{"id":6113,"date":"2021-10-24T20:44:07","date_gmt":"2021-10-24T20:44:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=6113"},"modified":"2026-08-07T23:56:10","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T23:56:10","slug":"dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/","title":{"rendered":"Barkitecture: 12 Dog-Friendly Landscaping Ideas for Your Backyard"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key Takeaways:<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 <strong>&#8220;Barkitecture&#8221;<\/strong> means designing your yard around how your dog actually uses it (running, digging, sniffing, cooling off) so it protects your lawn AND gives your dog safe ways to play.<br>\u2022 <strong>Skip toxic plants<\/strong> and choose paw-tough ground covers like clover and creeping thyme.<br>\u2022 <strong>Barkitecture\u2019s defining features<\/strong> include zoomie tracks, sniff gardens, and digging pits.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creating a dog-friendly backyard doesn&#8217;t mean sacrificing a beautiful landscape. With the right design choices, you can protect your lawn and plants while giving your dog a safe, engaging space to run, sniff, dig, and relax.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That approach now has a name: barkitecture \u2014 the growing trend of designing outdoor spaces around how dogs naturally use them. These 12 dog-friendly landscaping ideas will help you pull it off.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And if you need help taking care of your new dog-friendly yard, Lawn Love can connect you with <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=mowing\">local mowing pros<\/a> so you can spend less time on your lawn and more time enjoying your days with your puppy.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-0cbe8fe9-737f-4924-b641-065ff27e11de\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#0-what-is-barkitecture-and-why-its-trending-in-2026\" style=\"\">What is barkitecture (and why it&#8217;s trending in 2026)<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#1-12-dog-friendly-landscaping-ideas\" style=\"\">12 dog-friendly landscaping ideas<\/a><ul><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#2-1-add-a-splash-pad-or-doggy-pool\" style=\"\">1. Add a splash pad or doggy pool<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#3-2-plant-a-sniff-and-sensory-garden\" style=\"\">2. Plant a sniff and sensory garden<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#4-3-build-a-digging-pit\" style=\"\">3. Build a digging pit<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#5-4-create-a-zoomie-track\" style=\"\">4. Create a zoomie track<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#6-5-install-a-dog-window\" style=\"\">5. Install a dog window<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#7-6-create-a-designated-dog-zone\" style=\"\">6. Create a designated dog zone<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#8-7-build-a-diy-agility-course\" style=\"\">7. Build a DIY agility course<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#9-8-design-for-shade\" style=\"\">8. Design for shade<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#10-9-use-garden-barriers-and-raised-beds\" style=\"\">9. Use garden barriers and raised beds<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#11-10-swap-toxic-plants-for-dog-safe-ones\" style=\"\">10. Swap toxic plants for dog-safe ones<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#12-11-choose-paw-tough-ground-cover\" style=\"\">11. Choose paw-tough ground cover<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#13-12-reseed-with-a-dog-tough-grass\" style=\"\">12. Reseed with a dog-tough grass<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/#14-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-what-is-barkitecture-and-why-its-trending-in-2026\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"what-is-barkitecture-and-why-its-trending-in-2026\">What is barkitecture (and why it&#8217;s trending in 2026)<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Barkitecture started as a playful term for stylish doghouses, but today it refers to designing an entire backyard around your dog&#8217;s needs. That means choosing pet-safe plants, shady places to rest, and spaces where your dog can naturally run, sniff, dig, and play.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s also becoming a bigger focus for homeowners. Americans are expected to spend more than <a href=\"https:\/\/americanpetproducts.org\/industry-trends-and-stats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">$165 billion on their pets<\/a> in 2026, according to the American Pet Products Association, and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.turfmutt.com\/stories\/2026Trends\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TurfMutt Foundation<\/a> has named barkitecture one of the year&#8217;s top backyard trends, predicting that pet-friendly design will become a primary consideration in outdoor spaces.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The idea is simple: Instead of trying to stop your dog&#8217;s natural behaviors, design your landscape to work with them.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cEvery dog is unique, from the breed habits down to the individual. So when you\u2019re thinking about your space, think of how you and your dog want to use it,\u201d says <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.illinois.edu\/dkk\/staff\/jamie-viebach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jamie Viebach<\/a>, horticulture educator at the University of Illinois Extension.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Some dogs need lots of space to chase a ball or disc, while others want to lounge in the shade.&#8221; <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Designing with your own dog&#8217;s habits in mind is one of the core ideas behind barkitecture.