How Pets Affect the Homebuying Decision 

Before you begin your search, here’s a quick overview of what today’s pet owners in the GTA are looking for: over 60 per cent of Canadian households have at least one dog or cat, and many homebuyers rank their furry family member among the top factors when choosing a property. According to the National Association of Realtors, roughly a third of buyers say pets are the driving force behind their purchase decision, with unmarried couples even more likely to prioritise their pets when selecting a neighbourhood. From fenced yards and easy-clean flooring to proximity to off-leash parks and vets, pet-friendly features can not only improve your quality of life but also affect how quickly and favourably your offer is received. Ready to find your next home—one that’s perfect for both you and your four-legged friend? Read on.

Understanding Toronto’s Pet-Friendly Market

The Surge in Pet Ownership

Since the pandemic, pet adoption has risen sharply. A 2022 Canadian Animal Health Institute survey found 60 per cent of Canadian households own at least a dog or cat, up from pre-pandemic levels. In Ontario alone, the Toronto Humane Society sees 40,000 animals entering shelters each year, underscoring both the demand for pet-friendly homes and the importance of responsible ownership.

Why Pets Shape Homebuying Decisions

Pets influence more than just décor. According to a recent National Association of REALTORS® report, many buyers factor in their pet’s needs when evaluating properties. In fact, 33 per cent of buyers say their dog was the primary motivator for choosing their current home.

Key Pet-Friendly Home Features

Outdoor Space and Fencing

A fenced yard tops the list of must-haves for dog owners, offering safety, exercise room, and peace of mind Even smaller dogs and cats benefit from secure balconies or patios with pet-safe railings.

Durable, Easy-Clean Flooring

Spills, accidents, and muddy paws happen. Homebuyers increasingly seek laminate, bamboo, or tile flooring over carpet to simplify cleanup and maintain hygiene.

Built-In Pet Conveniences

Features like built-in feeding stations, pet baths near existing plumbing, or dog doors leading to enclosed yards can streamline daily routines and boost resale appeal.

Choosing the Right Neighbourhood

Access to Green Space

Proximity to off-leash dog parks, walking trails, and green belts is critical. In the GTA, neighbourhoods like High Park, Trinity Bellwoods, and Etobicoke’s Humber Bay Shores consistently rank high for pet-friendly amenities.

Nearby Veterinary and Care Services

Easy access to vets, grooming salons, and pet daycare centres provides peace of mind—especially in emergencies. Areas with pet-friendly businesses often command higher home values but also foster stronger community ties.

Financial and Emotional Considerations

Budgeting for Pet-Related Costs

Canadian pet owners report increasing their pet-care budgets by up to 70 per cent due to inflation and rising service costs. When calculating your mortgage affordability, factor in ongoing expenses like food, grooming, and veterinary care.

Emotional Well-Being and Lifestyle Fit

Beyond finances, pets contribute to family happiness, stress relief, and neighbourhood connections. Many Canadian pet owners let their animals influence major financial decisions, highlighting how deeply pets are woven into our lives.

Tips for a Successful Pet-Friendly Home Search

Prioritise Your “Must-Haves”

Create a checklist: fenced yard, flooring type, proximity to parks or vets, and any built-in features. Rank these by importance to streamline viewings.

Work with an Experienced Buyer’s Representative

A knowledgeable agent can filter listings by pet-friendly features, arrange visits at convenient times for your schedule, and negotiate on your behalf.

Consider Future Growth

If you’re planning to add another pet or accommodate friends’ animals, look for versatile spaces—such as mudrooms or dens—that can adapt to evolving needs.

The Takeaway

With roughly 80 per cent of Canadian households sharing their lives with a pet, it’s clear that animals are more than companions—they’re family members whose needs can make or break a homebuying decision. In Toronto alone, there are about 75 off-leash dog areas, ensuring your pup has ample space to play just steps from home. When you prioritise secure yards, easy-clean surfaces, built-in pet conveniences, and proximity to green spaces and veterinary services, you’re not only choosing a house—you’re finding a home that supports every member of your family, paws included.

Ready to discover pet-friendly properties that tick all your boxes? The Johnson Team combines in-depth market expertise with a genuine passion for matching buyers to homes where both people and pets can thrive. Contact The Johnson Team today to begin your search—and let us help you find the perfect place for every member of your family.