Dog-Friendly Backyard: Transform Your Outdoor Space With Pet-Safe Landscape Designs

Welcome to the ultimate guide on crafting a backyard paradise for both you and your furry friend! Picture this: you step outside to enjoy a sunny afternoon with your canine companion. You quickly find yourself surrounded by brown dog urine spots, tiptoeing around holes, and wondering if your backyard will ever look good again. 

Fear not, pet parents. We’re about to embark on a journey to transform your outdoor space into the envy of every dog on the block.

Creating a dog-friendly backyard is about more than providing a space for your pup to roam. It’s a sanctuary meticulously designed to cater to their needs while fostering safety, comfort, and joy.  

From addressing common challenges like urine spots and muddy paw prints to providing stimulating activities and secure boundaries. Crafting the perfect outdoor environment for your furry friend requires thoughtful planning, careful consideration, and imaginative solutions. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential elements of a dog-friendly backyard. We’ll provide practical tips and ideas to help you transform your outdoor space into a haven where both you and your dog can thrive together. 

Whether you’re a seasoned pet parent or preparing for a new furry addition to your family, join us on this adventure to create the ultimate dog-friendly oasis right in your backyard.

What is a “Dog-Friendly Backyard?”

A dog-friendly backyard is a space where your dog can roam freely, play, and relax without posing risks to their health or safety. Creating a dog-friendly backyard involves designing an outdoor space that meets the needs of both you and your furry friend. 

Dog-friendly backyards are not only enjoyable for your pet but also enhance your overall outdoor living experience. Most importantly, creating a dog-proof landscape will ensure your pup remains safe and healthy.

Problems Most Dog Owners Experience

Many dog owners face the same challenges when it comes to maintaining a backyard that is suitable for their dogs. By introducing a dog into your family, you pretty much agree to take the good with the bad. It’s all well and good when you have an adorable and playful puppy on your hands.

As your dog grows, so too does the amount of damage it’s capable of inflicting on your yard. Most homeowners simply resign themselves to the fact that their yard will never be perfect. Below are a few of the most common problems and challenges that dog owners experience.

Dog Urine Spots

Dog urine spots can wreak havoc on your lawn, leaving unsightly brown patches that are difficult to repair. It doesn’t help that dogs like to frequent the same spots when urinating. 

Dog urine contains high levels of nitrogen, which in small amounts is an important fertilizer for plants. While nitrogen may be great for promoting plant growth in moderation, the concentrated amount in dog urine burns and kills natural grass. 

As dogs frequent the same spots over and over, it leads to a buildup of nitrogen in the soil. The concentrated nitrogen causes an imbalance in the pH level of the soil. 

This not only kills your existing grass but makes it harder for grass to grow in that spot. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent and repair these brown patches, like:

• Diluting the urine with water
• Planting urine-resistant grass varieties
• Training dog to go in a designated area

With a bit of effort, you can keep your lawn lush and green while still enjoying the company of your furry friend. Regular walks and designated bathroom areas can help protect your grass and keep your outdoor space beautiful. 

Another way to combat this issue is by incorporating a dog-friendly ground cover that’s resistant to urine damage. Artificial grass has been steadily increasing in popularity as a dog urine-resistant ground cover.

Muddy Paw Prints

Muddy paw prints are another common issue dog owners face, especially during rainy seasons or in yards with poor drainage. These prints not only make a mess indoors but can also damage your lawn and landscaping. 

According to a survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association, 70% of dog owners report having mud or dirt tracked into their homes by their pets. To minimize muddy paw prints, create designated pathways or install permeable paving materials that allow water to drain through, preventing puddles and mud from forming.

Digging

Many dogs have a natural instinct to dig, which can result in unsightly holes and damage to your yard. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, digging is a common behavior observed in domestic dogs, with most dogs exhibiting this behavior at some point in their lives. 

To address digging behavior, provide alternative outlets for your dog’s energy, such as a designated digging area filled with sand or loose soil. Encourage positive behaviors by rewarding your dog when they use the designated digging area and redirecting them away from forbidden digging spots.