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s how to incorporate barkitecture into your backyard:<\/p>    <h2 id=\"1-12-dog-friendly-landscaping-ideas\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"12-dog-friendly-landscaping-ideas\">12 dog-friendly landscaping ideas<\/span><\/h2>    <h3 id=\"2-1-add-a-splash-pad-or-doggy-pool\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"1-add-a-splash-pad-or-doggy-pool\">1. Add a splash pad or doggy pool<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Doggy-pool-in-backyard.jpg\" alt=\"Two smiling adults supervise four dogs playing in and around a small blue kiddie pool in a backyard.\" class=\"wp-image-47733\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Doggy-pool-in-backyard.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Doggy-pool-in-backyard-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Doggy-pool-in-backyard-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Doggy-pool-in-backyard-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Doggy-pool-in-backyard-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Two adults watch four dogs splash and play in a blue kiddie pool. Photo Credit: Jeff Herman \/ Lawn Love<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Summers are extra hot under a fur coat. A shallow splash pad or recirculating water feature lets your dog cool off after a game of fetch. On a budget, a hard-plastic kiddie pool ($20 or less) works (skip the inflatable kind, which won&#8217;t survive Spot&#8217;s claws).&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That said, this is one of those backyard upgrades where you really need to know your dog. My dogs hate anything related to water, so a splash pad or doggy pool would be a waste of time, money, and yard space for us. But for water-loving dogs, it can be one of the easiest ways to make summer playtime more comfortable.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Set it a few inches into the ground for stability, and change the water often to prevent bacteria. For a polished look, a shallow pond of smooth (not jagged) stone creates a stylish landscape feature.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"3-2-plant-a-sniff-and-sensory-garden\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"2-plant-a-sniff-and-sensory-garden\">2. Plant a sniff and sensory garden<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dogs experience the world through scent, and a dedicated &#8220;sniff station&#8221; of dog-safe herbs gives them the same mental enrichment as a walk. To <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/sensory-garden-for-dogs\/\">build a sensory garden for dogs<\/a>, fill a raised bed or border with dog-safe herbs and flowers that invite exploration.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cSome pet-safe annuals include celosia, snapdragons, hollyhocks, marigolds, petunias, and nasturtiums,\u201d Viebach says. She also recommends pollinator-friendly flowers such as violets, coneflowers, sunflowers, coreopsis, bee balm, black-eyed Susans, and liatris.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cRoses are also safe from a toxicity standpoint, but the thorns are a consideration, and you may want to avoid them for that,\u201d she says.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Henry Rouhana of <a href=\"https:\/\/surefixremodelinglv.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sure-Fix Remodeling<\/a> in Easton, Pennsylvania, says sniff gardens can provide valuable mental enrichment because the variety of scents keeps dogs engaged.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;One Easton project turned a plain lawn into a sensory path with layered plants that the owners said reduced indoor restlessness,&#8221; he says.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"4-3-build-a-digging-pit\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"3-build-a-digging-pit\">3. Build a digging pit<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"599\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_2438354801_b183a1be67_c.jpg\" alt=\"small dog digging in a sandbox\" class=\"wp-image-6120\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_2438354801_b183a1be67_c.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_2438354801_b183a1be67_c-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_2438354801_b183a1be67_c-768x575.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_2438354801_b183a1be67_c-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_2438354801_b183a1be67_c-610x457.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_2438354801_b183a1be67_c-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_2438354801_b183a1be67_c-390x292.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An Australian Cattle Dog puppy playing in a backyard sandbox. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/mia3mom\/2438354801\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rachel<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nd\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-ND 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your dog digs, it will dig somewhere \u2014 so give it an approved spot. A designated digging pit saves your beds and your lawn. Here&#8217;s how to build one:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Dig a pit 8-12 inches deep, large enough for your dog to lie down in.<\/li>    <li>Line it with a thin layer of fast-setting concrete, poking a few drainage holes in the bottom; let it dry.<\/li>    <li>Fill with playground sand (Lowe&#8217;s or Home Depot).<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep it slightly damp in summer \u2014 dogs dig to find a cool place to lie down, and a damp pit beats your flower bed. Bury a toy or two to encourage use.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rouhana has found that designated digging pits work best when they&#8217;re incorporated into the overall yard layout.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;In another remodel, I guided the owners to place (the digging pit) near the zoomie track so the dog naturally shifted focus without damaging the rest of the yard,&#8221; he says.