Pet-Friendly Ideas for Your Next Parker Landscaping Project
Everyone knows that Coloradans love their dogs, and there's data to back up that notion. Compared to other states in the U.S., Colorado ranks #10 in pet ownership and #9 in dog ownership rates. If you have pets and want to make the outdoors safer for your furry friends, our Parker landscaping experts have some insights and bright ideas to help you out.
With our guidance, you can give your pets plenty of space to explore and run around without having to worry about their well-being or your family's safety.
What Does a Dog-Friendly Yard Look Like?
The plants, grass, and features of your landscape are entirely up to you. However, if you want to ensure your landscape is dog-friendly, it must accomplish two things:
Minimize the risk of dog-related damage
Provide a space where your dog can have fun
We'll walk you through some ideas to help mitigate the likelihood of damage to your property. And since you know your dog best, take some time to think about what will make your dog happy in your yard.
Consider The Correct Grass Type
It's a good idea to incorporate some sort of grass into your landscape, especially if you want to give your dogs plenty of space to explore, run around, and play. But, there are many variations of grass species available today, and you shouldn't rush through this decision process for your lawn. This is mainly because some grasses are more durable than others. Your furry friends will run a great deal around your lawn, and that foot traffic can cause damage to your grass. Here are some options to consider for your Parker landscaping:
Bermuda grass – Commonly used on golf courses due to its hardiness and durability
Kentucky bluegrass – While it has a shallower root system, this grass can withstand plenty of foot traffic
Texas hybrid bluegrass – This cross-species with Kentucky bluegrass is a great option for the Colorado climate.
Don't Forget: Turf is Always an Option
Just because you have a yard around your home, it doesn't mean you need to have real grass. You can easily integrate artificial grass/turf on your property and this option comes with plenty of upsides:
You don't need to water turf, so you'll save on utilities and use less water
Turf is incredibly durable and can last for up to 8-10 years
It can prevent erosion, regulate temperature, and is pesticide-free
Make a Space for Your Dogs to Do Their Business
Whether you have a small backyard or a spacious property, it's a wise idea to designate a portion of your landscape where your dogs can go potty. Why? Because dog urine, especially from female dogs, and grass do not mix well – when they do their business on grass, it can damage the plants and leave behind yellow spots in the yard. And that is not the ideal look for your landscaping in Parker.
Instead, consider including a hardscape section on your property where your pets can do their business. Stone mulch, for instance, is a good option for your property because it is visually appealing, easy to maintain and clean, and allows for plants to grow. This non-living landscape material will not get damaged by your dogs, and is a better option than grass, which can be tough to maintain and replace.
Maintain Safety with an Appropriate Fence
Young puppies and fully grown adult dogs can easily escape yards if the proper precautions aren't in place. Whether they're squeezing through the bars, hopping over, or going under, your pets will inevitably find a way to break out and explore the neighborhood without you knowing. In addition, wildlife like deer, foxes, and even coyotes can pose safety hazards if they can find a way to access your landscape.
For those reasons, it's critical to ensure you've installed adequate fencing around the perimeter of your property. Aluminum fencing is a great option to consider, but if you want extra privacy, a wood fence may be a better choice. Be sure to speak with your Parker landscaping contractor to determine the best solution for your pets.
Unique Landscaping Improvements for Dogs
Aside from safety enhancements, there are many ways that you can elevate your landscape design to make it more fun for you, your family, and your pets. While working with a reputable landscaping contractor, you may explore ideas like:
Installing flea-repelling and non-toxic plants in your garden like Marigolds, Rosemary, Sage, and Catnip
Building a sandbox for digging activities
Integrating a "dog window" into your fence so they can see beyond the yard
Creating more shade in your backyard with tall trees, awnings, and even a doghouse
Adding barriers between the garden and the play areas
Building a shallow pond or water feature for a quaint little doggie pool
Upgrade Your Lawn with our Parker Landscaping Contractor
At Enviroscapes, we love dogs and pets of all kinds, and we can help ensure your landscape design is well-suited for all members of your family, including your pets. Our highly experienced landscaping professionals can provide all the necessary services to optimize your lawn with softscaping elements, hardscaping features, efficient irrigation systems, and more. From conception and design to construction and maintenance, the Enviroscapes team will provide high-quality work at every step of the way.
Contact Enviroscapes today to schedule your in-person consultation with our expert Parker landscaping contractor.