Renting With Pets in Asturias: What to Realistically Expect

Fido and Kitty must come or I’m not going! 

In Spain, pets are widely considered part of the family — a mindset now reflected in recent legislation recognizing animals as members of the household.

Asturias is one of the most pet-friendly regions in Spain. In places like Gijón, dogs are everywhere — along the seaside promenade, in parks, and often beside their owners at cafés. The culture itself is relaxed about animals. Walking your dog also provides an easy way to meet neighbors and make meaningful connections. 

However, the realistic (and uphill) path to renting with pets often requires more search time, flexibility, and likely a higher budget, especially in cities. Rental inventory across Asturias — particularly in Gijón and Oviedo — is currently tight. Well-located apartments move quickly, and when pets are involved, landlords may have more applicants to choose from.

That doesn’t mean renting with pets is unrealistic. It simply means approaching the search with clear expectations and a thoughtful strategy, particularly if you’re hoping for outdoor space like a patio or small garden — features that are much harder to find in urban apartments.

The Reality of Renting With Pets in Asturias

Asturias itself is extremely dog-friendly. The region’s lifestyle — beaches, mountains, and endless walking trails — naturally suits people who enjoy the outdoors with their pets.

However, the rental market is highly competitive, particularly in cities.

When pets are involved, renters often find that:

• The search can take longer

• Some listings will decline pets

• Landlords may request additional deposit

• Flexibility on location becomes important

Properties with private outdoor space in cities are especially rare, which is why many pet owners eventually broaden their search beyond the most central neighborhoods.  Book a Discovery Call and we can talk through your housing search, realistic options, and the practical steps that make the transition smoother.

Best Areas Near Gijón for Renting With Pets

In central Gijón, most rentals are apartments in multi-story buildings. While many residents have dogs, landlords may still hesitate when demand is high.

Expanding the search slightly outside the city center can sometimes offer more options.

Somió & La Guía A residential area known for larger homes and occasional properties with gardens.

Cabueñes and Deva Semi-rural neighborhoods just outside Gijón where houses and outdoor space are more common.

Villaviciosa About 25 minutes from the city, this coastal town offers village living with easier access to houses and, perhaps, more flexible landlords.

For many relocating families, the decision becomes a balance between urban convenience and housing flexibility.

Best Areas in Oviedo for Renting With Pets

Oviedo has a slightly different housing feel than Gijón. It is much hillier and prides itself on its urban elegance. Here are a few neighborhoods tend to work well for renters with pets.

La Florida A newer residential area with modern buildings, wider streets, and nearby parks.

Montecerrao A neighborhood on the edge of the city with a mix of apartments and houses, sometimes offering larger units or terraces.

El Cristo A quieter residential district with parks and good access to outdoor spaces.

Centro / Historic District Beautiful and walkable, but apartments are often smaller and rarely include outdoor space, which can make renting with pets more challenging.

Why Smaller Towns Can Be Easier for Pet Owners

One advantage of Asturias is the variety of living environments.

While cities are dominated by apartment buildings, smaller towns often include:

• Detached houses

• Properties with gardens or terraces

• Ground-floor homes with outdoor access

Because outdoor space is more common, landlords in these areas are often more comfortable renting to tenants with dogs.

Many international movers ultimately find that coastal towns such as Villaviciosa, Colunga, Ribadesella, or Llanes provide the best balance of lifestyle and housing flexibility.

What Landlords Typically Ask When You Have Pets

In Spain, whether pets are allowed usually depends on the individual landlord, not a national rule.

Owners often want to know:

• The type and size of the animal

• How many pets will live in the property

• Whether the animal is accustomed to apartment living

Some landlords may also request a higher deposit, which is fairly common when pets are part of the rental agreement.

Pet Insurance and Veterinary Care in Spain

Another practical step many relocating families encounter is pet insurance and veterinary care.

In Spain, dogs are legally required to have liability insurance, and even when it isn’t mandatory, many landlords prefer tenants to carry it. Having coverage can also simplify situations involving property damage or accidents.

Beyond insurance, it’s helpful to quickly establish a relationship with a local veterinarian once you arrive.

At Leap Key, we help clients navigate these early practical steps so pets settle in smoothly alongside the rest of the household. Depending on your location, we can assist with:

• Securing appropriate pet insurance

• Connecting with trusted local veterinarians

• Understanding transportation options for pets (buses, trains)

• Providing language support or interpretation during veterinary appointments

These small logistical details can make a meaningful difference during the first weeks of settling in.

The Bottom Line

Renting with pets in Asturias is possible — and many families relocate here precisely because the region offers such a dog-friendly, outdoor lifestyle.

But it helps to approach the housing search with realistic expectations:

• Urban rentals are competitive

• Pet-friendly properties may take longer to secure

• Homes with yards or patios in cities are rare

• Smaller towns often offer more flexibility

With thoughtful planning and flexibility, many relocating families successfully find homes that work well for both them and their pets — and once settled, Asturias offers an exceptional place to enjoy life outdoors together.

We love pets (and maybe even a little more than people)! 

A Discovery Call is a good place to start. We can discuss your housing search, realistic rental options, and other practical support that helps make settling in easier.