How to Design a Pet-Friendly Backyard That’s Beautiful and Functional

For many DFW homeowners, pets are family—and they deserve a backyard that’s just as safe, functional, and beautiful as any other part of your home. But designing a yard that works for both humans and animals requires some thoughtful planning.

At Salas Outdoors, we specialize in custom landscaping solutions that balance beauty with real-life needs—including features that cater to dogs, cats, and more. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to create a pet-friendly backyard that doesn’t compromise on style, usability, or long-term durability.

1. Choose Pet-Safe Plants and Materials

The first step in building a pet-friendly backyard is knowing what’s safe—and what’s not.

Avoid These Common Toxic Plants:

• Oleander
• Sago Palm
• Azaleas
• Foxglove
• Lantana (toxic to dogs)

Pet-Safe Plant Options:

• Marigolds
• Sunflowers
• Rosemary
• Snapdragons
• Blue Fescue

When you work with Salas Outdoors, we help you select non-toxic plants that can handle a little paw traffic while still looking beautiful.

As for materials, avoid sharp gravel or splinter-prone woods. Instead, opt for smooth pavers, pet-friendly turf, or mulch varieties that won't stick to paws.

2. Install Durable, Dig-Resistant Surfaces

Dogs love to dig—and some surfaces can’t handle the abuse. If your pup is a digger or zoomie-lover, you’ll need materials that can keep up.

Recommended surfaces:

• Artificial turf: Clean, dig-resistant, and low maintenance
• Decomposed granite: Gentle on paws and naturally compacted
• Flagstone with tight joints: Prevents digging between gaps
• Mulched beds with borders: Redirects energy while adding texture

We design landscapes that stand up to playful pets while remaining elegant and easy to maintain.

3. Plan for Shade and Cooling

Texas summers are no joke—for people and pets. Make sure your pet-friendly landscape includes plenty of shady spots.

Add cooling elements like:

• Pergolas or covered patios
• Shade trees with non-toxic leaves
• Raised platforms or dog decks
• Water features or pet-safe splash zones

At Salas Outdoors, we often pair shade structures with turf zones or patios to give pets a cool, restful spot after play.

4. Create Dedicated Pet Zones

A backyard doesn’t have to be one-size-fits-all. Dividing your outdoor space into zones helps create structure and keeps both your pets and your design in check.

Ideas for pet-specific zones:

• Gravel potty area: Easy cleanup and odor control
• Enclosed run or play area: Safe, fenced area for exercise
• Training corner: For agility practice or play tunnels
• Low garden beds: Ideal for cat sunbathing or smaller pets

By creating defined areas, your pets can enjoy freedom while your lawn and flowers stay intact.

5. Include Secure Fencing and Gates

Even the best-designed backyard isn’t safe without secure fencing. For peace of mind, your outdoor space should include:

• Fencing at least 5–6 feet tall (depending on breed)
• In-ground borders to deter digging under fences
• Locking gates with self-close hinges
• Pet-safe materials (no sharp wire or toxic finishes)

Salas Outdoors can help you integrate custom fencing into your landscape so it blends in beautifully—without compromising safety.

6. Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Sharp Edges

Pesticides, herbicides, and certain fertilizers can be dangerous to pets. If you maintain your own landscape, check all products for pet safety—or let a professional team manage everything with non-toxic solutions.

Also be sure to design without hazards, like:

• Sharp metal edging
• Thorny plants
• Loose landscape lighting cords
• Small stones that pose a choking risk

At Salas Outdoors, we help DFW families create safe environments that are as healthy as they are beautiful.

7. Don’t Sacrifice Style for Pet Function

Pet-friendly design doesn’t mean you have to settle for a bland backyard. The key is blending functionality with style:

• Use symmetry and structure in plant beds, even if they include hardy plants
• Frame gravel or turf zones with clean stone borders
• Add pathways for pets that double as design features
• Use lighting and hardscape textures to elevate the look of functional zones

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