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Creating a Dog-Friendly Landscape

Tips for Happy Dog-Parents and Happy Pups

At the nursery, one question I often hear is how to create a beautiful backyard that’s also dog-friendly. As a proud owner of two furry friends myself, I completely understand this concern! The good news is that it’s absolutely possible to achieve the best of both worlds.

Let me share some tips on designing a landscape that delights both you and your pets.


The first step in “dogscaping” is to consider your canine companion(s). While every breed has its unique quirks, there are some universal principles that apply to all dogs.


Border Patrol: Respecting Their Territory

If your dog loves to patrol his or her territory, and if you already have a fence, I recommend leaving about a 3-foot gap between the fence and any plantings. This allows the dog to roam freely without trampling the perennials. If he has a favorite path - work with that! Landscape along their well-worn route and even use taller plants to create a natural screen. This not only hides any less-than-appealing areas but also gives the dog a little “secret garden” to explore.


The Call of the Wild: Designated Potty Areas

When nature calls, it’s important to have a designated potty area to keep the lawn looking pristine. I suggest creating a space with easy-to-clean materials like flagstone, pea gravel, bricks, or cedar chips. Training the dog to use this area will depend on their age—puppies might take a bit longer to learn than adult dogs, but with patience, it can be done!


Shade Sanctuary: Keeping Dogs Cool

Just like us, dogs love to bask in the sun, but they can overheat quickly. To provide some relief, incorporate structures like arbors, pergolas, or canopies where you can both relax. A cozy doghouse can also be a great addition, giving your furry friend a cool spot to hang out.


Puppy Pool: Splashing Fun

What better way to keep dogs cool than with a shallow pool? Installing a small pool surrounded by hardscaping or a deck can prevent muddy messes while giving pups a place to play. Whether you opt for a custom bone-shaped pool or a simple kiddie pool, it’s sure to be a hit!



The Thicker, the Better: Planting Strategies

When it comes to planting, I recommend landscaping densely. This not only adds beauty but also encourages dogs to stay out of the planted areas. Raised beds or mounds can help protect delicate plants from trampling. Using rock borders or low fencing can also keep the garden intact. For plant selection, I suggest hardy plants such as ornamental grasses on the outer edges and more fragile plants in the center.


Pet Safety: Choosing the Right Plants

Safety is always a priority. When selecting plants, it’s crucial to avoid thorny or spiny varieties that could injure curious pups. Additionally, some common plants, like foxglove, monkshood and daffodils, are toxic to dogs. It's always a good idea to double chec for harmful species to ensure a safe environment for our furry friends - especially if they are prone to munching on things they aren't supposed to. Lastly, let’s be mindful of mulch and hardscaping materials. Options like flagstones and cedar chips are gentle on paws, while cocoa mulch can be dangerous if ingested.


Creating a dog-friendly landscape is all about balance. With a little creativity and careful planning, you can design a space that’s not only beautiful but also safe and enjoyable for our four-legged friends. Happy landscaping!

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