Question
Renting in Spain with Pets: How is it that basically every rental on Idealista says no pets allowed? I’ve been looking for months. Do people simply lie and say they have no pets?
Answers
These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
“Many will say no pets but then allow pets if negotiated.”
“I wouldn’t volunteer that info unless it’s a place you really want. Offer one extra month of deposit or half—that worked for us.”
“I wouldn’t say up front that you’re willing to pay more. Mention the pet and ask the landlord what they would like in order to allow it. You could offer more in a damage deposit or get insurance to cover any damage. Take videos to document the apartment before you move in.”
“Offer to pay a security deposit.”
“I always make the initial contact with the owner and try to build a cordial relationship. I wrote a bio of who we are and included a picture of our little dog, then asked for a video chat. After that, they let us have the dog.”
“Typically most places will advertise no pets but it can be negotiated after meeting the owner or agent. Always disclose your pets. Remember the abuelitas in the neighborhood will be the eyes and ears for the owner.”
“As a landlord I allow small dogs, but no cats.”
“Cat pee is impossible to remove and cats tend to repeat in the same spots. After four mattresses and two sofas, I now refuse cats in any of my rentals.”
“They can legally evict you if you lie and then no one will rent to you.”
“Some people lie. But many just negotiate directly. Don’t filter for “pets allowed”—make the connection first, then ask.”
“You might waste time chasing listings, but asking can lead to a yes. I had 2 cats and got permission even when the listing said no pets.”
“The apartment I rented said no pets, but after I described my dog, the landlord was okay with it.”
“Try to rent direct from the landlord. It’s easier to negotiate.”
“We found some listings that initially said “no pets,” but the descriptions sometimes clarified whether it was negotiable. Avoid ones that say “non-negotiable.””
“We ended up buying instead of renting because of this. Either it was no pets or €25k upfront.”
“It helps to offer a bigger pet deposit or pay six months in advance.”
“From the landlord’s perspective, especially in furnished apartments, pets can be a risk due to allergies, accidents, or damage. But landlords will often agree with the right assurances.”
“It’s often about building trust with the landlord. Kindness and respect go a long way.”
“You can find listings where landlords don’t mention pets at all. That’s your chance to negotiate.”
“In-person visits help. Bring pictures of your pet, show you’re responsible, and you’ll increase your chances.”
“I didn’t have difficulty finding a place with three cats.”
“Don’t filter for “pets allowed.” Make your case after they meet you. Offer a small deposit and agree to professional cleaning.”
“Some landlords prefer cats, others prefer dogs—it varies.”
“Demand for rentals is high, and landlords can afford to avoid risks.”
“Idealista is not ideal. Try local Facebook groups and area-specific agents instead.”
“Agents usually charge one month’s rent as a fee, but legally the owner should pay, not the tenant—though many agents still charge tenants.”
Conclusion
While pet-friendly rentals in Spain—especially on Idealista—often seem scarce, the reality is more nuanced. Many listings state “no pets” by default, but landlords are frequently open to negotiation, especially when renters are proactive, transparent, and respectful. Offering an extra deposit, sharing pet bios, arranging video calls, or even agreeing to professional cleaning can turn a “no” into a “yes.”
Experienced expats recommend not filtering for “pets allowed” when searching. Instead, find the right property, establish rapport, and then negotiate pet acceptance. Though supply-demand dynamics can make landlords strict, many will make exceptions—especially if you demonstrate responsibility and commitment.
For those struggling to rent with pets, considering direct landlord rentals, local Facebook groups, or even purchasing property (as some members have done) may be the alternative solution.
