The Pet Problem in Thai Condos

Finding a pet-friendly condo in Thailand is one of the most common — and most frustrating — challenges for renters and buyers. The majority of Thai condo buildings prohibit pets entirely, and those that allow them often impose strict size limits, breed restrictions, or hefty deposits. If you are moving to Thailand with a dog or cat, your housing search just got significantly narrower. Here is how to navigate it.

Understanding the Rules

Pet policies in Thai condos are set by the juristic person (the building's management body), not by individual landlords. This means even if a landlord says "pets are fine," the building rules may prohibit them — and you could face fines or eviction.

No pets: The majority of buildings. Strictly enforced in most cases
Small pets only: Cats and small dogs (under 5–10 kg) allowed with registration. Common in newer mid-range buildings
Pet-friendly: All pets welcome with registration and deposit. Rare but growing, especially in expat-heavy areas

Bangkok: Where to Look

Bangkok has the most pet-friendly options simply because it has the most condos. Key areas:

Sukhumvit (Thong Lo to Ekkamai)

The highest concentration of pet-friendly buildings in Bangkok. The expat population here has driven demand for pet-accepting condos, and several newer developments have responded. Benchasiri Park and various soi dog- friendly streets make this area practical for dog owners.

Pet-friendly 1-Bed: ฿20,000–40,000/mo
Expect a pet deposit of ฿5,000–15,000

On Nut and Phra Khanong

More affordable pet-friendly options. Several newer buildings along the BTS extension allow small to medium pets. The area has pet shops, veterinary clinics, and even a few dog-friendly cafes.

Pet-friendly 1-Bed: ฿12,000–22,000/mo
More relaxed enforcement in some buildings

Ari

The neighborhood's laid-back character extends to pet policies. Several low-rise buildings in the Ari area accept pets, and the quieter streets are better for dog walking than the busy Sukhumvit corridor.

Chiang Mai: Easier for Pet Owners

Chiang Mai is generally more pet-friendly than Bangkok. The prevalence of low-rise buildings and houses-converted-to-apartments means more flexibility. Many landlords in the Nimman and Santitham areas accept pets on a case-by-case basis, even if the official policy is ambiguous.

Pet-friendly 1-Bed: ฿8,000–16,000/mo
Houses and townhouses: ฿10,000–25,000/mo (often the best option for larger dogs)

Pattaya and Phuket

Both cities have pet-friendly options, though they are scattered. In Pattaya, look at Jomtien and Pratumnak — several buildings cater to long-term residents with pets. In Phuket, Rawai and Kathu have more relaxed policies than the tourist-heavy west coast.

Tips for Pet Owners

Always verify with the juristic person directly — do not rely on the landlord's word alone
Get the pet policy in writing before signing a lease
Register your pet with the building management and pay any required deposits
Vaccinations: Most buildings require proof of rabies vaccination and a health certificate
Size limits: Even "pet-friendly" buildings often cap at 10–15 kg. Confirm the limit for your breed
Common area rules: Pets typically must be leashed in all common areas and are banned from pools and gyms

Importing Pets to Thailand

If you are bringing a pet from overseas, Thailand requires:

A health certificate issued within 5 days of travel
Rabies vaccination at least 21 days before arrival
An import permit from the Thai Department of Livestock Development
Microchip identification (ISO 11784/11785 standard)

The process is manageable but requires planning. Start the paperwork at least 2 months before your move.

On ThaiCondoAI, search "pet-friendly" in any city and the AI will filter for buildings that accept animals. You can also specify your pet's size — "dog- friendly condo for a 12 kg dog near BTS" — and get matched results instantly.