Backyards provide a safe space for pets to explore, run around, and play, preventing boredom and allowing them to engage in their natural behaviors. However, before letting pets outside, it is important to ensure the backyard is pet-friendly. After all, no one wants them wandering off or exposed to harmful plants. Fortunately, various pet-friendly landscaping ideas can help transform a backyard into a safe space, making it more enjoyable for pets.
1) Install a Doggy Pool
Make an outdoor play area for pets, like installing a doggy pool. This is great for pets to splash around and cool down after playing outdoors, especially in the summer. While there are cost-effective options made of plastic, avoid inflatable pools. Pets usually have strong claws that will tear through the pool within seconds. Instead, opt for a splash pool made of hard plastic or of better quality. Also, set the pool a few inches deep into the ground to improve stability and prevent the dog from dragging it around.
2) Build a Fountain
A fountain is a great addition to any backyard. It also provides a source of drinking water for dogs. A fountain in the center of a hard plastic doggy pool can also make things interesting by serving as a place for them to play and cool off in the summer. Go ahead and install a pump or sprinkler hose to give pets a burst of coolness, and also use it to water the lawn.
3) Make a Flea-Repellent Garden
Another pet-friendly backyard idea is to set up a garden with flea-repelling plants. Fleas and ticks can be annoying when they latch onto a pet’s fur. They can also make them sick. Making a flea-repelling garden can naturally overwhelm the senses of these tiny critters and keep them away from the backyard and pets. Some plants that repel fleas and are non-toxic for dogs include marigolds, rosemary, catnip, and sage. Also, consider adding cedar chips as mulch in the garden for better potency.
4) Avoid Toxic Plants
When it comes to backyard pet safety tips, remove plants that are toxic to dogs and cats. Research the plants that are dangerous for pets and avoid keeping them in the backyard or inside the home. Some plants that might be toxic to pets include Amaryllis, Yew, Cyclamen, and Lilies.
5) Set Up a Sandbox
Some pets may dig holes all over the garden out of curiosity and playfulness. While training them to control these instincts is one way to do it, sometimes they can’t help themselves. So, an ideal backyard idea for pet owners is to set up a sandbox in the garden. Instead of trying to force the dog to stop, create a designated space for them to dig without damaging the garden. To build a sandbox, dig a pit of any shape in the lawn about 8-12 inches deep. It must be large enough for the dog to lie down comfortably and play inside.
Mix a bag of fast-setting concrete as per the package guidelines, and line the bottom and sides of the pit with a thin coating. Poke a few holes in the concrete on the bottom to ensure drainage. Then, let it dry. For the last part, fill the pit with playground sand and let your pet enjoy their time there.
6) Put Up Good Fencing
A well-maintained fence will allow pets to run all over the yard without wandering off into the neighborhood. Buy and install a quality fence that can withstand any impact from pets, like pushing, scratching, or chewing. Quality fences can even last long with regular maintenance. Moreover, it helps increase curb appeal, improves security, and boosts property value.
7) Make a Dog Window
Fencing the backyard is a great way to keep pets safe, but it can restrict a dog’s access to what’s going on beyond the boundary. They may try different things to look or get to the other side, like digging under the fence or jumping over. Solve this problem by installing a transparent hard plastic dog window in the fence, preferably at the pet’s height. The installation can be done independently or by hiring a professional. Also, test the window to ensure it is solid enough to withstand a pet pouncing against it.
8) Create More Shade
Pets require safe outdoor areas to relax and cool down, especially in the summer. The best place to set up spaces for shade is where the pet digs holes to cool down. There are various ways to create more shade in the backyard, like planting tall shade trees, installing a pergola or awning, or setting up a doghouse.
9) Set Up an Agility Course
If a pet enjoys jumping and running through obstacles at the park, set up an agility course in the backyard. An agility course can include obstacles like jumps, balance beams, and tunnels to keep pets active and entertained. There are portable agility courses like tunnels, weave poles, and hoops that can be set up without professional help. More complex and larger setups may require hiring an expert.