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"5-4-create-a-zoomie-track\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"4-create-a-zoomie-track\">4. Create a zoomie track<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many dogs naturally follow the same route around the yard, wearing down the grass into \u201cdog paths.\u201d They also tend to take the shortest, most direct route. So if the easiest way from the porch to the fence cuts straight across your lawn, that\u2019s probably where they\u2019ll go every time.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I\u2019ve learned this the hard way. At my house, my dogs have completely ruined a strip of grass by turning it into their own path, and no amount of overseeding has made it fully bounce back.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of fighting it, design the path on purpose \u2014 a deliberate perimeter loop of pavers, pea gravel, or cedar mulch. It channels the zoomies, protects your plantings, and looks intentional.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Light-colored stones stay cooler underfoot than dark ones, so they&#8217;re easier on paws on a hot afternoon.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"6-5-install-a-dog-window\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"5-install-a-dog-window\">5. Install a dog window<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\"> <iframe title=\"How to Make a Dog Window in a Fence - DIY Network\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/b_bQOcIA9os?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe> <\/div><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have a solid wood or vinyl fence, a dog window \u2014 a small panel of clear, shatter-resistant plastic \u2014 lets your dog watch the world while staying safely inside. A more entertained dog is usually a less destructive one.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But this is another upgrade where you need to know your dog. If your dog is reactive, anxious, or easily worked up by people, cars, or other dogs passing by, a fence window may do more harm than good. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of my dogs would only get more nervous with a front-row view of everything happening outside the yard, so this isn\u2019t something I\u2019d add at my house.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Build and install your own, or have a contractor do it. Either way, test that the panel is solid enough that Fido can&#8217;t push through.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"7-6-create-a-designated-dog-zone\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"6-create-a-designated-dog-zone\">6. Create a designated dog zone<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your dog spends hours outdoors, consider giving it a dedicated area of the yard. Fencing off one section helps protect the rest of your landscape while giving your dog a space to run, play, and relax.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Include fresh water, shade, comfortable ground cover, and a few favorite toys. A designated dog zone can also be a great place for a digging pit, agility equipment, or a splash pad.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"8-7-build-a-diy-agility-course\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"7-build-a-diy-agility-course\">7. Build a DIY agility course<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dog-in-obstacle-course-.jpg\" alt=\"A happy Australian Cattle Dog wearing a red harness and floral collar stands upright with its paws on a blue metal obstacle course structure.\" class=\"wp-image-47735\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dog-in-obstacle-course-.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dog-in-obstacle-course--300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dog-in-obstacle-course--768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dog-in-obstacle-course--510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dog-in-obstacle-course--610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An Australian Cattle Dog happily poses on a blue paw print obstacle course. Photo Credit: Jeff Herman \/ Lawn Love  <\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your pup loves the agility course at the dog park, build a backyard version. Jumps from PVC pipe, balance beams and ramps from a few 2x4s, and an inexpensive tunnel ($30\u2013$40 online) keep an active dog busy (and out of the garden).<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Better yet, these features can double as attractive landscape elements when incorporated into your backyard design.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"9-8-design-for-shade\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"8-design-for-shade\">8. Design for shade<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dogs cool by panting and seeking shade, and a dog that digs holes to lie in is often just trying to cool off, so more shade can mean less digging.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Layer your shade by combining tall trees (native species are best for long-term coverage), pergolas or awnings for immediate relief, and a shaded doghouse. For regions with really hot summers (the Southeast and Southwest in particular), design for shade across the whole day, not just 1 hour.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just don\u2019t make the entire yard shaded. Many dogs still love having a sunny spot where they can lie down and sunbathe. Both of my dogs do this, and they\u2019ll follow the sun around the yard throughout the day. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is to give them options: cool shade when they need relief, and a safe sunny patch when they want to stretch out.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"10-9-use-garden-barriers-and-raised-beds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"9-use-garden-barriers-and-raised-beds\">9. Use garden barriers and raised beds<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_12933698385_c19f86c655_c.jpg\" alt=\"wooden fence with gate, surrounding a garden\" class=\"wp-image-6124\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_12933698385_c19f86c655_c.