For those of you looking for dog friendly 55+ communities to retire or buy a second home in, Central Florida has a lot to offer. Most age-restricted active-adult communities in the region welcome dogs and maintain dog parks. The area in general also has a high number of pet-friendly parks and beaches, stores and restaurants (pooches can often be seen enjoying the beautiful weather and dining alongside their humans in outdoor seating sections), pet shops and services, and even some major pet resorts.
Dogs in Central Florida 55+ Communities
Almost every active-adult community in Central Florida permits dogs in single-family homes with very few restrictions. Occasionally, developments with attached homes like town homes or duplexes have some restrictions on the number, size, or breed of dogs allowed in these units as a courtesy to neighbors who share walls. These sorts of restrictions are most common in apartment-style condominium setups.
Communities and HOAs do usually have rules and regulations regarding canine companions in public areas. Typically, dogs must be kept on leashes when outside their fenced-in yard or a designated dog park. Owners are of course expected to pick up after pets relieve themselves. And dogs aren't usually allowed in clubhouses, pools, or at many other community facilities and amenities.
Do the Florida State Parks with Your Dog!
Florida's famous for its amazing state parks system, which is a huge draw for outdoors enthusiasts who love camping, RVing, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, springs, lakes, beaches, birdwatching, and other nature-based relaxation or adventure. And you don't have to leave your four-legged friend behind!
All Florida state parks allow dogs in their day-use areas, provided they're kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and they remain on good behavior. They're also allowed at campgrounds, though not in park cabins. Parks all have dog-restricted areas too, though, including beaches, playgrounds, park buildings, and others. Always heed the signage indicating whether or not your dog is permitted in specific areas.
Looking for a Dog-Friendly 55+ Community in Central Florida?
You've come to the right place. We're the area's leading experts in active-adult living, and we have listings for beautiful homes at amazing prices in numerous dog-friendly Central Florida active-adult developments (and we happen to be a pack of avid dog lovers ourselves).
For example, The Villages and On Top of the World are two large age-restricted communities that love dogs and offer multiple well-manicured dog parks; Heritage Hills in Clermont and Sullivan Ranch in Mount Dora also spring to mind as particularly dog-friendly communities with fantastic dog parks.
But that's just a few of many options. Whatever you're looking for, and wherever in Central Florida you'd like to buy a new or second home for you and your furry friend, we can help find the perfect home in the perfect location. Just get in touch!
