BLOG Creating a Pet-Friendly Landscape: Tips from Lawns By St. John Mar 31, 2025

Creating a pet-friendly landscape is a rewarding endeavor, enhancing not only the beauty of your outdoor space but also ensuring the safety and enjoyment of your furry companions. At Lawns By St. John, we understand the love and care that go into designing a backyard both you and your pets can enjoy. In this guide, we provide expert tips to help you create a landscape that is both aesthetically pleasing and pet-friendly.

Start with considering your pet's needs. Different animals have varying requirements, so evaluating how your pet uses the yard is crucial. Does your dog enjoy running and playing? Perhaps a dedicated play area with durable, pet-safe grass is ideal. For cats who love to explore, creating hidden pathways and shady nooks can be perfect. By factoring your pet's behavior into your landscape design, you can establish a harmonious environment that caters to their instincts.

Choosing the right plants is integral to creating a pet-friendly yard. Toxic plants can pose serious health risks to your animals, so it’s essential to landscape with non-toxic options. Incorporate plants like marigolds, sunflowers, and snapdragons which are not only safe but also add vibrancy to your landscape. Additionally, consider using natural barriers like shrubs or hedges to guide your pets away from more delicate plantings, keeping both your flora and your pets safe.

Protecting your lawn from potential pet damage is another consideration. Pets can unintentionally cause wear and tear, leading to bare patches or muddy areas. Lawns By St. John recommends using robust, pet-resistant grass varieties like Bermuda or Ryegrass. These species are more tolerant of high traffic and recover quickly, ensuring your lawn remains lush and green. Also, committing to a regular maintenance schedule, including watering and mowing, helps maintain the durability and appearance of your lawn.

Water features can be a delightful addition to a pet-friendly landscape. However, it’s vital to ensure they’re safe for your pets. Shallow ponds or running streams can offer a refreshing play area, but always ensure these are shallow enough to avoid any risk of drowning. Additionally, regularly check your water features to keep them clean and free from harmful bacteria or debris that could affect your pet's health.

Proper fencing is essential for keeping your pets secure within your backyard haven. Solid fencing options not only prevent pets from wandering off but also keep unwanted wildlife out. This is particularly important in areas where your pet might encounter harmful creatures. When selecting a fence, consider your pet’s size and agility. A taller, sturdier barrier is advisable for larger dogs or more daring pets.

Finishing touches like pet-friendly mulches and pathways not only beautify the landscape but also provide safe spaces for your pets to roam. Avoid using cocoa mulch, which is toxic to dogs, and opt for untreated wood or shredded bark instead. Creating designated pathways with gravel or stone prevents pets from venturing into garden beds while offering a tactile experience that most pets find pleasant.

In conclusion, crafting a pet-friendly landscape requires thoughtful planning and a focus on both aesthetics and safety. By selecting the right plants, protective features, and taking into consideration your pet's habits, your landscape can flourish into a sanctuary for everyone to enjoy. At Lawns By St. John, we are committed to helping you achieve this balance, integrating expert design with personalized touches to create an outdoor environment that you and your pets will love for years to come.