DOG OWNERS STRUGGLE IN PRAGUE’S RENTAL MARKET
Renting an apartment in Prague has always come with challenges, but dog owners are finding the process especially difficult amid surging housing demand. While Czech law prohibits landlords from adding a “no pets” clause to lease agreements, many property owners continue to discriminate against tenants with animals, particularly dogs. The intense competition for housing only fuels this issue. According to a major real estate portal, each apartment listing in the Czech capital receives an average of 72 responses. This gives landlords the upper hand, allowing them to be extremely selective about whom they rent to, and one of the first filters they often apply is whether a tenant owns a pet.
Why landlords say no to pets
The primary reason landlords hesitate to rent to pet owners, especially those with dogs and cats, is fear of property damage. A real estate agency representative stated that approximately 80 percent of landlords refuse pets in their apartments. “This requirement is common in new or recently renovated apartments, where the owners are primarily concerned about damage to floors, doors, and door frames,” the expert explained. Landlords often worry that even the most well-behaved animals could scratch surfaces, create odors, or disturb neighbors with noise. Their priority is to preserve the condition of the apartment, especially in the case of high-end or refurbished properties that are intended for long-term return on investment.
The tenants’ perspective: an ongoing struggle
For pet owners, finding a rental apartment in Prague has become a frustrating and demoralizing experience. Many report that once they mention they have a dog, even a small and quiet one, the landlord usually becomes hesitant or ends the conversation. This recurring rejection highlights the emotional burden tenants face. Pet ownership is often associated with companionship, mental health support, and family life, yet for many renters in Prague, it represents a significant obstacle. The lack of pet-friendly listings further exacerbates the housing shortage and pushes tenants toward less desirable neighborhoods or conditions, making the overall rental experience even more discouraging.
What the law really says
Czech legislation does offer some protection for tenants with pets. Legally, landlords cannot include clauses in rental agreements that explicitly forbid animals. However, the law doesn’t prevent landlords from refusing a tenant altogether if they own a pet. This legal gray area gives property owners ample room to maneuver around the regulation without technically breaking the law. Experts suggest transparency and preparation are key for tenants. Bringing a pet into the apartment without informing the landlord could negatively affect the lease renewal process. To reassure owners, tenants are advised to offer proof of liability insurance, references from previous landlords, or even propose an additional cleaning fee to address any concerns about potential damage.
The bigger picture: Czechia’s pet-friendly image under pressure
Czechia is known as a pet-loving country, yet pet owners face growing challenges not only in the housing market but also in the workplace. A recent survey from a pet insurance provider revealed that one-third of Czech office workers own dogs, and nearly 25 percent of them bring their pets to the office either occasionally or frequently. Attitudes are mixed: while 41 percent of employees welcome the presence of dogs at work, a third are opposed, and the rest feel neutral. This ambivalence also affects the rental sector, where landlords are increasingly cautious about four-legged tenants. To improve their chances, experts recommend that renters present strong documentation such as debt-free certificates, positive references, and insurance coverage. As demand for rentals continues to rise, dog owners in Prague face a tough battle that pits their legal rights against landlords’ personal preferences and market power.
Sources: https://www.expats.cz/
