Clare Balding, broadcaster and Dogs Trust Ambassador, has been speaking at the Ideal Home Show as part of a panel on Creating the Perfect Garden for Your Dog, alongside Hannah Harris (Behaviour Policy Manager at Dogs Trust) and Charlie Dobson (Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust).

Appearing at the show this week, the panel highlighted often‑overlooked risks in the garden, from toxic plants and harmful chemicals to heatstroke, while stressing the importance of secure design, thoughtful planting, and recall training.

Highlights included Clare’s emphasis on recall as the most important skill a dog can learn, practical advice on making gardens both enriching and safe, and expert guidance on designing outdoor spaces that support dogs’ natural behaviours while protecting their wellbeing.

“Recall is the most important thing you can ever train in a dog. It is the one thing that will keep them safe, and don’t let them eat your daffodils,” said Clare.

“It’s so important to make your garden not just dog friendly, but also dog safe, and make it an invigorating and inspiring place for your dog to enrich their lives so you can enjoy the spring and summer months ahead outdoors with your dog in the best possible way.”

Key takeaways for dog owners from the panel:

1. Design your garden for natural behaviours

Digging, sniffing, and exploring are all natural behaviours that dogs need outlets for. Instead of trying to stop digging, create a designated area like a sand pit and make it rewarding with toys or treats. Adding scent-rich plants or rotating toys can also keep the space mentally stimulating. A well-designed garden should support your dog’s wellbeing while still working for you.

2.  Watch out for toxic plants and garden chemicals

Many popular garden plants, including daffodils, are toxic to dogs, especially the bulbs, which they often dig up and chew. Everyday items like slug bait, rat poison, fertiliser, cocoa mulch, and bone meal can also be dangerous. If you’re moving house or updating your garden, consider dog-friendly herbs and flowers that create a beautiful space without the risk.

3. Make your garden secure and train recall

Dogs will naturally explore boundaries, so check fences are high enough and there are no gaps they can escape through. Gates are a common weak point, particularly if left open by visitors or deliveries, so make sure they can be properly secured. Alongside this, recall is the most important training you can teach, as it’s what ultimately keeps your dog safe.

4. Protect your dog in hot weather

Gardens can quickly become heat traps, especially with artificial grass, paving, or decking. Use the five-second rule: if it’s too hot to hold your hand on it, it’s too hot for your dog. Always provide fresh drinking water and shaded areas.

5. Learn your dog’s body language

A relaxed dog will have loose body language, while signs like lowered ears, tension or turning away can indicate stress or anxiety. Recognising these early signals allows you to step in and remove them from uncomfortable situations. Designing your garden with calm, safe areas give them somewhere to retreat if needed.