If you have a pet and are looking for an apartment or home to rent in the Phoenix area, you will have to search for a landlord that allows pets.

The good news is, many apartment complexes now allow pets, although many of them place a weight limit on dogs of 20 pounds. Some of the bigger, national companies will allow dogs up to 50 pounds.

There are often limitations on the type of dog you can have. Most will not allow pit bulls, German shepherds, Rottweilers, or Dobermans.

If you have a large dog, you may have an easier time renting a house than an apartment or condo. My large dog is so well behaved that I actually had references from a previous landlord for him, which made a difference when I had to rent someplace else.

You will have to pay a pet deposit and possibly an extra cleaning fee, some or all of which may not be refundable. Be very clear on that when you sign your lease. Sometimes the pet fees can be negotiated.