The Ultimate Guide to Pet-Friendly Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
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The Ultimate Guide to Pet-Friendly Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
Creating a Yards for Paws and Claws
Written by: Redmond ‘Red’
Hey there, friends! Red here, your feathered correspondent on all things green, growing, and pet-friendly. As someone who takes his backyard garden strolls seriously, I know the joy a well-designed yard can bring. So, if you’ve got paws in your family as well as claws or feet like mine, it’s high time you planned a garden both you and the pets you love around you.
Grab a coffee or maybe an iced tea and let’s get busy exploring how to create the perfect outdoor spaces for dogs, cats, and creatures of all shapes and sizes.
Embrace the Pet-Friendly Garden Philosophy
If you are new to gardening and landscaping I suggest finding a great book, watching some Youtube videos (here is a good place to begin), and you might want to catch Monty Don on of his gardening tv shows. If you love gardening then you are probably already a big fan of Monty Don, the British gardening legend who knows a thing or two about creating beautiful outdoor spaces where pets are more than welcome. His philosophy that gardens should be shared with our four-legged friends is music to my ears. He loves a great dog-friendly garden and has been known to include pawprint pottery and trails carved naturally by his dog, Ned. “It is their garden as much as mine,” he once said. Now that’s some shared soil wisdom. You can learn more about Monty Don as he is our June Pet Person of the Month.
Choose Pet-Safe Plants: Bloom Without Worry
When planting with pets in mind, not just any bloom will do. Choose non-toxic beauties like Coreopsis, Coral Bells, Alyssum, Camellias, and Snapdragons. These add vibrant color and texture without putting curious noses (or beaks) in danger. Whether you’ve got a digging dog or a lounging cat, safe flora makes for peace of mind.
Let’s dig a little deeper. Pet-friendly gardening means selecting plants across all categories including shrubs, trees, ground covers, and flowers, that won’t cause harm if sniffed, nibbled, or rolled on. For shrubs, look to Bottlebrush, Spirea, and Hibiscus. When it comes to trees, Japanese Maple and Magnolia are beautiful and safe picks. Ground cover like Creeping Thyme, Irish Moss, and Clover offer soft, paw-friendly texture and lush coverage without posing a risk.
Flowers like Sunflowers, Zinnias, Marigolds, and Impatiens add bold color and cheer while staying pet safe. Some grasses such as Blue Fescue and Fountain Grass can provide visual interest and are generally safe but avoid anything sharp-edged or with irritating seeds.
As for Herbaceous plants, Hosta are generally considered non-toxic to dogs but can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts, so it’s best to plant them in areas pets don’t frequent or to monitor accordingly.
Always double-check each plant before adding it to your garden. The ASPCA’s plant safety database is a great place to start. With a little planning, your garden can be as safe as it is stunning.
Plants to Avoid: Not All Green is Good
Some plants are downright rotten for pets. Ditch anything with a toxic reputation, including Azaleas, Oleander, Daffodils, Tulips, and the sneaky Sago Palm. Even I keep my tail feathers far from those.
When considering shrubs, bushes, or trees to avoid, consider prickers, thorns, and seeds that can get caught in pet fur, making it hard to get out. While not all trees are considered safe, pets enjoy time in the woods with trees of all shapes, sizes and types, the key is keeping an eye on them and if they show signs of allergies or stomach issues you may have to put a barrier between the tree and your pets. You can also put a fence around greenery that is not safe to keep pets and plants separate.
Stay away from Foxglove, Lily of the Valley, Lilies (especially for cats), and Autumn Crocus, these plants can be dangerous or even deadly. Roses, while not toxic, do come with thorns, so choose thornless varieties or plant where pets won’t run through.
“To Plant A Garden Is To Believe In Tomorrow” – Audrey Hepburn
Before you begin creating your backyard, pet-friendly oasis, I suggest doing a little homework on the best plants for your climate, pet-safe plants and materials, and really think about how everyone will use the space. In this article I will help you think outside of the box with wild ideas from adding a pet dig space, lounging area, or even a fountain. You might want to consider expanding your garden beds into grassy areas, adding elements that are friendly to creatures of all shapes and sizes, and even a garden statue that adds a little sass.
Many of the ideas and inspiration in this article are generally pet-friendly but often lean on the side of the dog and rightly so. Cats who are indoor and outdoor cats often adapt well to the outdoors around them, while some dog breeds and personalities need a little more garden design attention. For cats specially a water source, places to scratch and good hiding places. For all pets make sure the trees, plants and flowers are safe especially for pets who tend to nibble.
