Ways to make your garden more dog friendly

Homeowners are being told of seven ways to make their gardens a safe haven for dogs.

Experts from GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk have shared easy hacks to protect four-legged friends from potential dangers in the garden.

Creating a dog-friendly environment is essential to their happiness and security, both inside and outside the home.

Gardens pose many threats for dogs, including poisonous plants, possible escape routes and pesky bees.

A spokesman for Garden Buildings Direct said: “Dogs often love spending time outdoors in gardens. As the weather starts to warm up, dogs across the country will be keen to get back out into their favourite outdoor spots.

“But, without proper care and attention, gardens can pose risks for dogs. It is important to take the steps to make sure your garden is as safe and enjoyable as possible for your pooch.

“Many pet owners don’t realise how easy it is for pets to be harmed in the garden, so we wanted to share the easiest ways to prevent this from happening.

“Easy hacks include blocking all escape routes carefully, making sure fences are dog-friendly, getting rid of any plants which could be poisonous and banishing bees with a homemade pesticide.”

Here are tips from Garden Buildings Direct to make your garden dog-friendly:

1. Block all escape routes 

All gardens have potential exit routes, especially for small dogs. Make sure to identify any potential escape routes and get them fixed promptly. Homeowners can opt for budget friendly options like a roll of inexpensive chicken wire to keep the garden secure.

2. Dog-friendly fence 

It is vital to keep animals secure in the garden, but pet owners must make sure the fence won’t hurt them if they try to jump up. Be aware of splinters, gaps of sharp edges around the fence which could cause injury. Placing rocks at the bottom of fences can prevent any digging.

3. Remove poisonous plants 

Some common garden plants can actually be harmful to our four-legged friends if they get too close to them. Ivy, hydrangeas, lilies and tulips are all poisonous to dogs and will need to be removed to guarantee safety in the garden.

4. Banish bees 

To prevent stings, you can keep bees at bay by spraying a homemade vinegar spray. Mix equal parts water and vinegar then spray over potential nesting areas like compost heaps or pieces of deadwood.

5. Don’t overdo the weed killer 

Needlessly placing or spraying weed killer across your garden when your dogs are going in and out is a hazard. If they lick or sniff at them it could lead to health issues.

6. Create play areas 

Keep your dogs entertained in the garden by creating designated play areas for them. This can prevent digging around the garden. Placing toys, their favourite treats and balls allows them to have hours of fun without ruining the garden.

7. Smooth all sharp edges 

A small risk assessment on your garden can give you peace of mind there is no way for your pooch to injure themselves. Make sure fences don’t have any sharp edges which could come into contact with your dog’s fur.