If your dog is like most, they have a lot of energy—and probably spend a lot of time running circles around your yard. However, dogs can cause damage to your grass when urinating and digging. Here are some tips to keep your lawn sod in top condition even if you have a pet. 

Do:

Designate a potty area. 

Dog urine can burn lawn sod, causing yellow or brown spots on the grass. These spots can look unsightly, especially spread throughout your yard. Therefore, consider designating an area for your dog to urinate if possible. This area may feature a different material—like wood chips or gravel—that is easier to scoop up and replace.

Water your lawn.

Frequent watering can dilute dog urine before it can cause spotting. Use a garden hose to periodically flush out the main soiled area. If possible, do so immediately after you spot your dog going to the restroom. The extra watering will help keep the yard green and lush as well.

Don’t:

Let your dog get dehydrated. 

The pH of your dog’s urine affects its potency. A higher pH has more of a chance of hurting your lawn than if it is lower. Ideally, you want to keep your dog’s urine around 6.5 pH through proper hydration. If you’re concerned about your dog’s urine pH, talk to their vet.

Choose weak grass.

If you have pets, you need to be prepared for them to use your lawn. This means that the lawn sod needs to be strong enough to withstand running tracks and minor digging. A stronger variety like Bermuda grass can be a reliable option for dog owners. Your sod professional can make recommendations if you’re concerned about protecting your lawn from your pets. 

If you have furry friends to consider when planning your lawn design, the team at Arkansas Sod & Turf Farm is available to help. Located in North Little Rock, AR, these professionals have nearly 40 years of experience in the industry. They offer a variety of lawn sod products. You can also select from slabs, mini rolls, and big rolls. Visit them online to learn more about their inventory or call (501) 753-5377 with any questions.