EDITOR”S NOTE: We have a great guest post that is geared towards all dogs. We know as chihuahua parents that our fur babies should never be left alone for hours on end in the backyard. For that matter, being our babies are so small and can be seen as prey for other animals, it’s best to be with them when they are outside.
Our canine companions depend on us for everything. This includes a safe environment that they can call their own, both inside and outside.
But have you looked at your backyard? I mean really looked at it from your dog’s point-of-view? Is it a fun place for your pooch to spend time, or is it boring, or worst yet, a death-trap waiting to happen?
In this post, we are going to give you the ultimate guide to creating a dog-friendly backyard.
Why Dogs “Escape”
Before we create the ultimate canine-friendly backyard, we should know why our dogs want to escape.
The first reason is boredom. Imagine sitting in one area all day long with absolutely nothing to do. You’d be looking for something to amuse yourself with, wouldn’t you? Your dog feels the same. If you haven’t provided him with some sort of stimuli, then he will begin to dig holes, chew or look for entertainment on the other side of the fence.
The second reason is fear. These can include loud sounds, weather, or strangers in your home. If your dog has a fear of any of these, then take steps to eliminate them as best you can.
The last reason your dog may decide to escape is the opposite sex. Unaltered dogs will do any-thing to find a mate, so be sure to have your pooch spayed or neutered.
A Safe Haven
To create a safe haven for your dog you need to create boundaries that he is not able to go be-yond. To do this, you can build a sturdy fence, or install an wireless or in-ground dog fence system that sends your dog a signal to an electronic collar.
If you have a physical fence be sure your dog cannot jump over it, go through it, or dig himself under it.
In the Yard
Once you have a solid fence in place, you will want to consider what is in the yard. Are there any physical threats in the form of poisonous plants that can harm your dog if ingested? These in-clude;
● Azaleas
● Lilies
● Some mushrooms
● Black walnuts
● Elephant ears
● Sago palms
● Daffodils
● Dumb cane
● Cocoa bean mulch
If your backyard contains any of these plants, be sure to remove them to keep Fido safe.
Fleas & Ticks
Before you allow your dog to romp around your yard, you will want to protect him against fleas and ticks. This can be done by your veterinarian through a simple insecticide drop placed on your dog’s back.
You will also want to protect your pooch from mosquito bites. To do this eliminate any standing water that these biting insects are attracted to like stagnant ponds.
Snakes
Some snakes are poisonous, so if you live in a region that has this type of reptile, remove any places that a snake would like to hang out. This includes piles of wood, and leaves. Snakes also tend to frequent tall grass, so keep your lawn trimmed to help eliminate this potential danger.
Make Your Yard a Fun Place to Be
Regardless of how solid your fence is, if your dog isn’t having any fun in your backyard, she will most likely look for a way out. To help make your backyard a fun place to be, check out these tips.
Tip # 1 – Water Fun
Whether you get a Kiddie pool and fill it with water or go all the way with a pond, your dog will love the opportunity to cool off on those hot summer days. Just remember to empty out any stagnant water so those pesky mosquitos won’t take up residence or install a pump in your pond to keep the water moving.
Tip # 2 – Protection from the Heat
Your dog will need protection from the heat and sun, so be sure to give him a place to go. This can include a big shade tree or a homemade structure like a dog house or lean-to. If you’re not handy with a hammer and saw, look for a friend or neighbor that may have the skills to lend you a helping hand.
Tip # 3 – Potty Places
It’s never any fun to go into your backyard and be greeted with a pile of doggy poo. To help elimi-nate this issue, give your pooch an inviting place to do his business. With a few simple objects, you can create a potty place that is simple to clean and pleasant to look at.
Tip # 4 – Digging Fun
Sandboxes don’t have to be just for kids. If your dog is a digger, then installing a sandbox will not only save your lawn but will also help keep your pooch entertained for hours.
Tip # 5 – Paths
Dogs love to follow paths, so make your own pathways with mulch (just not cocoa bean), stepping stones, wood chips or grass with a border. How should you construct your pathways? Remember that herding dogs like to move in circles, while guard or patrol dogs like the perimeters.
Making a Backyard Paradise
Making a fun backyard for your dog should include being safe and include those extras that will help alleviate his boredom. Incorporate these elements into your yard before you get a puppy or dog, so your pooch will never even think about leaving his backyard paradise.
Author Bio
Sandie lee is a regular contributor to the ThePetGod.com. She enjoys writing informational articles to help pet parents everywhere. She hails from a small town in Ontario Canada, with her three rescue cats, two goldfish and a hubby of 20 years.