Haberdashery Hyde Park. Stock up on essentials and luxuries at A Paw Place or Sprocket & Stone. Home to the Hyde Park Animal Clinic, Hyde Park makes sure that you have good care for your pet nearby. Hyde Park is the place to be for pet owners who want to live close to amenities and nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago a pet-friendly city?
Chicago is a great city for pet lovers, but some neighborhoods stand out as especially pet-friendly. There are many major dog parks where your pets can run off-leash such as Horner Park Dog Park or Logan Square Dog Park (Park 556) Off-Leash Dog Park. Montrose Dog Beach is a popular destination for swimming. Be aware of the rules and ways to get access. Beyond parks, Chicago has plenty of activities for you and your pet to enjoy, including cruises, restaurants, shopping, theaters, and more. There is no shortage of ways to explore the city with your pet.
Are dogs allowed in stores in Chicago?
There are many stores in Chicago that allow pets, but many do not. Checking online to see if they allow pets can be a good starting point, but policies can change, so it’s best to give the store a call to check.
What are the rules for dogs in Chicago?
In Chicago, cat owners don't need to register their pets, but dog owners must have a city dog license. To use dog-friendly areas (DFAs), a permit and tag are required which can be obtained through a participating vet with proper paperwork, proof of a current dog license or rabies vaccination, and recent health checks. Dog owners must carry the permit and ensure their dog wears the tag in DFAs.
Additionally, pet owners should review apartment pet policies and ask questions before signing a lease. Bringing home a new pet has a lot of steps but it is worth it!
Find a Pet-Friendly Apartment with Apartments.com
Let Apartments.com help you find the perfect place for you and your pet. Apartments.com has filters that allow you to search by pet policy: dogs allowed, cats allowed, or both dogs and cats allowed. After locating where you want to look, you can click on the “all filters” button on the menu at the top. After the pop-up menu appears, scroll past the section labeled, “Specialty Housing” to “Pet Policy.” There you can select dog friendly, cat friendly, or dog and cat allowed. In addition, there are a variety of other filters to help you find the perfect place. Filter by included amenities, home types, home styles, number of beds and/or baths, and much more. Once you get your new home, your pet can start acclimating to the new place.
