Six feet is generally high enough for most dogs. If your dog is an exceptional vertical jumper or a good climber, go for seven or eight feet. Secure construction materials include vinyl, wood, iron, chain link, concrete, brick, and masonry. Pick the type of perimeter barrier you want according to your budget and taste. If your dog is especially crafty, they may be able to climb chain link or other fences with gaps or holes that offer potential footholds. Split-rail fences will not keep your dog in because the gaps between the poles are too big. Similarly, you also need to make sure that your dog cannot dig under the fence. If necessary, bury chicken wire just beneath the surface to provide a dig-proof layer. If you opt for a wooden fence, be sure that the lumber has not been treated with CCA. It’s a chemical that’s toxic to dogs.
If your dog is susceptible to outside temptations, don’t use chain-link or picket fencing that gives them a clear view of the surrounding area.
If your dog is a determined escape artist or prodigious digger, you may need to create an underground barrier in addition to your fence. Consider installing rebar, wire fencing, or concrete beneath your fencing to prevent your dog from tunneling out. If your dog keeps digging a hole in the same spot, you can deter them from repeat offenses by covering it with bricks or pavers, filling it with gravel, or simply putting some of their own feces in it.
Remember to always keep gates firmly closed when your dog is out in the garden.
The deadliest plants that result in the most annual poisonings for dogs include: Castor Bean, Caladium, Dumb cane, Rosary Pea, Larkspur, Foxglove, Autumn Crocus, Sago Palm, Black Locust, Yew, and Oleander. [3] X Research source The ASPCA has an extensive alphabetical list of both those plants that are toxic and safe for dogs. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Look up the status of plants that currently exist in your garden or ones that you’re thinking about planting. It’s best to avoid or remove species that are poisonous to your pet.
Remember, if you’ve recently treated your lawn or plants with pesticides or fertilizers, you should keep your dog out of the garden altogether. Use non-toxic and/or organic options whenever possible.
If you store your trash or recycling in your garden, be sure to keep it in bins with tightly fitting lids. If you can, store them in an out-of-reach shed. When landscaping, opt for dog-friendly materials. For instance, use mulch and cedar chips rather than sharp gravel for lining beds. Avoid using chemicals, such as slug or snail killer, which can be toxic to dogs. Take steps to keep vermin and snakes out of the garden by raking up leaves and removing debris, which provide a place for them to hide. Avoid standing water, such as bird baths or small ponds, as these can harbor dangerous blue-green algae or infections such as leptospirosis.
Either install a doghouse or be sure there’s a shady area with an overhang that’s accessible to your dog, like an arbor or gazebo. Ensure that your dog doesn’t get dehydrated by keeping a water dish outside and filling it with fresh water each time you let them out into the garden.
Even if you don’t have a large yard with lots of open space, keep in mind that your dog will at least need a path to run on. Make sure that its width is at least 3 feet. If they already have an informal route established through the garden, consider making it into a formal path. Create an easy-to-clean place where your dog can do their business. Cover it with grass, gravel or cedar chips, and train your dog to always go there when they want to relieve themselves. This is a great way to protect your lawn and plants. If you have a male dog, you might want to add a designated marking post, like a fence post or a stump, where he can regularly stake out his territory. If your dog loves digging, consider giving them a sand pile where they can act out on that love to their heart’s content without ravaging your plantings.
The most practical varieties of plants for your dog-friendly garden include sturdy shrubs, hardy perennials, grasses, and trees. If you want to grow small, delicate plants, keep them safe in large pots, boxes, or hanging planters. [11] X Research source
If you choose to use fencing, be sure that it’s sturdy and high enough to deter your dog from crossing it but also porous enough to let the sunlight through for your plants. For instance, you don’t want to use a solid wall of railroad ties or other privacy fences as a barrier. Chain-link fences, split-rail fences, or decorative garden fencing are more appropriate. Alternatively, you can create raised beds to ensure that your plantings are on another level from your dog’s play area. If your dog still has a tendency to run through your plantings or vegetable patches, make the fencing more formidable and at least four-feet high.
