Qualifying a tenant with a dog

[Randy Lehey]

I'm currently in the process of releasing my duplex and I've never been a big fan of having animal in my unit. I recently had an application that looks good on paper, but he has a dog. I am considering allowing this guy with the dog under the condition that the dog is actually well behaved.

I was wondering if this is ok to do / legal? Can I make offering the unit to this person contingent on if the dog checks out or is that a no no?

[Colleen F.]

We rent to people with dogs on a case by case basis.  We interview the dog by meeting him and observing how well the dog listens with a little walk around the property. We also call previous landlords and ask specifically about the dog.  We attach a picture and put the dogs name on the lease saying it only pertains to that animal.  You just state that you accept dogs with owner approval.  There are breeds we don't rent to.  I also don't go by weight, little yappy dogs don't like me and the feeling is mutual..