How to Grow a Fabulous Garden with these Dog-Safe Flowers (Gardening Tips from a Dog Mom)
Something I always wanted to do was grow my own cut flower garden. I absolutely love all the beautiful blooms and making bouquets to put around my house. With having two active Australian shepherds running around my backyard, I wanted to make sure I used dog-safe flowers in my garden. If you’re also a pet parent and want to grow your own flowers, keep reading and let’s dig in (pun intended).
Why Dog-Safe Flowers Matter
If you have pups of your own, you know how curious they can be. They sniff everything, chew on what they shouldn’t, and somehow manage to get into every corner of your yard. This is why it is so vital to make sure you are using dog-safe flowers in your garden.
Dogs obviously don’t understand what “toxic” means, and some common garden flowers, like lilies or tulips, can seriously harm them. When I started researching more about dog-friendly flowers, I was pretty surprised at some of the common plants that are actually a big no-no if they were to be planted in your dog’s space.
With that being said, it doesn’t mean your garden has to be boring! By choosing flowers that are known to be safe, you’re protecting your dog and maybe even avoiding a stressful (and expensive) trip to the vet. Let’s start with some amazing dog-friendly blooms you can count on.
Want more dog-friendly backyard/patio ideas? Check out my blog post here for some inspo!
Always Consult a Vet or Trusted Resource Before Choosing your Blooms
I have to throw in this little disclaimer before we get started. While the flowers listed here are widely considered safe for dogs, it’s essential to remember that every pup is unique. If you’re unsure about a specific plant, always check with your vet first. They can provide guidance tailored specifically to your pet, especially if your dog has tendencies like chewing or a sensitive stomach.
For an extensive and reliable list of toxic and non-toxic plants, visit the ASPCA website. This is the website I often refer to when making buying decisions about my flowers. I always check this list first before I buy new seeds.
Their plant directory is a great resource for pet owners and can give you peace of mind when making decisions about your garden. When it comes to your pup’s health and safety, it’s always better to double-check than take a risk.
Important Tips to Keep in Mind when Choosing your Dog-Safe Flowers
When you are beginning to set up your cut flower garden, here are some “dog mom” tips and helpful advice to keep in mind.
🌺I like using raised flower beds or some kind of wall of protection when planting my flowers. This really inhibits my dogs from getting in my garden bed and digging up all my hard work.
🌺If you would rather plant your flowers straight into the ground instead of on a raised bed, consider buying a garden fence to keep your dog out of this specific area in your yard. This will also help prevent them from stomping all over your blooms when they see a squirrel they just have to go after.
🌺When it comes to fertilizer and pesticides, use all-natural or pet-safe products. Avoid harsh chemicals that can harm pets who brush against plants or ingest treated soil.
🌺Lastly, if you don’t want to worry about your dogs trampling over or nibbling on your flowers in the backyard, try making a space for your cut flowers on the side of your house outside your fence.
Dog-Safe Flowers You Can Feel Good About
Here are some beautiful pet-friendly flowers that you can feel good about planting around your dogs. Plus, they make BEAUTIFUL bouquets and arrangements once they bloom. Of course, there are MANY more flower options than these, but I am listing some of my personal favorites.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons are so fun. With their bright colors and whimsical shape, they’re a great choice to add to your flower garden. If your dog happens to nibble on one out of curiosity, no harm, no foul. These flowers grow easily in beds or containers, making them perfect for beginner gardeners who want low-maintenance beauty without the worry.
Zinnias
Zinnias are my personal favorite. They are the energizer bunnies of flowers—they just keep blooming and blooming. There are grown in so many different colors, they make absolutely beautiful bouquets once cut. They are not super picky flowers and are great for beginners.
Roses
Ah, the classic rose—timeless, elegant, and dog-friendly. While you should watch out for thorns (your dog’s nose will thank you), the petals themselves are safe. Use them to add a romantic vibe to your garden without stressing about your curious pup sneaking a sniff (or a taste).
Marigolds
Marigolds remind me of tiny suns scattered throughout your garden, radiating warmth. They’re not just pretty, they’re incredibly hardy, standing up to dogs who might accidentally trample through.
Sunflowers
Who doesn’t love sunflowers? Sunflowers are the gentle giants of the flower world. They can grow very tall so make sure to pay attention to what variety you are growing. You will want plenty of space if you are planning to grow sunflowers in your garden.
Pansies
Pansies are a sweet and approachable flower in many gardens. They have velvety petals and come in a rainbow of colors.
Asters
Asters have vibrant petals that stand out against green backdrops. I have never personally planted asters but I love the way they look in a garden.
Orchids
Orchids may look like divas, but they’re surprisingly pretty low-maintenance. I remember these were one of the first flowers I bought when I wanted to spruce up my home with pretty blooms. They thrive indoors as well. They do tend to droop so they will need some support if you decide to grow these types of flowers.
Gerbera Daisies
Gerbera daisies are the classic “cheerful” flower, with their bold, happy colors and large blooms. Whether planted in your garden or potted on your porch, these flowers are as safe as they are stunning.
Petunias
Petunias are colorful, easy to grow, and, most importantly, pet-safe! Perfect for hanging baskets or garden beds, these flowers might quickly become a favorite in your dog-friendly gardening lineup.
This list of flowers does not remotely cover all the beautiful varieties you can plant in your garden. This is just a “getting started” guide to set you on your way to the garden of your dreams. By choosing dog-safe flowers, you can enjoy a garden that’s both beautiful and stress-free. Your pup can sniff, play, and roam without a second thought, and you get to enjoy stunning blooms all season long!
Tag us on Instagram @thedogdarling to show us your beautiful flower garden this spring and summer!
