Dogs at Home

10 Common Homeowner Association Rules for Dogs

When my mother-in-law decided that she wanted to move closer to us we were trilled. But she didn’t want to live in a suburban area with a big lawn. So, with this in mind we started to research nearby planned communities. If you have ever lived in a planned community you know that they tend to have Homeowner Associations (HOA). The point of a HOA is to ensure that the community is properly maintained and that everyone gets along. To do this the HOA sets up rules that everyone who chooses to live there must follow. Naturally, as a dog person, part of my research had to include learning all about Homeowner Association rules for dogs. In this post I will go over the 10 common Homeowner Association rules for dogs that I found through my research.

Disclosure: The information provided in this post is based on my own experiences and research. It should not be viewed as legal advice.

Homeowner Associations

Before I talk about homeowner association rules for dogs, it’s important to understand what homeowner associations are:

Homeowner associations are commonly found in planned communities where homeowners share resources like a community pool or common grounds. The HOA is made up of property owners in the community. In newer communities the property owners may also include the developer. HOA board members are generally volunteers who are elected by the property owners for the purpose of running the HOA.

The HOA board members are responsible for taking care of all the areas that serve the general community. This includes but is not limited to the maintenance of the common areas, community utilities and buildings.

Most HOAs require that all property owners pay a monthly maintenance fee. In addition to the monthly fee, property owners may be required to pay special one-time assessments to cover large community expenses and some HOAs also require a one-time buy-in fee for all new homeowners.

The rules of an HOA and how they should be handled should be documented in the HOA’s bylaws, Association’s covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&R) and a rules and regulation documents. It is in these documents that you should be able to find the homeowner association rules for dogs and how they are enforced.

Homeowner association terms you need to know

There is a lot of information on HOA’s on the web and I strongly recommend that you do your own research on HOAs and the rules governing them in your home state. To help, I have listed a number of resources I found at the end of this post. Here is a quick overview of my understanding of the three documents that make up the rules of a HOA.

Association’s covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&R)

CC&Rs is a legal document that spells out the rules and property limitations of the planned community they are associated with. If you buy into a planned community with a CC&R you must agree to live by these rules in order to reside in the community. It’s important that you understand all the conditions in the CC&R before you buy a home. When you close on your home you will be bound by them.

HOA’s bylaws

While the CC&R lists the rules of the community, the bylaws govern how the HOA will be run. In the bylaws you will find things like:

How often the HOA board meetings are held
Process for nominating and electing new board members
Number of members that serve at one time
Length of board member service terms
Duties and responsibilities of board members
How the rules will be enforced

Rules & Regulations

The rules and regulation is a supplement to the DD&R and the bylaws. This document tends to cover everything that was not included in the other two documents. This is also the place where they list rules that might change based on the community needs.

Who runs the homeowners associations?

The common belief is that homeowner associations are run by volunteers who live in the community. While that might be true for older communities, in newer communities the HOA may be controlled by the developer. Although the rules differ by state, some states allow the developer to stay in control of the HOA until the majority of the homes are sold.

Also HOA’s can choose to outsource the management of the community to an HOA Management Company. To what extent that HOA Management Company runs the HOA depends on the contract with the HOA. Often the management company takes on the maintenance of the property and also enforcing the rules of the HOA.

Why do Homeowner Associations have pet rules?

The purpose of a homeowner’s association is twofold; the first is to maintain the property and keep it looking nice. The second is to keep the peace. When there are rules in place, which everyone knows ahead of time, it’s easier for people to know what to expect. Therefore as long as everyone follows the rules, in theory at least, there should be little conflict between neighbors.

10 Common Homeowner Association Rules for Dogs

Although HOAs can legally choose to prohibit all pets from a community development there aren’t many that do. The ones that do tend to be condominium complexes or communities that are very close together. Most HOAs will handle potential problems with pets through the HOA pet rules.

1. Limit the number of pets allowed

The first rule on our list is pretty common to see. In this one the HOA may have a limit on the total number of pets you can have while living in the community. This limit can include all types of pets; dogs, cats, fish, hamsters, etc. If this is the case at the community you are planning to live in, make sure you are ok with this rule now and in the future.

Another thing to think about is whether you may want to breed your dog, since a litter of puppies may cause you to go over the pet limit.

2. Require that all pets are registered with the HOA

The second rule is to require pet owners to register all their pets with the HOA. By knowing what pets and how many live in each resident it makes it easier for the HOA to follow up with people who violate the pet rules.

3. Must show proof of rabies vaccines

In addition to registering your pets you may be required to show proof of vaccines for your pets. For dogs it is common for places to want to see proof of their rabies vaccines.

Homeowner Association Rules for Pets- Dog on deck Happyoodles.com

4. HOA’s may have a maximum size limit for dogs

Although size does not indicate whether a dog will be destructive or aggressive, it is one of the ways HOA’s can limit possible damage. So if you have a puppy right now make sure you have a good idea of what size they will be when they grow up if your HOA has a maximum size limit.

5. Not allow certain dog breeds

In addition to a limiting the size of the dog, some HOA do not allow what they consider to be aggressive dog breeds in the community.

6. Homeowners have to pick up after their pets

Ok this one should be done no matter where you live. Dog poop contains toxins and can be hazardous to other dogs and people who use the common areas. But in a HOA you may be fined if you don’t clean up after their pets.

If your new home includes a backyard, you will want to check out our post on Dog Potty Area tips.

7. Leash requirements

It is common for a HOA to require that dogs must be leashed when they are on community property. The exception to this is if the community has an off leash pet area.

During my research I came across one community that took this one step further dictating where the dog could be walked in the community. Of course I was a bit surprised that they actually had to spell out that you shouldn’t let your dog poop next to your neighbor’s front door.