Escape Artists

Some dogs are skilled escape artists, constantly finding ways to breach the boundaries of your yard. According to a study by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 14% of households have lost a dog. Of those pups, 85% were eventually recovered, but some never found their way home.

To prevent escapes, ensure that your fencing is secure and free from gaps or weak points. Consider reinforcing your fencing with dig guards or extending it underground to deter digging. Additionally, provide mental and physical stimulation to keep your dog engaged and less likely to seek opportunities for escape.

Over-Energetic or Aggressive With Guests

Overly energetic or aggressive behavior toward guests can be a source of stress and embarrassment for dog owners. According to a survey conducted by the American Veterinary Medical Association, behavioral issues are one of the top reasons why dogs are surrendered to animal shelters. 

To address these issues, provide proper socialization and training for your dog from a young age. Create a calm and structured environment when guests visit, and establish clear boundaries for acceptable behavior. Consider consulting with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for personalized guidance and support.

How Do I Make My Backyard Dog-Friendly?

Most of the content you’ll encounter on the topic of “Dog-friendly backyards” lists a bunch of ideas to increase dog-friendliness. The arbitrary nature of those recommendations doesn’t provide any context as to how an idea improves the dog-friendliness of a yard.

To keep things organized and make this article easier to navigate, I decided to group our dog-friendly backyard ideas into categories. 

The categories are pretty straightforward and are outlined below:

• Ground Cover
• Health & Safety
• Shelter & Security
• Fun & Entertainment

Dog-Friendly Backyard Ideas

Choose a Dog-Friendly Ground Cover

Selecting the right ground cover for your backyard is crucial for creating a safe and comfortable environment for your dog. Consider both non-living and living ground cover options that are suitable for dogs and can withstand heavy foot traffic and play.

Pet Turf (a.k.a. Artificial Grass for Dogs)

With 86.9 million homes in the U.S. owning a pet, the demand for landscaping solutions that are pet-friendly is at an all-time high. Many homeowners are prioritizing the creation of a safe and enjoyable dog-friendly backyard for their furry friends.

Fake grass for dogs has been steadily increasing in popularity in recent years, especially among dog owners. Replacing some or all of your natural grass lawn with pet-friendly artificial grass will enable you to avoid the many problems associated with natural grass.

The realistic look and feel of synthetic dog turf that remains green year-round with minimal upkeep is almost unbelievable. This pet-friendly ground cover offers a perfect blend of aesthetics, dog-friendly features, and long-lasting performance.

However, not all synthetic grass is designed for use with dogs. Pet turf is specifically designed to meet the needs of dogs while providing their owners with numerous benefits. The ideal synthetic grass for dogs is sturdy, has UV resistance and antimicrobial protection, and has efficient drainage. 

However, with a wide range of pet turf options available on the market, selecting the ‘best’ turf product can be challenging. Not to worry! We published an in-depth guide on how to choose the best artificial grass for dogs that will help you identify the best turf for your needs. 

Below is a quick summary of the key features and specs to look for in pet turf:

• Yarn/Fiber: Polyethylene Monofilament
• Blade Shape: M, W, S, Omega, etc.
• Density: 60+ oz. per sq. yard
• Pile Height: 1” – 1.25”
• Face Weight: 50 – 80 oz. per sq. yard
• Total Weight: 80 – 100+ oz. per. sq. yard
• Backing Weight: 20-30 oz per sq. yard
• Drainage: Fully Permeable (Flow Through)
• Color: Lighter Green
• Sub-Base Material: Class II Road Base and/or Decomposed Granite (DG)
• Infill: T°Cool Infill, Envirofill, HydroChill, ZeoFill

Synthetic grass isn’t your only pet-friendly ground cover option. Below we’ll explore some of the other dog-friendly ground cover options.

