How to Create a Dog-Friendly Backyard

When you adopt or introduce a new fur baby into your home, you might be thinking that things are perfect and having a backyard means your dog has all the space they need to frolick, play, and burn off excess energy! It’s not as simple as having a backyard though. It’s whether or not your backyard is dog-friendly. 

Is your backyard efficiently prepared for a dog? 

Don’t fret about all of this because we have the tips you need for…

How to Create a Dog-Friendly Backyard

Think About Their Anxiety & Security

When your dog is fenced in an area that’s isolated like your backyard, think about the different factors that could trigger your dog’s anxiety and cause them stress. First thing that comes to mind are the potential loud sounds outside of your home. Having some sort of shelter like a dog house available in your backyard helps your dog feel like they have an option to hide rather than flee the backyard which is the last thing you want to happen. Just make sure it’s a comfortable and secure-feeling hiding spot!

Think About Their Boredom

Next to their anxiety is the potential for restlessness. Boredom is one factor that may encourage your dog to explore or escape the backyard. Again, that’s not ideal. To avoid this, make sure the backyard is stocked with fun activities and toys for your dog that stimulates them. Even indoors, a great dog toy that stimulates your dog are the toys that reward: treat toys!

Think About Your Fencing & Fencing Gaps

You might have a fence already, but is it high enough? Is your fence free of any gaps your dog could escape through even with a little bit of digging? It might take a little bit of manpower and digging into your available finances, but your backyard isn’t ready unless there’s some sort of secure enclosure. The closer the fence is to your ground, the better! Just always remember the potential of your dog digging through the fence.

Think About Your Garden & Plants

If you have a garden in your backyard, you’ll want to fence off that area so your fur baby doesn’t get into it. Not just because they might dig things up, but there are plants that are dangerous and toxic to dogs. If you want a list of common plants that are toxic to dogs, check out this blog post from Joyride Harness.

Think About What’s In Your Backyard in General

Just as you would babyproof a house, you should “babyproof” your backyard. If there are sharp tools or hazardous items sitting outside, you don’t want your dog to be able to get to it. Avoid the vet visits and clear up your backyard from these potentially harmful items.