Dogs are like kids — amazing, lovable, but always getting into something they shouldn’t. And most dogs love nothing more than to play and explore the backyard! Unfortunately, you can’t keep your eye on them every second of the day.
The solution? Pup-proof your yard with outdoor artificial turf for dogs and a few other tweaks. The key is to prevent your pet from getting into trouble in the first place by removing dangerous items and creating fun, inviting spaces for playtime.
Here are eight of our favorite ideas to help you get started!
1. Replace your natural lawn with artificial turf.
Artificial grass provides a safe and easy-to-clean place for your pet to run, play and lounge around. Plus, it’s virtually indestructible, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it or having piles of shredded turf lying around the yard
Synthetic turf is hypoallergenic too, which makes it safer for dogs with grass allergies.
Not sure if your dog will like artificial grass as much as the real thing?
They usually like it even better! Imagine playing on soft grass, but without all the bugs, sharp twigs and rocks and prickly weeds to hurt your paws and nose. Your biggest problem would be getting them to come inside!
2. Install a kiddie pool to keep them cool.
Since artificial grass has great drainage, you can create an adorable play area for your dog by simply installing a kiddie pool filled with water.
This is a great way for pups to avoid overheating, particularly during hot Miami summers.
Just make sure you place the pool in an area where your dog won’t accidentally fall into the water.
3. Designate a specific potty area with artificial turf.
Yes, dogs can pee on Miami FL artificial turf. It’s much easier to clean than a natural lawn, too, because there’s no soil to absorb all that waste.
However, it’s not advisable to just let them go potty wherever they like.
One, this makes it hard to keep your synthetic lawn clean. You won’t be able to pinpoint where they did their business, which usually becomes obvious only when the area smells bad. It’s also a sure-fire way for bacteria to build up on your artificial grass.
Instead, designate one spot where they’re allowed to poop and pee. Take them to this spot when they need to go and reward them when they do.
Afterwards, hose down the area, disinfect with soap if necessary and enjoy your clean and beautiful lawn!
4. Use dog-proof fencing.
Anyone who owns a dog knows how smart they are. Regular fences are no match for furry escape artists!
There are several ways to puppy-proof your fence. For instance, anchor your fence under the ground. Use tough fencing materials like brick and steel, which are harder for dogs to dig under. You can always cover them with artificial grass to make them blend better with the rest of your landscape.
5. Plant away from the ground.
Keeping your garden at ground level is just asking for trouble when you have a dog. It’s only a matter of time before they start looking for treasure (read: dirt) to dig up.
Design your garden at least one foot off the ground, preferably higher. Arrange flowers and other plants in planters or go for potted trees instead of an open grassy area. You can also go for hanging pots to keep your prized plants and flowers out of reach!
Note that artificial grass can handle heavy planters and pots with no problem. So, feel free to use as many as you like!
6. Remove all toxic plants from your backyard with artificial turf.
Did you know that chamomile and chives can be toxic to dogs? How about foxglove, tulips and wisteria? All of these plants are poisonous to pets and the effects can range from itchiness to an emergency trip to the vet.
To be on the safe side, remove all such plants from your backyard. You can do this at the same time as synthetic grass installation, since the process also includes removing soil and vegetation from the installation site.
When bringing in new plants and flowers, double check if they’re safe for your dog. To be on the safe side, grow them in raised planters and big pots that your pooch can’t reach.
Be sure to remove any fallen flowers and leaves as well, since these may contain toxic substances too.
7. Install a dog house in your synthetic yard.
Dogs adore their humans, but they need their own space, too. One of the best ways to do this is by installing a dog house on your synthetic lawn.
This gives them a quiet place to hang out, take a nap and relax. You can also include a bed and a nice, big bowl of water for them to feel right at home. Make sure the dog house is waterproof and located in the coolest place on your lawn.
8. Only use pet-safe lawn cleaners with artificial turf.
Spills and mess will inevitably occur on artificial grass for homes in Miami, whether that’s grease from a grill party, paint from arts and crafts with the kids or something else.
The only problem is that most commercial cleaners are toxic to pets, which can lead to poisoning if your pooch decides it’s time for a quick roll on the turf.
Instead, purchase lawn care products that are pet-safe. There are countless brands on the market these days; pick one that’s specifically designed for synthetic grass.
Of course, you can also make your own cleaners by mixing white vinegar with water or liquid dish soap. Whether homemade or store-bought, make sure the mixture is mild and safe for animals.
6 Common Synthetic Pet Turf FAQs
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1. Can dogs pee on synthetic grass in Miami?
Yes. If the lawn is properly installed, urine will simply drain through the synthetic turf (unlike soil which absorbs every drop).
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2. How can I make my lawn pet-friendly?
The best way to do it is by making sure that all poisonous vegetation is removed and planting pet-safe flowers and plants. Install raised pots for hanging plants, dog houses for your furry friends and pick pet-safe cleaners. Of course, don’t forget replacing natural grass with synthetic turf!
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3. What about digging?
Artificial grass is much less likely to be damaged by dogs’ digging as natural lawns are. In fact, most dogs find it impossible to dig through the tough backing of artificial grass. Watch them wear themselves out into a tired nap when they try!
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4. How often do I need to water my synthetic grass for dogs?
Never! You’ll only need water to clean pet waste or to rinse out dirt and stains. Otherwise, artificial lawns don’t need water to keep them green and fresh!
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5. How do I clean dog waste from the yard?
Pick up poop as usual and hose down pee. If stains remain, wipe them down with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water.
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6. Can I install artificial grass myself?
Sure, but unless you’re a professional installer yourself, opting for a reputable company is the best course of action.
Installing artificial grass is difficult and complicated. There are many things that go into an artificial grass system, from sub-base to the infill and all the way to the turf itself. If you get even one element wrong, it can seriously damage your system.
Get Started with Outdoor Artificial Grass for Dogs!
If you’re looking for a way to let your dog roam free in the backyard without worrying about them getting hurt or destroying your beautiful lawn, artificial grass is a fantastic way to go.
The benefits are numerous – from not having to deal with mud or pests, to saving money on maintenance costs. We can help you decide which type of artificial turf will work best in your yard! Call Miami Artificial Grass Pros today at 786-981-4667 or send us a message with any questions.