8. Where you can keep your pet outside at home

Some places will restrict you from keeping your dog outside either on your deck, patios porch or even your yard.

What to make your patio dog friendly, check out our post on Dog Patio Ideas – For Small Spaces

9. HOA Dog Barking Rules

If you have a dog that wants to protect their home by barking at every stranger that goes by, you may not be a good candidate for a HOA with dog barking rules.

10. Rules regarding fences

So this is one you might not be thinking of when you review the CC&R, but some HOA’s may restrict whether you are allowed to put up a fence around your yard.

In addition, if they do allow fences they may restrict the height of the fence or even the type of fence you are allowed to put up.

Final thoughts on Homeowner Association rules for dogs

In the end it is your responsibility to know what you are agreeing to before you buy your home. If you think there is any chance that you will not be able to live with the pet rules of the HOA you should not buy into one.

Remember, the reason why Homeowner Associations have rules for dogs and other pets is so that everyone can enjoy living there. Just because you think your dog is the greatest doesn’t mean the next person does.

Homeowner Association Rules for Dogs Resources

Dog Patio Ideas – For Small Spaces

More people than ever have chosen to share their life with a dog. It’s not a surprise since sharing your life with a dog brings unconditional love and a sense of purpose. But dogs have a few basic needs to be happy. One of them is to get outside for some fresh air. Although going for a walk is a great way to fulfill these needs, it’s not always possible. If you are lucky enough to have a fenced in yard, you can send your dog out for a romp. But for apartment dwellers or really anyone that doesn’t have a large yard, finding outdoor space for your pup can be a challenge. That’s where we come in. Below you will find dog patio ideas, and tips on how to create a dog friendly patio, porch, deck or small yard to share with your furry companion.

Dog Patio Ideas- Safety First

Let me start off by saying you should never leave your dog unattended on your patio or balcony for any length of time. Dogs that are left alone for extended periods can become bored. This boredom often translates into trouble. Dogs that are bored can become destructive or a nuisance if that bordum turns into constant barking. The last thing you want to do is become the unwanted tenant or neighbor.

Also an outdoor patio cannot be a substitute for daily exercise and interaction. Daily walks and mental exercises are a must to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Dog Patio Tips to Keep Them Safe

Whether you live on the first floor or 20 stories up, you need to determine if your outdoor area is safe for your dog. Of course there are different challenges depending on how far off the ground your patio or deck is.

We will go over some of the safety concerns you should look for, but it is not realistic to think that we could cover every possible safety issue. It’s important that you use your own best judgement.

Dog Patio Ideas - For Small Spaces - High-rise balcony in SF — High-rise balcony in San Francisco – Photo by ASHLEY ROI JENKINS DESIGN

High-Rise Syndrome

Have you heard of High-Rise Syndrome? It’s when a dog jumps over or through a railing on a high-rise building and falls. The resulting injuries include broken bones, spinal injuries and even death. The interesting thing about High-Rise Syndrome is that 75% of the dogs that were part of a small study actually jumped off the balcony. So it’s important that if you plan to share your high-rise balcony with your dog that you make sure it’s safe.

When determining if your outside space is safe for your pup check to see if the rail spacing is wide enough for your pup to go through. Not only do you want to look at the space between the railings, but also the space between the floor and the railing, and any gaps where the railing meets the building.

Another potential danger to watch out for is the height of the railing. Make sure the railing is high enough to keep your pup from jumping over it. I am often amazed at how high our little dog can jump.

Dog Patio Ideas - For Small Spaces - Picture of metal railing — Grandview Luxury Apartment Homes – Photo by Designed to Sell Homes, LLC

I suggest you measure every opening, when determining if the railing is safe for your dog. Although it might seem like overkill, we once had a puppy slip through our deck railing because one piece was bowed slightly. It was just enough for her to squeeze her little body through. It was the only spot she could get through. We had measured some of the other widths but didn’t check them all. And let me tell you it happened so fast. One minute we were playing with her on the deck the next we were chasing her around our unfenced yard.

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Create a Safety Barrier For Your Dog Patio

If you determine that the spacing is too wide or low add a barrier to keep your pup from slipping through. You can find rail safety netting like the one shown here on Amazon.com.

Dog Patio Ideas safety netting — Kidkusion Heavy Duty Deck Guard – 33″ – Made in USA – Available at Amazon.com

Another option one homeowner chose is to use vinyl lattice in front of the railings. You can see in the picture that they used zip ties to attach the lattice to the railing. If a trip to the home improvement store is not an option, you can find vinyl lattice panels on Amazon.com

If you don’t want to block the view you can also use Plexiglas sheets to provide a barrier. Just drill holes into the sheets, and then use the holes to secure the Plexiglas to the railing with zip ties. This option is considerably more expensive than the others but may last longer. With any of these options remember to check periodically to make sure it is still safe.

If you feel there is a possibility that your dog may jump over the railing consider placing a barrier above the railing too.

Be Mindful of Furniture Placement

Dog Patio Ideas - For Small Spaces - High-rise balcony in LA — Beautiful Contemporary Balcony, Los Angeles – Photo by MDG ESTATES

When placing furniture on your patio or balcony you need to be careful of where you place it. Furniture that is located near the railing could give your pup the boost they need to get over the barrier. You will notice in the photo here that the ottoman is right next to the glass railing, affectively cutting the height of the railing to almost half of its true height. By the way, this is a staged home, no animals live here.

Watch Out For Predators

SF Apartment outdoor space — San Francisco Apartment – Photo by Studio Burke

You need to be mindful of predators, both the animal and human kind. Know what types of predators can be found in your area. Although I live in a predominately suburban neighborhood we still get an occasional coyote that makes their way south using the power lines as a path into suburban areas. Also dognapping is becoming more common in some areas.

If you do leave your pup outside by themselves for any length of time make sure they are in a truly secure place. High, solid fences like the one in the photo to the here will help keep prying eyes out and your pup in.

