The interest in fake lawns right now is through the roof. Unless you enjoy gardening, the emergence of synthetic turf that looks like natural grass will catch people’s attention.
But what about artificial grass for dogs? Let’s find out!
- Is it safe?
- What about poo?
- Is it easy to clean?
- What’s the best?
Dogs Barn’s definitive guide will tell you everything you need to know about artificial grass and dogs and whether it’s one of the leadingdog friendly garden designscurrently available.
The Best Artificial Grass for Dogs in the UK
Dogs love grass and a lush, green well-manicured lawn in the Summer is a beautiful sight. Unfortunately for many dog owners, keeping it looking its best is almost impossible, especially during the winter when the unpredictable British weather can wreak havoc.
Yellow pee stains, bald and muddy patches, your dog can have a significant impact on your lawn. What was once a green oasis can quickly become a barren wasteland.
Not to mention the trail of muddy paw prints your four-legged friend leaves throughout the house when he comes back inside and the baths needed when he decides a roll in the mud might be fun.
Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass with Dogs
With its easy maintenance and aesthetic appeal, fake grass or AstroTurf is becoming increasingly popular not only for commercial use and sports surfaces but also for residential gardens, dog runs, School playgrounds and Corporate events.
But is this synthetic marvel any good for pets and dogs in particular?
Dog owners ask several questions when debating replacing a natural lawn with artificial turf.
- Is artificial grass safe for pets?
- How do you keep it clean?
- How much will it cost?
- Will my dog ruin it?
Is Pet-Friendly Artificial Grass Safe?
The good news is if you buy your dog-friendly artificial grass from a reputable company, then yes, it is. Your beloved pooch won’t notice the difference between fake grass and the real thing.
Artificial grass has been manufactured since the 1960s but in recent years has seen much improvement, with better designs and the use of higher quality non-toxic synthetic materials producing a durable, hygienic, easy-to-clean product.
The modern versions look and feel remarkably similar to the real thing.
What About Mess?
Good quality artificial grass for pets has an inbuilt drainage system, so if your dog goes to the toilet, the urine should drain away easily.
Number 2s can be picked up and bagged as usual and with regular hose downs, the fake lawn is much more hygienic than real turf.
Contaminated soilis one of the ways a dog can pick up worms, so high-quality false grass for dogs will also cut down the risk of that problem. Pet-friendly artificial grass is stain-resistant, so there will be no discoloured patches proclaiming the area as your dog’s toilet.
Where Can I Buy Dog-Friendly Grass?
When purchasing dog-friendly fake grass, it is essential to buy from an established reputable company.
Many DIY and bargain stores sell imported grass which comes from the far-east. This grass is not of the same high quality and could be destroyed by the heavy wear and tear of larger dogs and could also contain chemicals that could potentially be harmful to your pet.
This is one product where scrimping is not cost-effective. The reduced costs of maintaining a fully manicured lawn mean purchasing artificial turf can be a real money saver in the long run, so it is worth investing in quality.
Fake Turf Cost?
Like carpets, you can pay anything from £5-£50 a square metre for artificial pet turf. The choice can be mind-boggling, but most reputable companies are happy to discuss your requirements and will be able to offer a dog-friendly product that complements both your needs and budget.
What Is The Best Synthetic Turf For Dogs?
Many options are available: different thicknesses, lengths, sand infills, and luxury grasses. The choice can be confusing.
Most companies are happy to discuss what products would suit your lifestyle and family. The best option for artificial grass if you have dogs is a hardwearing, durable turf with good drainage.
A shorter pile is best as some dogs don’t like the sensation of the fibres between their paws.
Most companies have a range of pet-friendly options and testimonials from other satisfied dog owners. It’s worth doing a little bit of research before you buy.
Where to Buy?
Find great options for pet-friendly artificial grass from the companies listed below.
Easigrass Artificial Grass Company
Suppliers of award-winning artificial grasses, Easigrass, have been around for over 30 years and are the first and only artificial grass company to be awarded gold by the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) at the iconicChelsea Flower Show.
They supply and fit exceptional quality natural-looking alternatives to the real thing, recently developing a grass with manicured stripes to give that professionally mown look.
With a network of quality in-house trained installers throughout the UK.
Company Information
The Old Grass Depot Park Avenue London UB1 3AJ United Kingdom
Their artificial grass range and installation system for pet owners last up to 20 years, even with heavy use. British made and covered by a 10-year guarantee, Easigrass have supplied councils, universities, and schools throughout the UK and abroad.
We asked Easigrass about the benefits of their artificial turf for dogs, and their owner Anthony Gallagher replied personally. This is what he had to say:
Anthony GallagherMD | Easigrass Distribution Ltd
“For the last ten years,Easigrass have been supplying and installing artificial gardens to dog lovers all over the UK.Ideal for running, it makes a perfect play surface for dogs as well as children.
