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ew Yorkers are putting their pets first when choosing a home, and the city’s luxury market is responding with a growing array of animal‑centric amenities. While pet‑friendly features—dog spas, daycares, and concierge services—have long existed in high‑end developments, recent trends show owners and developers treating animals as equally important as humans.
**A Case in Point: Princess the Poodle Mix**
Princess, a 12‑year‑old poodle mix with special needs, prompted her owners, Amar and Priyanka Polepalle, to relocate twice in a single year. Both are medical professionals who had moved from Connecticut to a lease takeover in Long Island City’s Jackson Park area. Their first choice, an apartment above Queensborough Plaza, proved unsuitable: the constant traffic, loud trains, and concrete streets overstimulated Princess, who prefers quiet, grassy surroundings and dislikes the bustle of toddlers and other dogs. “She’s not a fan of loud noise,” Priyanka explained. After two months, the couple sought a quieter, more spacious environment, ultimately choosing a two‑bedroom penthouse in the new Malt Drive development. From the 25th floor, Princess now enjoys panoramic views of Manhattan and Brooklyn, a tranquil waterfront setting, and ample green space—an ideal setting for her recovery and golden years.
**Other Owners Prioritizing Pet Comfort**
Ripley, an 11‑year‑old Beagle‑Bulldog mix, recently split his time between Albany and a sleek Hell’s Kitchen condo at 547 W. 47th St. The building’s eighth‑floor dog run and secluded pet spa were key factors in the decision. “It’s perfect for his lifestyle,” owner Chris DiStefano said, noting that the turf‑covered perch helped his country‑bred dog adjust to city life. Similarly, 4.5‑year‑old Bowie, an Australian Shepherd, moved to the Upper West Side’s 96+Broadway condominium, drawn by its self‑serve pet spa and proximity to Central and Riverside parks. Owner Liza Logounova praised the rooftop patio with Hudson River views, calling it a “paradise” for Bowie’s active nature.
Even in more modest buildings, pet amenities are a draw. The Hartby, a rent‑stabilized Stuyvesant Heights complex, features a green‑tiled dog bath that has helped its resident rescue pup Peaches, a 6.5‑year‑old Korean Village Dog, overcome her fear of baths. Owner Caitlin Hudecheck noted that the dedicated space allows for regular grooming without the cramped confines of a typical apartment shower.
**Industry Response to Rising Pet Ownership**
New York City’s pet population is estimated at around 1.1 million, with dogs particularly well‑cared for. A 2025 Forbes Advisor survey found that more than half of New Yorkers spend more on their dogs’ health and grooming than on their own. The pandemic accelerated pet ownership, with city licensing data showing a 40 % spike in 2020 as residents stayed home. Developers have taken notice, incorporating pet‑friendly features into new projects.
One Williamsburg Wharf in Brooklyn, for example, hosted a popular “Santa Paws” event featuring a photo booth and custom paw‑print ornaments, attracting residents and their dogs. The building’s “Canine Club” pet spa offers puppy reiki, custom‑painted portraits, and social gatherings. Waterline Square on the Upper West Side boasts a private pup club designed by renowned dog whisperer Colleen Stafford, offering agility equipment, overnight boarding, and even blueberry facials for a fee.
**Pet Services and Social Events**
In‑house pet concierges and doggy daycares are becoming standard in luxury developments, catering to busy New Yorkers who need reliable care for their companions. Pet spas—ranging from basic self‑serve stations to high‑end grooming suites—provide convenient bathing options. Social events, such as the “Santa Paws” party, create community among pet owners and give dogs a chance to socialize in a controlled environment.
**Conclusion**
As New Yorkers increasingly prioritize their pets’ well‑being, the city’s real‑estate market is evolving to meet those demands. From quiet waterfront penthouses that cater to senior dogs like Princess, to dog runs and spas that appeal to country‑bred pets like Ripley and Bowie, developers are integrating comprehensive pet amenities into both luxury and mid‑range buildings. With pet ownership on the rise and residents willing to invest heavily in their animals’ comfort, the trend toward pet‑centric living is set to continue, reshaping the urban housing landscape for the benefit of both humans and their four‑legged companions.
