How to create a dog friendly garden

Cats and dogs are very easy to please – they don’t need much. A small piece of green space is a pet’s paradise. If they have a place to sniff around, gather leaves and sticks, dig in the ground and play, they are satisfied.

Unfortunately, humans and animals don’t always agree on what is fun in the garden and what is not, and some might find it annoying if their pet is digging holes the garden.

Let us show you how to create the perfect garden for both you and your four-legged friend:

• Space for playing and running

• Areas with long grass, plants and/or flowers for hiding

• A “digging-corner” where your pet is allowed to dig the whole day

• A wind & sun protected area for relaxing

• Fresh water for drinking and cooling down

• A toilet corner

Of course you don’t need to have everything in your garden (you might not have the space for that), but pick out a few things fitting for your pet’s needs.

The best dog friendly gardens

Even though it seems to be paradise, there are some dangers to be aware of in the garden. Some bushes and flowers are toxic like

• Boxwood
• Thuja hedge

or flowers like

• Tulips
• Lilies and
• Crocuses

Additionally, injuries caused by thorns or garden tools, hidden in the grass, should not be underestimated.

If you have fruit trees in your garden, then you should clean the lawn regularly. Many garden trees and plants drop fruit stones, berries or seeds and dogs (and sometimes cats) might feel tempted to eat these parts of the plant.

Some fruit stones, berries or seeds may contain toxic compounds which can be poisonous to your pets.

Remove stones, seeds and berries from your garden

Last but not least, be careful with the use of insecticides.  Insecticides are very toxic and dangerous for your pet. To create a safe garden for your furry friend,  you can choose natural or man-made insecticides.

A good neighborhood

As a pet owner you are responsible if your pet is making damages in the neighborhood. To prevent that from happening, make sure the fence to your home is stable and secure with no holes. Make the fence high enough to prevent your pet from jumping over it.

Some dogs might dig their way out, so be aware that the fence is deep in the ground.

A barking dog can be quite annoying for your neighbors. To keep a good relationship with your neighbors, introduce your pup properly to them and apologize if your pet might make a bit noise.

How would you make the perfect pet-garden? We would like to know!