It’s no secret that when a baby starts crawling, parents scramble to baby-proof their homes. From covering electrical outlets to removing hazardous items, every precaution is taken. But have you considered doing the same for your four-legged family members?
Pet owners, particularly dog owners, know how much damage digging and doggy-do can do to a backyard. It’s important to make sure your dogs don’t ingest any potentially harmful plants as well.
Creating a dog-friendly backyard doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll give you a range of ideas to make your backyard pet-safe. We cover pet-safe ground cover, tips to protect your lawn, plants to avoid, and maintaining a yard that is both functional and visually appealing.
Start prioritizing the safety and needs of your pets just as you would for a child in your home. This guide will give you the knowledge you need to create a backyard that your furry friends will love.
What is a “Dog-Friendly Backyard?”
Your furry friend deserves a backyard where they can run, play, and just be a dog. But as a pet owner, you also want to make sure your yard is safe and comfortable.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common backyard problems dog owners face and provide easy solutions to make your yard more dog-friendly.
Say goodbye to worrying about your pup eating your flowers or damaging your grass with urine spots. Learn about pet-turf and other improvements you can make to create a fun and safe space for your furry friend. Let’s dive in!
Problems Most Dog Owners Experience
By introducing a dog into the family, most homeowners agree to take the good with the bad. (The puppy snuggles are worth it, right?)
They resign themselves to the fact that their yard will never be perfect.
Here are a few common reasons why.
Dog Urine Spots
If you are a dog owner who takes pride in your lawn, you may have noticed unsightly brown spots where your beloved pup has done its business. Unfortunately, those brown spots are a result of the high amount of nitrogen in dog urine. While nitrogen is great for promoting plant growth in moderation, the concentrated amount in dog urine can actually burn and kill natural grass.
Additionally, the urine can cause an imbalance in the pH level of the soil, making it harder for grass to grow. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent and repair these brown spots, such as diluting the urine with water, planting more urine-resistant grass varieties, or even training your 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 also help protect your grass and keep your outdoor space beautiful.
Muddy Paw Prints
If you’re a dog owner with a natural grass yard, you likely know the struggle of muddy paw prints in your home all too well. No matter how much you towel off your furry friend before letting them inside, it seems like those pesky prints always find a way in.
Not only can it be frustrating to constantly clean up after your pup, but it can also be an issue for your flooring and furniture. Luckily, there are some solutions to this problem. Consider placing a mat or towel by your door to wipe your dog’s paws before they come in, or even try switching to artificial turf for your yard. While it may require some initial investment, it could ultimately save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
Digging
Dogs love to dig, and while it may be worse during their puppy years, dogs of every age and breed are known to dig holes. In fact, certain breeds such as terriers were developed specifically to hunt underground animals. Other dogs may have inherited their digging instinct from their wolf ancestors who buried their prey to prevent other animals from stealing it.
But why does your dog dig? It could be because they’re bored, anxious, or simply trying to escape the yard. While digging may be natural for dogs, it can lead to a lot of frustration for their owners. The time-consuming and expensive task of repairing the damage that Fido has caused can seem never-ending.
The good news is that with proper training and patience, you can help curb your dog’s digging behavior. So whether your pup is digging to hunt, bury or escape, we’ve got you covered.
Dog-Friendly Backyard Features to Consider
Welcoming a dog into your home is a big responsibility, but one that is filled with joy and love. Despite the challenges that come with owning a dog, their presence in our lives brings immeasurable happiness.
For most dog owners, their furry friend is more than just a pet – they’re a member of the family. So, it’s only natural that we want to create a safe and happy environment for them to explore and play. Designing a dog-friendly backyard can be a fun and rewarding project, and with a few simple steps, you can transform your outdoor space into a canine paradise.
Whether your dog loves chasing a frisbee, playing with a friend, or just sniffing around, creating a dog-friendly environment can provide hours of entertainment for your pet. With a little bit of effort and planning, you can transform your backyard into a canine oasis where your furry friend can be happy, healthy, and loved.
From installing a secure fence to providing adequate shade and hydration, there are many ways to make your backyard the perfect playground for your furry friend to frolic in.
Below are the top improvements homeowners can make to transform their yard into a puppy paradise.
Build a Dog Run or Pet Area
Adding a dog run to your backyard is an excellent way to create a safe and fun space for your furry friend to play and exercise. 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.
