For many dog owners, the sight of yellow or brown patches on an otherwise lush green lawn is a common problem. These unsightly spots, caused by dog urine, can be a source of frustration and concern. But what exactly is in the urine that harms the grass, and how can you prevent and treat these spots?
What Causes Dog Spots in the Grass?
The culprit behind those pesky dog spots is urea, a nitrogen-rich compound found in urine. While nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, excessive amounts can have detrimental effects on grass. When a dog urinates on the lawn, the concentrated nitrogen in the urine can burn the grass, resulting in those telltale patches.
The damage occurs because the nitrogen in the urine acts as a fertilizer, causing an overabundance of nitrogen in the soil in that particular spot. This excess nitrogen essentially "burns" the grass, leading to discoloration and, in severe cases, even killing the grass altogether.
How To Prevent Dog Spots In The Lawn
Maintaining a healthy and lush lawn while owning a dog can be hard, but with a few proactive measures, you can minimize damage and keep your grass looking beautiful.
Designate a Pee Area
Train your dog to use a specific area of the yard for urination, preferably one with a surface that won't be damaged by urine, such as gravel, turf or mulch.
Areas typically covered with gravel or fake turf are the most popular. Just make sure you are aware of the surface and the heat reflected off when it is mid-summer. Some fake turfs can get very hot. Also, be aware of drainage. Urine can build up and create a pretty pronounced smell if not draining correctly.
Water Urine Spots into the Lawn
Immediately water the area where your dog urinates to dilute the urine and minimize its impact on the grass. This can help mitigate the concentration of nitrogen and reduce the likelihood of grass damage.
Keep Your Pet Well-Hydrated
Ensure that your dog stays well-hydrated to dilute the concentration of nitrogen in their urine. Encourage frequent water intake, especially during hot weather or after exercise.
Dog Spot Prevention Products
NaturVet GrassSaver Chews
These are like little magic treats that help keep your lawn looking healthy and green, even with your furry friend around. It contains DL-Methionine and Yucca that team up to balance out your pup's urine pH, preventing those pesky yellow spots. There's also a Vitamin B blend and cranberry to provide additional support for your dog's urinary tract health, so your dog can keep enjoying the backyard without leaving behind a trail of brown spots.
Dog Rocks
A natural solution designed to prevent yellow spots on lawns caused by dog urine. These rocks are placed in your dog's water bowl and work by filtering out impurities like tin, ammonia and nitrates from the water. This helps to reduce the amount of nitrogen in your dog's urine, this helps maintain a healthy lawn without altering the pH balance of your dog's urine.
Solutions To Treat Existing Dog Spots In The Lawn
When your furry friend leaves their mark on your lawn, don't fear! With the right treatment, you can restore your grass to its former glory.
Dog Spot Treatments
Revive Dog Spot Treatment
Addresses and cures unsightly brown spots on lawns caused by pet urine burns. Its formula contains natural ingredients and wetting agents that work with the lawn to eliminate these spots and promote greener grass. The treatment is versatile and effective for other brown spots caused by fertilizer burn, soil compaction, heat, and drought stress. Best of all, it's easy to use and doesn't require raking; you simply spray, soak, and leave it to dry!
Apply Fertilizer
Use a nitrogen-neutralizing fertilizer or soil amendment specifically designed to counteract the effects of dog urine. These products help restore balance to the soil and promote healthy grass growth.
If you need a new fertilizer or you’re looking for a new one, check out Revive's organic-based soil treatment. You can even lay it down along with your IFA 4 step lawn fertilizers!
Reseed or Resod Lawn
If the damage is severe, consider reseeding or resodding the affected areas to promote new grass growth. Varieties of Kentucky Bluegrass are the most common in many Utah lawns and turf-type fescues are more popular in dryer climates of the intermountain west. When reseeding, overseeding or residing, also consider a grass variety that's resilient to dog urine, such as perennial ryegrass.
Additional Tips for Pet and Lawn Owners
Adjust Your Mowing Habits
Raise the cutting height of your lawn mower to minimize stress on the grass, making it more resilient to damage from dog urine.
Regular Maintenance
Implement a regular lawn care routine, including proper watering, fertilization, and aeration, to keep your grass healthy and resilient against dog spots.
The best solution though is to create a spot and train the dog to go there. There are tools that will help (attractive sprays, etc), but the BEST is leash training with positive rewards! - Martha Page
While dog spots on the lawn may seem inevitable for pet owners, proactive measures can help minimize their occurrence and their effects. By understanding the “why” behind dog spots, you can implement preventive strategies and promptly treat any damage. So use these tips and tricks, so you can maintain a healthy and vibrant lawn for both you and your furry friend to enjoy.
Let Us Help
For more tips and expert advice on maintaining a beautiful lawn and a happy pet, visit your local IFA Country Store and talk with one of our associates/team members, or lawn or pet experts for any additional advice.
Information for this article was provided by Martha Page, Animal Health & Pet Category Manager; Ken Holt, Lawn & Garden Category Manager; Marvin Potter, Garden Center & Live Plants Category Manager.