During both the summer and winter months, you may well find your dog(s) running and using the grass as a training area, with its great grip enabling them to use all of theiragility setsand skills and even spinning onto their backs to have a gentle rub (massage) at the end of their sessions.We have even noticed that they love to clean around their mouths by sliding their jaws along the grass. We call it “grassy flossing” in our house.
The one thing that my better half loves is that there is “not one muddy paw print” ever on our kitchen floor from the dog. That’s why she loves her EASIGRASS….(and the fact that I own the company too )”
Kind Regards
Anthony J Gallagher
Artificial-Grass.Com
Manufacturing and supplying their artificial grasses from the longest established grass factory in the UK based in Cumbria, Artificial Grass Ltd use only the highest quality raw materials to produce its range.
Along with their sister company sispitches.com which has worked with and supplied to some of the top sports teams worldwide, they have years of experience.
Products can be purchased online or through their UK-wide network of distributors.
Company Information
As of August 2017, this company is now called Buzzgrass
They provide a detailed guide to DIY installation on the website or can put you in touch with a local recommended landscaper to do the job.
We spoke to the company, who told us:
Lucy GrahamMarketing Manager | SIS Pitches
“We’ve had a discussion here and essentially we haven’t ever really had many issues brought to our attention by dog owners, more often than not, they are delighted (as you will see in our before/after gallery and testimonials sections)
We have heard of puppies chewing corners if they aren’t fixed down properly, but they don’t carry on doing this – it seems to be a one off.
Great Grass
One of the UK’s largest suppliers of artificial grasses, Manchester-based Great Grass offers a selection of value for money, hardwearing solutions.
Boasting a range of 6 different types of grass, all of them hardwearing and suitable for pets.
Company Information
670 Oldham Road Manchester, United Kingdom
They are covered by a 10-year guarantee and offer a full installation service in the North-west of England and Greater London areas.
They have worked with the London Olympic 2012 venues, Chester Racecourse and numerous schools, councils and businesses throughout the UK.
We tried to speak to Great Grass, but they were unavailable for comment
Express Grass
Express Grass is based in Sittingbourne, Kent, an independent family business established for over 30 years. They have a vast warehouse and supply one of the largest ranges available either online or on-site.
They are one of the few companies to offer coloured grass that can be used to brighten up balconies and hot tub areas or to fit in with the theme for an event such as a wedding, dog show, or party.
Company Information
Tribune Drive Trinity Trading Estate Sittingbourne Kent ME10 2PG
They even offer an AstroTurf hiring service. Their value for money range is only available online or by visiting the showroom and they don’t provide an installation service.
We contacted Express Grass but as yet have received no response
ArtificialLawn.co.uk
Relative newbies The Artificial Lawn company has over ten years of experience supplying and fitting fake lawns.
Their range includes several options when it comes to artificial lawns for dogs, including the premier curl grass.
This option is recommended for agility courses and kennel runs as it is extraordinarily hardwearing and can handle heavy traffic
It was previously used in the main show ring at Crufts and the Discover Dogs Exhibition.
Company Information
Artificial Lawn Company Hartshill Nursery, Thong Lane Shorne Kent DA12 4AD
An 8-year guarantee covers all their products and they offer a full installation service throughout the UK.
Unfortunately, we have not received a response to our request for more information
artificialgrass-direct.com.
Artificial Grass Direct Limited has been supplying public and trade customers for over 15 years.
They pride themselves on searching the world for new innovations within the industry and offer a wide range of artificial grass at competitive prices.
They provide opportunities for landscape gardeners to become resellers and nationwide delivery on all their products.
Company Information
16 Hallsteads Business Park Dove Holes Buxton SK17 8BJ
Although they do not offer an installation service, they have a comprehensive fitting guide on the website, a planning tool, and an offer to answer any questions you may have by telephone to ensure your lawn fits perfectly and is laid correctly.
We contacted Artificialgrass-direct but have not received a response
Last Word
So there it is, everything you need to know about artificial grass and how it just might be the perfect solution for keeping your garden beautiful and your dog clean, safe and happy.
Whatever the size of your garden, whether you have one dog or several. Low maintenance, easy to clean and hardwearing with plastic grass for dogs, you will be able to spend more time enjoying it with your four-legged friend.
It’s big already, but we think artificial grass for dogs and pets will become one of the best products dog owners can buy.
Do you have artificial grass and dogs?
Let us know in the comments below what you think.
FAQs
What artificial grass is best for dogs? ›
The hardest wearing, most durable fibre used to manufacture artificial grass is nylon. When looking for the best artificial grass for dogs and pets, choosing one that is made from nylon would be an excellent choice as it will be able to stand up to the heavy, regular use that it will receive.
