One downside of dog parenting is the damage your pup’s urine can do to your backyard. Dead, brown spots polka-dotting your outdoor living space are unsightly.
But what are the right solutions for this common canine conundrum?
You’ve likely heard an earful of ideas from fellow dog parents. But before you go on a wild goose chase and listen to myths such as adding supplements to your pet’s diet, try some proven strategies.
How To Keep Your Lawn Green With A Dog Who Needs To Pee
The following methods will leave you with a greener lawn:
- Train your pooch to pee on a chosen area of landscaping. An area of mulch surrounding a tree will absorb the nitrogen-heavy urine. Once your dog picks a spot with rocks, gravel, or mulch, offer a reward.
- Take frequent dog walks so your pet can pee elsewhere. Enjoy the added benefit of more exercise for you and your dog.
- Use a watering can or hose to dilute pet pee right away. The nitrogen in dog urine is highly concentrated and too potent for plants in its undiluted form. With a good dousing, it becomes a welcome shot of fertilizer for the plants — and a less-offensive odor for humans.
- Give your dog plenty of water. It’s essential to their health, and it will dilute the concentration of their urine.
Focus On Your Dog’s Health, Too
To keep your lawn healthy, keep your pet healthy. Regular visits to the veterinarian and vaccinations will help keep your furry friend disease-free. It’s important for the health of you and your family, too.
Some bacteria in animals, including leptospirosis, cause “zoonotic disease” — that is, they can be passed from animals to humans. An ounce of prevention — or water — is worth a dog pound of cure.
Keep in mind, puppies and elderly dogs need to urinate more often. It’s not advisable to put an aged dog in a situation where they have to hold in urine for hours and hours. This could lead to a urinary tract infection, which is painful for your pooch and can be expensive and time-consuming to heal.
If no one is home during the day, look into hiring a dog walker or arranging with a neighbor to help with potty breaks. You can also install a doggy door to allow your pet to pop in and out as needed.
Cold-weather months are as miserable for your dog as they are you. Getting your dog, especially a small pooch, to go outside will be difficult. Help them out by clearing a path in the snow to their favorite pee spot.
Yes, this is a downside of dog parenting, but with a little discipline — or some hired help — you can enjoy both a happy and healthy pet and a clean, inviting lawn.
Do you have any tips for dog parents to keep their lawns in good shape? How do you make sure your grass stays green? Let us know in the comments below!
Sheri Wallace is a dog trainer who also owns a doggie bath and grooming business. When she’s not working with dogs, you’ll find her in her backyard gardening alongside her Siberian Husky and Basset Hound.
