Both you and your dog will benefit from going on walks together. However, you don't need to go too far from your backyard to get your daily exercise. According to Rachel Maso, CPDT-KA, senior manager for behavior of the ASPCA adoption center, "when the weather becomes warmer, pet owners may spend more time outdoors with their dogs." "Making sure your dog feels at ease in your yard is a smart idea. Dogs that are left alone in the yard sometimes develop negative behaviors like excessive barking, digging, or trying to leave their fenced-in area out of boredom."


More benefits come from landscaping your backyard than just a prettier look. In reality, you may teach your pet's behavior in your own backyard while also enhancing the link between you and your pet and stimulating their minds. Additionally, you don't need to make any adjustments to transform your outside area into a dog lover's heaven. Even simple backyard improvements may significantly enhance the experience for your pet. Giving your dog plenty of approved things to perform outdoors will not only help your dog develop better manners, but it will also make your dog love being outside, according to Maso. Nobody wants their yard to "go to the dogs," but with a few inexpensive DIY items, you can preserve your blooms while still giving your dog a wonderful time. She suggests the following advice for it.

1. Construct a pet play area.

There are many unique pieces of equipment in dog parks. Why not build some in your backyard? Slides and other playground features may be found that were created specifically with your dog in mind. "A seat or a kid's plastic slide set may be a welcome addition to the yard for dogs who enjoy to acquire height," Says Maso. Your dog may have a whole playground in his backyard, complete with dog teeter-totters, crawl tunnels, and agility kits. In addition to preventing your backyard from turning into a dog's disaster zone, an enhanced backyard allows your dog to engage in natural activities like digging, barking, and running in a secure and regulated setting.

2. Only plant non-toxic varieties in your garden

Gardens are lovely, and flowers are lovely, but we also need to be aware of plants that are poisonous to our animals (or any animals that may visit our yards). Both a list of plants that are healthy for your dog and a list of plants that are too harmful to keep in your yard are provided by the ASPCA. Dogs are poisonous to azaleas, butterfly irises, and daisies and may get ill or even die from them. Instead, add flowers to your yard like cornflowers, African daisies, and baby's breath. As long as your dog is trained not to dig in the flowerbeds, you may be certain that she will not suddenly decide that the flowers are a tasty feast.

3. Supplying shelter and water

Making ensuring there is adequate water and shade is one of the first things, according to Maso, that pet owners can do to make their backyards better for their dogs. Having access to water is particularly crucial during the warmer months when the danger of heat stroke is increased. Naturally, you should also avoid leaving your dog alone for extended periods of time. As a highly sociable creature, she explains, "they want for time with their humans and might exhibit problematic behaviors if left alone for an extended period of time."

4. Build a Fence

Dogs are inherently inquisitive. They will explore the squirrels in your neighbor's backyard if they can leave your yard. If a physical barrier, such as a fence, is not there, dogs may also find up roaming the area. "Physical barriers are recommended! Particularly if you want to let your dog run free, "Maso elucidates. "You should use your judgment on the sort of fence that is suitable and safe for your dog." The barrier does provide most dogs obvious limits, however it may not be able to contain the most determined canines (which is why you should be keeping a close eye on your dog). Additionally, you need to spend some time teaching your dog not to leave the yard without your permission.

5. Give locations to dig

Dogs like scavenging on the ground, in flowerbeds, and beneath fences. Give them superior options. Maso advises adding a soft sand play area for dogs that like digging. This will keep them occupied and away from your lawn and garden. Toys and treats may be concealed about the yard for your dog to locate, and you can also put them in your dog's authorized digging areas to provide mental and physical activity. Nothing makes us happier than seeing our canine friends enjoying themselves so much outside in the yard.

6. Offer Remedy Options

You may provide other options to cool down in addition to a bowl of water that is always accessible. Although not all dogs love playing in the water, according to Maso, having a fountain or a small pool that offers some cool reprieve from the summer's sweltering heat is a wonderful idea. A raised bed with some shade is another option. It provides your dog with a spot to escape the hot concrete and will tempt them to unwind where you direct them, the expert claims. During the warmest days of the year, it's crucial to keep your pet cool and comfortable.