Keep scrolling and you will be inspired with fabulous pet-friendly gardening ideas, unique elements you might want to include, or even unique statues that will make your garden stand out from the rest. If you have a hack to share, please share – email us at info@wildlovetails.com
Redmond “Red” is a witty and well-informed Rhode Island Red rooster who writes about rural living and green living with a focus on farm-to-bowl practices, organic supplies, and eco-friendly pet products. From backyard chicken coops to the latest trends in eco-friendly pet gear, Red’s engaging articles inspire readers to explore the charm and a sustainable lifestyle.
Do Your Research
I love a good gardening book, tv show or video about what to grow, how to grow it and the latest trends. Start by determining what is a must in your garden and what is absolutely a no. This will help you narrow down your choices and eliminate what you don’t need to focus on. Start with a copy of The Complete Gardener by Monty Don and be inspired to create your dog friendly garden. Find a garden or landscape design kit or book to help you begin to put your ideas on paper. You might even venture to try Iscape and design your landscaping on your computer. Take notes, print or cut out products and ideas, and begin pulling your final ideas together. It is so much easier and cheaper to do your thinking on paper or the computer than making changing once the landscaping project begins.
Gather Just What You Will Need
I love a good gardening book, tv show or video about what to grow, how to grow it and the latest trends. Start by determining what is a must in your garden and what is absolutely a no. This will help you narrow down your choices and eliminate what you don’t need to focus on. Start with a copy of The Complete Gardener by Monty Don and be inspired to create your dog friendly garden. Find a garden or landscape design kit or book to help you begin to put your ideas on paper. You might even venture to try Iscape and design your landscaping on your computer. Take notes, print or cut out products and ideas, and begin pulling your final ideas together. It is so much easier and cheaper to do your thinking on paper or the computer than making changing once the landscaping project begins. Many of these great gardening items are perfect gifts for your best pet lover too.
Choose Pet-Friendly Trees
When designing a garden or landscaping your yard, it’s important to consider the safety and comfort of your four-legged family members. Choose a focal point tree that is a standout or dot them throughout the yard. Choosing pet-friendly trees not only enhances the beauty of your outdoor space but also ensures it’s a safe and enjoyable environment for dogs and cats to explore. From shade-providing trees to non-toxic flowering beauties and sturdy shrubs, these pet-safe picks can help you create a landscape that’s as welcoming to pets as it is to people. FastGrowingTrees.com is a great resource for finding the right trees and shrubs for your garden plan. Doublecheck ASPCA’s plant safety database before making your final choices. Nut and fruit trees should be avoided or fenced off as they are not safe for pets. Here are some of my favorites. Boxwoods are a great way to create a living fence to separate pets from certain blooms.
FastGrowingTrees.com is an online nursery based in South Carolina that delivers a wide variety of trees and plants across the U.S., with a focus on convenience, quality, and customer support. Known for their fast-shipping and healthy, well-rooted plants, they offer a great selection of dog-friendly options like shade trees, non-toxic shrubs, and privacy hedges that are safe for outdoor spaces shared with pets. With helpful resources and expert advice, they make it easy for pet owners to create beautiful, safe landscapes that both people and pups can enjoy.
Find The Perfect Perennials For Pets and People
Creating a pet-friendly garden doesn’t mean sacrificing style, variety, or ease of care. In fact, with the right plant choices, you can design an outdoor space that’s beautiful, low-maintenance, and safe for your furry companions. This collection of pet-friendly plants brings color, texture, and interest to your garden while helping you avoid common hazards. For herbs or vegetables that may upset your pet’s stomach, consider placing them in raised beds or areas out of reach—keeping the garden fun for you and worry-free for them.
Include A Great Pet-Friendly Vine or Ground Cover
Add interest to fences, walls, or a trellis with vines that creep and crawl into all the right places. While some vines are very toxic for pets, here are some that are pet safe. Choose from all green to flowering vines options to add more interest to your pet-friendly garden. Star Jasmine is a great choice for either vertical or horizontal cover. While many Jasmine varieties are not safe for pets, this one is a great choice.
Protect With Decorative Fencing
Incorporating unique fencing into your landscape is a smart and stylish way to create pet-safe zones while maintaining an open, inviting garden feel. Use low-profile or open-air fencing to section off areas with unsafe plants, protect delicate flowers or veggies, or even carve out a peaceful people-only corner. Include gates for easy access and flow throughout the space. Garden screens can help keep curious critters and pets, away from your harvest, and raised beds can be covered with chicken wire or mesh to safeguard plants that may not be pet-friendly. For eco-conscious pet owners, consider adding a secure, enclosed compost area to keep pets out while still feeding your soil. With the right layout, fencing becomes more than just a barrier, it’s a flexible design feature that keeps the whole garden safe and enjoyable for every member of the family. Here are a few ideas to get the creative juices flowing.
