Better Than a Dog Run — Yard Ideas for Your Four-Legged Family Member

Has homeownership gone to the dogs? Yes! Features fit for furbabies are a must-have for canine-loving homebuyers — like these pet-friendly upgrades that add value.

Ramp Off Porch for Dogs | Building a Dog Run

Ramp-Up a Wood Deck

Wood decks add value. Adding a ramp will give pups of all sizes and ages an easy way to access the yard. 

Tip: Building a deck? Avoid exposing your pet to toxins. Dogs, like kids, are sensitive to chemicals so opt for VOC-free wood, paints, and stains.

FYI: Two-thirds of homeowners have at least one furbaby.

Image: Mosby Building Arts

Thirst-Quenching Feature

Outdoor Fountain for Dogs | Building a Dog Run

This idea hydrates parched pooches while enhancing the yard.

Tip: Pick a water feature that has a self-circulating filtration system. It will conserve water while providing pets with a clean, fresh drink.

FYI: A barking 81% of dog owners consider their pups to be equal members of the family.

Image: Scot Eckley, Inc.

Room to Roam

Cattle Wire Fence for Dogs | Building a Dog Run

A dog run will protect your garden while giving your pup some “me” space.

Tip: Chain-link enclosures can detract from your home’s value. This cattle wire fence is a durable and affordable solution that looks invisible from a distance.

FYI: Pets are the fifth-ranking reason that drives people to buy homes.

Image: Rose Peck

Buh-Bye Yellow Spots

Fake Grass for Dog Yard | Building a Dog Run

Artificial grass provides homeowners with a lush lawn that never needs watering.  It also keeps paws mud-free and prevents diggity dogs from creating holes.

Tip: A pet-friendly turf is soft, hypoallergenic, and antimicrobial with an instantaneous drainage system.

FYI: When it comes to their pets, homeowners spend almost three times more than renters.

Image: EasyTurf

Peek-a-Boo Window

Window for Dogs in a Fence | Building a Dog Run

Curiosity is bad for cats, but indulging your dog’s interest can prevent fence jumping and chewing.

Tip: You can also build a platform that provides your pup with a bird’s-eye view.

FYI: A whopping 77% of dog owners give their pooches birthday presents.

Image: Sandra Dodd

DIY Potty Station

Rock and Gravel Dog Potty Station | Building a Dog Run

Urine is a grass killer, but you can keep your lawn green and happy with this DIY potty station. It uses rock and gravel that you clean with a hose. 

Tip: With consistent and positive training you can teach a dog to eliminate in a specific spot.

FYI: Dogs have soft spots — a cushy 62% have their own chair, sofa, or bed.

Image: WelcomePup.com

Dog- and People-Friendly Yard

Odor-Reducing Stone Dust in Pet Area | Building a Dog Run

This small space accommodates three dogs and their people. Stone dust, a material known for reducing doggy odors, was used to create pet-friendly paths while plants beds were added for human enjoyment. 

Tip: Although stone dust is an inexpensive and low-maintenance option, ¾-inch pea gravel is better for windy areas.

FYI: Indoor dog space is a growing trend; 13% of dogs have their own room.

Image: Geographia Landscape Design

Woof-Tastic Haven

Pet-Friendly Mulch in a Yard | Building a Dog Run

Wood chips are a great dog run staple. It’s soft on paws, doesn’t get muddy, and makes cleanup a cinch.

Tip: Pick a pooch-friendly mulch. Cocoa bean mulch can be deadly if ingested. Mulches that contain fertilizers, insecticides, and herbicides are also highly toxic. Cedar mulch is a great choice since it repels flies and ticks.

FYI: We heart hounds; 54% of Americans refer to themselves as pet parents.

Image: Mouse Meets Turtle blog

Make a Splash

Bone-Shaped Dog Bathtub | Building a Dog Run

Cool your hot dog down with this chill built-in. The insert is called the Bone Pool — it’s a chew- and UV-resistant wading pool for pups that you fill with a garden hose. Price: $369

Tip: Got a real pool? Non-chlorine chemicals like bromine are safer for dogs.

FYI: Pet spending is increasing. Pet products are consider a recession-proof industry.

Image: One Dog One Bone

Pawsome Barkitecture

Fancy Custom Dog House | Building a Dog Run

Here’s something to howl about: Americans are willing to spend money on pet features that complement their homes. So an aesthetically pleasing dog house that works with your home’s architectural style is a hot property.

Tip: Keep your local weather in mind when picking a canine crib. This dwelling was designed for a desert environment.

FYI: Pet-ownership is at its highest level.

Image: John Gilmer Architect

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Natural Pool with Landscaping | Natural Swimming Pools

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