What are sensory gardens? And does your dog need one?

Sensory Gardens are what they say on the label: a garden full of sensory enjoyment. Increasingly used in schools for children with Autism or aged care facilities, evidence has demonstrated how specially curated gardens can be magnificent for your pooch to satisfy their senses. 

Sensory Gardens stimulate your dog’s 5 senses (smell, sight, sound, taste and touch) and provide mental enrichment. Just like us, dog’s need experiences that heighten these senses, so creating their very own sanctuary is a wonderful way to do this.

Smell

Planting dog-friendly plants such as lavender, mint or catnip. Dogs will self-select plants that they are drawn to. You can also scatter a small handful of treats around.

Sound

Hanging wind chimes or installing a fountain. reggae music are all top favourites for canines, according to research!

Touch

Use different textured flooring or grasses. Install a sand pit for dogs who love to dig or a doggie pool for dogs that love water. Running tunnels, patio stones and ornamental grass are other options.

Sight

You can add wind spinners, logs or yard decorations for your dog.Creating different levels is also a good way to stimulate their sight.

Taste

Try scattering small amounts of their favourite treats so that they can go on a tasty treasure hunt. Crumble works especially well for this!

You don’t need a giant backyard

 While we would all love an acreage to create the ultimate Sensory Garden, most of us don’t have that luxury. So if you’re short on space that’s okay - there’s still plenty you can do. What’s most important is knowing your dog’s individual preferences. Do they love to sniff? Scatter treats around the garden. A dog who loves to dig will adore their own sandpit. Or a dog who loves nothing more than a quick dip will thoroughly enjoy a kiddie pool. A dog who loves to layabout in the sun will love a cosy outdoor bed. Scatter treats? Crafting a garden around your dog’s favourite things will be equally enjoyed.