How to make your backyard safe for dogs

Dogs, particularly puppies, can be full of boundless energy. Channeling that energy into exercise with long walks or play sessions can help stem dogs’ propensity to get into trouble around the house as they burn off extra adrenaline. Pets who do not have an energy outlet may chew off-limits objects or get into other mischief.

According to the American Kennel Club, the amount of exercise a dog needs depends on the animal’s age and breed. For example, border collies or Siberian huskies may require much more exercise than English bulldogs, simply because the former are working breeds. Pet owners with large backyards often find that those outdoor spots are ideal for when their dogs get the “zoomies,” something that tends to be a daily occurrence. Letting their dogs run around yards, whether on their own or chasing tossed tennis balls, is an ideal way to provide exercise and tire out pups. In such scenarios, it is vital that pups have a dogfriendly yard in which to play.

USE SAFE LAWN-CARE PRODUCTS

An expanse of grass is the perfect place to frolic or enjoy some sunbathing — for people or pets. But contact with chemically treated lawns can cause a number of health issues for dogs, such as allergies or intestinal upset.

Switching to native grasses can reduce the need to use chemicals to get lush lawns. When supplementation is needed, homeowners can switch to organic products or natural compost as safer alternatives than chemical-based products.

FENCE-OFF THE YARD

Off-leash running and bounding through the yard will make any dog smile. However, a fence is a must-have to ensure that a dog does not become an escape artist. Be sure the fence is high enough so that the pup cannot jump over it. Burying chicken wire in the dirt beneath the lower edge of the fence can also help prevent dogs who like to dig from exiting by crawling underneath the fence.

Consider installing a lock on the fence gate so that no one can wander in and surprise the dog, which may startle the animal and prompt it to defend the property. A lock also helps prevent dog theft.

KEEP THE YARD TIDY

Maintaining a clean yard is also key to safety. Inspect the yard regularly to make sure nothing is around that can prove harmful to dogs, whether it is poison ivy, felled branches or broken fence panels. Also, keep shrubs and grass trimmed to reduce flea and tick populations on the property.

AVOID POISONOUS PLANTS

Certain plants can be dangerous if they are consumed by curious pups. Chrysanthemums, peonies, irises and hydrangeas are some plants that can be poisonous. For a full list of poisonous plants, visit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ website, aspca.org.

KEEP AN EYE ON ANIMALS

Dogs can spend some unattended time in the yard, but check in on them from time to time. Should wildlife get into the yard, dogs may get hurt by tussles or bites. Birds of prey, such as owls, hawks and even vultures, may attack small dogs in a yard.

According to Pat Silvosky, director of the Milford Nature Center in Kansas, some birds can be territorial. While they might not view a dog as an easy meal, they could swoop a down and attack to defend their territory. The c same may occur with other wild animals. f

A dog-friendly yard may require a little effort to create, but it is worth a little sweat o equity to keep pups safe.