Man’s best friend is more than just a title for most dog owners. Many family photos wouldn’t be complete without the inclusion of our canine companions! Below are a handful of ideas to consider when shopping for the paw-fect home for you and your beloved canine.
One: Appropriate Outdoor Space
Dogs need easy access to an outdoor space where they have plenty of room to run and play. A backyard, front yard, or dog run attached to the home can fill this need. These do not have to be massive either. One source states that small, couch potato breeds like English Bulldogs may need as little as 100 square feet while traditional hunting and guard dogs will thrive in at least 2500 square feet. A local neighborhood park can also satisfy the activity needs of your dog but a private yard provides easy access to let your dog run freely and do their business at any time without you being leashed to them. Private yards also can be beneficial for dogs who are not sociable yet with other dogs or people.
Two: Fencing
A fenced-in yard isn’t necessarily a requirement for families with a dog, but a physical border can offer several benefits. Most importantly, it can help to keep Fido from wandering into a potentially dangerous situation or trespass onto your neighbor’s property. In the same way that a fence can help keep your dog safely inside, a fence can keep out other dogs and animals from coming onto your property t. When planned and built properly, a sturdy fence can also act as an effective sound and sight barrier for your dog – especially when combined with landscaping planned with the same effect in mind. Fencing is available in a wide variety of styles to match the aesthetic of your home while effectively protecting your companion and giving them a safe place to play.
Three: Shade
Once you’ve found the right property that fits your pet’s needs, the next thing you may consider is if there is enough shade. Dogs require cooler spaces to retreat to on those hot summer days, much like we do. You might look to see how shadows fall from nearby trees, the house, fence, or other already existing features. If there is minimal to no shade to be found during the hottest part of the day, you may consider a doghouse, shed, or garage your dog can access if they are ever outside on their own.
Four: Flooring
When it comes to living with our furry friends, many dog owners prefer hardwood floors which provide ease of cleaning up shed fur or the occasional accident. Sturdy hardwood floors can also be more ideal for families with large dog breeds that could ruin carpet as they run through the house with the ‘zoomies’. Families with older dogs may appreciate the extra padding carpet can provide too though as it will provide additional traction for their independent mobility and cushion their hips when they sleep. Some families choose to use area rugs to maintain hardwood floors while accommodating an elderly dog. Be sure to secure these with rug tape (if it lacks gripping material) to avoid any unfortunate slips!
Five: Neighborhood Noise
Living on, or near, a busy road can be a cause of anxiety for your dog and cause them to act out in unexpected ways such as bolting unexpectedly, anxious digging, or chewing/licking themselves excessively to the point of developing sores. Aside from ambient noise that will be a persistent stimulus to your dog, there can be nearby sources of intermittent loud noise (I.e. stadiums, high schools, parks with 4th of July celebrations, etc.). If you and your dog thrive in a home that feels like an oasis away, a quieter neighborhood may be a high priority in your search.
Six: Doggy Nook
What is the layout of the home? Are there convenient places to put your dog’s food and water bowls? Spaces that could fit their bed and essentials? A tiny alcove or a seemingly inconvenient corner may be perfect for your best friend. You will want your pet’s bowls to be out of the way of high traffic in the event of a spill and you do not want to have your dog anywhere that they may be emboldened to get up to mischief.
Just as you consider property features for your own use, the aspects mentioned above will ensure your future home is dog-friendly and your pet is happy and healthy in their new home.