For pet owners who don’t have a large backyard but still want to provide their dog 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 garden and landscaping from your pup’s enthusiastic exploration.
Building a dog run can also be a fun DIY project and a great opportunity to spend quality time with your furry companion. You’ll be giving your pet the gift of outdoor time and physical activity, which is essential for their physical and emotional well-being.
For more tips and advice check out Dog Run Ideas: Create A Backyard Dog Potty Area For Your Pup.
Add a Water Feature
Here in Texas, dog owners know how important it is to keep your furry friend cool and hydrated in the scorching sun. What better way to make your backyard a puppy paradise than by incorporating a water feature? A small pool can make all the difference in keeping your furry friend hydrated on hot summer days.
Whether it’s a small pool, a fountain, or even just a sprinkler, the addition of a water element will keep your dog cool and entertained for hours on end. Adding a water feature can bring a unique aesthetic to your backyard and take your dog-friendly design to the next level. With endless possibilities, there’s no excuse not to give your furry friend the ultimate puppy playground.
Provide Shade or a Shelter
If you’re a dog owner in Texas, you already know how hot the summers can get. While we have the luxury of air conditioning, our furry best friends may not be as lucky. Imagine being covered in fur and having no real escape from the heat. That’s the reality for our furry friends.
It’s important for us to provide them with proper shelter to protect them from the sun’s harmful rays and to give them relief during those sudden summer rainstorms. Even a small shaded area can make a huge difference in the comfort and safety of your dog.
You can create a cool and comfortable space for your dog using various methods, such as installing a shade sail or building a covered doghouse. Not only will your furry friend thank you, but you can rest easy knowing they have a safe and comfortable place to retreat to from the harsh Texas sun.
Build a DIY Agility Course
Does your dog love running the agility course at the dog park? Imagine how thrilled they would be to have their own in your backyard! By incorporating jumps, tunnels, balance beams, and other fun obstacles into your landscape design, you can keep your furry friend active, entertained, and away from your garden.
Don’t let the idea of building an agility course overwhelm you! With just a few simple materials, you can easily construct balance beams, ramps, and bar jumps. Need a tunnel? No problem! You can purchase one online for as little as $30 to $40.
So what are you waiting for? Get started on your DIY agility course and watch your pooch’s tail start wagging!
Create a Dog Path
Dogs are natural patrollers and love to protect their territory. You may notice your furry friend walking the same path around the yard each day, leaving a trail of flattened grass and compacted soil.
But what if you could improve your lawn and provide a designated walkway for your pooch? Say hello to paving stones! By laying down a pathway made of comfortable stones or pea gravel, your dog can roam freely without damaging your grass.
Opt for light-colored stones to reduce heat absorption and make for a more enjoyable walking experience for your pup. With a little creativity and planning, you can give your dog the outdoor space they deserve while maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn.
Install Dog-Friendly Fencing
Your furry friend needs plenty of space to run off their energy. A dog-friendly fence is the perfect solution, allowing your pup to safely stretch their legs without worrying about escape attempts. Plus, it provides privacy and can increase your home’s value.
To ensure your fence is up to the task, choose a height that prevents escape and opt for a design that’s wiggle-proof with no sharp ends.
In smaller yards, fencing in the whole area creates the illusion of a larger space. For a larger yard, a partial fence can create a dedicated dog run while leaving room for beautiful, dog-safe flowers. Not only does this give your pup their own private space, it’s also more budget-friendly than installing a fence around your entire backyard.
If you’re looking for a quick, cost-effective option, consider an invisible electric fence. Give your pup the space they need to zoom and play while keeping them safe and secure with a dog-friendly fence.
Dog-Friendly Ground Cover Ideas
As a pet owner, it’s important to create a backyard space where your furry friend can safely run and play to their heart’s content. Choosing the right ground cover is a crucial aspect of achieving this goal.
Living ground covers, such as clover or creeping thyme, provide a soft surface for your pup’s paws while also preventing soil erosion.
Non-living ground covers, like gravel or mulch, can be equally effective while also being easy to maintain. However, it’s important to consider your dog’s specific needs and habits when selecting the right ground cover for your backyard. With careful consideration, you can create a dog-friendly outdoor space that both you and your furry friend can enjoy.
