An estimated 70-80 million dogs are owned in the United States. If you share your home with a four-legged family member, making your living space more inviting could be a top priority.

Here are three simple things you can do to make your outdoor living areas more dog-friendly in the future.

1. Incorporate a water feature into your landscape design.

Adding some natural water to your outdoor living space will not only provide you with an additional element that promotes relaxation, but it will help keep your dog cool during the hot summer months.

Animal health experts estimate that dogs need to consume at least one ounce of water for each pound of body weight they are carrying per day. If you plan to spend a significant amount of time outdoors with your dog, installing a decorative fountain or other water feature will provide your pooch with access to the water he or she needs to remain in good health.

2. Use a natural deterrent to keep your dog out of the garden.

Sharing your outdoor living space with a dog can be a challenge if your canine friend likes to dig in the garden. Fortunately, there are some simple ways that you can keep your dog away from the plant life that grows in your yard.

Start by gathering some citrus fruit from your local grocery store. Dogs don't like the smell of oranges, lemons, or grapefruits, so cutting these fruits up and placing them in any areas of your yard where you don't want your dog to trespass can be a great way to prevent your faithful companion from digging up your garden in the future.

3. Use non-toxic mulch to prevent paw splinters.

Many of the plants and trees in your yard can pose a hazard to your dog. Unlike a person, who has the ability to consciously watch for branches, exposed roots, or other hazards while walking, a dog can sustain serious injury by stepping on these obstacles.

You can protect your pooch's paws from splinters by spreading mulch around the base of trees and shrubs in your yard. Be sure that you are using a non-toxic mulch product (like cedar or recycled rubber) to keep both your plants and your dog safe.

Sharing your outdoor living space with a dog doesn't have to be a challenge. Incorporate a water feature, use natural deterrents, and spread non-toxic mulch to ensure both you and your dog can fully enjoy an afternoon outdoors in the future. To learn more, contact a landscape design company like Design Scapes of Manasota Inc.