Pea Gravel

Pea gravel is another non-living ground cover option that is well-suited for dog-friendly backyards. Composed of small, smooth stones, pea gravel allows for proper drainage and prevents mud and puddles from forming. It provides a comfortable and stable surface for dogs to walk and play on. 

Pea gravel is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly landscaping material that is commonly used in residential and commercial applications. It’s also an inexpensive ground cover material. 

However, it is best used in yards with plenty of shade. Sitting in the sun for prolonged periods, pea gravel can heat up and burn your dogs’ paws. Also, if you have large dogs, the small stones can get stuck between the pads of their paws.

If your dog is an avid digger, I would avoid pea gravel, as your pup is likely to make quite a mess of it. Pea gravel drains dog urine pretty efficiently, but odors will build up over time and it will require a thorough cleaning or replacement of your ground cover.

Wood Chips or Mulch

Wood chips or mulch are versatile ground cover options that can add texture and visual interest to your backyard. More importantly, it also provides a safe and comfortable surface for your dog. Made from shredded wood or bark, wood chips and mulch help retain moisture in the soil, suppress weed growth, and insulate plant roots from temperature fluctuations. 

According to the International Society of Arboriculture, wood chips and mulch are beneficial for trees and shrubs and can improve soil health and fertility over time. Choose a non-toxic and pet-safe variety of wood chips or mulch to ensure the safety of your dog.

Cedar mulch is a safe and affordable option, with the added advantage of naturally repelling bugs like fleas and ticks. If you opt for wood chips or mulch in your yard, be sure to avoid using “Cocoa Bean” mulch, as it can be toxic to dogs if consumed.

Dog-Friendly Grasses

Selecting the right type of grass for your dog-friendly backyard is essential for maintaining a healthy and resilient lawn. Opt for grass varieties that are tolerant of heavy foot traffic, pet waste, and other environmental stressors. 

According to the Lawn Institute, there are a few grass species that are well-suited for dog-friendly landscapes. This is due to their durability and ability to recover quickly from damage. These grasses require minimal maintenance and can withstand the rigors of pet ownership, to an extent. No type of live grass is immune to brown spots, digging, and excessive play.

As a dog owner, if you’re committed to having a natural grass lawn, adjust your expectations of having a perfectly manicured natural grass lawn. To give your lawn the best chance of withstanding your dog, consider one of the following natural grasses:

1. Kentucky Bluegrass:

Kentucky Bluegrass is considered a safe ground cover for dogs. It can withstand high dog traffic and grazing, making it a resilient option for lawns. Although not toxic to dogs, ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

A major benefit of this type of grass is that it’s capable of reseeding itself and can withstand high levels of foot traffic. Kentucky bluegrass is better suited for cooler climates. 

Its rapid growth makes it popular for repairing bare spots in other types of lawns. This is, undoubtedly, beneficial when trying to strike a balance between keeping your dogs happy and maintaining an attractive lawn.

2. Centipede Grass

Centipede grass is generally considered a safe ground cover for dogs. It has a soft texture and can withstand heavy paw traffic, making it suitable for dog owners. Centipede grass is a low-maintenance warm-season grass with high heat tolerance and disease resistance. 

It may have moderate potential for diseases like centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis. However, its overall adaptability and low maintenance requirements make it a good option for dog owners seeking a resilient lawn. 

It also holds up well against dog urine and has moderate shade tolerance. Overall, centipede grass can provide a safe and dog-friendly ground cover option, particularly in warm and humid climates.

3. Buffalo Grass:

Buffalo grass is a low-water, drought-tolerant grass. This makes it particularly popular in places like Southern California. You can purchase buffalo grass as seed or in plugs by special order from local nurseries. 

The slender profile of Buffalo grass blades is thin and appears delicate. However, looks can be deceiving. It is actually quite tough and can reach a height of three inches with very little maintenance. It’s capable of tolerating heavy use and recovers quickly from wear and tear

4. Tall Fescue:

If you own a pet and have a lawn, you’ve probably dealt with the issue of lawn burn caused by dog urine. According to the University of California, Davis tall fescue is more tolerant of lawn burn caused by pet urine compared to other grass varieties, which is great news for dog lovers. 

