Whether you’re thinking of getting a puppy or adopting an older dog, making sure that your garden is a safe, dog-proof zone is essential. This is especially important if you are getting a puppy who will probably not yet be trained to stay in the garden and might be eager to squeeze out through little gaps and explore the neighborhood. Dog-proofing your garden entails making sure that it is a safe, secure space for your dog to play and do their business, plus protecting your plants and any garden fixtures and ornaments you have from your excited canine companion. Read on for our top tips to get started with making your garden a dog-friendly zone.
#1. Ensure It’s Secure:
First of all, go around your garden and make sure that there are no spaces that a dog could escape through. Puppies in particular are naturally inquisitive and since they’re smaller, it’s often easier for them to squeeze through small gaps in fences and gates, so it might be worth getting some wooden boards or wire mesh temporarily to close up any gaps until your pup is a bit bigger.
#2. Add Some Privacy:
A privacy fence for your dogs is a great idea as this will keep them enclosed in the garden offering them both privacy and security. This can stop neighbors or people walking past from trying to interact with your dog or feed them without your permission, along with giving your dog the space that they need to do their business in peace – although your dog might not care that much about somebody seeing them do their business, your neighbors will appreciate the gesture.
#3. Check Your Plants:
Whilst your dog is more likely to do more damage to the majority of plants compared to the damage the plants can do to them, there are some common garden flowers, shrubs and trees that can be very toxic and poisonous to dogs, so it’s important to double check there are none in your garden before you let your pooch roam free. Some deadly plants include Foxglove, Black Locust, Yew, Caladium, Castor Bean, and Autumn Crocus amongst many more. The ASPCA provide a full list of all plants which are poisonous to dogs which you can check your garden against.
#4. Lock Up Tools and Chemicals:
Tools and chemical gardening or cleaning products left outside in your garden can quickly pose a huge danger to your four-legged friend. Weedkiller in particular can be very poisonous to dogs, so it’s important to keep it locked up in a shed or garage when not in use, and avoid letting your dog outside in the garden unsupervised for at least a few hours after spraying weedkiller. You should also keep your dog out of the garden after using fertilizer or pesticides. If you have tools such as a lawn mower, axes, rakes, shovels, or even a garden brush – these should be kept somewhere your dog can’t access as they can also pose a risk if left unattended.
Dog-proofing your garden is an essential step in making your home a happy and safe place for your furry friend.