In our dog-loving neighborhood, it can be tough to keep a cat-friendly yard. Here are some harmless ways to keep dogs out of your yard and away from your cats.

I recently had a problem with my neighbor’s dogs wandering into my yard and pooping in it. Honestly, why should I have to pick up dog droppings when I don’t even have a dog?

Even though I’m a cat person, I would never dream of hurting a dog, so I researched a few ways to keep dogs out of your yard without harming them.

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First, Avoid These Methods

There are a few methods that you’ll want to avoid because they either don’t work or are harmful to animals.

Mothballs

My mother keeps insisting that I use these, but the problem isn’t just the smell: it’s the ammonia.

Ammonia is toxic to both dogs and cats. While large amounts may not be present in a mothball, it’s still possible that a dog would consume it. Alternatively, spraying ammonia on your lawn will kill the grass (and any other plants nearby).

Ultrasonic Repellents

These work great at first, but give it a little time, and dogs will quickly get used to it. Emily Kane at Dogster has this to say:

Various studies found that while creatures like mice and cockroaches hear this noise, they also soon learn to ignore it. And these devices tend to operate in a frequency range that is just as audible to dogs as it is to mice.”

Dogs, mice, and bats don’t seem to care much about the noise the ultrasonic devices make. You’re better off saving your money.

Methods To Use

Some people may disagree with me on these methods, but I firmly believe they can work with enough dedication.

Ground Black Pepper

This super cheap method uses a common household spice to keep dogs out of your yard. Yes, it will burn the dog’s nose when they get a sniff, but it won’t harm them.

Have you ever accidentally inhaled black pepper? Take that and times it by ten, and that’s how the dog feels. The dog will quickly learn that your yard is not a friendly place for them to do their business. Try lightly sprinkling it around the perimeter of your lawn and increase the amount gradually if necessary.

If a liquid deterrent is what you prefer, try this DIY recipe from SFGate (your dog will still smell it, but won’t inhale any granules!).

Pros:

• Cheap and effective
• Easy to apply

Cons:

• Must be reapplied often
• Might repel your cat from the yard as well

Pungent Plants

Did you know that there are plants that keep dogs out of your yard? Marigolds, Coleus Canina, Rue, and rose bushes are all unattractive to dogs. While Rue emits an unpleasant odor for your dog (which won’t smell bad to you), the thorns on a rose bush act as a natural fence.

Plant marigolds in or around your garden to deter dogs from digging in it. You can also add herbs like rosemary, citronella, and lavender.

Find out how you can keep a cat-friendly indoor garden that your cats won’t destroy.

Pros:

• Natural and effective
• Smells awesome to you

Cons:

• Can be costly
• Takes time to grow plants to full size

Fencing In Your Yard

Before you go thinking that this is the most expensive method, I’ve got some good news for you.

Fences don’t have to be expensive. With DIYers taking over places like Pinterest, there are SO MANY easy ways to build your own garden fence for cheap.

My favorite is using pallets. Depending on where you live and the generosity of your fellow townsfolk, you can get pallets for super cheap (or even free!). Plant nurseries and retailers like Menards have a steady supply of pallets. Just give them a call and see if they’ll let you take some home.

For instructions on how to build a pallet fence, check out this easy DIY fence from Realeyes Homestead.

Pros:

• Most effective method
• Not dependent on weather

Cons:

• Time-consuming
• Not suitable for urban dwellers

Talk To Your Neighbor

Why haven’t you thought of this before? Then again, maybe you have asked your neighbor to keep dogs out of your yard, but they haven’t complied. Neighborhood relations can be a tricky thing. You don’t want to upset your neighbors, but you want a dog-free yard for your cats.

Before you go calling city hall and complaining, try having a friendly chat with your neighbor. It was only after someone reported my neighbor that I found out the truth: their oldest dog is both blind and deaf. The dog was only able to find a place to pee by smell, and he didn’t know he was in my yard.

Likewise, if you have dogs with a handicap, please tell your neighbors before trouble starts. You’d be amazed at how understanding people can be when you explain the situation to them.

Pros:

• Saves you trouble in the long run
• Easiest fix

Cons:

• Can be intimidating
• Neighbor might get angry, making the problem worse

Have you tried to keep dogs out of your yard? What methods did you use, and did they work? Let others know in the comments section below — you may just help someone out!