One of the more common things clients ask me to do is to take something into account for their furry family members when working on a design for them.  It can range anywhere from: blocking the views to the neighbors so they don’t bark all day at them, keep them out of planted areas, making sure non-toxic plants are used, providing shady spots for them to lounge during the day or simply creating an access point for them to enter and exit the home.  Whatever the concern is, it is valid for your personal ease of mind.  The fact is you probably know your dog better than anyone.  Every dog is different, just like every owner and their needs are different.  Some dogs need tons of open space to play while others just want a nice outdoor place to settle in and nap until you get home.  There are diggers, plant eaters, water lovers, climbers, chasers, toy enthusiasts and puzzle solvers.  One of the best ways to keep you and your dog on “good garden terms” is to provide them with what they need.  

Some of the most important things to plan for are the safety and physical and mental health of your dog.  This includes access to the outdoors for relieving themselves, proper availability of heating or cooling, clean drinking water sources, non-toxic plants (if you have plant eater on your hands), things in the yard to prevent anxiety and boredom, opportunities for exercise, and keeping them contained to the yard and home.