Tips for Making Your Backyard More Dog-Friendly
Dogs need exercise, sometimes a lot of it, and what better way to spend some time with your pup than outside in your own backyard? But some dog-owners may be stumped for ideas on how to make their backyard spaces safe and fun for their pets to play in. We’ve got you covered for tips and ideas on how to make backyard playtime more fun to avoid boredom digging, barking, or even escaping!
Provide Essentials
The first step to improving your backyard for your dog is to make sure you have adequate shelter and water available for them. Especially in warmer months and climates, water access is important for being outdoors. Heatstroke is at a higher risk during these times, so having water and a cool shelter (with shade) available is key for safekeeping your pup.
Fence Installation
Does your dog love exploring and sometimes get so caught up in their curiosity they wander off? Well, this is not uncommon as dogs are curious in nature, but it may be a good indicator you should install a fence. Depending on how curious, determined, and large your dog is will likely decide what type of fencing you should get. But, a fence will help keep your dog within the boundaries of your yard, teach them about space, and prevent unprovoked squirrel chases around the neighborhood. Plus, fencing is much more freeing than having to keep your pooch tied up on a running leash!
Providing A Space For Digging
Like being naturally curious, dogs are also diggers in nature. This may mean that your backyard has suffered for it. Whether it’s flower beds, dirt, or random holes you find yourself falling in while chasing your dog during playtime, it may be time to set up a digging space. This is a space strictly dedicated to encouraging your pup to dig until their heart desires. Not only will it let them perform a natural instinct, but it will also keep them out of spots you want to keep hole-free. Try this enrichment activity by setting up a kidding pool with dog-safe sand, or big plastic balls, you can even hide toys or treats in the pool to encourage the digging space!
Cooling Off
Some dogs can get hot or overworked easily, so having more than just a water bowl available for a cool down is a great idea. Try out a sprinkler or kiddie pool with water in summer for quick and cooling relief. You can even get some water toys for your pup to play with in the kiddie pool! There’s also a sprinkler pad your pooch can play in to get the best of both worlds!
Dog-Friendly Gardening
There’s nothing quite like a flourishing backyard garden or landscape, but dog-owners should be mindful that some plants can be toxic to dogs. These plants can be especially dangerous if your dog is a digger or secret plant-eater. Daisies, butterfly irises, and azaleas are common gardening plants that can make your dog seriously ill. Check out these toxic and non-toxic lists of plants for dogs.
Playtime Pet Playground
Why not turn your backyard into your dog’s favorite and beloved dog park? It’s easier than you think! Getting a few key playground essentials will make all the difference in your dog’s quality of play. Along with your dog’s DIY dig spot, try out a dog agility kit, crawl tunnel, or make your own fun playground toys for some great enrichment activities!