If you’re searching for an apartment in Quebec with a pet, you’ve probably already noticed one thing:
Finding a pet-friendly apartment isn’t always easy.
At Rentack, we see it every day — tenants with pets struggle not because of availability, but because of how landlords perceive risk.
This guide breaks down:
- What the law actually says in Quebec
- How landlords really view pets
- Which pets are easier to get approved
- How to improve your chances
Here’s the reality:
👉 Yes — but only if the lease allows it.
In Quebec, landlords have the legal right to:
- Allow pets
- Restrict certain types of animals
- Completely prohibit pets
If your lease says “no pets”, that clause is generally enforceable.
Can a Landlord Evict You for Having a Pet?Yes — if:
- Pets are prohibited in your lease
- Your pet causes damage or disturbance
- There are repeated complaints (noise, odors, etc.)
However, if pets are allowed and you follow the rules, landlords typically cannot evict you just for having one.
How Landlords Actually See PetsFrom a leasing perspective, pets are about risk management.
Most landlords worry about:
- Property damage (scratches, chewing, urine)
- Noise complaints
- Odors
- Impact on future tenants
This is why many listings default to:
Which Pets Are Easier to Get Approved?“No pets”
Not all pets are viewed equally.
🐟 Low-risk pets (usually accepted)- Fish
- Small reptiles (lizards, geckos)
- Hamsters, small rodents
These rarely cause issues and are often accepted even in stricter buildings.
🐇 Medium-risk pets (case-by-case)- Rabbits
- Ferrets
- Birds
Some landlords accept them, others don’t — mostly due to potential damage or smell concerns.
🐶🐱 High-risk pets (most restrictions)- Dogs
- Cats
These are the most commonly restricted animals.
Factors that influence approval:
- Size of the dog
- Breed
- Number of pets
- Building type
Dogs are typically the biggest concern for landlords because of:
- Barking complaints
- Floor damage
- Liability concerns
Some buildings may allow:
- Small dogs only
- One pet maximum
- Specific breeds
If you have a pet, your application needs to be stronger than average.
1. Be upfront immediatelyDon’t hide your pet — it will backfire.
2. Provide a “pet profile”Include:
- Age
- Breed
- Vaccination status
- Training (for dogs)
Strong income + credit reduces perceived risk.
4. Offer referencesPrevious landlords confirming:
- No damage
- No complaints
Some properties are designed to accept pets — targeting these saves time.
👉 Browse available listings here:
https://www.rentack.com/apartments-for-rent/pet-friendly
Platforms like Rentack help you identify active listings where landlords are more responsive, which is critical when applying with a pet.
Are Pet Deposits Allowed in Quebec?This is important:
👉 No — pet deposits are not legal in Quebec.
Landlords cannot charge:
- Extra deposit for pets
- Additional “pet fees” upfront
They can only claim damages after the fact if needed.
What Happens If You Already Have a Pet?If you move in and later want a pet:
- You must get landlord approval
- Without approval, you risk eviction
Even if the pet is small, always confirm first.
The Reality of Pet-Friendly Rentals in QuebecPet-friendly units exist — but they are:
- More competitive
- Often slightly more expensive
- Rented faster
This means:
- You need to act quickly
- You need a strong application
- You need to target the right listings
Pets are one of the biggest challenges in Quebec’s rental market — but not an impossible one.
The key is understanding:
- What the law allows
- What landlords actually care about
- How to position yourself as a low-risk tenant
At Rentack, the goal is simple:
Help tenants find apartments that fit their lifestyle — including with pets — and secure them faster.