Entertaining a dog in an apartment can be challenging, especially when your outdoor space is limited. But you don't have to have a backyard if your dog wants to spend some leisure time outside at home! With a few hacks, you can transform your porch or balcony into an outdoor haven your pup will love.
Stick around. In this post, we'll give you some ideas for making your apartment balcony dog-friendly and fun!
Safety First
Before you do your mini remodel, be sure the space is safe for him to chill comfortably.
Dog-proof the railings on your balcony by putting up safety netting to ensure he can't wiggle through. A wrap-around trellis or bamboo sheets work well, too. Not only will those make the space safer, but they'll provide privacy. When you do it right, it looks pretty fashionable, too.
Check the height to ensure he can't jump over the railing and keep furniture that he can jump up on away from the railings. Accidents can still happen, even if he's not the type of dog to attempt a getaway.
And just like inside your apartment, check that any container plants you keep outside aren't poisonous to your furry companion. Check for snails and slugs as well, since those can be toxic for dogs too.
Plant Your Pet a Garden
You may have noticed your dog nibbling on grass and other plants on your walks together to get some fiber in their diet for digestion's sake. Keeping some of those beneficial plants on your balcony is a great way to bring the park to your small space!
A few examples of healthy plants for your dog include:
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Wheatgrass: It isn’t just for smoothies! Wheatgrass contains a wide variety of vitamins, fiber, amino acids, chlorophyll, and enzymes, all beneficial to your dog's health.
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Rosemary: Not only does it smell divine, but rosemary is also rich in iron and antioxidants.
- Basil: This aromatic herb is packed with antioxidants and has antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
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Thyme: Like basil, thyme offers plenty of antioxidants and antimicrobial/antiviral properties.
- Catnip: Believe it or not, catnip is an excellent digestive aid and anxiety-reducer for dogs.
Note: Of course, every dog's physiology is different. You should monitor your dog's reaction to eating these edible plants and supervise him to ensure he doesn't overindulge.
Create a Cozy Space for Naps
Afternoon naps in the sun are one of life's great pleasures for canines and humans alike! Provide your pet with the perfect balcony naptime spot with an indoor/outdoor waterproof doggie bed. Like most patio furniture, outdoor dog cushions are low-maintenance and easy to clean; all you have to do is hose it off and wipe it down.
When the weather turns hot, it's essential to ensure your favorite quadruped keeps cool outside. A dog cooling pad gives your dog a spot to rest and cool down without having to interrupt his lounge vibes by going back inside.
For an extra inviting area, include some strategically placed artificial grass or even natural grass mats. (Just be aware your pup will likely associate this with using the potty, so you may need to swap them out regularly.)
Bring on the Outdoor Activities
Renting with pets can limit the scope of their beloved outdoor activities, but that doesn't mean you can't improvise to create a fun doggie playground right on your balcony!
If your dog is a water-lover, a small collapsible kiddie pool is just the thing to keep him entertained on the balcony! Toss a few water toys for him to catch and splash with; if he's like most dogs, he'll eventually make himself comfy in the middle of the pool, happily chewing on his favorite toy.
Similarly, a small portable sandbox is an excellent addition if your little guy is a digger! Bury a few toys and watch him dig happily to his heart's content.
When he gets bored swimming or digging (or you're over cleaning up water and sand everywhere), you can clean out your dog's playtime receptacle and turn it into a ball pit. Fill it with safe, non-toxic plastic balls and put some treats at the bottom, then let him do what dogs do best: find them with his nose!
Be sure to keep your phone handy; every one of these activities is guaranteed Instagram gold.
Enjoy Bonding on the Balcony!
For dog lovers, there's nothing more comforting than finally coming home to your best friend for some r&r after a long day. For our four-legged human lovers, our arrival usually means it's time to finally go out for that park visit or walk around the neighborhood!
While every responsible dog owner knows there's no substitute for that daily exercise, a fun balcony garden oasis is a fantastic way to compromise once in a while.