Store Harmful Items Out of Your Dog’s Reach

Covered patio with fire pit — Photo by Chicago Roof Deck & Garden

For many people their small patios, decks or yards need to serve multiple functions. In addition to a place to relax, people use their outside areas to grill and socialize with friends. But these activities can present dangers to your pup. Make sure to to store chemicals for gardening, fire starters and sharp objects like your grill utensils in a safe place that is out of reach of your pup. If you have a fire pit use a barrier to ensure your pup does not get burned. It’s hard to see but the fire pit to the left has a glass surround.

Prepare for the Weather

When designing your dog patio you should think about the weather and also sun placement. If you live in a hot climate you will need a way to protect your pup from the heat and sun.

A retractable awning can work well to keep the sun at bay when needed but then close to let more light in when desired.

Another option is to get a raised cooling bed like the original elevated pet bed by Coolaroo shown here. The raised bed allows air to circulate around the dog keeping them cooler when the weather gets hot. You can find it at Amazon.com

Provide Plenty of Water

Dogs should always have access to clean drinking water. Make sure that you incorporate a water bowl into your patio design. If you want to spruce up the water bowl by placing it a pot or planter make sure it is safe. Decorative garden pots are generally not made for food consumption and could contain dangerous chemicals. Remember dogs tend to lick strange things. You don’t want them licking the side of a painted planter that has lead or other harmful chemicals you are unaware of. Also choose a water bowl that is made to be outdoors.

YETI Boomer 8 Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

The sleek looking YETI Boomer 8 Dog Bowl is designed for the outdoors. The Boomer 8 can hold up to eight cups and is built with double-wall, non-insulated stainless steel making it incredibly durable, easy to clean, and resistant to rust and roughhousing. Plus it can be washed in the dishwasher. For smaller dogs the Boomer 4 holds 4 cups and is built with the same rugged design as the Boomer 8. You can find both at Amazon.com.

For colder weather

If it gets cold where you live limit the amount of time your pup spends outside. This is especially true if you live in a high-rise building. High-rise balconies can feel colder than the forecasted temperature due to the wind chills. If you have a dog with short fur, low body fat or was originally bred for a warmer climate you may want to get them a sweater to brave the cold.

Now that we have addressed many of the safety concerns you need to be aware of it’s time to design a fun and comfortable place for you and your pup.

Dog Patio Ideas – Defining Space

How you design your space will have a lot to do with how much space you have and what you hope to accomplish with the space. For very small spaces you might only have enough room for a little green area and maybe a sitting area for the humans.

The photo below is of an executive condominium patio in Singapore. As you can see, the area is divided between a green space and a small area to have a cup of tea. To keep the sun at bay and to provide for some privacy they used roll down shades attached to the roof.

Patio Ideas - For Small Spaces - High-rise balcony in Singapore — Contemporary Balcony, Singapore – Photo by livinggaia

To decide what to do with your small space make a list of everything you would like to use your space for. Then prioritize your needs vs your wants. If you have a really small space you may need to give up on some of your wants.

For many people who are looking for a pet friendly outdoor space their needs tend to be a comfortable place to sit and an area for their pup to relieve themselves when you can’t take them for a walk. We will look at some ideas below.

Dog Patio Ideas – Getting Comfy

A Place to Hang Out

Pet Friendly Porch in Denver – Photo by Associates III Interior Design

When deciding on a place to relax pick furniture that requires little maintenance and that is dog friendly. In the photo above the pup friendly hanging bed can accommodate both humans and dogs.

Sunbrella Cushion Covers and Pillows Warm up a Dog-Friendly Patio Photo by Patio Lane

The dog friendly patio shown above uses Sunbrella outdoor cushion covers and pillows that can be left out. The covers are machine washable and water resistance making them very pet friendly.

Add An Outdoor Dog Bed

You may prefer not to share you comfy space with your dog. In that case get them a dog bed that is made for the outdoors. Just make sure you look for a dog bed that is waterproof, dries fast and is mildew resistant.

It’s actually not that easy to find a dog bed with a cushion that is specifically made to be outside. But we did find the Raine Waterproof Outdoor Orthopedic Contour Dog Lounger from Animals Matter when we were looking for the best dog beds made in the USA. You can read more about it here.

Add Some Green

If possible try to carve out a little green space in your small patio or yard. Below the homeowners opted to carve out a small green area for the dogs next to the patio.

Dog Patio Ideas - Small stone patio with small grass area next to it. — Photo by Gravel To Gold, Inc

In the photo below homeowners opted to add some green space for their new puppy inside the screened in patio. This gives them a safe place for the puppy to the run around and go potty. The “grass” is low maintenance artificial turf.

Miami Fl Dog Patio – Photo by TurfGrass Artificial Solutions

A note on artificial grass: If you want to use artificial turf on your patio or balcony remember that it can get really hot. Just make sure it is installed correctly to avoid issues with mold.

Using Plants to Add Some Green

You can also use plants to give your space some green. In the photo below the balcony in Bordeaux, France uses artificial turf on the ground and a combination of small trees and plants to give the balcony the feel of being out in nature even though they are in a city. Pet friendly built-in furniture saves on space and provides storage for cushions and a table when not in use.

Watch Out For Harmful Plants

Adding lush greens to your space can provide a claiming affect to any patio but you should be careful with what you plant. Some common household plants can be toxic to dogs. Check out the Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List – Dogs from the ASPCA.org for more information.

Comfort Station

For many people having a place for their dog to relieve themselves is a must for their patios or small yards. In the picture below the homeowners carved out a small covered space next to their patio. The dogs are trained to use their “special spot” when the weather is inclement. The use of artificial turf makes maintaining this area easy

Traditional Landscape, Portland – Photo by Harmony Design Northwest

Of course if you only have a small patio or deck you will need something that is also smaller and not permanent. The good news is there are many options to choose from. You can opt to have fresh grass deliver to your door in a box from Amazon.com or a local dealer. You could also choose a synthetic grass solution like the porch potty which is also available from Amazon.com.