Below, we’ve broken up our dog-friendly ground covers into two categories: Non-Living and Living ground covers.
Non-Living Ground Covers That Are Dog-Friendly
Did you know that your lawn doesn’t have to be all grass? Despite popular belief, there are plenty of non-living ground covers that are far more durable and dog-friendly. Especially if you’re living in Texas, maintaining a grassy landscape can be challenging, which only gets more complicated with a furry friend running around.
But fear not, because pet-safe ground covers exist that don’t require water and are safe for all pets. They’re perfect for designated areas like a dog run, or even your whole lawn. Not only are these options resilient, but they also add unique textures and colors to your outdoor space.
So, if you’re a dog owner tired of fighting with your lawn, consider switching to a non-living ground cover for a refreshing change!
Pet Turf a.k.a. Artificial Grass for Dogs
If you’re tired of muddy paw prints, water bills, and constant lawn maintenance, it’s time to consider “Pet Turf” or artificial grass for dogs. Don’t believe the common myths and misconceptions about synthetic turf – it is 100% safe for pets and children.
In fact, many homeowners and pet-care facilities throughout Texas are choosing artificial grass vs. natural grass to avoid problems associated with traditional lawns.
While installing pet turf may require an initial investment, it is definitely worth it. Artificial grass offers numerous benefits, including long-lasting durability, low maintenance, and a natural-looking aesthetic that will keep your dogs safe and comfortable for years to come.
By upgrading to fake grass for your dogs, you’ll enjoy many advantages, such as:
- Saving time and money on water bills
- Reducing lawn maintenance costs
- Preventing digging issues
- Keeping your dogs cleaner and eliminating muddy paw prints
- Boosting your home’s curb appeal and aesthetic
- Eliminating potentially harmful chemicals found in fertilizers and pesticides
- Increasing your home value
Make the smart choice today and get pet turf for your furry friend.
Additional artificial grass resources:
Pea Gravel
There’s no doubt that our furry friends love to play outside, but we have to ensure their safety too. If you’re looking for an inexpensive and dog-friendly ground cover option, look no further than pea gravel.
Not only does it provide a comfortable surface for your pups to run around on, but it’s also easy to maintain. However, it’s important to be cautious of how much sun is hitting the gravel as it can heat up and cause discomfort to your pet’s paws. Additionally, if you have larger dogs, be mindful of small gravel getting stuck between their paw pads.
With a few precautions, pea gravel can be an excellent choice for dog owners looking to spruce up their yard while keeping their furry friends happy and safe.
Wood Chips or Mulch
As a homeowner, finding a ground cover that is both dog-friendly and cost-effective can be challenging. Wood chips or mulch are excellent options that fit both criteria. Not only are they safe for our furry friends, but cedar mulch can also help battle flea and ticks naturally. With this natural bug repellent, you can ensure your dog stays healthy and protected without the use of harmful chemicals.
However, it’s important to note that not all mulch is safe for dogs. Stay away from “Cocoa Bean” mulch, as it can pose a significant risk to your dog’s health if ingested. With proper attention to detail, you can provide a safe and playful outdoor environment for you and your furry companion to enjoy.
Living Ground Covers That Are Dog-Friendly
Grass isn’t the only option for homeowners to consider when creating a dog-friendly backyard. There are a variety of plant species that are equipped to withstand the abuse dished out by dogs.
To keep things simple, we’ve broken our list of living ground covers that are dog-friendly into two sections: dog-friendly grasses and grass alternatives.
Dog-Friendly Grasses
If you’re like most homeowners, you probably have grass on your lawn. And that’s a good thing! Grass is cool, looks great, and is relatively easy to maintain. But did you know that not all grasses are created equal when it comes to durability, growth pattern, and dog-friendliness? It’s true! And for those of us with furry friends, it’s important to consider these factors.
While no natural grass is 100% dog-proof, there are options out there that can help minimize the impact of digging and urine spots. So if you’re committed to keeping a natural grass lawn, it may be worth looking into dog-friendly grass varieties. It may not be perfect, but it’ll certainly make life easier for you and your beloved pup.
Bermuda Grass
If you live in a hot climate, Bermuda grass may be just the thing for your lawn. Known for its ability to thrive in bright sunlight, this grass species doesn’t require much watering, making it perfect for those who want to conserve water.
