We understand the joy of seeing your furry friends explore, play, and relax safely in your garden. Yet, creating a space that’s both beautiful and pet-friendly isn’t always straightforward. Many gardens in Bromley have lovely landscaping, but without careful planning, pets can be exposed to hazards, damage plants, or suffer from uncomfortable surfaces. At MK Landscape and Design LTD, we specialise in transforming outdoor spaces into safe, functional, and stylish pet-friendly gardens.
If you’re ready to create a garden that works for the whole family—including your four-legged companions—give us a call on 07477 798962 or email info@mk-landscapes.com to start planning your bespoke design today.
MK Landscape and Design LTD combines style, safety, and practicality to create pet-friendly gardens that both owners and pets can enjoy, year-round.
Understanding What Makes A Garden Pet-Friendly
A pet-friendly garden is more than a few paw prints on the lawn. It’s a carefully designed outdoor space that considers your pet’s safety, comfort, and natural behaviour. This includes selecting non-toxic plants, creating secure boundaries, installing durable surfaces, and offering shaded, comfortable areas for rest and play. In 2026, more homeowners in Bromley are prioritising gardens that meet these standards, ensuring that pets can safely enjoy outdoor life without compromising the look or value of their property.
Top Tips For Creating A Pet-Friendly Garden In Bromley
1. Choose Pet-Safe Plants
One of the first steps in designing a pet-friendly garden is selecting plants that are safe for pets. Many common garden plants can be harmful if ingested, so it’s essential to plan carefully. Pet-safe plants not only protect your pets but also support local wildlife and pollinators.
Recommended plants for a safe garden include:
- Lavender: Repels pests and is safe for dogs and cats.
- Rosemary: A hardy, aromatic herb that survives in dry conditions.
- Zinnias: Colourful, cheerful flowers that are non-toxic and heat-resilient.
Plants to avoid:
- Hosta
- Wisteria
- Lily of the Valley
We often integrate these safe plants into our bespoke garden designs, ensuring beauty without risk. For inspiration, you can see some of our garden design projects in Bromley, where plant selection has been carefully curated.
2. Incorporate Durable Surfaces
Pets can quickly wear down soft or delicate surfaces. High-traffic areas benefit from materials that can withstand digging, scratching, and wear and tear from running. Popular options for pet-friendly landscaping include:
- Gravel paths: Great drainage and easy to maintain.
- Composite decking: Comfortable underfoot and easy to clean.
- Artificial turf: Long-lasting, mud-free, and perfect for playful pets.
These surfaces also help reduce muddy paws in your home and protect your garden from the wear and tear of heavy foot traffic. At MK Landscapes, we specialise in combining these surfaces with patios and raised decking for a practical yet stylish finish. You can see examples of this in our Hard Landscaping Services.
3. Secure Your Garden With Fencing
A secure boundary is key to a safe pet-friendly garden. Without it, even the most well-planned garden can become hazardous.
Tips for fencing your garden for pets:
- Ensure fences are high enough to prevent jumping.
- Check for gaps or holes that could allow pets to escape.
- Use materials like timber or metal that are both durable and stylish.
We often customise fencing solutions for our Bromley clients, combining security with aesthetic appeal to complement the overall landscape design.
4. Designate Play Areas
Creating a dedicated space for pets to run, dig, and explore protects the rest of your garden and gives pets freedom to enjoy themselves safely.
Features to consider in play zones:
- Digging pits for dogs who love to dig.
- Shaded areas with trees or pergolas to protect pets from the sun.
- Water stations to keep pets hydrated on warm days.
We integrate these areas seamlessly into our garden designs to maintain both function and style.
5. Include Sensory Elements
Engaging your pet’s senses makes a garden more enriching. For cats and dogs, consider:
- Scented herbs like catnip, lemongrass, or rosemary.
- Textured surfaces such as soft grass or decorative gravel.
- Water features for drinking and playful interaction.
These elements make outdoor spaces more enjoyable while helping pets stay mentally stimulated.
6. Maintain A Clean And Safe Garden
A pet-friendly garden is only safe if it’s regularly maintained. Essential practices include:
- Promptly clearing pet waste to prevent disease.
- Avoiding toxic fertilisers or chemicals.
- Inspecting plants for pests or hazards.
Our team at MK Landscapes ensures gardens are not only visually stunning but also safe and practical for pets and people alike.
7. Consider Professional Garden Design Services
If you want a truly pet-friendly garden, working with professionals can make all the difference. At MK Landscape and Design LTD, we provide tailored designs that balance beauty, functionality, and safety. With over 15 years of experience across Bromley and Kent, our team can help you plan:
- Pet-safe planting schemes.
- Secure fencing and durable pathways.
- Engaging zones for play and relaxation.
Explore our garden design services for examples of bespoke solutions that combine luxury landscaping with pet-friendly features.
Contact MK Landscapes
Conclusion
Designing a pet-friendly garden in Bromley in 2026 is about blending safety, functionality, and style. From selecting non-toxic plants and durable surfaces to creating secure boundaries and stimulating play areas, the right approach ensures a haven for your pets while maintaining your garden’s aesthetic appeal.
If you’re ready to transform your outdoor space, contact MK Landscape and Design LTD today at 07477 798962 or info@mk-landscapes.com. Together, we can create a garden that you and your pets will enjoy for years to come.
FAQs About Pet-Friendly Gardens
Q1: Can I use artificial turf for pets?
A: Yes, it’s durable, easy to clean, and perfect for active pets.
Q2: What plants are safe for dogs in Bromley gardens?
A: Lavender, rosemary, zinnias, and ornamental grasses are excellent choices.
Q3: How do I prevent my dog from digging in my garden?
A: Designate a digging area with soft soil or sand, away from delicate plants.
Q4: Can outdoor lighting be pet-friendly?
A: Yes, LED lights or low-level lighting along paths enhance safety without disturbing pets.
Q5: How often should I check my garden for hazards?
A: Weekly inspections are recommended to ensure plants, chemicals, and furniture remain safe.
