Dog-Friendly Backyard Ideas on a Budget -
Inspiration Guide

When it comes to designing the perfect backyard, it’s important to consider every member of your household. This includes four-legged friends!

Coming up with dog-friendly backyard ideas can be tricky on a budget. Here are some of our favorite landscaping ideas to help you get everything you're looking for at a reasonable price.

 
 

Inspiring Dog-Friendly Backyard Landscaping Ideas

If you’re planning a backyard-landscape project, chances are you’ve looked for inspiration on social media or flipped/scrolled through some home-improvement magazines and blogs. From gorgeous decks to cozy fire pits, a lot of the ideas are focused on features for humans.

But you don’t have to choose between a magazine-worthy backyard and an outdoor space your furry friends will also love! Keep reading to discover our most inspiring dog friendly backyard landscaping ideas!

Dog Friendly Backyard With No Grass

Many people think that a dog friendly backyard has to have grass, but that’s not the case. In reality, with constant maintenance and upkeep, the grass isn’t always greener. With a little imagination, you can create a beautiful no-grass backyard for everyone to enjoy.  

1. Dog Friendly Cheap Backyard Ideas With No Grass

There are a number of ways to achieve an outdoor oasis for your pup without breaking the bank. For example, for a dog who loves to dig, a sandbox is an affordable option that will offer hours of fun for your furry friend. 

Most basic sandboxes can be purchased for under $200. Or you can DIY it by simply digging a shallow hole and filling it with sand for a more cost-effective approach.

Similarly, you might also consider a doggie splash pool. This is a great way for dogs to have fun and cool off on a hot day.

Just keep in mind that sandboxes and splash pools can get messy, so be sure to consider that before jumping in.

2. Dog Friendly Modern Backyard Ideas With No Grass

Modern lifestyles can be hectic. Balancing work, school, family, housework, and other responsibilities can leave very little time for leisure.

When you head out for some fresh air and to play with your pooch, you don’t want to spend the whole time watering and mowing your grass.

Fortunately, there are tons of contemporary, low-maintenance grass alternatives to choose from. Here are a few to consider:

  • Planters surrounded by gravel

  • Brick or stone pathways

  • Artificial or synthetic grass (there are even antimicrobial, dog-friendly options)

  • Mulch or wood chips

3. Dog Friendly Small Backyard Ideas With No Grass

One of the best ways to make the most out of a small yard is to utilize plants and gardens.

But many people worry that their dog will eat or dig up their plants, not to mention that some plants are toxic to canines. If you want to make sure your dog can’t get to your garden, it’s a good idea to section it off away from their area.

In general, the following plants are pretty safe to coexist with dogs in your backyard (but you should always double-check with your vet, in case of any allergies):

  • Snap Dragons

  • Sage

  • Marigolds

  • Asters

  • Roses

Make sure to avoid plants that are harmful to dogs, such as:

  • Irises

  • Mistletoe

  • Hemlock

  • Peyones

  • Lilies of the Valley

  • Hydrangeas

Dog Friendly Backyard With Ground Cover

Backyards that incorporate ground cover is a growing trend in landscaping. It’s a great way to limit maintenance requirements, add some life and color to your space, and create a durable environment that can stand the test of time. 

But it’s important to make sure you choose a type of ground cover that is safe for animals and tough enough to hold up under the demands of your pup’s running, playing and other business.

Some living ground covers that are suitable for dogs include:

  • Silver carpet

  • Elfin thyme

  • Miniature stonecrop

  • Winter creeper

  • Irish moss

Looking for added durability? We recommend planting your ground cover in-between stepping stones or pavers for a unique look and extra toughness.

Temporary Dog Fence Ideas

Dog Fence Ideas for Backyards

For most dog owners, fences are essential. They’re one of the most practical ways to ensure that your doggie has the freedom to run around and play without wandering off or getting into trouble. But fencing off an area for your dog can be tricky depending on your needs and layout. Here are some simple fencing ideas to keep your dog safe outside:

1. Temporary Dog Fence Ideas

If you’re not quite ready or able to add a permanent fence to your yard, there are still a number of temporary options you can use. There are a number of designated portable fences that can be folded and unfolded wherever you are. These areas function like playpens and can come in virtually any size or shape depending on your furry friend. You can also take it with you on trips so that your dog can have safe fun wherever you are.

If you have a small-to-medium-sized dog, you can also create a temporary fence with some basic chicken wire. This is a great way to try out different fence configurations before building a permanent structure.

2. Dog-Run Fence Ideas

Want to make sure your pups always have plenty of freedom and space to run without getting into your hydrangeas or vegetable garden?

A dog-run fence may be the ideal solution. These permanent enclosures are designed to contain your pups within a specified area in your backyard, while still affording them plenty of room to run around.

Dog-run fences are usually shorter than the fences you share with your neighbors and are often framed with wood or metal posts but finished with chicken wire or mesh, so you and your dogs can see one another through the fencing. 

If you want to add some extra-fun features, you can add a covered section or dog house and fill it with their favorite outdoor toys!