[lovesports]

We lived in a patio villa for 5 years. We have a median size dog and it worked out great. He rarely barks and with the enclosed lanai you couldn't hear him if he did. My neighbors would greet my dog every morning. Many took him for rides in their golf carts and had treats on hand because they wanted him to visit their villas. A neighbor would take him to his house when we traveled and we had free dog sitting.

There were 9 dogs (3 large ones) on our street of about 20 houses. Everyone knew every dog's name and you never heard any barking or of anyone having problems with the dogs. No one moved. It was a great way to say hello to everybody on their lanai as you took your dog for a walk. We were a very close street and my old neighbors want me to bring my dog back to visit. He is a character. But its a street that loves dogs and has responsible dog owners.

So yes you can have a dog in a patio villa. We had a pond near us. We would take our dogs around the pond for a walk. Also, we took them to dog parks.

Do I think a dog could be a barker and have irresponsible owner. Sure. But you can also a neighbor who is loud and irresponsible.

So from our experience, you sure can have a dog in a patio villa. If you are buying pre owned, you might want to find out if your neighbors are dog lovers or owners of dogs. It sure makes it easier when your neighbors love your dog rather than being a neighbor to a dog hater or someone afraid of dogs. Also if you hear a great deal of barking, and it bothers you, keeping looking.