To find more tips on how to set up a dog potty spot for your dog, check out our post on Dog Potty Area Guide: Tips and Ideas

The Bottom Line About Dog Patios

It’s easy to create a dog friendly patio with just a few changes. Just remember to:

Never leave your dog outside by themselves if you live in a high-rise or an area that can present dangers to your dog.
Make sure the area is safe for your pup.
Add a place where everyone can relax.
Don’t forget to give your dog access to fresh water.
Add a little green if you can.

Dog Potty Area Guide: Tips and Ideas

So maybe you just brought home a new puppy or dog. Or maybe you are tired of looking at the yellow burn marks on your lawn. Either way a designated dog potty area can help you keep your yard and house clean. Not to mention the fact that it will help you potty train your puppy quicker. Join us as we take a look at what you need to think about before creating your own potty area. Plus we will show you examples of how people included a potty area into their yards.

Before we go too far into this conversation let me say that a the area you create for your dog can be as elaborate or simple as you want. With our pup Molly we simply craved out a piece of the backyard that was easily accessible. To do this we put up a low fence to separate her area from the rest of the yard. Our potty area would not win a design award but it did serve our purpose and it was low cost.

In the pictures below the homeowners took our simple idea of dividing the yard a few (many) steps further. Here they created a dog run on the side of their house while keeping the rest of their yard dog free.

Outdoor dog potty area with fencing and turf — Custom Dog Run Photo by Buzz Custom Fence on Houzz.com

Now their pug can easily access his potty spot through a doggy door in the homes wall. Below is another picture of the same yard. Here you can see how the backyard was divided between family space and potty space.

Backyard divided up between family space and dog run. — Custom Dog Run Photo by Buzz Custom Fence on Houzz.com

Why You Should Have a Designated Doggy Potty Area?

By having a designated potty area for your dog it allows you to keep your yard and home clean of feces. Just think about it. Even if you pick up the poo as soon as your dog goes unless you are scooping up all the materials around the poop you are still leaving some poop particles behind.

Than you walk in this area or maybe your kids play in the area. Chances are they are going to pick up some of the contaminates. Dog feces are full of bacteria that can cause you to get sick.

Let’s face it; kids are not known to keep their hands out of their mouths. Why take the chance of them getting sick when you can simply create a area that is off limits to the kids.

What to Consider When Creating a Dog Potty Area

1. Location of your dog potty

Where you place your dog potty will have an impact on the rest of your yard. Here are a few thoughts to consider.

Convenience – Place your doggy potty space in a convenient location with easy access for you and your dog.
Smell – Although you should place it in an area with easy access make sure it’s not too close to outdoor living spaces. You don’t want your dog going poo right next to where you are having dinner.
Weather – Think about what the weather is like in your area. If you live in a snowy area don’t place the dog potty area too far away from the house. Snow will make the potty area less convenient if you have to shovel a long path to get to it. If you live in a hot area, place the potty area someplace where it is shaded from the sun.
Vegetable Garden – Don’t place the potty area near or uphill from an edible garden. You don’t want to chance contaminating your garden with dog poo.
Grading – Pay attention to the slope of your yard. Make sure to place your potty area in a spot that is also sloped away from your house and other areas you plan to use. Otherwise you may get pee runoff near your living areas.

If you live in an apartment or simply don’t have a large yard these potty are ideas may not work for you. If that is the case check out our post on Dog Patio Ideas – For Small Spaces

2. Size of the potty area?

Ultimately the size of your potty area will be determined by the size of your yard and your pup.

Dog potty area with turff — Dog Area Photo by Green Toe Turf on Houzz.com

If your dog is anything like mine, they need some space to walk around and smell the area before going. None of my dogs liked to walk in an area that was too dirty or smelly. Plus you don’t want your dog walking over where they just pooed. For these reasons I suggest that your potty area be about 8’x8′ for a medium sized pup. At a minimum it should be big enough so they can do a few circles before pooping.

Whatever you decide keep in mind your dog’s habits. Also remember that the point of having a potty area is for them to use it. If it is too small they may end up going outside of the area.

3. Best ground covers for a dog potty area

You have a few options when it comes to ground covers for your potty area. We will go over the pros and cons of each.

Grass

Dog Potty Area Guide: Tips and Ideas Happyoodles,com image urine burns on lawn

Grass is the easiest and possibly the cheapest ground cover for a doggy potty area. But it does have a few drawbacks. The most obvious one is the yellow pee marks that happen when the acid in your dog’s urine kills the grass in your dog’s favorite pee spot. Now there are products that will neutralize the acid but that means regular maintenance.

In addition to the yellow spots you will need to re-seed the grass each season and mow regularly. Plus if the grass dies you might be left with a poopy mud puddle.

It will also be harder to train your pup to only go in the potty area and not on the rest of the lawn.

Do dogs need grass to go to the toilet?

No. Dogs can go to the bathroom anywhere but most dogs are taught to do their business in the grass. Plus I am sure the grass feels better on their feet. But you can teach a dog to go on any surface that is not a discomfort to them.

Dogs will even go on concrete. After going to doggy day care a few times one of our dogs thought it was ok to poop in the garage. It was concrete just like the daycare.

Gravel

The good thing about gravel is that it will drain well. The bad things are:

It can hurt your dog’s feet
It is harder to clean up poop because the rocks tend to stick to it.
Gravel has a way of washing away or getting kicked out of the area.

