Dog owners often dream about spending hours in the yard playing fetch and enjoying the outdoors, so it's important to have a lawn that can withstand activities like running and digging and the occasional mess. Minimize the risk of pet-related damage by following the lawn care and hardscape tips below.

5 Pet-Friendly Lawn & Landscaping Tips

1. Work With Hardscaping Materials

Create non-grass areas for your dog to relieve themselves with hardscaping materials. Hardscape options such as natural stone, concrete pavers, and stone mulch all hold up well against dog waste. Pheromone posts naturally attract dogs, so they urinate in specific spots. If you have space, consider installing a rock garden specifically for your dog. Remember to reward them every time they use designated relief areas.

2. Use Hardier Grass & Non-Toxic Plants

Purchase sod made of hardy grass species, or seeds. Fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, Bermuda, and perennial rye are among the most durable grass types. Keep your hardiness zone in mind so you purchase the right warm or cool season grass. Also, stick to flowers and plants that are safe for dogs as well as cats, such as roses, daisies, and daffodils.

3. Create A Mini Dog Garden

Create an area just for your dog to discourage them from entering gardens. Fence in the space and use smooth pavers and stones that will not cut or get stuck in paws. Ensure there is plenty of shade, whether from trees and shrubs or hardscape elements, as well as comfortable outdoor furniture. Add a fountain as an attractive way of providing water.

4. Switch To Organic Fertilizers & Pesticides

Use organic fertilizers and pesticides or insecticides to protect your dog’s health. Lawn chemicals end up on paws and are either licked off or brought into your home. If you want to stick with chemical lawn care products, keep your dog off the lawn for 24 to 48 hours.

5. Clean Accidents Immediately

Dilute urine as quickly as possible using your garden hose in the event of a doggy accident. Pick up solid waste immediately as well and avoid scolding the animal. Take the dog over to their designated area and use fencing options or other methods that keep dogs off lawns such as motion-activated sprinklers. Also, start walking your pet first thing in the morning when urine is most concentrated so they can relieve themselves on the street or the local dog park.
 

Keep your lawn and gardens looking great with services from A to Z Property Maintenance. Serving Fairfield County, CT, this landscape and hardscape company provides a full suite of services including organic tick control, mulching, and yard cleanup. Call (203) 775-9174 to schedule maintenance or review their online gallery for photos of their lawn maintenance and hardscaping work.