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Designing a home that’s perfect for both you and your dog involves more than just having a big backyard. It’s about creating a space that’s safe, comfortable, and convenient for your dog. Here are 10 expert tips from a veterinarian and a real estate agent on what makes a house truly dog-friendly.
1. Secure, Durable Flooring
- Veterinarian’s Insight: Dogs can be tough on floors with their nails and potential for accidents. Choose durable, scratch-resistant flooring like tile, vinyl, or laminate. If you prefer carpet, go for stain-resistant varieties to make cleanup easier.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: Flooring is one of the first things to consider. Not only does durable flooring protect your investment, but it also keeps your home looking fresh and clean, even with a dog.
2. Safe and Secure Outdoor Space
- Veterinarian’s Insight: A secure, fenced yard is crucial to keep your dog safe while they explore outside. Make sure the space is free from harmful plants and has shaded areas where your dog can cool down.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: A well-maintained, fenced yard is a huge selling point for dog owners. It’s not just about space; it’s about peace of mind, knowing your dog can play safely.
3. Easy Access to Outdoors
- Veterinarian’s Insight: Dogs need regular outdoor time, so having easy access to a yard or patio is important. Consider installing a dog door if possible, to give your dog the freedom to go outside as needed.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: Homes with easy outdoor access, like a patio door leading to the yard, are very appealing to dog owners. It simplifies daily routines and makes life more convenient.
4. Dog-Proofed Interiors
- Veterinarian’s Insight: Keep dangerous items like cleaning supplies and certain foods out of reach. Dogs are naturally curious and could easily get into something harmful. I would also recommend for you to insure your dog especially if there are puppies.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: Smart storage solutions are key in a dog-friendly home. Built-in cabinets or higher shelves can keep dangerous items safely away from curious pups.
5. Designated Dog Spaces
- Veterinarian’s Insight: Dogs need a space to call their own, whether it’s a cozy bed in a quiet corner or a dedicated area for feeding. This helps them feel secure and settled in your home.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: Homes with flexible spaces can easily accommodate a dog’s needs. Whether it’s a nook for a dog bed or a spot in the kitchen for feeding, these small details make a big difference.
6. Temperature Control
- Veterinarian’s Insight: Maintaining a comfortable temperature is crucial, especially for breeds sensitive to heat or cold. Ensure your dog has a warm, draft-free place to rest, and keep them cool in the summer.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: Homes with efficient heating and cooling systems are a must for dog owners. If your dog spends time outside, consider an outdoor area with shade and shelter.
7. Access to Parks and Walking Trails
- Veterinarian’s Insight: Regular exercise is essential for a dog’s health. Living near parks or walking trails provides a convenient way to keep your dog active and happy.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: Proximity to parks or dog-friendly walking trails is a huge plus for dog owners. It’s not just about the house itself but the surrounding community that makes it ideal for pets.
8. Open Floor Plan
- Veterinarian’s Insight: Dogs, especially larger breeds, benefit from open spaces where they can move around freely without feeling cramped. An open floor plan is ideal for this.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: An open floor plan is popular with buyers and practical for dog owners. It allows for easy supervision and interaction, creating a more comfortable environment for everyone.
9. Low-Stress Environment
- Veterinarian’s Insight: A calm, quiet home environment reduces stress for dogs, particularly those that are anxious or older. Providing quiet spaces where they can retreat is important for their well-being.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: Homes in quiet neighbourhoods with less noise pollution are better suited for dog owners. Consider factors like traffic noise or proximity to busy streets when choosing a home.
10. Routine and Stability
- Veterinarian’s Insight: Dogs thrive on routine, so having a home that supports a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and rest is key. This stability helps dogs feel secure.
- Real Estate Agent’s Take: A well-organized home with designated spaces for different activities—like feeding, sleeping, and playing—makes it easier to maintain a routine, which benefits both you and your dog.
A dog-friendly house is more than just a place with a yard; it’s a home where every detail—from the flooring to the neighborhood—is considered with your dog’s well-being in mind. Whether you’re buying a new house or making changes to your current one, these tips from a veterinarian and a real estate agent can help you create a space where both you and your dog can thrive.