Although slow-growing, deep roots and wide blades, mean that tall fescue can also handle a lot of foot traffic. If you find yourself needing to reseed patches on your tall fescue natural grass lawn, consider using fast-growing Kentucky bluegrass.

Tall fescue has deep roots and wide blades, which means it doesn’t grow as fast as other grasses. It compensates for this with its ability to handle heavy foot traffic and resist damage from pet urine.

If you’re tired of constantly trying to revive your damaged lawn due to your pup, you might want to consider switching to tall fescue. It will provide your lawn with the extra strength it needs to remain green and lush, so you won’t have to worry about it as much.

5. St. Augustine Grass:

If you have a dog that loves to dig, you’re probably familiar with the challenge of keeping your grass intact. St. Augustine grass comes to the rescue with its impressive root system that can reach deep into the soil. Although it’s not completely indestructible, it holds up fairly well against determined snouts and may have a good chance of surviving.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that St. Augustine grass has its limits. It doesn’t handle continuous foot traffic from both people and pets very well, and excessive dog urine can also cause damage. So, while it’s not a flawless solution, it’s worth considering if you want grass that’s more resistant to your furry friend’s destructive habits.

6. Zoysia Grass

If you’re looking for grass that can handle hot weather, Zoysia grass might be the perfect choice. This robust grass is well-suited for warmer climates because it can withstand high temperatures and requires less frequent watering.

Although Zoysia may grow at a slower pace compared to other grass types, its deep roots compensate for this by providing extra stability to your lawn. Moreover, its ability to tolerate drought makes it an excellent option for environmentally conscious individuals who wish to conserve water. So, if you’re seeking a resilient grass that can thrive in challenging conditions, Zoysia is definitely worth considering!

7. Bermuda Grass

If you live in a hot area, Bermuda grass could be a great choice for your lawn. It is well-known for thriving in sunny conditions and doesn’t need much watering, which is ideal for water conservation.

Not only is Bermuda grass tolerant of high temperatures, but it is also resilient to stress. This means it can handle heavy foot traffic from pets or family sports without losing its healthy look. 

Its deep roots help it stay firmly grounded, maintaining its vibrant appearance throughout the year. So, if you’re looking for a dependable grass species, Bermuda grass could be the perfect option for you!

Grass Alternatives

In addition to traditional grasses, consider incorporating alternative ground covers that are dog-friendly. They will add visual interest to your backyard landscape. Prevent your dog from damaging your lawn by replacing the grass in their favorite spots with resilient ground cover plants or mulch. 

Ground cover plants grow close to the ground and spread out horizontally, resembling a grassy lawn but are low-maintenance and resistant to damage. Consider these tough, non-toxic ground covers ideal for households with dogs:

• Irish moss
• Silver carpet
• Labrador violet
• Creeping thyme
• Snow-in-summer

Health & Safety

Before you can let Fido run free in your dog-friendly backyard, ensuring your pup’s health and safety is undoubtedly your top priority. A backyard that is dog-friendly is more than just a fun place for your pup… it’s also a safe one.

Prioritizing your dog’s health and safety is essential when designing a dog-friendly backyard. That’s why this section will be dedicated to helping you to create an environment that keeps your dog safe.

Add or Create Shaded Areas

Shaded areas are essential for protecting your dog from the sun’s harmful rays and preventing heat-related illnesses. Imagine donning a fur coat and being left outside during the summer and having no real escape from the heat. That’s the reality for our furry friends. 

Being in direct sunlight can make the air feel 10°F to 15°F warmer than it actually is. That’s why it is so important to provide your pup with shaded areas to offer relief from the sun. Even a small shaded area can make a huge difference in the comfort and safety of your dog. 

Consider planting trees or installing shade sails, pergolas, or umbrellas to create cool, shaded spots where your dog can relax and escape the heat. Place outdoor beds or mats in these shaded areas to provide a comfortable resting spot for your furry friend.

