Dog Ownership Trends in HOAs and What They Mean for Property/Community Associaton Managers

Dog ownership is on the rise and that’s not just a national trend, it’s something community association managers across Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and suburban Maryland are experiencing firsthand. From urban condo buildings in DC to townhome communities in Fairfax and family-friendly HOAs in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties, more residents than ever are living with dogs and they expect their communities to be dog-friendly too.

At CoPS on Doody, we work with communities of all shapes and sizes, and we’ve seen this shift become a defining part of how properties are managed. Whether it’s accommodating more dogs or navigating resident concerns about cleanliness and safety, dog ownership trends are reshaping the way property managers approach everything from rules to amenities.

One of the most immediate impacts is the need for a consistent, well-planned pet waste management program. With more dogs comes more waste, and that means relying on the old “bring your own bag” approach just isn’t cutting it anymore. Communities that don’t have properly placed waste stations, stocked bag dispensers, and regular trash removal often end up with frustrated residents and unfortunately, more waste left on the ground. A clean, professional pet waste system not only reduces complaints, it shows residents you care about maintaining a healthy environment for everyone.

Amenities are also playing a bigger role than ever. These days, residents look for more than just walkable sidewalks, they want features like dog waste stations along paths and near parks, waste bins at trailheads, and sometimes even dog washing areas or fenced dog runs. While not every community can install a full dog park, thoughtful planning can go a long way. Even something as simple as keeping waste stations well-stocked and clearly visible can make a major difference in how dog owners engage with the space.

All of this is prompting many managers and boards to revisit pet policies too. Rules that were written years ago may not reflect current resident needs. Communities are finding value in updating their pet guidelines to be more realistic, enforceable, and resident-friendly. This might include clarifying leash policies, setting expectations around waste disposal, or implementing reasonable fines for non-compliance. All while avoiding breed-specific restrictions and focusing instead on responsible pet ownership.

At CoPS on Doody, we support these efforts by offering more than just service. We bring eco-conscious, USDA-certified 38% bio-based bags and liners to every community we serve. We also help managers review their site layout to identify the best station placement based on resident traffic patterns. And when needed, we provide service documentation and community education support tools that help you build trust with your board and reinforce expectations with residents.

The increase in dog ownership doesn’t have to create tension in your community. With the right structure, services, and communication in place, it can actually strengthen your relationship with residents and improve overall satisfaction. After all, dogs aren’t just pets anymore, they’re family members. And when your community is designed to welcome them thoughtfully, everyone benefits.

If your community is seeing more paws on the ground than ever before, we’re here to help. CoPS on Doody proudly serves HOAs, apartment communities, and local governments across Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and suburban Maryland. Whether you’re looking to add pet waste stations, clean up common areas, or develop a smarter waste plan, we’ve got your back

(and your bags).