Is Your Landscape Dog-Friendly?

Giving your canine pet freedom in your yard doesn’t have to mean a ruined landscape. There are some simple and strategic ways that you can love your dog and still keep an attractive landscape. Be prepared, however, that you may have to tailor your landscape design ideas to meet the inevitable habits of your pet.

Here are some landscape design tips to help you maintain a beautiful yard as a dog owner:

Consider Hardscapes to Avoid Urine Spots

The biggest drawback with letting your dog exist in your yard is the damage these animals can do on your grass, such as urine spots, digging and unsightly wear. Instead of trying to protect your grass from your canine’s natural habits, consider replacing areas of your grass with non-living landscaping materials such as bricks, concrete pavers, and stones.

Be Wise with Your Grass Choice

If you do prefer to have some green grass in your yard, it is important that you choose wisely when it comes to your turf type. There are grasses that are more durable than others in terms of foot traffic (or paw traffic). In general, Bermuda is the toughest warm-season grass and tall fescue is considered a hardy cool-season grass.

Recognize the Value of Fencing

Fencing doesn’t have to just border your property. There are attractive fencing materials that can be used to keep your dogs away from certain areas of your landscape. You may choose to fence in your garden for a courtyard feel or enclose a certain section of your backyard that is designated just for your pet.

Prepare for Dog Path Issues

If you have a fence that borders your property, you should expect your dog to wear down a path just beside it or running parallel to the fence. Dogs tend to be territorial so right inside your fence may not be an ideal area for plants or even grass. Consider putting stone or gravel along this “dog path” to keep it from being an eyesore.

Be Aware of Toxic Plants

You may be growing poisonous plants without even knowing it. In fact, several native plants are toxic to your dog, resulting in either an upset tummy or serious and even complications. Learn the berries and leaves that your dog should never be around.

To learn more about keeping an attractive lawn and happy dog, call Pannone’s Landscaping & Lawn Pros.