Bermuda grass isn’t just heat-tolerant, it’s also stress-resistant, which means it can withstand heavy traffic from your pets or your family’s sports games without losing its luster. Its deep roots anchor it firmly into the ground, helping it to maintain its healthy appearance year-round. So, if you’re in need of a reliable grass species, Bermuda grass might just be the ideal candidate!
Zoysia Grass
If you’re looking for a grass that can handle the heat, Zoysia might just be your answer. This sturdy grass is perfect for warmer climates, thanks to its ability to withstand high temperatures and infrequent watering.
While Zoysia may grow slower than other types of grass, it makes up for it with deep roots that provide extra stability to your lawn. Plus, its ability to tolerate drought makes it an excellent choice for those who are eco-conscious and want to conserve water. So if you want a hardy grass that can thrive in harsh conditions, Zoysia is certainly worth considering!
Centipede Grass
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance lawn that can withstand the scorching heat of the southwestern United States, then centipede grass might just be your answer. This grass species is known for its quick growth and ability to thrive in hot and humid climates.
Plus, it doesn’t require much upkeep and can save you a lot of time and effort compared to other types of grass. Just be mindful of its sensitivity to alkaline soil and inability to grow well in imperfect weather conditions. With a little bit of attention and care, you can enjoy a stunning centipede grass lawn that’s both beautiful and practical.
Buffalo Grass
Have you ever struggled to maintain a lush and green lawn during a drought? Look no further than buffalo grass! This low-water, drought-resistant grass may appear thin and delicate, but don’t let its appearance fool you. B
uffalo grass is a resilient option that can withstand harsh conditions and still grow up to three inches tall with minimal care. And the best part? You can purchase it as seed or plugs from most nurseries. Say goodbye to high water bills and hours spent nurturing your lawn, and say hello to the hardy and hassle-free buffalo grass.
Kentucky Bluegrass
If you’re looking for a hardy, quick-growing grass to patch up bare spots in your lawn, look no further than Kentucky bluegrass. This popular grass variety is not only fast to establish, but it also has the resilience to withstand heavy traffic over time.
One of the great things about Kentucky bluegrass is that it has the ability to reseed itself, making it a low-maintenance option for those looking to boost the health and appearance of their lawn. So whether you’re dealing with a few bare patches or need to rejuvenate your lawn entirely, Kentucky bluegrass is a great choice to consider.
St. Augustine
If you have a dog that loves to dig, you’re probably all too familiar with the struggle of keeping your grass intact. Enter St. Augustine grass, a species known for its impressive root system that can delve deep into the soil. While it’s not impervious to a determined pup with a shovel-like snout, this grass might just have a fighting chance.
It’s important to note, however, that St. Augustine grass isn’t invincible. It won’t fare well in areas with constant foot traffic from both humans and pets, and excessive dog urine can also cause damage. So while it’s not a perfect solution, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a grass that’s a little more resilient against your furry friend’s destructive habits.
Tall Fescue
If you’re a pet owner with a lawn, you’ve likely encountered the problem of lawn burn caused by pet urine. Fortunately, the University of California-Davis has found a grass that can tolerate this problem better than others – tall fescue. With deep roots and wide blades, tall fescue may not grow as quickly as other grasses, but it certainly makes up for it with its resilience to heavy foot traffic and ability to withstand the damaging effects of pet urine.
So if you’re tired of constantly trying to revive your lawn from pet-related damage, consider switching to tall fescue to give your lawn the extra resilience it needs to stay green and lush.
Grass Alternatives
When it comes to pet-safe landscaping, many people automatically think of grass as the go-to option. But did you know that there are a variety of non-traditional ground cover options that are both pet-friendly and visually appealing. While grass may seem like the obvious choice, it requires a lot of maintenance and can be easily destroyed by playful pups.
Instead, consider ground covers such as clover, creeping thyme, or even moss. Not only do these options require less upkeep, but they also provide a soft surface for your pup to play on without harming their sensitive paws.
Don’t limit your imagination to just grass when creating a dog-safe backyard oasis – there are plenty of other options to choose from! Your pup will love their new backyard oasis and you’ll love the low-maintenance options that keep it looking great all year round.