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_12933698385_c19f86c655_c-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_12933698385_c19f86c655_c-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_12933698385_c19f86c655_c-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_12933698385_c19f86c655_c-610x458.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_12933698385_c19f86c655_c-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_12933698385_c19f86c655_c-390x293.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An open wooden gate leading into a fenced backyard vegetable garden. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/stella12\/12933698385\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Deb Nystrom<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Low wood, stone, or wire edging around trees, shrubs, and flower beds helps protect plants from digging, trampling, and urine while giving the landscape a clean, finished look.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prefer not to fence your plants? Raised beds lift plants above digging-and-marking height while adding structure to the yard.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/beginners-guide-to-raised-bed-gardening\/\">A Beginner\u2019s Guide to Raised Bed Gardening<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"11-10-swap-toxic-plants-for-dog-safe-ones\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"10-swap-toxic-plants-for-dog-safe-ones\">10. Swap toxic plants for dog-safe ones<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most important steps in creating a dog-friendly landscape is choosing plants that are safe for curious pets.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Some plants that are commonly found in home landscaping are toxic to dogs,&#8221; Viebach says. This list includes plants such as English ivy, sago palm, and hydrangeas.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Poisonous plants aren\u2019t the only ones to exclude from your dog-friendly landscaping.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cBarberry isn\u2019t toxic, but it\u2019s known to be a favorite hangout for ticks (plus it\u2019s invasive), so you\u2019ll want to avoid planting those,\u201d she says.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She recommends keeping tempting but potentially harmful plants, such as ornamental alliums, in areas your dog can&#8217;t access if they&#8217;re prone to chewing on vegetation. Remove or fence them off, and replace them with safe, good-looking alternatives.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can use the table below for pet-safe plant swaps:<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Instead of this (toxic\/fragile)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Plant this (dog-safe)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Why<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Azalea\/rhododendron<\/td><td>Camellia<\/td><td>Similar part-shade foundation look, without the same toxicity risk<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sago palm<\/td><td>Rosemary or Mojo pittosporum<\/td><td>Structural evergreen look without the liver-failure risk<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tulips\/spring bulbs<\/td><td>Zinnias or gerbera daisies<\/td><td>Bright color without toxic bulbs your dog may dig up<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Standard turf, like St. Augustine<\/td><td>Clover or tall fescue<\/td><td>Tougher under paws; clover resists urine browning, while fescue tolerates traffic<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more information on toxic plants to avoid, check out our article: <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/poisonous-landscape-plants-for-dogs\/\">Most Poisonous Landscape Plants for Dogs<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals website also has information on common <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aspca.org\/pet-care\/animal-poison-control\/dogs-plant-list\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">plants toxic and non-toxic for dogs<\/a>.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"12-11-choose-paw-tough-ground-cover\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"11-choose-paw-tough-ground-cover\">11. Choose paw-tough ground cover<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your dog can&#8217;t ruin grass that isn&#8217;t there. In high-traffic spots, replace turf with durable, low-maintenance ground cover. Some dog-friendly options include:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>White clover:<\/strong> Soft underfoot, drought-tolerant, self-repairing, and less likely than traditional turfgrass to develop urine spots.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><strong>Creeping thyme:<\/strong> Fragrant, low-growing, and well-suited for planting between stepping stones or pavers.<\/li>    <li><strong>Irish moss, Labrador violet, and silver carpet:<\/strong> Low-maintenance alternatives for areas that see lighter foot traffic.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For mulched beds, choose materials that are safe if curious dogs decide to investigate. Viebach recommends undyed arborist wood chips, cedar, or cypress mulch over cocoa mulch, which contains theobromine (the same compound that makes chocolate toxic to dogs).&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She also advises avoiding rubber mulch, since it isn&#8217;t beneficial for plants and may pose a hazard if chewed or ingested.