Can Your Dog Live on Base?
For many military families, pets are part of the family, especially dogs. When PCS orders roll in, one of the first questions people ask is whether their furry friend will be allowed in base housing. The answer depends on where you’re stationed and which company manages housing there.
In Hampton Roads, home to Langley Air Force Base, Fort Eustis, Naval Station Norfolk, Oceana, and several other military installations, pet policies aren’t one-size-fits-all. Each branch and housing company creates its own rules, so restrictions on certain dog breeds and limits on the number of pets can differ from base to base.
Why Some Breeds Are Restricted
Breed bans in military housing began around 2008–2009. Two main factors drove the change:
A rise in dog bite and attack incidents in on-base neighborhoods.
New insurance and liability requirements that came with privatized base housing.
To meet safety and insurance standards, many housing companies created specific “restricted breed” lists that remain in place today.
Commonly Restricted Dog Breeds
While each installation has its own rules, most lists include:
American Pit Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Bull Mastiff
Rottweiler
Doberman Pinscher
Akita
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Chow Chow
Wolf hybrids
Crosses or mixes of any of the above
Any dog showing aggressive or dominant behavior
Always check with the base housing office or the privatized housing company for your specific installation before moving. Some, like Corvias Property Management, make their policies available online; others require a direct inquiry.
Breed Policies by Military Branch
Air Force
Dogs considered “aggressive or potentially aggressive” are not allowed, including Pit Bulls (American Staffordshire or English Staffordshire Bull Terriers), Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Chows, and wolf hybrids. The only exceptions are certified military working dogs or written approval from the Installation Commander.
Army
The Army uses nearly identical language to the Air Force, banning the same breeds and also restricting any dog that displays dominant or aggressive behavior such as unprovoked barking, biting, or chasing.
Navy
The Navy typically defers to the privatized housing company at each base. For example, Naval Station Norfolk and Oceana housing communities may have different restrictions. Always contact the management company directly for the most accurate information.
Marine Corps
The Marine Corps policy mirrors the Navy’s. A common example, like the one at Twenty-Nine Palms, bans Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, wolf hybrids, and mixes of those breeds.
Coast Guard
The Coast Guard is the exception. It does not ban specific breeds but does remove individual dogs that show aggressive behavior such as biting, chasing, or repeated unprovoked growling.
What About Mixed Breeds?
This is one of the most confusing parts of the policy. If your dog has a mix of a restricted breed, say, a Staffordshire Terrier and Labrador Retriever, some bases may deny approval, while others might request additional proof.
Many housing offices now require DNA testing or veterinary documentation listing the dog’s breed. For instance, MCB Quantico won’t accept vague terms like “mixed” or “mutt” on vet paperwork; they require either DNA results or a detailed veterinary record.
If your dog’s breed designation is unclear, talk with your vet early to get the right documentation before your move.
Housing Options for Military Families With Restricted Breeds
1. Rent Off Base
Renting off base is a common solution. However, some property managers and HOAs have similar breed restrictions, especially in larger rental communities.
Working with a local REALTOR® (like me!) familiar with military moves and pet-friendly properties can make a big difference. They often know individual landlords who are more flexible and can vouch for responsible pet owners.
Tip: A letter from a previous landlord or neighbor confirming your dog’s good behavior can go a long way.
2. Buy a Home
For families who move frequently but want long-term stability, buying may be the best way to keep everyone together, including the dog. Owning a home gives you control over your living situation and avoids most breed restrictions (though some HOAs still have their own rules). A knowledgeable REALTOR® (again, like me!) can help you find pet-friendly neighborhoods with fenced yards and enough space for your dog to enjoy.
3. Temporary Care Options
If living on base is your only choice and your dog isn’t allowed, temporary care may be necessary. It’s a tough decision, but several organizations help military families find safe, loving foster arrangements during deployments or assignments:
These groups can connect you with foster homes and volunteers familiar with military life.
Planning Ahead Matters
Breed restrictions in military housing aren’t likely to change anytime soon. The best approach is to research early, verify your base’s current policy, and have documentation ready before your move.
If you find that your dog isn’t allowed on base, there are still good options nearby. Across Hampton Roads, from Yorktown to Virginia Beach, you’ll find pet-friendly rental homes and neighborhoods where your entire family, pets included, can settle comfortably.
For military families, a little advance planning can make your PCS move smoother and keep your best friend right by your side.
