March 19th

By Mutt Mulligan

Study: Millennials buying homes for dogs

Did you know that last year, Millennials were the largest group of homebuyers in the U.S.? In fact, they contributed $514 billion to the housing market! What TurfMutt found even more interesting is one of the top motivators for their home purchases.

In a study conducted by a national mortgage company, a third of first-time Millennial home buyers said they bought to have more space for their dog. That’s more than mentioned marriage or children as a factor in their home-buying decision. Another 42% of Millennials who haven’t yet purchased a home said their dog (current or future) would be a key factor in their decision.

No matter which generational group you fit into, TurfMutt has these tips for making sure you are backyard ready for your pet.

Dogscape! Soft foliage, sturdy turfgrass, smooth stones, and dog toys can help your pet feel at home. Add a water station so your pet can hydrate after playing. A water feature can help your pooch cool off when it’s hot. A canine obstacle course can provide hours of fun if you have the space available to install one!

Use plants to give your dog a sense of boundaries. Place plants close together in areas you want to designate as off-limits, and train your dog to avoid them. Leave open areas for your dog to run and play in (and accept that this is what your dog will do).

Avoid toxic plants that can be harmful to your pet. Dogs do not naturally avoid plants that are toxic to them and many will eat plants that are not safe for consumption. For a complete list, visit ASPCA’s list of nontoxic and toxic plants for dogs.

Look for hazards and eliminate them. Some paved or sandy surfaces may get too hot for your pet to walk on comfortably. Tiny pebbles, thorns, or gravel can get caught in paws. Ensure your pet’s main play area includes grass.

Set up for shade (and naps). Your dog will need a place to relax after a busy day of play. A tree or bush can provide shade for your pet. A dog house provides a great place for your four-footed friend to take an afternoon snooze.

Learn more about the benefits of your living landscapes for people and pets.