Inside the $2.9 Million ‘Buster’s Retreat’: A Mid‑Century Estate Tailored for a Bearded Collie

When a video of a $2 million “dog house” started circulating online, the story quickly morphed into a cautionary tale about pet‑centric excess. The reality, however, is a bit more nuanced. Howard and Suze Rubin, a longtime New York couple, are now putting their 2.76‑acre Pound Ridge retreat on the market for $2.9 million, and they’re pushing back on the viral claim that they poured a cool two million dollars into the house just for their nine‑year‑old bearded collie, Buster.

“We didn’t spend $2 million renovating the house for the dog,” Howard said in an interview with the Post. The renovation bill, he explained, covered a comprehensive overhaul of the property—everything from new mechanical systems and modern appliances to upgraded internet infrastructure and a brand‑new garage that alone ran into the high‑hundreds of thousands.

The upgrades, according to listing agent Sally Slater of Douglas Elliman (who’s known the Rubins for over 25 years), reflect Howard’s meticulous nature rather than a pet‑only obsession. “He’s so exacting in his thinking,” Slater noted. That exacting mindset shows up in details like sixteen surveillance cameras watching the house and grounds, two full‑size generators for redundancy, dual internet feeds, and even a termite‑protection system installed despite no active infestation.

Beyond the high‑tech safety net, the home itself is a showcase of mid‑century modern design. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows flood the interior with light, while warm wood finishes lend a welcoming feel. The four‑bedroom, three‑and‑a‑half‑bath residence spans 4,442 sq ft and sits on a sprawling 2.76‑acre parcel that’s fully fenced, protecting Buster from wandering deer and coyotes.

Pet‑friendly touches are sprinkled throughout, but they’re certainly not the sole focus. The couple installed pet‑grade turf, a shaded patio area, and a shallow sun shelf in the pool where Buster can splash without having to actually swim—a thoughtful nod to the dog’s love of water but limited swimming ability.

Inside, nine televisions are strategically placed, and Buster apparently has a favorite spot in front of one of them to watch “Paw Patrol” until he drifts off. The expansive glass walls even let the dog lie on the floor and keep an eye on the surrounding woods.

Howard Rubin, professor emeritus of computer science at Hunter College and founder of Rubin Worldwide, summed up his approach in a single phrase: “I just like things to work.” That philosophy guided the renovation from the kitchen—now equipped with sleek, modern appliances and ample counter space—to the added garage that houses both vehicles and a workshop.

The Rubins bought the property in 2019 for $1.82 million, initially planning to use it as a personal getaway and a pet‑friendly rental. The pandemic put the rental idea on hold, and the house evolved into the “Buster’s Retreat” the couple now markets.

Animal lovers have long been a part of the Rubins’ lives. Suze, a former veterinary technician and EMT, grew up in Queens, while Howard hails from the Bronx. Over their 56‑year marriage they’ve cared for everything from dogs and cats to rabbits, hamsters, and even horses. In fact, when their son started riding lessons at age six, the family acquired a small stable in South Salem called Peas and Carrots—once frequented by members of the 1996 Olympic team and actor Christopher Reeve.

Now, at nine years old, Buster is developing arthritis, a factor that helped tip the decision to sell. The Rubins plan to downsize to their one‑story Florida home, a location free of hills, stairs, snow, or ice—conditions that are easier on an aging collie.

Since the listing hit the market last Wednesday, interest has been brisk. One prospective buyer even arrived with her own dog tucked under her arm, a subtle reminder that pet‑friendly luxury isn’t as outlandish as the viral headline suggested.

“He’s part of the family,” Howard said, and the home’s story—complete with its high‑tech security, thoughtful pet amenities, and classic architectural details—underscores that sentiment without the sensationalism.