Creating a dog-friendly and safe garden for spring involves thoughtful planning and consideration for your furry friend’s well-being. Here are some tips to help you prep your garden:
15 Tips for a dog-friendly and safe Garden
1 Choose Pet-Safe Plants:
- Research and select plants that are non-toxic to dogs. Avoid toxic plants like azaleas, lilies, and daffodils. Opt for pet-friendly options such as lavender (big favourite of Big A and me too), sunflowers, and pet grass.
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2 Create a Designated Digging Area:
- Dogs often enjoy digging, so create a specific area in your garden where your dog is allowed to dig. Fill it with loose soil or sand and hide toys or treats to encourage digging in that designated spot.
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3 Secure Fencing:
- Ensure your garden is securely fenced to prevent your dog from wandering off or encountering potential hazards. Check for any gaps or loose areas that your dog might exploit.
4 Avoid Harmful Chemicals:
- Be cautious with fertilisers, pesticides, and herbicides. Choose pet-safe and organic alternatives, and follow application guidelines carefully. Keep your dog away from treated areas until it’s safe.
5 Mulch Selection:
- If using mulch, choose pet-friendly options such as cedar or pine. Avoid cocoa mulch, which contains theobromine and can be toxic to dogs if ingested.
6 Install Raised Beds:
- Raised beds can help protect plants and create defined spaces for your dog. They might also minimise the risk of trampling and digging around delicate flowers and vegetables. But more importantly, they kinda keep your dogs cleaner than lying on the dusty ground (trust me, keeping a nice lawn can be a challenge with dogs who loves to play).
7 Provide Shade and Water:
- Ensure there’s ample shade in your garden, especially during hot days. Set up a shaded area with a water bowl to keep your dog cool and hydrated.
- You can also add a little kids pool – although mine don’t use it to cool down. They use it as a big water bowl.
8 Create Paths and Walkways:
- Designate pathways for your dog to follow, minimising the chances of trampling plants. Use dog-friendly materials like gravel or stepping stones to create clear routes.
9 Secure Garden Tools:
- Store garden tools, such as rakes, shovels, and pruners, in a secure and organised manner. Sharp tools can pose a danger to curious dogs, and certain materials may be toxic if chewed.
- Also, if you have like me several dogs who like to play chase in the garden, then you want to make sure they don’t step into any tools or get injured.
10 Pet-Friendly Furniture:
- If you have outdoor furniture, choose pet-friendly options. Avoid sharp edges or materials that could be harmful if chewed on. Create a cozy spot for your dog to relax outdoors.
- The Bosch Pups looooooove to chill all together – either on the grass or on the ‘human’ future – with their dog beds on it.
11 Monitor Water Features:
- If you have a pond or fountain, monitor your dog around water features. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and some may be tempted to drink from or splash in the water.
12 Check for Hidden Hazards:
- Inspect your garden for potential hazards like exposed wires, nails, or small objects that could be harmful if ingested. Remove any items that might pose a risk to your dog.
13 Install Dog-Friendly Path Lighting:
- Illuminate pathways and key areas in your garden with dog-friendly lighting. This helps ensure safety during evening walks and prevents accidental tripping or stumbling.
14 Create a Relaxation Zone:
- Designate a comfortable spot with a bed or blanket where your dog can relax and enjoy the garden. Add some shade and toys to make it an inviting space.
15 Regularly Inspect and Maintain:
- Regularly inspect your garden for any changes or potential hazards. Address issues promptly, and maintain a dog-friendly environment throughout the spring and beyond.
- Clear up dog poo regularly too of course.
By incorporating these measures, you’ll be creating a garden space where your dog can safely enjoy the outdoors, and you can both appreciate the beauty of spring together. And for more ideas, see below:
How to Create a Dog-Friendly and Safe Spring Garden for Dogs
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