There are different sizes of gravel you can choose from. Driveway gravel is relatively large, between 3/8 and 3/4 inch in diameter. Gravel used in footpaths is 1/4 to 3/8 inches in diameter. The smaller gravel will be easier on your pups feet but also washes away easier. We have a gravel driveway that our small pup Bella will go in. She has no issues about doing her business there.

The picture below appears to be the smaller sized gravel. Again the homeowners installed a dog door for easy access.

Outdoor dog potty with gravel and grass. — Gravel Dog Run Photo by Tryon Homes, LLC on Houzz

Pea Gravel

Pea Gravel is a good alternative to regular gravel because of its small, smooth pebbles. It will not hurt your pups feet like gravel can. But like regular gravel you may find yourself picking up the rocks as you pick up the poop.

River Rock

Another type of stone that can be used is a smooth river rock. Unlike the gravel which has sharp edges, river rocks are smooth all around but are larger than pea gravel. If you prefer to use stone in your dog’s potty area this is a good choice.

But we used to have a golden retriever that would play with the river rocks as if they were balls. I was always afraid that he would swallow one. We ended up having them removed from the yard.

Smooth rock potty area on terrace — Modern Deck in Jacksonville Photo by Just Terraces on Houzz

Above is a custom stone pet comfort area that was created for a terrace.

For more ideas on how to make a patio or small yard dog friendly check out our post on Dog Patio Ideas – For Small Spaces

Mulch

Mulch is a good, inexpensive option. Much like the stone it drains well and looks nice. But unlike stone it will break down over time so you need to replenish it every year or two. We used wood chips in our potty area. They worked out fine.

Two white dogs on woodchip dog run — Dog Run with wood chips. Photo by Pat Bernard Design, Inc. – Houzz.com

If you choose to use mulch in your potty area, look for undyed mulch. Do not use cocoa bean mulch as it is dangerous for dogs if ingested. Do your homework before purchasing any mulch to make sure it will not harm your pup.

Also keep in mind that dogs can choke on mulch and must be supervised. This is especially true with pine needle mulch, as the pine needles can actually puncture the stomach lining if ingested

Another issue with using mulch is that it can absorb the urine and start to smell. Since we had a large area for our dog we did not have this problem.

Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is a common dog potty area cover but it takes a lot of work to do it right. Since artificial grass will not absorb pee you need to make sure you have the right materials underneath it.

Another concern with artificial grass is that it can get hot if the weather is hot.

Picture of a black dog on artificial Grass — Artificial Turf in Dog Potty Area Photo by PlushGrass Custom Synthetic Turf on Houzz

5. Containment

Next you need to think about how you are going to keep your ground cover and maybe your dogs contained in one spot. There are several options based on your needs. If you are looking for more of a dog run then just a potty spot a simple fence will do. In the dog run pictured below they used wood posts and what appears to be deer netting to enclose the area.

Dog Potty area on side of house — Dog Run Photo by Connelly Lawn and Garden, Inc. on Houzz

For the first potty area we created we used a simple low fencing. For our most recent one we used 6×6 posts to outline the area, than added mulch. In the picture below they used an edging block to separate the pebbles from the grass.

Dog Friendly Back Yard Photo by Calafia Design

Our next homeowners took the dog potty area idea to the next level with this covered dog run. This dog run is located in Connecticut so weather was an issue.

To combat the bad weather they used glass windows to protect the potty area from the rain and snow while still letting light in. The window can be opening on nice days to let fresh air in. There is also a dog door from the house.

Covered dog run Photo by RoSal Enterprises on Houzz

4. Drainage

When deciding where to place your dog potty, pay attention to how well the area drains. If the area does not drain well you will need to add drainage or pick another location. Driveway gravel works well for drainage. Just add a layer of gravel before added the ground cover.

Also don’t forget to add a weed blocker that will let the water pass through. In the video below they do a good job at showing what needs to be done to install artificial pet turf but the steps can apply to any ground cover.

How to Get Your Dog to Use the Dog Potty Area

So now that you created this great potty area how do you get your pup to use it? It’s easier than you think. Just follow these tips and they will be using it in no time.

This one is gross, but if your dog has eliminated elsewhere pick it up and place it in the potty area. Dogs will go where they smell poo.
Clean up all other poop in the yard.
Start your training first thing in the morning when you know they need to pee. Bring them out on a leash to the potty area. Give them the potty command and wait for them to go. Since they have not relieved themselves all night they will go quickly. Make sure to praise them for going in the potty area as soon as they start to go.
For the first week or so each time your dog needs to go potty bring them out on a leash to your new potty area. Give them the go potty command.
Praise them every time they use the potty area.
Most dogs are smart and want to please so they should learn pretty quickly.
If they do go in an area you don’t want them to, clean it up quickly.

If your puppy is not potty trained yet check out our post on Potty Training a Puppy: Made Easy. Here we will show you our tips and trick for easy potty training

Dog Potty Accessories

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Everyone likes to add a little something to make the space more special. Check out these dog potty accessories to make it a big hit with your dog.

Fire Hydrant Pee Spot

If you have a dog, you know that dogs like to pee on stuff to mark their territory. So why not give them something in their potty area that allows them to do just that. The Lulind Fire Hydrant is made from resin and is hand painted with UV resistant paint. At just 14″ tall it is a little on the short side compared to a real fire hydrant but the dogs don’t seem to mind. This fire hydrant comes with plastic stakes to secure it into the ground. Since it is made from resin it won’t rust like some of the other more expensive Doggy fire hydrants. You can find the Lulind Fire Hydrant at Amazon.com

Toscano Fire Hydrant Statue

If the Lulind Fire Hydrant is too small, the 23″ high Toscano Fire Hydrant Statue may be a better choice for you. This hand-crafted fire hydrant is made from real metal construction and hand-painted with a vintage rustic red color for an aged appearance. Per the manufacturer “Customer should apply Rust preventative product if keeping outside.” Based on reviews it sounds like this fire hydrant will fade and rust if not properly maintained. You can find the Toscano Fire Hydrant Statue at Amazon.com.

