Simple Ways to Keep Dogs Out of Your Garden

As a garden designer, I know the thrill and excitement of having a beautifully designed garden or landscape. A garden filled with colorful flower blooms provides a restful and relaxing experience, that says “home sweet home” welcoming us as we rest work, or take a stroll in our private oasis. But as exciting as we may be about having this kind of garden setting we should always bear in mind that with dogs around even stray dogs there will be some challenges.

Dogs are curious and if given the opportunity will venture into garden areas because of their strong sense of smell as plants give off different fragrances, then there is the garden soil that dogs love to play in by digging. They also enjoy the smell and the taste of garden soil along with the soil’s texture especially if the soil is cool they will begin digging a hole to take a nap.

Gardens also give dogs a sense of freedom where they can run and roam and because of this sense of freedom garden plants can be dug up partially or uprooted out of the soil which can damage plants and in some cases, plants may never recover. Dogs tend to nibble on garden plants which can be (poisonous) harmful based on the species of plants you’re growing. If you have a dog issue whether your dog or a stray here is what to do to keep dogs out of your garden.

6 Proven Methods to Dog Proof Your Garden

1. A Sprinkler System

Installing a sprinkler system with a sensor that turns on when motion is detected is a great way to give dogs a surprising wet scare but if Fido or Rover enjoys playing in the water, especially during a hot summer’s day then there are other options. But hopefully with the installation of these systems, your dogs even stray dogs will keep their distance. Another advantage of a motion detector sprinkler system is keeping cats and other garden pests at bay for example voles, gophers, groundhogs, deer, chipmunks, squirrels, rats, mice, etc… However, when using this method consideration must be taken so that family members who pass this area don’t get a surprisingly wet experience.

2. Install a Fence

Installing a fence may cost you a bit of investment based on the size of the area but a fence can keep dogs out, the fence should be tall enough to deter dogs from having access. Or a picket fence that provides that garden appeal can work just as well. These fences can also help to keep out other pests and rodents.

3. Install Dog proffer wide gap barrier dog fence kit

This kit is easy to install by dog-proofing your existing fence, the kit works by stopping dogs from being able to fit through the gaps in your fence. The installation of this kit is easy and a very effective way to keep dogs out of your garden and landscape.

4. Train Your Dog

This one can be fun and rewarding for both you and your dog, your dog gets the treat or the reward of staying out of your garden and you also get the reward by keeping your dog out and watching your garden thrive. Training your dog to stay out of your garden may take some effort on your path but you will have success in reaping a good harvest from your garden.

5. Create a Play Area for Your Dog

Fencing your dog in a play area will provide much fun for your dog while protecting your prized garden plants, Providing the play area with dog toys will provide hours of fun so make sure and purchase a few so your dog enjoys his play area. The play area should be fenced also to keep your dog in.

6. Install Barriers with Prickle

The goal here is not to cause injury but to discourage dogs from getting to your garden plants, simply place holly branches or prune rose branches with thorns around the perimeter of your garden. When dogs seek to venture back into your garden this little prick will be a reminder for them to keep out.

Plants that are Poisonous to Dogs

Here is a short list of plants to avoid planting in your garden if you have dogs that run freely or at least keep your dog out of the garden area.

• Lily of the Valley
• Tulips
• Autumn Crocus
• Hyacinths
• Yew
• Azalea
• Daffodils
• Oleander
• Chrysanthemum

Symptoms that Your Dog Got Plant Poisoning

Signs that indicate that your dog may have plant poisoning

• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea
• Foaming at the mouth
• Oral pain
• Irregular pulse
• Abdominal pain
• Excessive drooling
• Rapid breathing
• Blisters or rash

What to Do if Your Dog Got Poison from Consuming a Plant

If your dog is showing one or more of these signs then it is best to quickly take your dog to the veterinarian.

Conclusion

Keeping dogs out of your garden is that simple, why should you let your prized plants suffer at the hands or should I say feet of your furry friends when you can discourage them from your garden, these methods are worth the investment in keeping out other garden pests and rodents which means taking care of other concerns at the seem time. I know the destruction dogs can cause to a garden; while they mean no harm, they just run and roam freely for fun.