In Chicago, dogs aren’t just pets—they’re part of the family. With more people adopting furry companions, especially in urban areas, the demand for pet-friendly home features has skyrocketed. In fact, as of 2024, nearly 40% of American households—roughly 65.1 million—have at least one dog. This trend has been driven by Millennials and surged during the pandemic, and Chicago’s real estate market is taking notice.
Whether you’re living in a city condo or a suburban home, these six dog-friendly features are making homes more welcoming for pets and their owners across Chicagoland.
1. Urban Dog Parks and Relief Areas
City living can make green space hard to come by, but many new Chicago developments are adding on-site dog parks and pet relief areas. These spaces include fenced dog runs, artificial turf, and waste stations for easy cleanup. Some even feature agility equipment and water fountains designed specifically for pets. In Chicago’s harsh winters, these amenities are lifesavers, sparing owners from braving icy streets for late-night walks.
2. Pet Spas and Grooming Stations
Upscale properties across Chicago are offering on-site pet spas and grooming stations, making it easy for owners to keep their dogs clean without the hassle of professional appointments or messy at-home baths. Equipped with wash stations and grooming tables, these facilities are convenient, practical, and often included in luxury high-rises in neighborhoods like River North or the West Loop.
3. Custom Dog Showers and Dryers
For single-family homes in Chicago suburbs or condos in the city, built-in dog showers are becoming a must-have. Found in mudrooms or laundry areas, these pet-sized showers are designed to simplify bathing while keeping the mess contained. Features like handheld sprayers, non-slip tiles, and built-in dryers make post-walk cleanups, especially in muddy Chicago spring weather, stress-free.
4. On-Demand Dog Walking Services
Busy Chicagoans often struggle to fit their dog’s needs into packed schedules. That’s why many luxury buildings now partner with pet care companies to provide on-site dog-walking services. From scheduled walks to pet-sitting and even training sessions, these services ensure pets stay active and cared for during long workdays or last-minute plans.
5. Stylish Feeding Stations
Custom feeding stations built into kitchen cabinets or mudrooms are trending in Chicago homes. These functional setups keep bowls off the floor and can include pot fillers for easy water refills or even automated systems that regulate food and water levels. Not only do these stations minimize mess, but they’re also a stylish addition to modern kitchens in homes and condos across the city.
6. Pet-Friendly Events and Social Opportunities
In a community-driven city like Chicago, pet-friendly events are becoming popular in multi-family buildings. From “Yappy Hours” to dog costume contests, these events provide opportunities for residents and their pups to mingle. They’re a great way for new neighbors to connect and for dogs to make new friends in a city that values community spirit.
Chicago’s Pet-Friendly Real Estate Market
As dog ownership grows, so does the demand for homes and communities that cater to pets. Whether you’re searching for a single-family home in the Chicago suburbs or a dog-friendly condo in Lincoln Park, these amenities are becoming key factors for pet-loving buyers.
By incorporating these features, your home not only becomes more functional for your furry friend but also more appealing to potential buyers in Chicago’s competitive real estate market.