Dog-Proofing Your Backyard Without Spending a Fortune

Most dog breeds love spending time outdoors because it gives them the freedom to run and play. The same applies to most pet parents, as Americans are outdoor-loving people. According to a recent survey, 57% of respondents said that they prefer spending time outdoors. Among them, 68% did it for relaxation, 66% for better mood, and 64% to clear their head.

Outdoor time with your pet does not just mean going hiking or camping. Even spending time in your backyard is good enough. However, you must make sure that your backyard is safe and enjoyable for your pet. You may see it to be a lot of work involving landscaping and fencing, but it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Did you know that dogs have a tendency to run away when they get a chance? American Kennel Club lists the potential reasons for canine buddies bolting out when they can. They may do it out of boredom, to find a mate, or to chase people and other animals. Fear and anxiety may also trigger a fight-or-flight response. 

A sturdy fence is the one thing your backyard must have to keep your dog safe and secure. A chicken wire fence is a good option as it is easy to install and cost-effective. However, it is apt only for small dogs rather than larger or more aggressive ones.

A wooden pallet fence is a more durable and eco-friendly option. You can even paint it to add aesthetic appeal to your backyard. You may also consider a temporary mesh fence as it requires minimal investment. Check these options with a professional to find the right one. 

An outdoor space with a garden is a joy for homeowners. However, if your dog spends time in your backyard, you must choose your plants wisely. You don’t want your canine companion to suffer from poisoning by chewing the flowers and leaves in your garden.

Marigold is a great choice as these flowers look vibrant and have pest control benefits. Camellia, dill, magnolia bushes, and creeping thyme are some other plants you can grow without worrying about pet poisoning. 

Crapemyrtle is non-toxic and hardy, making it capable of handling a few nibbles from your dog. Bluebeard and perennial hibiscus are low-maintenance plants besides being non-toxic to canines. 

Another low-cost idea to dog-proof your backyard is to maintain good hygiene. Most dog parents use their outdoor spaces as poop areas, resulting in hygiene issues over time. According to Scoop Soldiers, dog waste harbors harmful bacteria, viruses, and microbes that can make you and your pet sick. 

Hiring a dog poop pick-up service is a wise move, even if it means spending a bit. You may save some money with the DIY approach, but risk having dirt and bacteria in your backyard. On the other hand, experts can offer sanitization and deodorization services to remove pathogens and nasty smells. 

Besides regular cleaning, designate specific areas for your dog to use for relieving itself. This will simplify cleaning and minimize lawn damage from urine. 

When gardening, be mindful of all products you use as fertilizers and pesticides. The National Pesticide Information Center notes that dogs may fall sick by ingestion, inhaling, or coming in contact with chemical products. 

Read the labels carefully and avoid anything laden with chemicals. Also, check the precautions specified and follow them diligently when using any gardening product, even if it is seemingly harmless. 

You can opt for organic or natural gardening products instead of chemicals. For example, cedar mulch is a safe product that is also effective as a natural bug repellent. Conversely, you must avoid cocoa bean mulch because it is toxic to dogs. 

Simple landscape improvements can enhance your backyard’s aesthetic appeal and functionality without breaking the bank. You can even take up a few DIY projects if you have a good pair of hands.

Install smooth stones on the driveway as they appear visually appealing and are gentle on your dog’s paws. They may cost a little more, but the investment is worthwhile for pet parents. Mulch is an inexpensive option for creating designated areas. You can fence a specific part of your yard to create a dog run. 

Also, conduct regular checks to identify weather-related hazards such as icy surfaces and repair any damage to fences or structures. 

The cheapest way to make a dog-proof fence is by using materials such as chicken wire or wooden pallets. Chicken wire is an inexpensive option, while wooden pallets are even better. They can often be found for free or at a low cost. You can also save on labor costs with a DIY approach. 

Dogs tend to dig the ground, making your backyard susceptible to damage. You can adopt some simple measures to prevent this. Bury chicken wire a few inches underground and use temporary mesh fences to cut off specific areas. Your dog should get enough physical and mental stimulation to reduce digging behavior.

Dog poop can make your pet sick as it harbors parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, or tapeworms. These pathogens can cause disease in both animals and humans. Regularly cleaning up after your dog and maintaining good hygiene practices can reduce the risks caused by these dangerous germs.

Dog-proofing your backyard is something no dog parent should skimp on as it ensures the safety of your canine buddy. Luckily, this doesn’t have to be expensive, provided you are ready to invest in some simple measures. A little creativity and planning can go a long way in ensuring your backyard is secure and beautiful.

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