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-keep-mulch-in-place\/\">How to Keep Mulch in Place<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"13-12-reseed-with-a-dog-tough-grass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"12-reseed-with-a-dog-tough-grass\">12. Reseed with a dog-tough grass<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Can&#8217;t part with a real lawn? Reseed your dog&#8217;s favorite zones with a damage-resistant grass type:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Tall fescue<\/strong> develops deep roots and wide blades that withstand heavy traffic well.<\/li>    <li><strong>Zoysiagrass<\/strong> and <strong>Bermudagrass, <\/strong>common <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/warm-season-grass-growing-guide\/\">warm-season grasses<\/a>, recover quickly from wear and thrive in warm climates.<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/cool-season-grass-growing-guide\/\">Cool-season grasses<\/a><strong> like Kentucky bluegrass<\/strong> and <strong>perennial ryegrass<\/strong> are also popular choices for active backyards, especially in cooler regions.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-grasses-for-dogs\/\">Best Grasses for Dogs<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"14-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"> <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1784040325883\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What else should I consider when creating a dog-friendly backyard?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Beyond choosing pet-safe plants and durable landscaping materials, don&#8217;t overlook everyday maintenance.\u00a0<br><br>\u201cIf you compost, you\u2019ll want to make sure it\u2019s secured so dogs and other critters can\u2019t access it,\u201d Viebach says.<br><br>Moreover, \u201cWhile you should provide a source of fresh water for dogs if they\u2019re going to spend any time outside in the heat, you should also make sure to remove standing water like empty buckets, children\u2019s toys, wheelbarrows, etc., so that it doesn\u2019t breed ticks (a major vector for heartworm) and other nasties, like <em>Giardia<\/em>,\u201d she says.<br><br><strong>Read more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-prevent-ticks-in-your-yard\/\">How Do You Prevent Ticks in Your Yard?<\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-compost-for-lawn-and-garden\/\">How to Compost for Your Lawn and Garden<\/a><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1784040382898\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does a pet-friendly yard add home value?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It can. Durable fencing, low-maintenance ground cover, and well-designed outdoor space appeal to a broad pool of buyers, not just pet owners.\u00a0<br><br><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/top-landscaping-projects-increase-home-value\/\">Top Landscaping Projects to Increase the Value of Your Home<\/a><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1784040410139\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is rock salt safe for dogs?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Not always. Rock salt and ice melt products can irritate your dog&#8217;s paws and, if licked or ingested, may cause stomach upset or more serious health problems.<br><br>Viebach recommends using salt sparingly.\u00a0<br><br>&#8220;A standard coffee cup holds enough salt to cover a 10-by-10-foot section of driveway,&#8221; she says. <br><br>After the snow melts, sweep up any excess salt and dispose of it in the trash to help protect your pets, plants, and local waterways.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>    <h3 id=\"15-hire-a-local-lawn-care-pro\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"hire-a-local-lawn-care-pro\">Hire a local lawn care pro<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A dog-friendly yard with bespoke barkitecture features is easier to plan than to build. The right plants, surfaces, and layout take work (and a little know-how).&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;d rather leave it to someone who does this every day, Lawn Love connects you with a background-checked local pro for <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=aerationOverseedingPackage\">reseeding<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=mowing\">mowing<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=fertilization\">lawn treatments<\/a>, and much more.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"16-existing-lawn-love-customers-can-request-manual-quotes-for-services-like-planting-installing-barriers-and-other-light-landscaping-work-via-the-lawn-love-app\">Existing Lawn Love customers can request manual quotes for services like planting, installing barriers, and other light landscaping work via the Lawn Love app.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: A dog-friendly backyard with a sandbox, pond, and covered seating. Created using Gemini AI and Canva Pro.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Barkitecture is transforming backyards. Discover 12 dog-friendly landscaping ideas, from splash pads to pet-safe plants.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":66,"featured_media":47731,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[298],"tags":[222],"class_list":["post-6113","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-landscaping","tag-landscaping"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LL-Barkitecture-1.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Maria Isabela Reis","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/maria-isabela-reis\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6113","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/66"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6113"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6113\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":48271,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6113\/revisions\/48271"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/47731"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6113"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6113"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6113"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}