At Looking Good Landscaping, we know your pets are more than just companions – they’re part of the family. And just like every other family member, they deserve a safe, joyful space to call their own.
With over 21 years of experience designing beautiful outdoor spaces across WA, we specialise in creating functional, stylish and low-maintenance gardens that work for the whole household.
Whether you’ve got a curious puppy, a sun-loving old lab or a speedy kelpie that zooms around the lawn, our guide will show you how to create a pet-friendly garden Perth homeowners and their furry friends will love.
With that said, contact us at Looking Good Landscaping to get started now or read on to find out more.
Why a Pet-friendly Garden Matters
Creating Safe and Happy Outdoor Spaces
We know from experience that a well-thought-out garden isn’t just about pretty plants – it’s about designing a space where your pets can thrive safely.
Perth’s hot, dry climate means landscaping with dogs in mind requires thoughtful choices around shade, plants and water access. Pets love to explore, dig, chew and roll and if your garden isn’t designed with their needs in mind, it can result in damaged plants, dug-up lawns or worse – your pets being exposed to toxic plants.
For us, a well-planned backyard design for pets helps avoid these pitfalls while enhancing your outdoor lifestyle.
Lifestyle Benefits for Owners and Pets
Having a pet-friendly garden can reduce stress, encourage outdoor play and exercise, and foster stronger bonds between pets and owners. And for families in Perth, your garden can become a shared sanctuary – a place where children and pets alike can play safely under the Aussie sun.
Choose Non-toxic and Pet-safe Plants
WA-friendly Options that are Safe for Dogs
When choosing pet-safe plants that thrive in Perth gardens, opt for hardy, non-toxic varieties suited to WA’s climate. Think:
- Kangaroo Paw: iconic, colourful and non-toxic.
- Westringia (Coastal Rosemary): tough, drought-resistant and pet-safe.
- Camellias and Bottlebrush: gentle on pets and beautiful additions.
- Liriope and Lomandra: hardy shade plants WA pets love to lie under.
Choosing pet safe plants Perth locals trust means you don’t have to worry about curious chewers getting sick.
Plants to Avoid (Common Toxic Varieties)
In our experience, while many plants look appealing, several common choices are toxic plants for dogs. Avoid these in any garden design you may be considering:
- Oleander
- Azaleas and Rhododendrons
- Sago Palm
- Brunfelsia (Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow)
- Foxglove.
Our advice is that when in doubt, leave it out! Always double-check plant toxicity before installing anything new.
Create Pet Paths and Digging Zones
Encourage Exploration Without Damage
Dogs are natural explorers. Instead of fighting it, embrace it by incorporating pathways and designated zones where your pup can roam without harm.
Mulched or paved paths offer structure and help pets move through the garden without trampling plants. Add “dig zones” with sand or loose soil to keep those paws busy in safe spots, not your prized veggie patch.
Groundcovers and Lawn Options that Survive Pet Traffic
Tired of muddy paw prints and patchy grass? Use durable groundcovers like Dichondra or native violet in shaded spots. For lawns, Zoysia and Kikuyu are popular in dog-friendly landscaping for their resilience and softness.
Provide Shade, Shelter and Water Access
Trees, Pergolas and Cool Zones
Perth’s sun can be harsh – not just for people, but for pets too. Shade is critical in any pet-friendly garden that Perth residents plan.
Incorporate shade sails and pergolas or plant large shrubs and shade plants which pets can lounge under. Native trees like Eucalyptus caesia and Callistemon provide natural cover and a cooling microclimate. A shaded corner with mulch or soft turf is the perfect pet napping zone.
Hydration Stations and Pet Fountains
Ensure pets have access to clean, cool water all day. Consider installing a pet fountain or decorative bowl near shady spots. Not only are these functional, but they can add a peaceful ambience to your yard. Hydration is non-negotiable in WA’s hot summers!
Fencing and Safety Considerations
Pet-safe Fencing Options
Security matters, especially with adventurous breeds.
Quality fencing keeps your pets in and unwanted critters out. In any garden design Perth families commission, we ensure fences are high enough to prevent jumping and low enough to stop digging under. Colorbond panels, secure timber fencing or decorative screens can all be used without compromising style.
Preventing Escapes and Hazards
Gates should be self-closing and secure. Remove any sharp objects, pesticides or garden chemicals from access areas. Cover or block access to compost bins and keep pets away from freshly mulched zones – some commercial mulches can contain toxic plants for dogs.
Maintain a Low-maintenance, Pet-resilient Design
Mulch, Irrigation and Cleaning Tips
A truly low-maintenance pet garden doesn’t just survive pets – it thrives with them. Choose pet-safe mulch like pea gravel or pine bark, which doesn’t get too hot and is safe for paws.
Automated irrigation systems help maintain a lush garden without daily effort. Drip systems reduce mess and water wastage. Plus, install outdoor taps or rinse stations to clean muddy paws before they come back inside.
Keeping your space tidy also means fewer pest issues and fewer surprises in the garden beds!
Need Help Designing the Perfect Pet-Friendly Garden?
Talk to the Friendly Team at Looking Good Landscaping
Creating a garden that looks amazing, lasts through WA summers and suits the whole family – including the four-legged members – takes thoughtful design and years of experience. And that’s where we come in.
At Looking Good Landscaping, we’ve been designing and installing dog-friendly landscaping Perth families trust for over two decades. Our family-first values mean we understand the balance of function, style and safety – because pets are family too.
Whether you want a lush oasis, a play-ready lawn or a low-maintenance pet garden, we’ll help you create a space that keeps tails wagging and plants thriving.
Want a garden that keeps everyone safe and happy? Contact Looking Good Landscaping and let us create the perfect pet-friendly garden Perth. Book a Free Design Chat.
