Paws & Property: Why Pets Are Shaping the Way We Buy Homes in Jupiter
Real Estate Influencer: Heather Towe
Photography by: Alexis Domingez
It’s the dog days of summer, and in Jupiter, we’re not just talking about the heat—we’re talking about our fur babies! August is all about our beloved pets, and whether you're a cat cuddler, a dog devotee, or have a feathered friend, there's no denying that pets are a huge part of what makes a house a home.
Home is Where the Bark Is
Among pet-friendly features, home buyers seek proximity to parks and pet-friendly beaches, like Jupiter Beach
When house hunting in Jupiter, savvy buyers aren’t just asking about the number of bedrooms or if there’s a wine fridge in the kitchen (though that’s still a plus). Pet owners have a new set of must-haves:
• Big fenced back yards for zoomies and sunbathing.
• Durable flooring that stands up to claws, spills,and a good ol’ case of the zoomies.
• A pet bath in the mudroom—a Jupiter essential for sandy paws after beach play or muddy paws after a stroll through Riverbend.
• Proximity to parks and pet-friendly beaches— like Jupiter Beach, a haven for off-leash fun.
It’s no longer just a “nice to have”—it’s often a dealbreaker.
Pets are family, and for many buyers, the search starts with, “Is this the right place for Baxter?” “Pets are one of the top considerations for my buyers,” says a local Jupiter realtor. “We tour homes thinking through everything from where the dog bed will go to which door will become the 'potty path.'"
Pet Policies That Bite
But beware: not every beautiful community in Jupiter is a paradise for pets. Before falling head-over-paws for a home, savvy buyers check the HOA pet rules. Some communities roll out the red carpet for pets, offering treats in the lobby and dog washing stations. Others... not so much.
Common restrictions include:
• Pet count limits, often no more than two.
• Weight restrictions, commonly capping dogs at 25–35 lbs.
• Breed bans, particularly for breeds considered "aggressive."
• Strict leash rules, even in fenced back yards.
• Pet waste fines, with some HOAs going as far as requiring DNA samples from your pet to match mystery droppings to their rightful... owner. Yes, really.
Buyers should be aware of community restrictions for pets. Some HOAs have strict rules, including breed bans.
These rules aren’t just guidelines—they can impact whether you’re welcome, whether your pup can play off-leash, or even if your beloved breed is allowed at all.
Real Estate with Pet Flair
Jupiter homes are evolving to meet these new four-legged needs. Listing descriptions now highlight:
• Pet-friendly fl ooring (think tile, vinyl, or sealed concrete).
• Built-in feeding stations tucked into kitchen islands or cabinetry.
• Custom catios—those screened-in patios built just for feline sunbathers.
• Under-stair pet nooks or converted closets as cozy “dog dens.”
And yes, doggy doors are gaining popularity. Just remember: this is Florida. Jupiter’s beauty also includes bobcats, coyotes, and even alligators. Many homeowners are opting for smart pet doors that open only when triggered by a collar sensor, keeping wild guests from inviting themselves in.
Some pet-forward sellers even stage their homes with
treats, toys, and water bowls during showings. It's all part of helping buyers imagine their pets living there.
The Pet Perspective: What Really Matters
In interviews with local pet owners, common themes emerged when it comes to choosing a home:
“We passed on a house we loved because the back yard wasn’t fully fenced.”
“My cat’s sunning spot was the deciding factor.”
“We wanted a separate space for our rescue dog to decompress—he gets nervous with visitors.”
Even interior design trends are going pet-inclusive. Think built-in litter box drawers in laundry rooms, dog
beds that blend with décor, and “pet zones” near entryways with hooks for leashes, shelves for gear, and a handy towel rack for muddy paws.
Jupiter Living, Pet-Approved
Living in Jupiter means having access to:
Jupiter Beach – One of the few dog-friendly beaches in Palm Beach County.
Furry Friends Adoption Clinic & Ranch – A local shelter doing incredible work.
Pet-friendly restaurants and cafés where dogs are welcome on patios and often get their own water bowl and biscuit.
Groomers and pet spas, including mobile ones that come to your driveway.
Final Word: Love Me, Love My Pet
So, whether you’re upgrading for your growing pack, adopting your first puppy, or simply treating your parakeet to a home with better views, one thing’s clear: in Jupiter, real estate is going to the dogs, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