Irish Moss
This plant is a great alternative to traditional grass, as it’s much softer and more forgiving on your dog’s paws. Not only does it look great, but it’s also low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Irish Moss can thrive in many different types of soil and doesn’t require a lot of water, which makes it perfect for anyone looking to save some time and energy in their landscaping endeavors. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used in a variety of ways, whether you want to cover a large area or simply add some visual interest to a smaller corner of your yard.
Silver Carpet
A durable and low-maintenance ground cover for your dog’s backyard playground, silver carpet may just be the solution you’ve been searching for. Not only does it provide a soft surface for your furry friend to frolic on, but it’s also resistant to pet waste and foot traffic.
Its silver-gray foliage boasts a unique and attractive appearance that will enhance the look of any landscape design. When it comes to creating a dog-friendly backyard, silver carpet is a fantastic option that both you and your pup will appreciate.
Labrador Violet
When it comes to creating a backyard that’s perfect for your furry friend, Labrador violet is an excellent option for non-grass ground covers. This low-growing plant is both soft and sturdy, making it ideal for those playful pups who enjoy spending time outside.
Not only is it durable, but it also comes in a variety of colors ranging from deep purples to light pinks, which can add a pop of color to your yard. Plus, as an added bonus, Labrador violets are easy to maintain and don’t require much watering or fussing over, meaning more time for you and your pup to enjoy the great outdoors. So, if you’re looking for a ground cover that’s both dog-friendly and attractive, Labrador violet is a top pick.
Creeping Thyme
This hardy and drought-tolerant perennial not only adds a pop of color and texture to your landscape, but it is also safe for your furry friends to play and lounge on. Creeping thyme releases a fragrant scent as it grows, adding a pleasant aroma to your outdoor space. Plus, it is easy to maintain and can be trimmed back as needed to keep its shape. So, if you want a beautiful and practical addition to your backyard that is dog-approved, give creeping thyme a try!
Snow-in-Summer
This delightful plant with delicate white flowers adds a touch of elegance to your yard while also offering a durable ground cover. Its thick leaves can withstand the occasional paw prints and won’t stain your pup’s fur like grass can. Plus, Snow-in-summer is low-maintenance, making it the perfect option for pet owners who want a beautiful yard without the hassle. So, toss the ball around and let your dog play freely on this safe and stylish ground cover.
Dog-Safe Plants
If you have a furry friend at home, creating a dog-friendly yard is undoubtedly one of your top priorities. However, before you let Fido run free, it’s important to ensure their safety. A dog-friendly yard is not only a fun place but also a safe one.
In addition to ensuring hazardous items are out of reach, it’s essential to check the plants in your landscape for their level of toxicity. Unfortunately, many common landscaping plants can be dangerous for dogs who are natural explorers and often prone to chewing.
Don’t worry – you don’t have to be a horticulturist to create a safe outdoor environment for your pup. Simply swing by your local nursery or contact your agricultural extension office to get answers to your burning questions about the plants in your yard. With a bit of knowledge and the right plants, you and your furry friend can enjoy a beautiful, safe, and dog-approved outdoor space.
Here are a few dog-safe options for your garden:
- Snapdragon
- Marigold
- Cilantro
- Sage
- Sunflower
- Tiger Lily
- Zinnia
Poisonous Plants
As pet owners, we always want what’s best for our furry friends. And part of that responsibility means ensuring our yard is a safe environment for them to play in. Unfortunately, some plants and fungi can pose a serious threat to our dogs if ingested.
These harmful plants can cause a range of problems, from minor issues like upset stomachs, all the way up to more serious conditions like breathing issues and even death. That’s why it’s important to take the time to identify any potentially harmful plants in your yard and remove them as soon as possible.
While the specific plants and fungi that can be dangerous to your dog will vary based on your location and climate, a little research can go a long way in keeping your furry friend safe and healthy. Some of the most notorious offenders include:
Azaleas
Did you know that Azalea (or rhododendron) plants can be incredibly toxic to our furry friends? While they certainly make for a beautiful addition to any garden, these plants contain toxins that can cause serious harm to pets. Initially, digestive issues may arise, but with time the symptoms can progress to muscle damage, nerve problems, and impaired cardiac function.
Pets may experience loss of coordination, difficulty standing or walking, and even death in severe cases. It’s important to keep an eye on your pets while outdoors and to avoid planting azaleas if you have furry companions at home. Prevention is key when it comes to keeping our pets safe and sound!