Add a Water Feature

When transforming your landscape into a dog-friendly backyard, water is a must. Water features not only provide hydration for your dog but also offer a fun and refreshing way for them to cool off on hot days. At the very least, a sturdy or tip-proof bowl should be easily accessible for your pup.

If you have a water-loving pooch, consider installing a dog-friendly fountain, shallow splash pool, or sprinkler system in your backyard. Naturally, avoid inflatable water features as your dog’s toenails will destroy them.

Most dogs will spend hours basking in the sun if you let them, so give your dog a quick and easy escape from the heat. Encourage your dog to interact with the water feature by placing toys or treats nearby, and always supervise them while they’re playing in or around water.

For smaller dogs, make sure your pup can’t become trapped. Look for water features with sloping sides or a ramp, so they can get in and out easily.

Use Dog-Safe Plants

Considering that dogs explore things by smelling and chewing on them, check to ensure you’re landscape is dog-safe. Include dog-safe plants and landscaping features in your backyard to create a welcoming and pet-friendly environment. 

Choose plants that are non-toxic and non-allergenic to dogs to minimize the risk of accidental ingestion or allergic reactions. A surprising number of common landscaping plants have some level of toxicity for dogs. 

Research dog-safe plants that are non-toxic and non-irritating if ingested, such as ferns, bamboo, and blue-eyed grass. Your local nursery or agricultural extension office can answer questions you have on specific species.

According to the ASPCA, common plants that are safe for dogs include: 

• Snapdragon
• Marigold
• Cilantro
• Sage
• Sunflower
• Tiger Lily
• Zinnia

Poisonous Plants to Avoid or Remove

Be aware of poisonous plants that may pose a danger to your dog and take steps to remove or avoid them in your backyard. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, common garden plants such as daffodils, tulips, and sago palms can be toxic to dogs if ingested, causing symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal upset to organ failure. 

Familiarize yourself with the signs of plant poisoning in dogs, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant.

It’s crucial to be aware of and remove any poisonous plants from your backyard to protect your dog from accidental ingestion. The harmful plants and fungi you should look out for vary with climate and geographic location. Below is a list of the most notorious poisonous plants:

• Azaleas
• Elephant Ears
• Oleander
• Dumb Cane
• Lilies
• Black Walnuts
• Daffodils
• Sago Palms

For a full list of poisonous plants for animals, visit the ASPCA.

Shelter & Security

This section of ideas to make your backyard more dog-friendly are focused on shelter and security. Ensuring security in your backyard is essential to keep your dog safe from the many dangers lurking beyond your property. 

Creating a designated dog zone or installing a dog run provides a secure area where your dog can play and relax off-leash. Providing a sturdy dog house or shelter gives your dog a comfortable retreat from the elements and a safe place to rest. 

Installing dog-friendly fencing, such as wood, vinyl, or coated wire fencing, helps contain your dog within your yard and prevents escapes. Regularly inspect and maintain your fencing to ensure it remains secure and intact.

Dog Runs or Designated Dog Zone

Setting up a designated pet area or dog run in your backyard provides a safe and secure area for your dog to play and exercise off-leash. A dog run is typically a fenced-in area where your pup can run and play freely without the risk of escaping or getting into trouble. 

It’s an ideal spot for your pup to burn off excess energy, play, and relieve themself without you having to worry about potential damage to your lawn. This fenced-in area should be spacious enough for your dog to move around comfortably and include features such as shade, water, and toys. 

A dog run is a bit like a scaled-down version of a dog-friendly backyard. Instead of allowing your pup the freedom to roam throughout your yard, you set aside a portion of the yard just for them.

Dog runs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, some with and some without fencing. They can be installed using a variety of materials, including chain-link fencing, wood panels, or welded wire mesh. Be sure to supervise your dog while it’s in the dog run and regularly check the fencing for any signs of wear or damage.

