Plan to keep your lawn lush and green despite a dog’s active use of the area.
Continue reading for the best grasses for homes with dogs.
TheFestucagenus has many varieties, including types suitable for disease resistance, shade tolerance, and higher foot traffic.
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Do you have a large dog?Fescue is versatileand often the best choice.
This grass variety is very absorbent and can easily handle a large dogs urine.
For an easy, durable grass option, fescue makes a great choice.
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Kentucky Bluegrass
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Does your pup run circles around you with seemingly never-ending energy?
That kind of activity not only wears you out, it wears out your grass as well.
Meet Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), a durable and beautifulcool-season grass.
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This popular, fast-growing, fast-healing, thick grass is up to the challenge of your dogs racing paws.
It grows well in most climates and does very well in colder areas.
This grass does require more water and fertilizer than other grasses.
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It does well in warmer climates and does not require frequent watering because of itsresistance to drought.
Zoysia japonicais the most common species available as commercial seed.
Once established, it is durable and creates a soft, thick lawn that will withstand your pups playtime.
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Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is not only hardy but also fast-healing.
This grass is a perfect choice for frequent paw traffic.
It is well suited for warmer climates and does not require frequent watering.
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It needs moreacidicsoil than most grasses and cannot tolerate alkaline soil.
Centipede grass does well in hot weather but needs plenty of water to survive.
If you are in the United States, consider this grass if you live in the Southeast.
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However, it may not thrive without diligent watering.
How to Choose The Best Dog-Friendly Grass
Everyone’s needs are different.
Do you have a rambunctious dog or several dogs that enjoy running and roughhousing?
Fescue, Bermuda, and Kentucky bluegrass can handle a lot of traffic.
Does your dog use the yard primarily for going outside to do its poo and pee duty?
Perennial ryegrass, fescue, and centipede grass are more urine-tolerant than others.
Another consideration is your climate.
Do you require cool-season or warm-season grass?
Do you have a regular watering regimen or live in an environment with heavy rain?
Some people will require drought-tolerant grass, especially in areas with limited rainfall.
Lastly, how much time can you spend tending to your lawn?
If you have less time, consider grasses that need little mowing or fertilizing, like fescue.
Perennial ryegrass is one of the most urine-resistant grasses.
Centipede grass comes a close second.
However, watering down pee spots is always best to maintain healthy grass.
Steer clear of grass palm (Cordyline australis) in your yard.
The toxic ingredients in this grass are saponins, which can harm animals.All other grasses are animal-safe.
Most synthetic turf is made with plastics and potentially harmful chemical compounds.
Unlike natural grass, it can also bake in the sun and burn dog pads and feet.
