Fake grass is very popular among dog owners. It’s safer for dogs (and other pets). It’s much easier to maintain and clean. It’s also strong enough to withstand whatever your dog(s) throws at it.
Simply put, fake grass is a lifesaver for pets and pet owners. This article will cover everything you need to know about buying it.
Why should you choose fake grass for dogs? How do you choose the right fake grass for your dogs? How do you maintain fake grass for dogs? What factors affect the cost of fake grass for dogs? This article will answer all of these questions. Let’s get started.
Why Choose Fake Grass for Dogs
Here are the five main reasons to consider artificial grass for dogs.
No chemicals
Real grass needs fertilisers and pesticides. Both are toxic chemicals that can harm your dog. Artificial grass doesn’t need fertilisers and pesticides. So you won’t have to worry about the safety of your dogs and kids. This is one of the primary reasons for using artificial grass for pets.
Comfy
Pet-friendly artificial grass is designed to be comfy on your dog’s paw, joints and entire body. Actually, all quality artificial grass products are designed to be comfortable and soft underfoot. So, this is great for both you and your dog.
Durability
Comfy doesn’t have to mean brittle. Fake grass is comfy but also durable and hard-wearing. It won’t tear and wear as your dog scratches jumps, runs and plays around. Quality artificial grass is durable enough to survive your dog, kids and the weather.
Easy to maintain and clean
Maintenance is easy. You don’t have to fertilise, water or mow fake grass. Plus, dog pee can’t kill your fake turf.
What about cleaning? It is very easy, too. You just need to do basic cleaning tasks. We will share some tips later.
No muddy footprints
Here is another great benefit of using artificial grass for pets. You no longer have to worry about muddy footprints in your home. You won’t have to start mopping the floors whenever your dog and kids return indoors.
How to Choose a Pet-Friendly Artificial Grass
Some products are marketed specifically as pet-friendly fake grass. You can look for those. However, you shouldn’t have to take the manufacturer or seller at their word.
You should also know what to look for. Here are the features to consider when choosing artificial grass for dogs. We have identified seven.
Softness and comfort
Find fake grass that feels comfortable underfoot. After all, comfort is everything. You want the best for your dog. You don’t want a turf that will irritate or even injure your pet or you.
Here is a tip. Look for artificial grass made with Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP). Both materials are soft, comfy and durable.
Yarn density and bounce-back ability
These two qualities indicate durability. A dense artificial turf that can bounce back persistently will last long. By bounce back, we mean return to its original shape after being flattened.
Dogs will dig, scratch, jump and run energetically. These will put a strain on the turf. A dog-friendly artificial grass must be dense, resilient and able to bounce back.
Short pile height
This makes maintenance easier. Artificial grass with short pile height is easier to clean. However, grass with taller fibres is softer underfoot and more durable. You have to find a balance.
Permeable underlay or backing
A permeable underlay improves drainage. It prevents water from pooling on the grass. It also makes cleaning easier.
One of the primary ways to clean artificial grass is to wash and hose it down. Drainage is important for this. A permeable backing will also allow spills and pee to drain through. This is crucial in fake grass for dogs.
Natural looking
We prefer artificial grass that looks real. You probably do, too. Fortunately, the market has many realistic products.
Some even have the subtle colour tones, texture and smell of real grass. Plus, artificial grass will look good year-round, regardless of the season.
Antimicrobial protection
Some pet-friendly types of fake grass have this. Antimicrobial protection protects the turf from bacteria, germs and mould. Prioritise this feature when choosing fake grass for your dog. You should consider odour protection, too.
UV protection
UV protection ensures your fake glass won’t fade in the sun. Therefore, your artificial lawn won’t start losing its looks too soon.
Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Fake Grass for Dogs
Artificial grass is easy to clean and maintain. Here are three helpful tips.
Clean regularly
Clean your artificial grass regularly. Weekly cleaning might work. Use a soft brush to remove debris, leaves, dog fur, etc. Then, use water and a mild soap to clean stains. You can also apply something to remove odour, too.
With stains, it’s better to respond quickly. Dried stains are harder to remove. However, when it comes to dog poop, it’s better to wait. Dried poop is easier to clean. Wet poop may smear the grass.
Brush and rinse regularly
Brushing removes dirt and helps the grass stand upright. Rinsing keeps the turf clean and fresh.
Treat and repair every month
Treat with artificial grass cleaner every month. This cleaner prevents bacterial, algae and mould growth. It also leaves the grass clean and fresh.
Repairs may also be necessary. With time, even the highest quality fake grass for dogs will need repairs. You may have to fix holes and tears. You may also have to reapply infill.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Fake Grass for Dogs
There are three main factors.
Size of the area
A larger area will be costier to turf. That’s because a larger turf will use up more supplies and labour. So, the cost will be higher.
Grass quality
There are three main qualities of artificial grass. Low quality grass costs £10 to £15 per m², medium quality grass costs £14–£25 per m², while high quality grass costs £45-£70 per m².
You don’t need the highest quality, pet-friendly fake grass. You just need to find a balance between price and quality.
Condition of the site
When installing fake grass for dogs, you need an even surface, drainage and a good sub-base. If the site doesn’t already have this, it will affect your budget. Drainage alone costs between £80-£1,000. Site levelling and subbase installation cost more, too.
Conclusion
Artificial grass holds so many benefits for dog owners. It is firm, soft and comfy. So your pet will love it. It’s durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. So, you are also going to love it. What’s not to like?
The only problem is heat. Artificial grass tends to get hot in the summer. It cannot regulate temperature like real grass. This is the only major disadvantage.
However, there are solutions. You can hose down the grass or choose infill material and artificial grass that cools much faster.
