How to Make a Balcony Suitable for Dogs

Apartment-dwelling dog lovers with no real outdoor space of their own often turn to the "urban porch" known as the balcony. This small bit of nature can provide your indoor dog with fresh air and a chance to watch the world wander by. A world of caution, however: Just as you baby-proof your home for a new infant, you must suitably prepare your balcony so there is no chance for your dog to escape, fall or get injured.

  1. Safety First

    • No dog should ever be left on a balcony all day, or unattended there; but there are ways to make a balcony suitable and safe for your pooch. Place protective fencing against the balcony's rails to keep the pet securely inside. Depending on the size of the dog, you may need to add height to the railing to keep the dog from jumping over. If it's feasible, add a privacy trellis to fit the space between the floor above you and the top of your balcony rail, or set up a secure metal grid or mesh that attaches to the inside perimeter of the balcony rails. Never leave a dog leashed on a patio; she could jump over and hang herself. Many houseplants are toxic to animals; research your plants and remove those that are. If your balcony has wood decking, make sure there are no splinters, which could injure your dog's feet.

    Necessities

    • A dog must have plenty of water; if you're home with the dog and she's laying out in the sun, keep a bowl of fresh water for her on the patio. You may also want to give her treats that you wouldn't normally let her chew in the house. Make sure the balcony provides protection from heat, cold, sun, rain and other elements.

    Convenience

    • If your apartment or condo allows it, fit a dog door panel into your sliding glass patio door to provide access to and from the patio. Add a small spot of fake turf or grass so your pet can go in and out and do her business. If you're potty-training a puppy, this can be a convenient alternative to leashing the dog and racing downstairs, particularly if you live on a top floor.

    Considerations

    • A balcony or patio should never be a dog's full-time home. No matter how well you prepare and puppy-proof your balcony, an unenclosed balcony can pose a menacing threat and is poorly sheltered from the elements. Instead, think of your outdoor oasis as a place to share with your dog when you can't make it down to the street. Enjoy coffee outside with your pooch as she sunbathes, or brush her coat in the fresh air. If your pooch uses a turf-style potty box, be considerate of your neighbors and keep the area clean. Smells can be bad, especially in the summer.