The grass is also a dog’s best friend as it is an excellent place for them to lie around and play. However, lawn owners should keep their dogs off the grass as much as possible as dogs can bring harm to your lawn in many ways. If you love both of them and want your lawn and dogs to live happily together, then it is good to know that grass is good for dogs. There are sturdy grasses that can withstand heavy foot traffic caused by running dogs and survive with the dog’s urine.
Homeowners may consider landscaping changes and consider the best grass for dogs. It is important first to know how your dog can harm your lawn, so you can prevent some of these activities and maintain a healthy lawn.
Possible Harm
- Dogs love to pee on grasses, and it can happen many times within the day in the same spot. What makes the pee harmful to grasses? It is the ingredient called urea. It is a product when protein is metabolized. Urea holds up a lot of nitrogen which is good for plants, but too much nitrogen from the dog’s urine can burn grasses, causing them to brown.
- Dogs also poop in grasses, and it also contains nitrogen. Aside from that, dog poops also contain bacteria as well as it adds moisture to the soil. It is important to always clean the lawn regularly by scooping your dog’s poop.
- Some dogs love to dig everywhere according to breeds. Digging can stress the grass blades, their roots, and the soil.
- As much as possible, it is vital to reduce foot traffic on your lawn. It is because heavy foot traffic, like the constant running of your dog, will harm grass blades and make the soil compact.
Best Type of Sod for Dogs
It is good to know that different grasses are sturdy enough to handle all stresses of your dog’s daily activities. If you consider a new sod for your lawn, it is better to choose from one of the best grass for dogs.
1. Kentucky bluegrass
This type of grass is one of the hardiest types, and it can grow in almost all locations, temperatures, and soil. Also, it can grow rapidly compared to other grasses, making it stronger to survive quickly after being trampled by heavy foot traffic caused by running dogs. Aside from being sturdy, it is also very attractive that adds to its value as grass good for dogs.
2. Perennial Ryegrass
What makes this grass stronger is its hardy grass root system as well as it can quickly grow in different conditions. However, it is more suitable for cooler climates and the best grass for dogs running and peeing around the lawn.
3. Fescue
If you want fescues on your lawn, there are diverse varieties to choose from according to your location. A sod framer can give you an idea of what is the best variety according to your location. However, all fescues are sturdy and can withstand stress. Also, it is known to absorb added moisture in the soil caused by peeing and pooping. Fescues love shady areas.
4. Bermuda grass
This grass, good for dogs, is very popular among people living in warm climates because it does not require supplemental irrigation. That is also a good choice for a high-traffic lawn as it can thrive while being stomped by your dog’s paws. However, remember that it also needs time to heal, so give your dog something to do inside your home for a few days to allow the grass to rest. However, note that Bermuda grass can become dormant during colder months and turn into brown color. You should not worry too much as it will come back to life once springtime begins.
5. Native types of grass
It is good to choose native grasses in your region as they are studier compared to non-native grasses. A native grass means that these are grasses accustomed to the climatic condition within your area without the need for extra care and maintenance as they can live freely. They are the best grass for dogs because they can easily adapt to environmental changes.
6. Inland Saltgrass
An example of inland saltgrass can grow in San Francisco, a type of native grass in this area. It can withstand digging, is drought-resistant, and thrive in soil with additional acid caused by the dog’s urine.
