How to Make the Perfect Doggy Play Space in Your Yard

Homeowners with pets often miss the hidden dangers lurking in their backyard. To make sure one’s yard is safe to use for puppy playtime, homeowners must be sure that their dog can’t escape and is kept away from dangerous items. Read on for four things homeowners should watch out for before putting their dog in the backyard.

Cover Your Bases

When setting up a backyard play area for dogs, don’t forget to consider a dog’s ability to dig. Though many homeowners take care to fence in their backyards, this isn’t enough to stop dogs that are determined to escape. While wireless fencing is a popular option, pet owners that prefer to avoid the shock collar solution can have a foundation added to their fencing. This is typically a cement barrier that goes deep into the ground, making it impossible for your dog to simply dig under the fence without creating a serious and easily visible tunnel that could not be done in a single day.

Build High Fencing for Jumpers

When homeowners install a fence in the backyard, the fence should be tall enough that their dog can’t jump over. Homeowners with bigger dogs especially need to consider higher fencing as a 4ft fence isn’t likely to deter larger breeds. Ideally, homeowners should consider fences above 5ft or 6ft as this provides a tall enough barrier that the dog won’t be able to jump.

Even with the tallest fences, homeowners must be careful to not leave anything stacked near the fence as dogs may find their way up and over them if they are close enough to the fence. Be sure to keep the area near the fence clear to make sure dogs have no way to get out.

Leave the Yard Clutter Free

It isn’t uncommon for homeowners to work on DIY projects in their backyards. However, this hobby can become an issue if anything dangerous is left laying around the yard. Items like netting, chicken wire, or other sharp objects can easily cause injury to a dog. While you may think that putting up wire can keep your dog out of the garden, you may need to consider other options, as your dog may become entangled while exploring. Other hazards like old appliances and anything with electricity or chemicals that your dog should not be licking at must be removed before you leave your dog unsupervised in the yard.

Avoid Using Harmful Chemicals in the Yard

Another component of a dog-friendly backyard is a lack of chemical pesticides and other products. As 71.1% of pet owners have experienced suspected poisoning as a result of their dog ingesting pesticides, it’s essential that homeowners use chemical-free landscaping supplies, such as wooden boards with all-natural finishes and organic fertilizers. Much like infants, dogs have a tendency to explore the world through their mouth, and anything that should not be ingested by your dog should not be found in their outdoor doggy play area.

While hoops and tunnels are great exercise for dogs, the most important thing for your dog is a safe place to play. Once you have secured the area and removed any toxic or dangerous materials, then you can look into adding things back in to give your dog variety in their play.