For dog owners with small backyards who still want to provide their dogs with an outdoor space to enjoy, a dog run is a fantastic option. Not only will it keep your dog safe, but it can also protect your landscaping from your pup’s enthusiastic exploration. 

Dog House / Shelter

Providing a dog house or shelter in your backyard gives your dog a cozy retreat where they can seek shelter from the elements and rest comfortably. Choose a dog house that is appropriately sized for your dog and insulated to provide protection from extreme temperatures. 

Position the dog house in a shaded area of your yard and elevate it slightly off the ground to prevent moisture buildup. Add bedding or blankets inside the dog house for extra warmth and comfort during colder months.

Install Dog-Friendly Fencing

Installing dog-friendly fencing around your backyard helps contain your dog within your property boundaries and prevents escapes. Choose fencing materials that are sturdy, durable, and safe for dogs, such as wood, vinyl, or coated wire fencing. 

Ensure that the fencing is tall enough to prevent your dog from jumping over or digging under it and regularly inspect and maintain the fencing to address any damage or weak spots. Consider adding additional features like dig guards or coyote rollers to further reinforce the fencing and deter escape attempts.

GPS Dog Fencing

GPS-based dog fences are a pretty impressive technology that essentially lets you take an electric fence wherever you go. The big difference is that you no longer need to do any digging to install the fence.

The Halo dog collar is a GPS wireless dog fence that you can take anywhere. Using the Halo Collar App, you can instantly create virtual fences with no terrain limitations. Virtual fences are stored in the collar and keep your dog inside the boundaries you set.

Customizable sound, vibration, or static feedback from the collar alerts dogs to turn around when they approach a fence boundary. They even have a step-by-step training program shows you how to train your dog to respond to collar feedback.

With the Halo Collar App, you can see your dog’s real-time GPS location, manage your virtual fences, and get safety alerts. You can also access additional features like daily activity tracking, instant feedback, return whistle, and live customer service.

Wood Fencing

Wood fencing is a classic and versatile option for dog-friendly yards. It provides privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal while creating a physical barrier to keep your dog contained. 

Choose pressure-treated or rot-resistant wood for increased durability and longevity. Regularly inspect and maintain wood fencing to address any damage or wear and tear.

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fencing is a low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood fencing that offers durability and versatility. Vinyl fences are available in a variety of styles and colors to complement your backyard aesthetic. 

Choose a vinyl fence with reinforced panels and secure gates to prevent your dog from escaping. Clean vinyl fencing regularly to remove dirt, debris, and stains and maintain its appearance.

Coated Wire Fencing

Coated wire fencing is a cost-effective and practical option for dog-friendly yards. It consists of wire mesh or chain-link fencing coated with a layer of vinyl or polymer for added durability and weather resistance. 

Choose a wire gauge and mesh size appropriate for your dog’s size and breed to prevent escapes. Install wire fencing securely with sturdy posts and tension wire to withstand pressure from jumping, leaning, or digging. Regularly inspect and repair wire fencing to ensure its integrity and effectiveness in containing your dog.

Fun & Entertainment

Promoting fun and entertainment in your backyard encourages physical activity and mental stimulation for your dog. Building a DIY agility course with obstacles like jumps, tunnels, and weave poles challenges your dog’s agility and coordination while providing a fun and rewarding activity. 

Creating a designated dog path or trail encourages exploration and sniffing, stimulating your dog’s senses and providing enrichment. Including a designated digging area filled with sand or loose soil satisfies your dog’s natural digging instincts while protecting your garden beds and landscaping from damage.

Build a DIY Agility Course

Constructing a DIY agility course in your backyard is a fantastic way to engage your dog both mentally and physically. You can create obstacles such as jumps, weave poles, balance beams and platforms using readily available materials like PVC pipes, wood, and fabric. 

Need a tunnel? Not a problem! You can purchase one online for as little as $30 to $40.

Start with simple obstacles and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog becomes more confident and skilled. Positive reinforcement and rewards can help motivate your dog to tackle new challenges and master the course.