Potty Area Sign

Want to make sure everyone knows where the dog potty area is? Simply place this sing at the entrance of the space. The 6″x6″ powder coated aluminum sign stands on a 2′ aluminum post. This sign can be found at Amazon.com

More Potty Areas to Come

You may be wondering why I did not share pictures of our potty area. It’s because we are between potty areas. We removed the last one when we needed the space for a different project. Plus it wasn’t very attractive like the professionally done ones in the above pictures. But we do plan on creating another one and will provide pictures when it is done.

Looking for some more dog friendly home ideas? Then check out these posts:

The Best Dog Beds Made in the USA

We all want the best for our dogs including a safe, comfortable place for them to rest. This is why many people choose dog beds that are made in the USA for their dogs. When you buy a dog bed that is made in the USA, you are buying a bed that has been made with pride. Dog beds made in the USA also are often crafted with higher quality materials and standards then their cheap foreign counterparts. That is not to say all dog beds from other countries are bad. But if you are looking for a dog bed that will last, choose a dog bed made in the USA. Below you will find a list of the best dog beds made in the USA to choose from.

Why Buy Dog Beds Made in the USA

Have you ever purchased a dog bed that smelled of chemicals when you took it out of the packaging or bought a dog bed that looked great when you first brought it home but within a few months it started to lose all its fluff? I bet in both of those cases the beds you purchased were made overseas or with imported materials. I can make this bet because over 95% of all dog beds sold in the USA are imported. Dog beds that are made in China are made with cheap foam that is full of chemicals. These chemicals can cause harm to you and your dog and the foam deflates after only a few months of use.

When you buy a quality, made in the USA, dog bed, you will get a dog bed that is safe for you and your dog. All of the dogs beds listed below have made in the USA fillers that are certified safe. Plus the fabrics are also made in the USA.

Understanding the Made in the USA Label

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) governs and sets the standards for the “Made In the USA” Label. You can find detailed information on the standards in the FTC’s “Made in the USA Standards” document. But basically it states that textiles are permitted to have the “Made in the USA” label if; the product is cut and sewn in the US; and the fabric was created in the US. However the fibers and yarns that are used in the fabric can come from elsewhere.

However the standards also state that there can be an unqualified or qualified claim to the “Made in the USA” label. An unqualified claim means that the product must be “all or virtually all” made in the U.S. They further explain that all significant parts and processing that go into the product must be of U.S. origin. A qualified claim refers to products that are assembled in the US with some or all of the parts are imported. Qualified claims must disclose that the parts are imported.

Don’t be fooled by claims of “Made in the USA”. Many popular Made in the USA Dog Beds are actually qualified claims. Meaning they are manufactured in the USA but with imported parts. To determine if the claim is qualified or not you need to look at the materials used in the product. See a sample below:

What Makes it the Best Dog Bed?

Although everyone’s vision of “Best” might be different, I think there are some items that we can all agree on.

Safe – Providing our pups with a bed that is free from harmful chemicals is on top of everyone’s list. Chemicals found in imported beds have been linked to cancer.

Comfort – There is no point in buying a bed that our dogs will not sleep on. Cheap beds might be comfortable in the beginning but they tend to lose their support in less than a year.

Durability – Have you ever bought one of those cheap big box store dog beds that didn’t last more then a year? I know we did. This means that over the lifetime of your dog you will spend more on cheap dog beds then if you chose a quality dog bed made in the USA.

Convenience – Dog beds that are waterproof and washable make caring for your dog easier. Choose a dog bed with a removable cover for added convenience.

Understanding Certifications

Since it’s easy to make claims that may not be true, USA makers of dog beds can have their products certified by an independent source. There are three main certifications to look for when buying a dog bed:

CertiPur-US

CertiPur-US certifies that the foam used in the dog bed is free from harsh chemicals. The certification program is administered by the Alliance For Flexible Polyurethane Foam Inc. To learn more about CertiPUR-US please visit https://certipur.us/

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

The Global Organics Textile Standards Certification requires that at least 95% of the materials used to create the bed are certified organic. It also prohibits the use of certain substances, such as chemical flame retardants and polyurethane. Visit the GOTS website to learn more

Global Organics Latex Standard (GOLS)

The Global Organics Latex Standard Certification (GOLS) is for mattresses that contain latex. The GOLS ensures that a mattress with latex is made of 95 percent organic latex, with restrictions on the other 5 percent of the mattress’s components. Visit the GOLS website to learn more.

Natural-latex mattresses may have both the GOTS and GOLS labels.

What’s Best for your dog?

Finding the best dog bed is just half the solution. You need to decide what type of bed is going to be the best bed for your dog. To help you figure that out read our post on how to determine what is the best dog bed for your dog.

The Best Dog Beds Made in the USA

Because what is best can differ based on your needs we have categorized the best dog beds made in USA based on needs. But you can decide which made in the USA dog bed works the best for you.

Best Luxury Dog Beds Made In the USA

As an Amazon affiliate and sagefinds.com, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases., however the selections for this article are solely based on research for the safest materials and best reviews.

Animals Matter Faux Fur Shag Puff Luxury Dog Bed

It’s hard to beat the luxurious style of the Animals Matter’s Faux Fur Shag Puff Dog Bed. Not only is this dog bed made in the USA, Animals Matter is a vegan, cruelty-free and eco-friendly company. Plus I couldn’t find a single complaint about this bed.

The Best Dog Beds Made in the USA 0 tan and cream Animals Matter Faux Fur Shag Puff dog bed with dog in the middles.

This cozy bed features:

A shaggy faux fur inner lining
An overstuffed hypo-allergenic, fiberfill
Lastly it has a micro-suede gusset and bottom

You can find this dog bed at sagefinds.com under dog beds.

