Grass in your yard serves many different purposes, such as controlling stormwater runoff and trapping dirt and dust. However, it can be a pain to maintain, especially if you live in a warmer area that gets a lot of rain.
Instead of dealing with real grass, you could always try out artificial turf. In addition to easier maintenance, it can also prove beneficial for pet owners and their dogs. They may notice a difference at first, but the pros outweigh the cons.
Here’s why outdoor turf on your property is great for your dogs.
What is Artificial Turf?
Artificial turf is a type of synthetic grass meant to replace or supplement real grass. Some people invest in artificial grass so they can have the yard of their dreams without putting in the effort to keep it nice and maintained. Others like that it will always look the same regardless of the weather or season.
Some artificial turf, or astroturf, is made out of materials such as nylon or polypropylene fibers. It also utilizes a base material called infill worked between the different fibers. The end result is “fake” grass that is waterproof, durable, and dyed green like healthy grass.
Benefits of Artificial Turf for Dogs
Artificial turf serves many benefits for homeowners and their dogs. In particular, it can help with puppy potty training, managing a rowdy dog’s destructive capabilities, and keeping the property clean and free of bugs.
Durable and Dig-Resistant
First of all, synthetic turf is made out of multiple pieces joined together with seams. As such, there aren’t any roots that your dog can pull up.
In addition, there’s no dirt accessible from the top of the synthetic grass. Your dog won’t be able to dig into it as easily, which means you won’t have to worry about holes or areas with dead grass.
Clean and Dirt-Free
As previously mentioned, there is no dirt involved in astroturf. While there is a permeable backing with holes to allow drainage, you don’t have dirt on top of it.
Your dog won’t track in dirt and mud as easily as with a natural yard. The same goes for any kids or adults that spend time outside.
Keep in mind that you clean the yard frequently when potty training dogs. They tend to go anywhere and everywhere, and your yard will start to smell after a while.
Don’t Require Watering
Pet-friendly turf is installed green and stays green as long as you have it. You don’t have to worry about watering it or mowing it. This means that your pet can enjoy your yard without any fear of snakes or dangerous wildlife that loves long grass.
As a homeowner, that also means you’ll save money over time if you live in a drier state with infrequent rain. In addition, your pet won’t be able to ruin your yard or dig up any spots.
No Allergies or Bugs
One of the biggest benefits of utilizing artificial turf is that you won’t have to worry nearly as much about allergic reactions or bugs.
Some animals can have pretty severe pollen allergies or even reactions to the grass itself. It costs a lot to buy allergy medication every month for an animal that wants to spend most of its time outside.
On top of that, pet owners need to worry about bugs such as grass mites, ticks, and fleas. At best, your dog will develop excessive itching. At worst, they can track in fleas that will spread diseases.
Cons of Artificial Grass
While synthetic grass has its benefits, there are also some things to keep in mind before you invest in it. Your dog may not notice these negatives, but you definitely will.
Doesn’t Handle Heat Well
While your artificial grass won’t melt or fade in the sun, it will get hot. Normally, the combination of grass and dirt can keep your yard relatively cool. However, artificial grass made out of plastic will get warmer than you may be comfortable with.
Requires Frequent Cleaning
Although astroturf has drainage built-in, it won’t help much when it comes to your dog’s waste. Their urine can cling to the grass and start to smell after some time.
You’ll need to keep your yard clean and sanitized. There are cleansers you can buy that attach to your hose and can help you quickly rinse down your yard. However, you’ll need to do this at least a couple of times a week to prevent unwanted odors.
High-Cost Investment
Artificial grass is a fairly significant investment. Not only do you have to pay for the grass, but you’ll need a professional’s help.
Your preexisting yard will need to get removed, which could involve removing roots and filling in holes. The expert will then install the grass on your behalf.
Alternatively, you can buy small artificial turf pads to place around your home’s interior for potty training purposes. These are much less expensive and won’t require renovating your lawn.
What to Look For in Artificial Turf
When looking for artificial turf, keep an eye out for grass that looks native to your area. Anything too different from your neighbors will stand out.
Research the different materials and service providers in your area. You don’t want to spend too much money on the wrong ones.
If you’re buying small pieces of turf for your apartment or home, look for a brand with good reviews and reliable customer service. View this dog grass pad to get started.
Test Out Synthetic Turf With Your New Pup
Puppy potty training can be tricky, especially when animals are used to going outside to do their business. However, artificial turf is worth the investment, whether you’re placing it into your home or in your yard. Just keep in mind that it’s not self-cleaning, so you’ll need to treat it much like a litter box you’d use for cats.
