10 basics for your backyard  space 

1. Avoid using chemicals on the lawn that will be absorbed when the pet licks a paw. 
2. Create a designated area for play or digging, using sand or bark.
3. To prevent a dog running through your borders, create paths through them, or create clearly defined boundaries, using hardy shrubs or a low-growing box hedge. Raised beds are a great option, too.
4. Some dogs will dig under fences, or escape through small spaces or holes. Make sure your fence is well-secured at the base.
5. Dogs can jump surprisingly high. Small dogs can be contained by a 1 metre (3 1/2 ft) fence. Medium to large breeds with good jumping skills require 1.8 metres (6 ft) fencing.
6. Self-closing gates are ideal as you’ll want to keep gates secure at all times.
7. Keep your shed secure to avoid access to chemicals or sharp objects. Even wire plant stakes can become a dangerous toy for your dog.
8. Lock your compost bin or avoid composting items that can be harmful if ingested – eg avocados, grapes, onions. 
9. Avoid using non-organic slug pellets, as these are toxic to all wildlife. Try to keep your dog from eating slugs, snails or frogs! Lungworm is a serious infection that can be contracted by eating them. Signs include difficulty breathing, coughing, lethargy and bleeding for longer than normal.
10. Plan to live with yellow grass (urine spots), or train your dog to go to one area that you can hose down regularly. Try these master gardener tips to rejuvenate yellow patches.