5 Essential Steps to Dog-Proof Your Garden

Dog-proofing your property is a vital part of being a responsible dog owner and is key to protect your garden and your dog. It is also an important preventative measure to ensure you and your neighbours can remain happy. We have created this guide to help you secure your garden to welcome a new puppy or prepare your new house for your beloved pet in 5 simple steps.

Step 1 – Secure Your Property Perimeter

Dog-proof fencing is the most important step to create an enclosed area for puppies and dogs to explore without escaping. If you already have a continuous fence in place, you will still need to scout the perimeter for any areas that may require your attention. At G & MB Manning, we provide bespoke measurements to make garden repair easy, and fit awkward gaps without hassle. If you require this service, contact us on 01442 866264. Otherwise, we have a wide range of panelling to suit your garden, whatever your style.

To stop dogs from climbing up your fence or jumping over it, we recommend a six foot fence for most breeds. Our durable Closeboard Panels, Lap Panels, or Tongue and Groove Flat Top Panelling are the best fence panels for dogs, for many reasons including their lack of horizontal slats (which clever dogs can use to help them climb). If you would prefer wire fencing, we recommend our Kennel Fencing.

Smaller breeds may be adequately enclosed by shorter fencing such as Palisade Fencing, but be sure the gaps are not large enough for them to fit through. More ambitious dogs may require a seven to eight-foot fence which we are happy to provide upon request. On the other hand, some dogs are bred for burrowing, so you may need to ensure that your dog cannot escape by digging underneath your fence. In this case, you can use chicken wire or Kennel Fencing to create an underground, dig-resistant solution.

Step 2 – Preparing Your Plants

When choosing your flowers next spring, it is important to remember that some common plants can be poisonous to dogs. This list by Blue Cross outlines everything you need to avoid, as well as symptoms of plant poisoning in dogs in case the situation occurs.

Beyond keeping your dog safe from your plants, you will need to keep your plants safe from your dog! Guarding your flower beds with Palisade Fencing is a great option, as the gaps between the slats allow for a less obstructed view so that you can still enjoy your blooms. This will also shield your plants from being squished under paw and away from your dog’s toileting routine. Palisade fencing is also a great option for keeping dogs out of ponds and swimming pools to prevent dogs from falling in when unattended.

Step 3 – Store Dangerous Items Properly

A Shed or Tool Tidy is essential to secure sharp objects and harmful substances out of your dog’s reach, from gardening tools to antifreeze. Such items can cause serious harm to your pet, so proper storage is a worthwhile investment compared to the stress of a poorly pup (and costly vet bills). What’s more, a shed is fantastic storage for excess dog food and mucky toys, keeping unpleasant smells and dirt away from your home. G & MB Manning sheds are made with sustainably sourced timber and our wide selection offers pet protection to suit any budget.

We would also recommend a Wheelie Bin Store as a useful organisational tool to prevent dogs from rooting through your rubbish, making a mess, and potentially hurting themselves in the process. They’re also an effective deterrent for keeping out pests like foxes and seagulls.

Step 4 – Keeping Your Dog Safe

Some other things you should consider…

• Compost and grass clippings can harbour harmful bacteria and mould that could harm your dog. This is easily done by storing your garden waste in a Compost Bin, also creating nutrient-dense soil for years to come!
• Keep dogs away from lawns when treated with chemicals like insecticide or weed killer as these can irritate dog’s paws and cause stomach upset. If you must use these chemicals in your garden, there are pet-safe alternatives on the market. Otherwise, fence off the affected area for the few days following.
• Check your fencing after strong windy weather or storms to check for new potential escape routes.
• Keep a water bowl outside and provide shaded areas at all times to prevent your dog form overheating – especially on hot days.

Step 5 – Keeping Your Dog Happy

Once you’ve taken these necessary steps, you can rest assured that your garden will keep your faithful companion safe. It is still important to remember that dogs are less likely to exhibit bad behaviours if their best friend is there to keep them company. By supervising your dog’s outdoor time and engaging in regular play and training sessions, you’re making lasting memories and keeping your dog happy and safe.

For more bespoke garden solutions, partner with us. Experts in the business for the last 78 years, call G & MB Manning for your puppy-proofing solutions on 01442 866264 or visit our website at https://​gmb​man​ning​.co​.uk.