Pet Themed Garden Pots & Decor
Add a playful touch to your outdoor space with our curated collection of pet-themed pots, garden décor, and outdoor art. Whether you’re celebrating your love for cats, dogs, or all creatures great and small, these charming accents bring personality and warmth to patios, porches, and garden beds. From whimsical planters shaped like your favorite breeds to metal sculptures and garden stakes that add life to every corner, this collection is perfect for pet lovers who want their outdoor haven to reflect their furry family.
Design Paw-Friendly Paths and Decking
If your pups, felines, or chickens like to roam, create designated paths to save your flower beds and add interest to your garden. Smooth flagstones, pea gravel, or cedar chips are easy on paws and easy to clean. Watch where your pet naturally walks, then build a path there—after all, they’re the true garden designers, aren’t they? Avoid sharp metal dividers and walkways to ensure that paws and feet are safe especially when they are bare. Rocks are a great option when you have areas that tend to get muddy or grass struggles to grow, just make sure they are smooth.
Shady Spots and Cool Retreats
On those warm summer days, shaded zones can be lifesavers for pets. Consider planting dog-safe trees like Japanese Maple or River Birch, or build a pergola draped with safe vines. Cats love to nap in dappled sunlight, and dogs will appreciate a break from fetch under a leafy canopy. Incorporate an elevated pet bed that can be put in place for outdoor time or consider an outdoor pet bed as a fun DIY project. What about an outdoor doghouse, boy are there some great modern options, our team even found plans for doghouses with pools, two-story options, and doghouses with a very modern vibe. There are she-sheds and now you can create a pet-shed filled with everything pets love to do outside as they escape the heat of the sun. Here are some great resources to explore.
Add a Fountain or Water Feature
Every critter appreciates fresh water. A low-profile water fountain, water art, or pet-safe basin can make your garden feel like a spa day for pets. The wonderful sound of moving water is so relaxing, while providing a steady source of water for pets. Make sure that the water is fresh or moving so that is as safe as possible. Shallow and low-profile options make the fountain easy to clean and easy for pets of all shapes and sizes to have a drink. For cats, a trickling fountain can be especially enticing. And let me tell you, the birds will thank you too. You might consider a higher profile birdbath to keep birds safe and a low profile for the other critters.
Pet Garden Decor and Statues
Garden décor and statues are a meaningful way to add personality and warmth to your outdoor space—especially when they celebrate the pets who share our lives. From playful dog and cat statues to custom paving stones and elegant bronze pieces, these decorative touches can bring charm, joy, and a sense of companionship to the garden. For a more personal tribute, consider creating a pet memorial space—a quiet corner with a statue, planted flowers, or a special marker—to honor pets past and present and keep their memory blooming alongside your garden.
Dig Zones and Play Areas
Dogs love a good dig, so why not give them their own sandbox-style area? You can redirect their excavating efforts and keep your veggies safe. Cats might enjoy climbing structures or hiding spaces built into the garden’s natural flow. Even chickens like me enjoy a dust bath spot, just sayin’. For active dogs, consider an obstacle course made from nature or incorporate a set of pet obstacles to help keep dogs fit and entertained. If you are in a hot climate, consider adding a pool or pond that is easy for your pets to enter and exit, a ramp that allows them to rest when it is really hot with their head out of the water, and materials that are pet safe. Mix dirt and sand is another good option for a pet dig space. For homes with cats or local cats consider covering your dig area so that it is not used for a potty box.
Pet Backyard and Garden Pools
A backyard pool can be a refreshing and fun addition to your garden—not just for you, but for your dog too. Whether it’s a shallow splash pad, a sturdy dog pool, or a built-in water feature, adding a designated water area gives your pup a safe place to cool off and play during warm days. This section features dog-friendly pool options that are easy to set up, durable, and garden-friendly, helping you create a backyard oasis both you and your furry friend will enjoy. Here is a great article by Better Homes and Gardens to help you style your stock tanks and pet pools. Taylor Michelle Designs an interior designer from Austin, Texas is featured in this article and she has a great Instagram filled with pet home decor ideas.
Creating a pet-friendly garden is all about balance, designing a space that reflects your style, brings joy to both pets and people, and supports smart, sustainable living. Whether you’re working with a small yard or a sprawling landscape, take it step by step. Start by tidying up, salvaging any healthy trees or plants, and outlining a simple plan. Then, tackle one project at a time to avoid overwhelm. Incorporate thoughtful features like composting areas, recycled or eco-friendly materials, and water solutions to keep your garden thriving. Choose pet-safe materials for paths and surfaces, and avoid harmful options like cocoa mulch or chemical-heavy products. Provide shady nooks, safe ground coverings, and room to roam or rest. And remember, no matter how carefully curated your plant list is, always keep an eye on your pets and their reactions. With care, creativity, and a little planning, your garden can become a space where happy memories blossom for years to come. Here are a few elements you might want to include.
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