So your dog has been begging you for artificial turf, but you’re just not sure about it.
After all, he begs for a lot of stuff, right? His dinner, a half hour before it’s time. Your morning toast. That last bit of pizza crust.
It’s hard to take his recent request for artificial turf seriously.
What are the pros and cons of artificial turf for dogs?
Let’s take a look.
First, What is Artificial Turf?
Artificial turf is a surface of synthetic fibers made to look like natural grass.
It’s an increasingly popular choice for low-maintenance-loving Central Florida homeowners ready to hang up the mower, retire their sprinklers, and put away the fertilizer for good.
Some artificial turf manufacturers carry turf designed specifically for dogs, with extra features like a flow-through backing for maximum drainage and antimicrobial technology built into the blades.
But even regular artificial turf products can work if you have a dog.
Advantages of Artificial Turf for Dogs
- It stays green. Natural grass turns yellow from dog urine and it’s tough to green it up again. But artificial turf stays green — one of the big advantages of artificial turf for dogs.
- Easy cleanup. Dog urine can be easily washed out of the turf to maintain a clean surface. Scoop the poop, then just spray that area with water. Any stains can be washed with mild soap and water.
- Fewer fleas and bugs. Bugs aren’t interested in artificial turf. That means fewer of them on your pooch.
- No dirt or mud to get messy. That means fewer baths after outdoor play. (That sound you hear is your dog saying, “Yessssss!”)
- Easy maintenance. This is one of the big advantages of artificial turf for dogs. Just occasionally sweep off any debris. No more weekends spent working on your lawn. That means more time to play with your pooch! Also: no weeds! Meanwhile, real turf needs watering, mowing, fertilizing, weed control, insect control, fungus control. It’s kind of a pain.
- It looks like real grass. Artificial turf even comes in different blade lengths and widths, colors and textures, like real grass, so you can choose the look you like.
Disadvantages of Artificial Turf for Dogs
- It costs more than sod to install. (If your dog doesn’t have a job and can’t contribute to the cost, this is likely one of the biggest disadvantages of artificial turf for dogs.) Although, while it’s significantly more expensive up front, you could save money over time on maintenance.
- It can get hot for paws. Artificial grass does get hotter than natural surfaces like grass and dirt under direct sunlight, but it cools down quickly and stays cool under shade or cloud cover. Some Central Florida homeowners opt to leave their irrigation system in place, so they can turn it on occasionally to cool off the turf.
- If you don't clean it well, it will smell. Hosing the turf down with a water hose weekly and treating it with bleach or vinegar can help with odors.
- It doesn’t last forever. Most brands offer a five-year warranty.
- It doesn’t drain like real grass. You need a drainage system built in so rain can seep through.
- It doesn’t produce oxygen as natural turf does.
Considering Artificial Turf for Dogs? Trust Ground Source
Wondering if artificial turf for dogs is a good idea?
Let us help.
We can walk you through the pros and cons of artificial turf for dogs and show you samples of artificial turf for you to touch and see up close. (Oops, sorry we said “walk.” Now your dog’s gonna drive you crazy.)
Questions? Let us help you figure it out.
We’re turf experts, but our skills don’t stop there. We’re with you every step of the way as you plan your perfect outdoor space.
Sod, irrigation, landscape design (including artificial grass if you’d like): Let us transform your yard from an embarrassing eyesore to a place you spend every spare minute.
Are you ready to enjoy the vibrant, impressive yard in Central Florida you've always wanted? Request a quote today! We’ll help you review your options and then transform your property.
