5 Tips for Creating Safe, Enjoyable Yard Spaces for Pets in Calgary
Our pets are just like children; they bring us joy, laughter, and friendship when no one else is around. In many instances, they also offer us protection, acting as a “guard” from unknown intruders, or sometimes even the mailman!
As members of our family, they deserve spaces that cater to their needs as animals, while also allowing them to enjoy the outdoors as much as possible. That’s why more homeowners are prioritizing outdoor spaces that cater to both their relaxation and the well-being and safety of their pets. A pet-friendly yard can offer countless hours of fun, comfort, and enrichment for dogs and cats—but creating the right environment requires thoughtful planning.
With a few smart design decisions, your yard can become a beautiful and functional space where every member of the family—four-legged ones included—can thrive. Below, we go over six simple tips that will make your landscapes as pet-friendly as can be.
#1. Safety First: Fencing and Boundaries
Establishing secure boundaries is essential for any pet-friendly yard. Traditional solid fences provide the most reliable containment for dogs – at least the ones that can’t jump high – acting as a barrier for your pet and property. The ideal fencing height depends on your pet’s breed and jumping ability, but generally, a fence should be at least four to six feet tall.
For pet owners seeking to enhance the visual appeal of their yard or section off specific areas for their pets, strategically placed shrubs, raised beds, and decorative borders can help create natural boundaries. These landscape features gently guide pets away from gardens or other off-limits areas, discouraging digging and attempted escapes.
Always check for gaps at ground level and ensure all gates latch securely—especially if you have a determined dog or a curious, climbing-prone cat. In Calgary’s neighbourhoods—where proximity to green spaces can mean more distractions and wildlife—the proper boundaries can offer you both peace of mind and privacy.
#2. Choosing Pet-Safe Plants
Plant selection is critical when pets are a part of the household, and Calgary’s unique climate can make the choice even more crucial. Many popular plants are toxic to dogs and cats, so prioritize non-toxic varieties that can also handle Calgary’s changing weather. Options like marigolds, sunflowers, snapdragons, and certain native grasses are both weather-resistant and harmless to pets.
Avoid dangerous species such as lilies, foxglove, and azaleas, which can cause serious health issues if eaten. If your pets love eating anything they can, consider planting edible pet gardens with catnip, wheatgrass, or mint—safe treats that can provide an additional activity and overall enjoyment for both cats and dogs.
#3. Pet-Friendly Ground Cover Options
Choosing the right ground cover is crucial for a pet-friendly yard, especially in Calgary’s variable climate. Durable grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue can withstand heavy use and recover quickly after pet activity, making them ideal for active dogs.
Artificial turf is another solid option, offering year-round green, easy clean-up, and mud control—ensure it’s safe for pets and has good drainage, which is essential during Calgary’s Spring melt. For lower-maintenance alternatives, consider microclover, hardy native groundcovers, or pea gravel for play areas. Always avoid cocoa mulch, as it’s toxic to dogs.
With the right surfaces, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance yard that withstands both pets and Calgary’s varying year-round weather.
#4. Design Features for Fun and Comfort
A well-designed yard can meet your pet’s needs for fun, exercise, and comfort. Calgary’s summers bring heat, so shaded areas—whether through trees, pergolas, or pet shelters—are a must. Creating these shady retreats can also help you and your pets enjoy the outdoors together, even on the warmest days.
Water features such as shallow fountains or splash pads offer safe ways for dogs to cool down and play outdoors. For dogs with a digging instinct, consider a designated digging pit or sandbox that encourages healthy play while protecting your flower beds from being uprooted.
By thoughtfully incorporating fun zones and comfort features into your landscape, your yard will become your pet’s outdoor paradise. Calgary’s long daylight hours in summer present even more opportunities for extended play and relaxation.
#5. Maintenance and Cleanliness
Maintaining a pet-friendly yard is easier when you include practical solutions right from the start. Hardscaped pathways make it simple to keep muddy paws in check and offer easy access to your garden in any season. By planning functional routes, you can reduce dirt and mess, especially when snow and spring thaw create muddy situations.
Designate specific potty areas—using gravel, pea stone, or artificial turf—for easier clean-up and odour control, and be diligent about regular maintenance. When managing pests or weeds, always choose pet-safe products and avoid harsh chemicals that could harm your furry friends.
Keeping your landscaping tidy helps prevent fleas, ticks, and other pests from making a home near your pets. In Calgary, it’s also a good idea to adapt clean-up routines to the season, especially after chinooks or storms, to keep both pets and plants healthy.
Questions about Landscaping for Pets in Calgary?
A pet-friendly yard is more than just a patch of grass—it’s a sanctuary that enhances health and happiness, while promoting the creation of fond memories. By focusing on secure boundaries, non-toxic plants, durable ground covers, and special features for comfort and play, Calgary homeowners can transform their outdoor spaces into true havens for their pets.
If you’re ready to create a personalized, pet-friendly landscape, our team of professionals is ready to help bring your vision to life. At Calgary Dreamscapes, we specialize in a wide range of residential and commercial landscaping solutions that are more than pet-friendly! Get in touch with us anytime to start planning your dream landscape today!