Luxury Faux Fur Snug Bear Rug Bed

Next we have what looks like a luxurious throw rug but it’s really a dog bed. The Faux Fur Orthopedic Snug Rug Dog Bed is also made by Animals Matter here in the USA.

This dog bed might have the look and feel of a lush shag rug but the CertiPUR-US Certified Orthopedic Memory Foam will keep your pup comfortable for days to come.

The extra-large sized Snug Rug is 59″x 42″x 1.5″ making it a nice size for larger dogs or space for a couple of smaller dogs. Plus it looks great by the fire.

You can find this dog bed at sagefinds.com under dog beds.

Best Dog Beds Made In the USA for Small Dogs

Ali Jewel Ortho Puff Orthopedic Luxury Dog Bed

Smaller dogs tend to like a bed they can burrow into and feel safe. The Animals Matter Ali Jewel Ortho Puff Orthopedic Luxury Dog Bed lets them do just that. The high sides of the Ortho Puff dog bed allows dogs to snuggle down into the center or rest their head on the bolster so they can keep an eye on their surroundings.

Plus the thick CertiPUR-US® Certified, Orthopedic Memory Foam bottom provides extra support lifting your pup up off the floor.

The Ali Jewel Ortho Puff is sized to fit small dogs. The X-small size fits dogs up to 15lbs and the small fits dogs up to 25lb. Of course Animals Matter also makes the Ali Jewel Ortho Puff in larger sizes too. You can find this dog bed at sagefinds.com under dog beds.

Best Organic Dog Beds Made in the USA

If you are looking for an organic bed for your dog NaturoPet offers an all-natural pet bed.

NaturoPet Natural Pet Bed

NaturoPet’s natural pet bed is made from organic cotton and virgin wool. The core is made from 100% natural American grown virgin wool and has a GOTS certified organic cotton shell. The outer cover is also made from GOTS certified organic cotton and is machine washable in cold water. However the wool core is not washable. The biggest downside to this bed is that some dogs did not like the feel of the wool core. You can find this bed at Amazon.com

Best Dog Beds for Large Dogs Made In the USA

Big Barker 7″ Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed

Best Made In USA Dog Beds for Large Dogs - Big Barker Dog bed with dog on top

Big Barker dog beds are specifically designed for the comfort of dogs that weight 50 pounds or more. Unlike other beds that flatten out over time Big Barker guarantees their dog beds will hold up to the weight of a big dog for 10 years. Plus the beds are CeritPUR-US certified so you know the foam is safe for your pup. You can find Big Barker on Amazon.com

Best Orthopedic Dog Beds Made In the USA

Brentwood’s Runyon Orthopedic Pet Bed

Brentwood’s Runyon Pet Bed is handcrafted in their California factory. The Runyon bed features a quilted stain resistant cover that is washable and a waterproof liner to protect the inner core. The core is made from two layers of CertiPUR-US certified foams. The top layer of memory foam provides cushion, while the orthopedic support base creates a sturdy foundation.

Runyon Pet Bed comes with a 3-year warranty. Plus if you are not satisfied with the bed, Brentwood offers free returns within 30 day. You can find Brentwood’s Runyon Pet Bed at Amazon.com

Best Outdoor Dog Beds Made In the USA

Raine Outdoor Orthopedic Contour Lounger with Waterproof Cover

Our last catrgory is outdoor pet beds and Animals Matter makes our list again with their Raine Outdoor Orthopedic Contour Lounger dog bed. Like their other beds the lounger is made with a high-density foam base topped with CertiPUR-US Certified, Orthopedic Memory Foam. But unlike the other beds on our list, this bed is meant to be outside. The Outdura Performance Fabric, which is woven in the USA and manufactured in California, is weatherproof. Plus the contoured design provides comfort and therapeutic relief.

You can find this dog bed at sagefinds.com under dog beds.

The Dog House: A Look at 5 Awesome Dog Houses

From humble structures to over-the-top architectural marvels the Dog House has become an extension of our own sense of style. These days you can have a dog house that matches your own home or one that fulfills your wildest fantasies. If you add in the fact that millions of people across the global view their dogs as furry family members worthy of every available luxury, the possibilities are endless. Private dog pools, Pup Bars and a firehouse are all a part of the new dog house craze.

Join us as we look at some fun and fabulous dog houses. Maybe you will be inspired to create your own canine creation.

Anyone up for a Pup Bar Crawl?

The BarK Puplick House – Photo by Danielle Jacques Designs LLC

This eclectic Dog House created by Danielle Jacques Designs LLC is actually located inside the owner’s Phoenix home.

The BarK Puplick House, is a play on words for ‘Public House. This fun ‘Gastropup’ fuses industrial decor with town & country charm. The industrial lighting and steel casement window captures the essence of a bar in the city while shutters, traditional millwork and a small garden express the countryside’s beauty. At a cost of less than $1,000 this dog house was custom built with timeless materials and craftsmanship.

The Fire House Dog House

The Dog House Fire House — Firehouse Dog House by Graf Developments – Photo by Graf Development

Does your pup dream of growing up to be a firehouse mascot? Then maybe you can build them their very own dog sized firehouse. The above fire house was custom built by Graf Development to be auctioned off as a fundraiser of the SPCA in Dallas.

The picture on the left is the actual firehouse in Dallas that was used as a model for the dog house. The builder added LED lighting inside and out to make it more realistic. At only 4′ long, 23″ wide, and 24″ tall, it was designed with smaller dogs in mind. The two doors in front pivot at the top for dogs to enter.

Check out Gone to the Dogs – Dog Friendly Home Designs for more dog friendly home design ideas and insipration.