What is the best artificial grass 2022? ›| Product | Material | Pile Height |
|---|---|---|
| Goasis Lawn 5 ft x 8 ft | Polyethylene | 0.4 inches |
| Pet Grow PG1-4 | Synthetic | 1.37 inches |
| SunVilla SV7'X13′ | Polyethylene | 1 3/8 inches |
| GRASSUN | Polyethylene | 1.25 inches |
Express Pet Artificial Grass
This is one of the most advanced artificial grasses for dogs you'll find on the market. It's designed specifically to handle the wear and tear of dogs, plus it has a special antimicrobial treatment that makes it resistant to bacteria and smells.
Therefore, anything between a 20-35mm pile is a good choice if the fibres are made from nylon. If they aren't, choose a 20-25mm pile.
What is the safest artificial turf for dogs? ›- BEST OVERALL: Pet Grow Pet Pad Artificial Grass Turf.
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Petgrow Artificial Synthetic Grass Turf.
- UPGRADE PICK: Tiger Turf Everglade Fescue.
- MOST REALISTIC: SunVilla Realistic Artificial Grass.
- BEST CUSHIONED: WMG GRASS Premium Artificial Grass.
- BEST HEAVY-DUTY: GL Artificial Grass Mats Lawn Carpet.
A low pile height of around 1 inch is good for pet turf, as it makes cleanup of solid waste quick and easy.
What artificial grass looks the most real? ›ForeverLawn Landscape products come out on top in terms of having a natural, realistic appearance. In fact, the ForeverLawn® Select line of synthetic grass was the first to incorporate a tan thatch that mimics the construction of natural grass.
Is the thicker the artificial grass the better? ›Artificial grass, like carpet, is made from yarns of woven into a strong base layer. These are extremely hard-wearing synthetic fibres and the greater the number of yarns, the denser and thicker the grass will be. Thick, dense grass creates the most comfortable and luxurious feel underfoot.
What time of year is best to lay artificial grass? ›Generally speaking, an ideal time to have artificial turf installed would be during the fall season. Having artificial turf installed in preparation for the spring and summer months is a great idea. And statistically, the cooler months (December through February) are less busy for contractors.
Is there dog friendly artificial grass? ›LazyLawn is the best artificial grass for dogs and their owners who need an alternative to real grass. If you're tired of common grass problems such as muddy patches, holes, and yellow stains on your lawn, our pet-friendly artificial grass is a durable, mess-free solution that looks great all year round.
Does artificial grass smell when dogs pee on it? ›
Unfortunately, when urine trickles through the blades of synthetic turf, it seeps under the grass, and coagulates between the bottom of the grass carpet and the weed barrier beneath it. As buildup accumulates, the dog urine smell intensifies. The stench can linger long after the liquid has been disposed of.
Does dog urine destroy artificial grass? ›4. Does dog pee ruin fake grass? Unlike real grass, artificial grass will not wither and die when a dog takes a leak on it. You will have to regularly hose down the area with water to keep away any lingering odor.
What length of artificial grass is best? ›For those that like the look of freshly cut grass, anything between 25-30mm is a good choice. For a natural looking lawn, we recommend choosing something between 30-38mm. Anything longer than this and the fibres tend to lie flat under their own weight rather than standing upright.
What is the difference between pet friendly and artificial grass? ›Our cleverly designed dog friendly artificial grass has larger drainage holes than standard artificial grass, to allow for easier drainage of urine and faeces. There is no mowing required and all you have to do is hose it down every so often to removeany dirt in the pile.
How long does artificial grass last with dogs? ›We have found that artificial grass for dogs lasts roughly 10 to 15 years.
What is the least toxic turf? ›PolyTurf Artificial Grass is lead-free, non-toxic, and made in the USA. PolyTurf artificial grass is made in the U.S.A. using the latest available, top-of-the-line manufacturing equipment and technology.
Is there artificial grass that doesn't get hot? ›TigerCool® has been introduced in the market by Synthetic Grass Warehouse. TigerCool® Heat Reflective Technology has been created by Tencate, the manufacturer of space-age yarns for Boeing and NASA. TigerCool® helps to reduce the temperature of your artificial turf by around 15% and by around 10 degrees.
Is K9Grass worth it? ›If you're unable to get PetGrass or simply need more options, K9Grass is a much better option than shoddy knock-offs or regular turf that is either filled with special infills like Zeolite or sprayed with expensive enzymes to control the odor.
Where is the best place for a dog to pee? ›If you don't want your dog peeing all over your lawn, it might be easiest to just walk your dog to empty her bladder. Sidewalk medians, local parks, and even deserted lots are all great dog potty places. This is especially helpful for dogs that don't like to pee right away on their walk.
