Man’s Best Friend: In The Backyard
Tips & Tricks for a Dog-Friendly Yard
Landscaping while keeping your furry friend in mind isn’t—and shouldn’t be—hard! It’s easy once you decide what your little friend’s needs might be, such as room for running, a place for digging, a shady spot to relax, and easy access to water.
Some of the best features to include for your four-legged friend are soft-foliage plants and smooth landscape stones. A convenient place for them to drink, such as a water station, is a fantastic addition too.
Pick Paw-Friendly Materials
Anything spiny, prickly, or sharp is something you may want to skip in areas where your dog regularly plays. Use comfortable landscape materials and designate safe spaces where your dog can run and play.
We can help you pick out a mulch that fits your landscaping needs!
Have an Ever-Digging Doggie?
If your dog loves digging through your landscape beds, try using landscape gravel instead of mulch as a top dressing. It can help discourage digging while still giving your beds a finished look.
Get Rid of Potential Hazards
Keep your dog’s comfort and safety in mind when planning your backyard. Large paved areas can become extremely hot during our Texas summers and may be uncomfortable—or even unsafe—for your dog’s paws.
Regularly check fences and gates for holes, gaps, or weak areas that could allow your dog to escape.
Create Easy Access to Fresh Water
Dogs need easy access to plenty of clean, fresh water, especially when spending time outdoors in warm weather. How much they need can vary depending on their size, activity level, diet, and the temperature outside.
Make sure there’s always a filled water bowl available in a shady area and check it frequently during hot weather.
Designate a Shady Spot for Cooling Off
In Texas, the hot summer months can quickly become uncomfortable for a dog spending time outside. Make sure your yard includes a nice, shady spot beneath a tree, covered area, or other suitable shelter where your dog can get out of the direct sun.
A doggie door that provides access to the air-conditioned indoors is even better. A shallow plastic wading pool can also be a fun way for water-loving dogs to cool off while supervised.
Keep Them Comfortable During Colder Months
Cold, wet weather means outdoor pets need a dry, sheltered place that protects them from rain and wind. Make sure any outdoor shelter is appropriately sized, insulated, and kept dry, with suitable bedding for warmth.
And during extreme temperatures—hot or cold—the safest place for your four-legged friend is indoors.
Contact us for more solutions! Call us at 903-753-2223 or email us at email@thgc.net.