Do you live in a high rise apartment with a furry friend? Does your dog wish to spend more time outdoors? Well...if you have a little balcony, here are some ways you can transform it into a mini-garden for your pet.
Add lots of plants - duh! Make sure they are doggie safe and nontoxic. Also, make sure the plants are quite durable, if your dog will be sniffing and playing in them. Heavy pots are advisable, so that your dog (or the wind) doesn't topple them. I recommend buying some older shrubs, rather than planting from scratch. Young plants will be too fragile for dogs to play in. You could even consider putting a wooden plant-rack on your balcony, and filling it with greenery. I had one, and my bull-terrier used to spend hours on the balcony, lying underneath the hanging canopy of greenery and orchids. (Are orchids nontoxic to dogs....whoops,...no idea....Do your research, folks!).
If you live in a warm climate, get your dog a plastic paddling pool for the balcony! You can then fill it with a bit of water and let them splash about in the summer! Float toys in for added fun:) I recommend a hard plastic dog/kiddie pool, and not the inflatable ones that can pop upon contact with claws.
Give your dog a frozen beef bone with marrow and meat on int! Trust me, this will keep your dog busy for hours, and leave them with cleaner teeth and fresher breath. It will also mentally stimulate them and combat destructive boredom-based behaviors.
Tough, nontoxic plant ideas:
Bamboo Palm (This plant is quite shrubby, which makes it fun for dogs to play in. It tends to thrive in warm climates).
Bamboo (This is the world's fastest growing plant, so it can quickly transform your barren balcony into a green, dog-friendly oasis. It is also an exceptionally durable plant and will create an exotic, jungle-inspired aesthetic.
Banana tree ( If you live on a highrise or near a windy beach, this plant may not thrive, though).
Boston Fern (Look cool when hanging)
Roses
Rosemary shrub (This works well for a smaller space, and will leave a delicious scent in the air).
Polka-dot plant (This shrub develops best color in low-light.)
Sunflowers (These can grow tall, and have spindly stems so might be a little more fragile. However, they are pet safe and will add a bright pop of color to your balcony space.
Spider plants (Super easy to grow, and thrive in practically any environment)
Russian Sage
Maiden grass (My ridgeback used to love romping through long grass)