When most people think about finding their dream home, they picture bedrooms, kitchens, and maybe a lovely garden. For me, the dream also involves wagging tails and little paws pattering across the floor. Yes, I’m talking about my dogs. As someone who shares my life with four-legged friends, I know first-hand that our homes aren’t just for us; they’re for the whole family, fur and all.
In Toowoomba, we’re lucky to live in a region that’s wonderfully pet-friendly. From sprawling acreage backyards, to leafy walking tracks around Picnic Point, to off-leash areas like Queens Park, there’s no shortage of spaces where dogs and their humans can thrive together. But when it comes to buying or renting, finding the right fit for both people and pets takes a little extra thought.
Let’s start with the obvious: outdoor space. A yard doesn’t have to be huge to keep pets happy, but it does need to be safe and practical. My dogs love nothing more than chasing each other on the grass, so it’s important I know the fencing is secure and there aren’t any gaps for adventurous noses to sneak through.
Luckily in Toowoomba, you’re spoiled for choice. A myriad of home types mean you’ll find larger blocks that offer room to move or low-maintenance lots nearby to green spaces. The trick is matching the space to your pets’ needs. A large, active dog might need room to zoom, while smaller dogs (like mine) can be perfectly content with a cosy lawn and regular walks.
While the yard gets most of the attention, the interior of a home can be just as important for pet owners. Consider flooring that can withstand a little wear and tear (tiles or vinyl are often easier to maintain than carpet). Open-plan living also makes it easier to keep an eye on the whole pack, whether that’s toddlers, teenagers, or terriers.
I love helping families find homes that balance style with practicality. For many, that means thinking ahead about where the dog bed will go, whether there’s space for food bowls in the kitchen, or even how the laundry might double as a “mud room” after a walk in the rain.
One of the best things about Toowoomba is how much there is to explore with your pets. Picnic Point and Queens Park are personal favourites for morning strolls, and Laurel Bank Park is another gem when the flowers are in bloom. More and more local cafés are welcoming puppy patrons, which means your Saturday coffee run can be enjoyed with your best mate at your side.
When choosing a home, think about its proximity to these lifestyle spots. Being close to walking tracks, off-leash parks, or even just quiet, tree-lined streets can make a huge difference to your daily routine. For my clients with pets, location is often about more than schools and shops — it’s about where the nearest adventure starts.
It’s worth noting that more buyers and renters are considering pets in their property decisions than ever before. Here in Toowoomba, I’ve seen families specifically seek out properties that tick both the human and the canine boxes. Landlords are also becoming more open to tenants with pets, especially when they see responsible, long-term applicants.
If you’re selling, it can actually be a bonus to highlight pet-friendly features like secure fencing, shaded outdoor areas, or durable flooring. If you’re buying, don’t be afraid to ask about these details. Trust me, it’s easier to check now than to discover a too-low fence after you’ve moved in with your German Shepherd.
As a real estate agent (and a dog mum) I know that finding a property isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about creating a safe, comfortable, and happy space where your whole family, paws included, can feel at home.
I’ve been through it myself: weighing up whether a yard will suit energetic dogs, checking if the neighbourhood is good for walks, and imagining how the dogs will settle into a new space. These are the same considerations I’ll help you with when we search for your home.
Because at the end of the day, home is where the dog hair sticks to everything… and you wouldn’t have it any other way. 🐾
If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Toowoomba and want an agent who understands the needs of the whole family (including the four-legged ones), I’d love to chat. Together, we can find a home that makes tails wag and hearts happy.
Anne Pohlner | 0419 796 759
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