If you are a dog parent, you know the importance of outdoor enrichment for your Fido. According to DogCoach, in most American homes today, dogs are cooped indoors for a better part of the day. That’s because their owners are at work, and they feel too exhausted to take their pets outside after they are back.
Most dog breeds love the outdoors, and they want to spend more time than a 10-minute potty break in the backyard. Your dog is lucky if you have a proper backyard as they get an opportunity to run and play when you are around. However, as a pet parent, you must do your bit to ensure a safe, healthy, and entertaining outdoor space for your pooch.
In this article, we will share a few steps to help you make your backyard dog-friendly without much effort and investment.
Install a Dog-Friendly Fence
The idea of your furry companion escaping from your backyard and getting out on a busy road is scary. But it can happen, and you should have a plan to prevent it. The Spruce Pets lists reasons why dogs escape, from boredom to fear to hunting for a mate. They may even do it to chase a squirrel or a bunny. Whatever the reason, being on the road is risky as they may meet with an accident or lose their way.
Installing a fence is a practical solution to create a safe space for your Fido. It can keep your dog from running loose and protect them from neighborhood hazards. The fence should be high enough to prevent jumping. Additionally, there should be no spaces for them to squeeze through.
Avoid fences with sharp edges that could injure your pet. When it comes to fencing material, wood is a better alternative to metal, as the latter can get hot and burn your dog.
Grow Dog-Safe Flowers and Plants
Backyards are not just for relaxing and playing with pets. Most homeowners also grow plants and flowers in these spaces to create an aesthetic outdoor space. However, these become lurking dangers for pets that tend to explore and devour everything they can. Growing dog-safe plants can be the best way to make your backyard a friendly space for your pooch.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals provides a complete list of plants that can be toxic and dangerous to pets. Besides poisoning risks, most plants can cause gastrointestinal upset or vomiting among cats and dogs. For this reason, consumption of even safe plants should be discouraged.
Wax begonias, sunflowers, Russian olive, and coral bells are considered dog-friendly. Growing marigolds is a good idea as they deter pests besides being safe for canine breeds. Among garden herbs, you can grow thyme, creeping rosemary, and fennel in your backyard.
Ensure Cleanliness and Hygiene
Maintaining a clean backyard is crucial for your dog’s and family’s health. Designate specific areas for your dog to relieve themselves and clean these zones regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria. A pooper scooper service can be your savior if you are a busy pet parent who does not want to compromise safety and hygiene.
Scoop Soldiers explains that commercial pet waste removal services can include deodorization and sanitization besides cleaning. Having experts to clean and deodorize your backyard saves time and effort, and gives you peace of mind. Pet poop can make your dog sick and contaminate your soil, but regular sanitization can keep these issues at bay.
Besides ensuring regular poop pickup, you must install artificial turf in your backyard. This material offers excellent drainage and reduces allergy risks. Pet-friendly pathways with pavers or light-colored pea gravel can protect your dog’s paws from damage.
Provide a Shaded Area
Dogs need shade to avoid overheating, which can happen when they are outdoors, especially during hot months. PetMD notes that heatstroke is a serious condition that can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance in dogs. The situation can be dangerous if the exposure is prolonged as a heat stroke may quickly progress to heat exhaustion. Even worse, it can be fatal if shade and water are not available.
When preparing a dog-friendly backyard, ensure it has a shaded area where your canine companion can rest and cool off. You can plant trees or install a canopy to provide a cool resting spot. Setting up water features like a pond or a fountain near the shaded area is also a good idea. Your pooch can play and have fun here, besides getting water when they need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my dog used to the backyard?
Most dogs love spending time outdoors, so you should not have to struggle to make your dog accustomed to your backyard. Make the area inviting with water features, toys, and activity areas. Spend bonding time together to associate the backyard with positive feelings.
How to punish a dog for escaping?
The best way to deal with a dog that escapes is not to punish it in the first place. Pets often associate punishment with the activity they are doing at the time they are punished. Harsh treatment can affect pet bonding, so you should gradually train them to stay with a gentle approach and positive reinforcement.
Are dogs happier inside or outside?
When her your dog stays happy inside or outside the house depends on their breed and temperament. Overall, most canines should get at least a few hours of the day outdoors for physical and mental stimulation. You should be around to ensure safety and comfort indoors and outdoors.
A dog-friendly backyard can be a haven for your canine buddy. They can play, run, and have a good time bonding with their families in these areas. All you need to do is ensure that the space is safe and comfortable for your Fido. Implement these simple steps to create a perfect hangout spot for yourself and your pooch.
