Dogs and Balconies: How to Keep Your Dog Safe

As more of us live in flats with puppies or adult dogs instead of houses with gardens, balconies offer a tempting outdoor space for both people and their pets. These spaces can be a wonderful spot for your dog to enjoy fresh air, watch the world go by, or even have a toilet break in warm weather. However, balconies must be treated with careful consideration to ensure your dog’s safety, much like you would baby-proof a home for a small child.

This guide covers practical, vet-approved advice to help you make your balcony a safe and pleasant area for your dog without risk. We will cover everything from balcony fencing to supervising your dog properly, and advice on plants and climate protection.

1. Check and Secure Balcony Fencing

Dog owners living in flats should carefully inspect the balcony’s railings or fencing. Gaps between railings can be a hazard. If the gaps are wide enough, dogs can slip through or get stuck, putting them at risk of serious injury. Ideally, the balcony should be enclosed with materials that prevent escape but still allow your dog to see outside. German Shepherd puppies, for example, are very agile and curious, so strong, solid fencing or reinforced toughened glass panels are recommended. When installing glass or Perspex panels, ensure there isn’t enough room for your dog to shimmy under or jump over.

2. Remove Climbing Aids

Furniture placed near balcony edges can be tempting for dogs to climb or jump from. Chairs, tables, or boxes around the balcony fence can increase risk of falling off. Remove or secure such items to prevent your dog from gaining unsafe access to the edge. Heavy furniture is preferable if you want to allow some items, but think carefully about your dog’s ability and behaviour. Keeping your dog away from the balcony edge reduces accidents.

3. Select Dog-Safe Plants

If you enjoy gardening on your balcony, avoid plants that are toxic to dogs. Common plants like lilies, azaleas, and tulips are toxic and can cause serious health problems if ingested. You can create a pleasant green space with dog-friendly plants such as rosemary, basil, or lavender. Store fertilisers, pesticides, and other chemicals securely out of reach. Keeping your dog safe means watching out for plants and substances that might cause poisoning.

4. Never Leave Dogs Unsupervised

Experts agree: dogs should never be left unattended on balconies. Even well-behaved dogs may get startled by birds or passersby and attempt dangerous jumps or escapes. The risk of falls is high, and balconies offer little protection from weather extremes, such as heatstroke during summer or cold winds in winter. Make balcony time a supervised, calm experience, and never close your dog out alone on the balcony.

5. Make the Balcony Comfortable

Transform your balcony into a pleasant retreat for your dog with cosy bedding and a few familiar toys. Provide shade with umbrellas or screens during sunny days to protect from overheating. Always ensure your dog knows they can come back indoors whenever they wish; the balcony should be a choice, not a confinement.

6. Use Gates or Barriers to Control Access

If you decide your balcony isn’t safe or you only want to restrict balcony access, install baby gates, fences, or mesh screens at the balcony entrance to keep your dog inside while allowing fresh air flow. Keeping balcony doors closed when you are not supervising is critical. This helps avoid unplanned access and maintains safety for your dog.

7. Understand Your Dog’s Temperament and Abilities

Consider your dog’s age, size, energy, and behaviour when allowing balcony access. Puppies and younger dogs may be more prone to accidents with high energy and curiosity. Dogs that are anxious or excitable should have limited or fully supervised balcony time. Some highly agile breeds require extra vigilance or modifications to prevent jumping or squeezing through.

Overall, cautious preparation and daily supervision are key to making your balcony a safe and enjoyable space for your dog.

Common Questions About Dogs on Balconies

Can dogs be left alone on balconies?

Quick Answer: No, dogs should never be left alone on balconies due to the risks of falls, weather exposure, and accidents.

Leaving dogs unsupervised on balconies can expose them to dangers such as falling, overheating, or distress. Balconies are not secure enclosures and do not protect from harsh weather, so supervised use is always recommended.

How do I puppy-proof my balcony?

Quick Answer: Secure railings, remove climbing aids, choose dog-safe plants, and supervise your puppy at all times.

Puppy-proofing involves enclosing gaps, removing reach hazards, and keeping toxic plants or chemicals out of reach. Constant supervision is essential as puppies are curious and tend to explore with their mouths.

What plants are safe for dogs on balconies?

Quick Answer: Safe plants for balconies include herbs such as rosemary, basil, lavender, and catnip.

Avoid common toxic plants like lilies, daffodils, azaleas, and tulips. Always research each plant's safety regarding dogs before introducing it to your balcony garden.

By taking these steps and respecting your dog’s needs and limits, you can enjoy balcony time safely together.