Create a Dog Path

As territorial animals, patrolling comes naturally to dogs as they look to protect their home. For some homeowners, this behavior can be a bit frustrating. Walking the same path around your yard every day results in a trail of flattened grass and compacted soil.

A pretty simple solution to this problem is to provide a designated walkway for your dog. Designating a specific pathway or trail for your dog to explore can provide mental stimulation and enrichment. 

Create a pathway using natural materials like mulch, gravel, or paving stones. Encourage your dog to explore the path at their own pace, allowing them to sniff, investigate, and discover new sights and smells along the way. 

To make it even more engaging for your pup, incorporate features such as tunnels, bridges, and interactive elements like sniffing stations or treat dispensers. By creating a designated pathway, your dog can patrol freely without destroying your grass. 

If you choose to create your pathway with paving stones, opt for light-colored stones. Lighter colors will absorb less heat and make it more comfortable for you dog.

Include a Digging Area

Like the instinct to patrol discussed above, dogs have another behavior that wreaks havoc on yards; digging. This behavior can be especially frustrating if you put a lot of effort into maintaining a natural grass lawn. 

So, why do dogs dig? According to Dr. Alejandro Caos, a veterinarian with The Vets, digging stems from one of the following:

• Instinct (Wolves dig dens… dogs dig holes)
• Seeking Comfort or Coolness
• Boredom or Excess Energy
• Hiding Valuables
• Escaping or Investigating
• Breed-Specific Traits

Instead of punishing them for digging, why not provide a designated digging area? This can help satisfy your dog’s urge to dig while protecting your garden beds and landscaping. 

Choose an area of your yard where digging is permitted, such as a corner of the yard or a designated sandbox filled with sand or loose soil. 

Encourage your dog to dig in this area by burying toys, treats, or bones, and praise them for using the designated spot. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to redirecting your dog’s digging behavior away from unwanted areas.

Get Started Creating a Dog-Friendly Backyard

Transforming your outdoor space into a dog-friendly paradise requires careful planning and consideration. By implementing pet-safe landscape designs and choosing a dog-friendly ground cover, you can create a backyard that is both functional and enjoyable for you and your dog. 

Whether you’re building a DIY agility course, installing artificial grass, or planting dog-safe plants, take the time to create a space that fosters health, safety, and happiness for you and Fido. With the right design elements and materials, you can create a backyard oasis where you and your dog can make lasting memories together.

Begin by prioritizing the most critical elements, such as protecting health and safety, providing shelter and security, and selecting a suitable ground cover. Depending on your budget and timeframe, you may choose to tackle one project at a time or work on several aspects concurrently.

Gather inspiration from online resources, books, and magazines, or consult with landscaping professionals for advice. Remember to involve your dog in the process. 

Consider their preferences, behaviors, and limitations when designing your dog-friendly backyard. Ultimately, the goal is to create a space that both you and your pup will enjoy spending time in for years to come.

If you’ve decided on artificial grass as the best ground cover for your dog-friendly backyard, then you’ve come to the right place. The Turf Network is not only a directory of artificial turf companies in the U.S., but an artificial turf information hub. 

We’re proudly 100% independent and are not beholden to any artificial turf installer, turf supplier, or turf manufacturer. Our aim is to educate consumers about all things artificial grass. We want to empower you with the information needed to make the best and most informed decision for you, your family, and pets.

Meet the Expert:

Kevin Sullivan

Kevin Sullivan, the President and Co-Founder of Turf Network is a U.S. Air Force Veteran with a B.A. in Communications. An SEO and marketing expert, he is a staunch proponent of content quality over quantity, hence the Turf Network’s mission to become the go-to resource for all things artificial turf.

Kevin Sullivan, the President and Co-Founder of Turf Network is a U.S. Air Force Veteran with a B.A. in Communications. An SEO and marketing expert, he is a staunch proponent of content quality over quantity, hence the Turf Network’s mission to become the go-to resource for all things artificial turf.