The Ruffterhouse Dog House

The Ruffterhouse Dog House was designed and built for the 2017 Annual Design for Dogs competition, which benefits the Arizona Animal Welfare League. This dog sized custom farmhouse, which was created by Rafterhouse Custom Home Builder, won ‘Best in Show’

The quaint miniature farmhouse with white picket fence, contrasting black shutters, a red door and American flag is reminiscent of farmhouses across the Midwest. The farmhouse comes complete with an AstroTurf front yard and a larger side door for their human companions to visit.

Inside the Dog House there are wood floors, space for a cozy dog bed and a place to store toys.

Inside there are dog friendly wood floors, space for a cozy dog bed and a place to store Fido’s toys. Hooks provide the perfect place to hang your dog’s coat or a leash. Every detail was thought of including framed dog prints.

Mid Century Modern Dog House

The Dog House - Mid Century Modern — Photo by PDWorkshop

Wishing you could have your very own custom dog house but don’t want to build it yourself? This Mid Century Modern Dog House which was designed and custom built by PDWorkshop in Los Angeles could be yours for just $3,500.

The dog ranch is approximately 44″ wide and 72″ long. The low pitched roof with long eaves allows for a shaded interior while providing passive ventilation for your pup. The roof is comprised of expressed beams and eaves topped with cedar shingles from end to end. The artificial turf extends inside the house to create a cozy retreat for your dog to cuddle up on cooler days or to get out of the sun. Inside the open house is a window for your pup to see what is going on outside.

The Hound Hacinena

The Dog House — Photo by Scheer & Co. Interior Design

Our next house was designed and built by VII Custom Homes for the 2011 Barkitechture in Austin TX.

Named the Hound Hacinena, this midcentury modern dog house takes its inspiration from the pages of Frank Lloyd Wright. From the slanted roof line and the front porch complete with a midcentury modern lantern, to the plantings on the side of this home is worthy of any pampered pooch.

The well thought out sloped metal roof promotes water drainage while the gutter neatly collects water and drains it down the side using a rain chain. There is even a large window on the side of the house for peering out into the world.

Epic Three Story Dog House

Then there is Aaron Frank’s colossal Dog House. This Pennsylvania man decided to build a 3 story Dog House/Playset for the family’s pit bulls. The “House” includes an in-ground pool, running water, multi-story ramps and a mulched area complete with a fake fire hydrant where the dogs can take care of business. It also comes equipped with electricity, 3 swings, 2 security cameras, a pirate ship wheel, 3 rabbit escape holes, and plenty of spots to lounge in or out the sun.

In a Facebook post Frank states “our dogs are apart our family and our dog house almost completes our home that we’ve been working on for 10 years”. I can just imagine what the home looks like.

This epic build took Frank two years to build but he says “it was well worth it”. He also thanks his wife in the post “I like to say thank you to my wife for being patient and understanding”

Looking for some more dog inspired home design ideas? Check out these posts:

Home Office – Finding Space for Your Dog

Working from home has many benefits. In addition to a seriously short commute to your home office, you get to stay close to your pets. For me that is a real bonus. Since I am lucky enough to work from home, I get to have our pup Bella right by my side, day and night as I work on various projects. Whenever I need a break Bella is there ready to go for a walk, play a game of fetch or just have some cuddle time. In our house we call Bella the therapy dog since we all feel relaxed and energized after spending time with her.

As it turns out having your pup near you while you work has many benefits. Spending too much time too close to a project, problem, or other work can inhibit productivity and cause unnecessary stress. Pets remind us to pause and step back from whatever we are involved in. Short walks, a little playtime, and temporary distractions allow mental breaks so you do not become overworked and stressed.

Studies have proven that pets have calming effects, reduce blood pressure, lower stress, and make people more cordial and productive. This is why more companies are allowing people to bring their pets to work.

These are all great reasons to have your pup close by while working. However finding space for them in the home office especially if space is tight can be a challenge.

Take a look at these 9 compact home offices that make space for your favorite pups.

Cozy Home Office

Home Office – Finding Space for Your Dog — Photo by Adlich Renovations, LLC – Browse home office ideas

In this compact office a couple of stylish dog beds find a spot in the corner.

Bookcase Hideout

In this small home office the owners gave up some storage space in the bookcase to create a dedicated space for their dog. All it really took was the right sized pillow and a cabinet strong enough to hold the dogs weight. When the workday is done they just need to close the doors.

Check out these fun dog friendly designs at Gone to the Dogs – Dog Friendly Home Designs

Underfoot

Photo by Patio Lane – Discover home office design ideas

In this office they used a modern expandable table as a desk. By placing a custom made pillow on the bottom portion of the desk they made space for their dog. Since the table adjusts to the size needed, it can fit in most spaces.

Staircase Hide-a-Way

Here the owners utilized the space under the stairs to create a small home office. The space offered just enough room for a built-in desk with some cubbies above. In an small adjacent area they found just enough room for a built-in dog house.

Space in the Kitchen

Photo by McKinney Photography – Search kitchen design ideas

This home office created with customized cabinets leaves space under the desk that is the right size for the owner’s pup.

Nook in the Hallway

Here is a different take on utilizing the unused space under the staircase. Instead of building the desk inside the empty space they built drawers for storage leaving the space under the selves for their pup.

Space in the Corner

Photo by Curate by Tara – Browse home office photos

Even just the unused corner between the desk and the cabinets provides a hideaway for the family’s spaniels.

Inside Doghouse

Photo by Area3 Design Studio Inc. – Discover home office design ideas

This streamlined office leaves plenty of space under the floating desk for the dog house and food dishes.

Covered Space for One

Photo by Stonebreaker Builders & Remodelers – Look for home office pictures

This design makes the most of a small place by having lots of storage space. They even left the underside of a built in table empty for the family dog.

I hope you enjoyed looking at these spaces. Check out more Home Design ideas that have your pup in mind.