Oleander
If you’ve lived along the Texas coast for any length of time, you’re probably familiar with the beautiful Oleander plant. These flowering shrubs with their delicate pink, red and white pedals can light up a landscape with their sheer beauty. However, it’s incredibly important to remember that while they may be easy on the eyes, they’re anything but gentle on your furry friends.
Every part of the Oleander plant is toxic to dogs and many other animals, causing a range of symptoms from difficulty breathing to cardiac failure. So while you’re out enjoying the beauty of these plants, be sure to keep a close eye on your pets to ensure they don’t accidentally ingest any part of this potentially-deadly vegetation.
Lilies
Did you know that the beautiful lily, often used in bouquets and gardens, can be extremely toxic? All parts of the plant are poisonous, with the bulbs being the most dangerous. If ingested, symptoms such as low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmia could occur.
On top of that, if you have cats as pets, be sure to keep these plants far away from them, as they are particularly vulnerable to the toxicity of lilies. It’s important to stay informed about the plants that we keep in our homes and gardens, and take proactive steps to keep everyone safe and healthy.
Daffodils
Daffodils are a gorgeous and popular flowering plant native to Europe and North America. While they’re typically harmless to admire and enjoy, there’s one part of them that’s extremely toxic: the bulb. Eating daffodil bulbs can cause a range of serious symptoms, from cardiac arrhythmia to low blood pressure.
If you have pets or small children who may be curious enough to take a bite, it’s important to be aware of these potential dangers and take steps to keep them away from the bulbs. So next time you’re admiring a beautiful bouquet of daffodils, take a moment to appreciate their beauty from a safe distance.
Sago Palms
Have you ever heard of Sago Palms? These delicate, ornamental plants may look like a harmless addition to your backyard, but did you know that ingestion of just one of their seeds can be fatal to your beloved dog?
The toxins found in sago palms specifically target a dog’s liver, and it only takes a small amount of the plant to cause severe damage. So, if your furry friend starts showing signs of refusal to eat, drooling, diarrhea, or vomiting, it’s crucial to take them to the vet immediately. Remember, prevention is key! Keep your four-legged pal safe by keeping plants like Sago Palms out of reach.
Black Walnuts
Have you ever dropped a walnut off the kitchen counter and watched your pup quickly pick it up and munch it down? Don’t worry, it’s highly unlikely that the fallen nut will cause any harm. However, if your furry friend chooses to snack on moldy black walnut hulls that have been lying outside, the consequences could be severe.
These hulls contain a toxin called juglone, which can cause seizures or tremors in dogs that eat them. So, while you don’t have to panic at the sight of a stray walnut, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog and avoid any dangerous substances in your yard.
Dumb Cane
Dogs are curious creatures and love to explore their surroundings with their mouths. However, this can sometimes backfire on them. Ingesting certain plants can be harmful to dogs, and one such plant is dumb cane. The greatest risk of injury to dogs from ingesting dumb cane is the pain and inflammation of the lips, mouth, and throat. This can be a scary experience for both the dog and their owner.
The good news is that symptoms start immediately after the first bite. This means that pet owners can quickly spot any signs of discomfort in their furry friends and seek medical attention before the condition worsens. Always be vigilant and keep potentially dangerous plants out of reach of your pets.
Elephant Ears
As much as we love our furry friends, sometimes their curiosity can get them into trouble. One thing that dog owners should be aware of is the toxic nature of elephant ears. While these plants may make a beautiful addition to any garden or home, they can be detrimental to our four-legged companions.
If ingested, elephant ears can cause skin pain, itching, and redness. However, the most dangerous symptom is the closing of the airway, which can ultimately prevent our dogs from breathing. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and keep potentially dangerous plants out of reach from our curious pups.
For a full list of poisonous plants for animals, visit the ASPCA.
Get Started Creating a Dog-Friendly Backyard
Your furry friend deserves a safe and fun outdoor space, and you deserve to enjoy it too! Luckily, creating a dog-friendly yard doesn’t have to be a hassle. A few simple upgrades, like installing artificial pet turf or a dog run, can eliminate unsightly holes and urine spots caused by your pet’s playful antics.
At our Arlington Turf Installers, we have teams of the best artificial grass installers in Texas. Let us transform your yard into a cool, maintenance-free oasis that you and your pup can enjoy year-round. Get a FREE artificial grass design and installation estimate by contacting us today.
