Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn More

8 Things In Your Backyard Right Now That Could Be Deadly For Dogs

| Published on May 19, 2014

We always think of our backyards as the safest place for our dogs – we put up sturdy, tall fences, make sure the gates are escape proof and feel confident about leaving our pups outside unattended for some sunshine and exercise. And yet almost all of our yards have these 8 deadly objects waiting to cause a tragedy. Of course, we’re not saying you can’t have these objects in your back yard at all. But we do need to be aware of the risks, and monitor our dog’s behavior closely around them.

1. Yard Chemicals

Whether it’s weed killer, lawn fertilizer, slug bait, or plant food, it could mean death for your dog if she ingests it. Keep this item locked in a shed, or on a shelf in your garage. (tip: here’s the best dog-safe weed killer products.)

2. Garden Hose

If your dog is a chewer, than a rubber hose is almost irresistible. It is also indigestible and can easily cause blockage that will result in death. Your dog could also tangle themselves up in a hose, causing all sorts of injuries, including strangulation.

3. Fencing

If you have anything but a solid fence, your dog could get their head stuck, causing death due to blocked airway, heat stroke, or hypothermia.

Though it looks serene, glass table, plants, hoses, rocks - are all potential killers of your dog
Though it looks serene, glass table, plants, hoses, rocks – are all potential killers of your dog

4. Patio Table

If you have a small dog, a leap from the top of the table could be fatal. Strong winds can blow your table into your dog, or on top of them. A glass-top table is the worst, since it can shatter on impact. A bigger dog jumping on the table could go right through it.

5. Gardening Tools

Rakes, shears, clippers, etc., all pose a danger to your dog if he is left unattended with them lying around. Anything with sharp edges that your dog could run into or fall onto should be kept out of reach.

6. Lawn Decorations

Gnomes, flamingos,  and frogs, are all very cute in your backyard, but just like the hose, your dog can chew and swallow these causing choking, obstructions, and/or lacerations internally—all of which can lead to death.

7. Plants

Do you know which plants are deadly? Almost every single house has a plant that is poisonous. Common ones are rhododendron, morning glory, azaleas, and daffodils, but there are dozens more. Check before you plant anything in your backyard.

8. Rocks

For some reason, dogs like to eat rocks! Rocks can cause chocking and obstructions, which can lead to death. Even small pebbles that you may think your dog could pass easily, can get stuck in the stomach or intestine, causing all sort of digestive issues. Also, the sharp edges on rocks can cause internal damage on the way through.

About the Author

Based in Tustin, Calif., animal lover Kristina N. Lotz is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and works as a full time trainer. She also owns her own custom pet products company, A Fairytail House, where she makes personalized collars, leashes, beds, keepsake pillows and blankets, and anything else your imagine can think up. In her spare time, she trains and competes in herding, agility, obedience, rally, and conformation with her Shetland Sheepdogs.

Recent Articles

Interested in learning even more about all things dogs? Get your paws on more great content from iHeartDogs!

Read the Blog