A new dog law is being rolled out for over 11 million households across England from Friday, May 1. Under the Renters' Rights Act 2026, tenants in private rented housing now have the right to request to keep a pet.
Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse such requests and must respond within approximately 28 days. This change is expected to benefit as many as 11 million renters seeking pet-friendly accommodations.
Animal Charities Welcome the Change
Battersea Dogs Home described the new law as a significant step forward, noting that it reflects government recognition of people's rights to keep pets regardless of homeownership. The charity highlighted that while the law helps current tenants who want to acquire a pet, challenges remain for pet owners seeking new rentals.
"If a pet owner in a rented home needs to move, it can be nearly impossible to find another property that will accept their pet. So, people are often left with a heartbreaking choice between a place to live and their much-loved animal," a spokesperson said. Housing issues are a leading cause for dogs and cats being surrendered to rescues like Battersea.
The Dogs Trust also expressed support, stating that for the first time, private renters will have a legal right to request a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. The charity noted that around one in seven people who contact them about giving up their dog cite housing changes as the reason. "Over time, we hope that this Bill will help keep more dogs with the people who love them - something worth celebrating!" a representative added.
