Dogs in the Villages
 

We are looking to move to the Villages. We have 2 dogs (18 lbs each) They are used to a yard so we are looking at courtyard villas. However, there are other homes (not villas) that we like but not sure if they would be good for us.

We are in our mid 70's and concerned with having to always walk the dogs as we get older.

Thoughts?

If you are concerned now, just remember that you aren’t getting any younger.

Dog parks?

Hi. I will walk them for you. Contact me.

There are a lot of posts on TOTV about dogs.
You don’t want to let your dogs out unattended - 1) it’s too hot and 2) there are predators who will grab your dogs.

One option, add a birdcage with a turf area for them to do their business - make sure there’s a sprinkler zone so you can rinse the turf

Veranda homes are also fenced.

There are dog runs for dogs to run free safely.
People use an invisible fence to keep dogs in their yards.

But they don't keep coyotes and/or alligators out so you still have to be out there with them. It's best to leash walk them as most do.

As long as you remain outside with the dogs while they're running free on your own property, and can bend down to pick up their crap so they don't stink up and destroy your yard, a courtyard villa might be fine for you.

You will never be leaving your dogs unattended outside, unless your entire back yard is covered with a "birdcage" (a netted frame that stretches high over your yard to keep insects and predators out). Even then, you probably wouldn't want to leave them unattended, since bobcats and bears don't really respect nets when they see something tasty on the other side of the net.

A courtyard villa will probably be your best choice simply due to more of them being available. A villa on the end of the street or on a curve tends to have a bit larger yard. There are homes with fenced backyards. However you cannot add a fence. Just ask your realtor.

Check out Doggie Doo Run Run. Some people take their pooches there a few times a day. My pooch got too old--not me yet --to visit. https://doggiecaboodle.com/dogpark/doggie-doo-run-run/

We live in Pine Hills in a ranch/cottage with totally fenced back yard. There is one for sale on the street behind me. There is another neighborhood like ours off O’dell near Havana. Also designers with fenced in backyards in Pine Ridge or Pine Hills. This was before the Veranda models were introduced

We also have two dogs so we installed an invisible fence. phone 3528043393.. Sure at $2100 it was expensive but worth it. With the invisible fence we where able to buy a normal 3/2 home with a nice backyard the dogs can run around in. Training took about 6 weeks, and after that they stay in the yard.

Nash Loop in Hemingway have houses ( ranches) with enclosed yards

Not practical or realistic over the long haul.