How far off the ground should a dog house be? ›Add 4 inches to the height measurement. These two measurements will give you a minimum size for your doghouse. Example: Dog length of 24 inches + 4 = 28 inches for minimum doghouse width and length. Dog height (with ears) of 22 inches + 4 = 26 inches for minimum doghouse height.
What is the most comfortable position for a dog? ›
What is a dog's most comfortable sleeping position? This will depend on your dog, but lying on their side is one of the most common sleeping positions for dogs. This position usually means the dog feels safe and relaxed in their environment.
What shape artificial grass is best? ›U-shaped blades are the softest and made to withstand all weather and wear. The U-shape is most popular because it is versatile and will retain its u-shape even when the foot traffic is heaviest. C-shaped artificial grass blades are durables and soft, much like U-shapes.
How can you tell if artificial grass is good quality? ›- A realistic looking finish rather than a plastic look.
- A soft texture that feels nice on the skin (this is particularly important if you have children).
- Good quality holed latex to allow for effective drainage.
High-quality nylon sod is the most expensive. Polyethylene and polypropylene are more affordable and include low-cost options. Nylon artificial grass cost is typically between $5 and $6 per square foot.
What to look out for when buying artificial grass? ›Longer grasses, around 30mm mark, will give a lush, luxurious look, whereas shorter, 16-27mm products will look neater, and make for great artificial grass for dogs, pets, or kids. Good quality artificial grass should be weighty, with a weight of 2-3kg per metre square.
Does artificial grass tear easily? ›It isn't very common for artificial turf to suffer rips or tears. However, it isn't completely impossible either, as it can occur if you don't take care when using dangerous tools or playing sports out in the garden.
What's the best membrane for artificial grass? ›Geotextile Weed Membrane for artificial grass is the best way to prevent unwanted weeds from growing up through your new lawn – available in a range of sizes to ensure that your lawn always looks its best.
What should you put down before laying artificial grass? ›Artificial Grass Bases
To perfectly lay your artificial grass onto an existing hard base such as concrete or tarmac, we recommend installing a layer of Lazy Foam underlay beneath the artificial grass. Before you lay the foam pad down, be sure to clean the surface beneath it.
Because artificial turf is made of synthetic materials, it does not need to be watered at all, except when the homeowner decides to occasionally rinse it off. Giving artificial turf an occasional rinse helps to keep odors from becoming a problem, especially if pets tend to do their business close to the home.
How often should you clean artificial grass? ›Proper maintenance of artificial turf can help ensure that it remains in good shape long term. Rinse your lawn once a week with plain water, and deep clean at least once a month using the directions below. When in doubt about a surface, always spot test first.
Do I need special artificial grass for dogs? ›
Latex backed grass, the black rubbery backed grass you'll find in DIY shops will degrade over time allowing the dog urine to seep into the latex rubber and start smelling. Ask an installer if they have a polyurethane backed grass option. Many of them won't but they can get them from us!
Can you clean dog poop off artificial grass? ›Wash with warm soapy water
To keep the area sanitary wash the areas that have had pet mess with warm soapy water. Stronger cleaning agents aren't really necessary, so we don't recommend them. Artificial grass is not affected by the soap, so it stays clean and green all year round.
That's the main difference between traditional synthetic grass and pet-friendly artificial turf. With pet turf, there are added benefits like antimicrobial properties and security measures for feisty pets. Pet turf will better control odors and ensure proper drainage compared to non-pet synthetic turf options.
What can I use for dog urine on artificial grass? ›Start by hosing down the area with a garden hose to get rid of any lingering pee. Next, using a spray bottle with 1 part water to 1 part vinegar, spray down the affected area. Rinse down the affected area with a garden hose again.
Can dog urine damage artificial grass? ›Well, unlike real turf, artificial grass won't die when a dog pees on it. Dog urine drains away, just like rain, so you won't end up staring out at a yellow sea. Dog faeces will need to be cleaned up, just as you would on a real lawn. Simply scoop the mess up and hose the area down to remove any residual grains.
How do you keep fake grass from smelling like dog urine? ›Mix water and baking soda
One easy way to remove this smell is by mixing a solution of water or vinegar and baking soda. Mix the solution in a separate bowl and evenly distribute it across the artificial grass. Leave to soak for a few hours and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
There are two big reasons for artificial grass dog urine odour. A combination of badly installed artificial grass and a lack of regular maintenance. With more emphasis on the lack of regular maintenance. If your lawn was badly installed beneath the surface, then it means it wasn't made permeable enough.
How do you get dog poop and pee out of artificial turf? ›- Pick up the waste with a plastic bag and dispose of it properly.
- Use your artificial grass cleaner to neutralize the urine and get rid of the smell.
- Spray down the area with a hose. Simple as that!