Why Pet Owners Are Taking the Lead in Outdoor Design: 60% of UK Decks Are Built with Pets in Mind

In recent years, pets have become more than just companions; they have become integral members of the family. This shift is influencing how homeowners design their living spaces, particularly outdoor areas like decks. 

A survey conducted by Dino Decking, which included 1,286 participants, reveals that 60% of UK pet owners consider their pets’ needs when planning and constructing their decks. When asked specifically if they factored in their pets’ needs during the design phase, 52.27% of respondents confirmed that they did. This data highlights the growing trend among pet owners to prioritise their pet’s comfort and safety when designing outdoor spaces like decks.

But why is this trend gaining momentum?

The Rise of Pet-Centric Design

Pet owners are becoming increasingly committed to creating safe and comfortable environments for their furry friends. For example, choosing decking materials that are gentle on paws or incorporating features like shaded areas and built-in water stations ensures pets can enjoy outdoor spaces as much as their human counterparts.

This focus on pet-friendly design isn’t just about safety, as it’s also about enhancing the overall quality of life for both pets and owners. With more people working from home, pets likely spend more time outdoors, making a well-designed deck an essential feature of modern living.

Out of 1,286 participants in the survey, several key pet-friendly features were identified as important for decking:

• Durable materials resistant to scratches were the top priority, selected 575 times, accounting for 81.46% of the votes.
• Non-slip surfaces were also highly valued, chosen 486 times, or 68.83% of the respondents.
• Shaded areas were selected 136 times, representing 19.26% of the responses.
• Fencing or barriers were important to 89 respondents, making up 12.60% of the votes.
• A small percentage (0.42%) cited other features, including easy-to-clean surfaces and reflective heat considerations.

This data underscores the growing importance of incorporating pet-friendly elements in deck design to cater to the needs of pet owners.

In a 2022 study by the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA), it was found that 62% of UK households now own a pet, with dogs and cats being the most popular companions. This increase in pet ownership underscores the rising demand for pet-friendly home improvements. Since 2012, Statista reported pet ownership in the UK has risen by 10%, further emphasising the importance of adapting living spaces to accommodate our four-legged family members. Reflecting this trend, research by AT-trained dogs emphasises the importance of designing outdoor spaces that help keep pets cool during summer. Experts recommend using heat-reflective materials, incorporating shaded areas, and adding cooling features like misting systems to ensure dogs remain comfortable and safe on decks during hot weather.

The Economic Impact

The growing demand for pet-friendly outdoor spaces is also influencing the decking industry. Manufacturers are responding by developing products specifically designed to meet the needs of pets, such as slip-resistant surfaces and durable, scratch-resistant materials.

For homeowners, investing in a pet-friendly deck can also add value to their property. Following the addition of quality composite decking you can usually expect to see the value of your house go up by approximately 10% (London loves business).

As the trend continues to grow, homes with these features may become more attractive to potential buyers, particularly those with pets.

The trend towards incorporating pet-friendly features into home design has extended to outdoor spaces, particularly decking. A 2021 survey by Zillow found that homes with pet-friendly features, including secure and durable decking, tend to sell faster than those without. This growing interest reflects a significant shift in buyer preferences as more homeowners seek to create outdoor spaces that accommodate their pets.

Decking that is designed with pets in mind using materials that are scratch-resistant, easy to clean, and non-toxic is becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, features like non-slip surfaces and shaded areas on decks are essential for ensuring pet safety and comfort. As pet ownership in the UK has increased by 10% since 2012, the demand for these kinds of pet-friendly outdoor spaces has risen accordingly, making it a crucial consideration for homeowners and real estate developers alike.

Looking Ahead

As the bond between humans and their pets strengthens, we’ll likely see even more innovation in this area. Whether it’s through new materials, design concepts, or outdoor accessories, the future of deck design is undeniably being shaped by our four-legged friends.

The trend of pet-centric deck design reflects a broader shift in how we view and care for our pets. By prioritising their needs in outdoor spaces, we’re not only enhancing their quality of life but also creating more enjoyable environments for ourselves.