Having a dog comes with lots of responsibility and if you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space or a garden at your disposal then you need to think about how you can turn your garden into the perfect paradise that both you and your pet can enjoy all year round.
So, let’s get started.
Big plants and toxic flowers
It goes without saying that even if your dog is the most best behaved dog in the whole world, chances are, at some point they’re going to dig up your flowerbeds. It’s not their fault, it’s just their favourite past time! One way to combat this is to invest in some larger plants that your dog will find much more difficult to dig up. You’ll find a range of larger plants ideal for your garden at The Tree Center.
You also need to be wary of which plants might be toxic for your dog. Daffodils for example, look beautiful and are a symbol of Spring, but did you know that they’re toxic to you dog? Keep an eye out for the following plants, particularly if you’ve just moved into a new property:
- Buttercups
- Daffodils
- Eucalyptus
- Foxgloves
- Hyacinth
- Hydrangea
- Ivy
- Jade
- Lily of the Valley
- Morning Glory
- Peonies
- Rhododendron
- Sweet William
- Tulips
Make paths solid
Like people, dogs prefer to follow paths and find their way around that way. Avoid using mulch or gravel and stick to solid flagstones instead. Remember, dogs like to dig, so any ground material that isn’t solid is a prime digging target! If your dog still wants to go through your flowerbeds, consider creating a small path between your planters and see if that makes a difference. If not, a small fence should keep them at bay!
Shade
Just like us, dogs like somewhere shady to relax and cool off in the hot summer weather. If you provide your dog easy access to a nice shady area in your garden then your four legged friend won’t be tempted to run through your flowers in search of the perfect spot.
Beware of pesticides and the pests!
Every garden will attract slugs and snails and all kinds of mini invaders. So, if you’re using pesticides or slug pellets to keep them at bay, then beware. Many of these pesticides contain chemicals which can prove fatal to dogs if they are ingested.
Slugs and snails can also be carriers of lung worm. Which can be transferred to dogs by something as simple as them touching your dogs toys or moving across their water bowl. You can avoid this by making sure you bring in all your dogs toys and bowls at the end of the day.
Keep them safe
Dogs are now a prime target for thieves. So, it pays to keep them safe and secure when they’re out in the garden unsupervised. Make sure that you have sturdy and high boundaries that can’t be dug under or easily jumped over.
