Backyard Design Ideas That Your Dogs Will Love
Written By Guest: Jordan Swift
For those of us who keep our dogs in the backyard, we know it can be a challenge to keep them entertained back there. There aren’t many doggy toys that can survive the test of time, and aside from chew toys or rawhide bones, it can be difficult to come up with new ideas for keeping them entertained. Thankfully, there are a handful of backyard design ideas that a dog lover such as yourself can use to keep your pups happy. In case you’ve got some furry friends in your backyard, here are some of the best design ideas that they’re guaranteed to love.
1. Add Some Shade
Most dogs have a lot of fur, so even in mildly warm temperatures, they can get uncomfortably hot. For this reason, all dogs love to relax in the shade. There are a few ways you can add some shade to your backyard, from putting up a small doggy tent to building a porch with a durable patio ceiling. Another option that many homeowners prefer is planting a beautiful tree that blends in naturally to your landscaping. Remember that plants native to your area will be the most steadfast and durable, requiring less upkeep. For any and all plant additions to your yard, be sure that they are not harmful or dangerous to your pet.
2. Build a Deck
Adding a deck to your backyard provides some variety, and your dogs will enjoy the opportunity to hide their bones in a new spot. You can’t just build any old deck for your dogs though, it has to be especially durable to handle wear and tear. Depending on the size of your backyard and your dogs, you’ll need to do some calculations with a deck building calculator before you begin.
3. Add a Water Feature
The only thing most dogs love more than shade is water. Adding a shallow pool, pond, or fountain for them to wade in will provide endless entertainment and just one more thing to occupy their minds. Alternatively, a pondless waterfall could be another great way to cool off your pup. You’ll want to include some paving, preferably of the permeable variety, around your pool. This will allow the spill-over from the pool to neatly drain away through the paving without causing mudholes and messy ruts.
4. Upgrade Your Fencing
Fencing is important to have if you own dogs. Unless they are house-trained, most dogs will wander off if they aren’t fenced in. A good fence allows them to roam free while keeping them on your property. Depending on your preferences, surroundings, and the disposition of your dogs, you can either go with solid fencing or see-through fencing. You might also want to lay down some solid footboard around the edges of your fence so your dogs can’t dig under it. Trust me, they’ll try.
It’s Not Hard to Keep Your Dogs Happy
A backyard can get boring fast for dogs. That’s why you should spice yours up with one or two of the ideas we’ve laid out in this article. From fencing to a shallow pool, a deck, and some shade, all of these ideas are sure to please your dogs and keep their tails wagging for the foreseeable future. You could even implement all of them and create a paradise that any dog would envy, it’s up to you.
Jordan Swift is a contributor to Innovative Building Materials. He is a blogger and a content writer for the building materials industry with an interest in landscaping and outdoor remodeling. Jordan is focused on educating homeowners, contractors, and architects on innovative materials and methods of construction that increase property value, improve sustainability, and create a warm and welcoming ambiance.