Are you considering pet-friendly artificial turf for your backyard?
You may have come across the term “pet turf.”
But what is it, exactly?
And how do you know if this could be the right choice for you?
Artificial turf provides a lush, green landscape all year round with minimal fuss and effort.
We want to help make sure that when it comes time to decide which artificial grass is best for your home, you’ll have all the information necessary.
This post takes a look at 20 frequently asked questions (pet turf FAQs) to help you decide if artificial grass is the right fit for your home.
From determining the durability of pet turf to finding out its benefits over natural grass, this guide covers it all.
Let’s get started so that everyone in your household—including Fido—can enjoy a beautiful outdoor area to call their own.
1. Is Artificial Grass Safe for Dogs?
For many dog owners, artificial grass has become an attractive alternative to natural lawns due to its low maintenance requirements.
But with concerns over the safety of artificial grass, it’s important to know if it’s suitable for your canine companion.
The good news is that many artificial grass products are designed with pet safety in mind.
They are made from non-toxic materials that won’t harm your dog if they accidentally ingest some while playing or rolling around on the lawn.
Additionally, synthetic grass is durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of dogs running and jumping on it, without causing any harm to their paws or joints.
Overall, the safety and convenience of artificial grass make it a great choice for dog owners.
You can create a backyard space that your four-legged friend can enjoy without sacrificing your own peace of mind.
2. Real Grass vs. Artificial Grass: Which is Better for Dogs?
Are you considering installing a new lawn for your furry friend, but unsure whether to go for real grass or artificial grass?
As a pet parent, it’s important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option.
Real grass provides natural stimulation, and fresh air, and is typically safe for dogs to consume.
However, it requires maintenance such as watering and mowing, not to mention the dreaded brown patches caused by urine.
Artificial grass, on the other hand, requires minimal maintenance and eliminates the need for toxic chemicals, but it can get hot and uncomfortable for pets during the summer months.
Ultimately, the decision between real grass vs. artificial grass for your dog comes down to personal preference and what works best for your lifestyle and your pet’s needs.
So, whether you opt for real grass or artificial turf, make sure to create a safe and comfortable outdoor space for your furry companion to run, play, and explore.
Additional Resources:
3. Pet Turf vs. Regular Turf: What’s the Difference?
As pet owners, we want the best for our furry friends—including a safe and comfortable outdoor space to play and relax.
That’s where pet turf comes in!
So, what exactly is the difference between pet turf and regular turf?
The biggest difference between the two is the type of backing the turf is equipped with.
Backing / Drainage System
Modern, quality pet-friendly turf products are equipped with a backing that is fully permeable.
A fully permeable backing allows water and more importantly dog urine to pass through any point in the turf’s backing.
You will also hear this referred to as “edge-to-edge” drainage or a “flow-through backing.”
Traditional turf products are usually equipped with a hole-punched backing.
Just like the name implies, a hole-punched backing consists of holes that are punched into the backing every 4” – 6”.
This is fine for draining water but can allow liquids to settle in the space between holes.
Dog urine settling between drainage holes can cause a buildup of odor-causing bacteria.
Additional Resources:
Pile Height
Pet turf also typically has a shorter pile height which makes it easier to keep clean than regular turf products with a longer pile height.
Shorter pile heights allow dog poop to sit on the surface of the turf, making it easier to remove with a doggy bag or pooper scooper.
While regular turf may look aesthetically pleasing, it may not hold up as well to pet use and could require replacement sooner.
Regular turf is not specifically designed for pets and may not withstand the wear and tear that our four-legged friends can cause.
With pet turf, you can have peace of mind knowing that your pet is playing on a surface that’s durable, safe, and comfortable!
4. Does Artificial Turf Drain Dog Pee?
Dog owners everywhere can attest that urine can be a major concern when it comes to lawn maintenance.
Luckily, artificial turf provides a solution to this tricky problem.
But does it actually work to drain dog pee?
The answer is yes!
In fact, artificial turf is designed with drainage in mind, channeling liquids away from the surface and into a sub-layer of gravel or crushed stone.
This not only prevents your yard from smelling like a kennel, but it also helps to keep the turf looking pristine and green.
So, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance and pet-friendly yard option, artificial turf might just be the perfect solution for you and your furry friends.
5. How Do You Clean Pet Turf After Dog Pee?
You don’t need to clean your turf every time your dog urinates.
As described above, pet turf is designed to drain dog urine as efficiently as possible.
That said, no turf is immune to the build-up of residue from dog urine that will occur over time.
We recommend rinsing your pet turf with a garden hose once a week, if it hasn’t rained, to help wash away any residue that remains.
You may also consider using an enzyme cleaning spray that can attach to your hose once or twice a year to give your turf a more thorough cleaning.
6. Why Does Some Pet Turf Have Antimicrobial Protection?
Like fully permeable drainage, antimicrobial protection is an increasingly common feature of quality pet turf products.
Antimicrobial turf products are able to help prevent the build-up of odor-causing bacteria in your turf.
The antimicrobial additives are incorporated into pet turf products during the manufacturing process.
This means that it’s a permanent feature of the product and won’t wear off or fade over time.
Pet turf products with antimicrobial protection should be better able to prevent odor buildup.
They should also help to extend the life expectancy of a turf product by preventing premature product degradation.
To learn more, check out our overview of antimicrobial protection and our own proprietary antimicrobial additive Microbe-Safe™.
7. How Do You Clean Pet Turf After Dog Poop?
Cleaning dog poop off of pet turf is no different than with natural grass.
Allow the dog poop to dry a little and solidify enough that you don’t smear it into the turf fibers when picking it up.
A doggy bag or pooper scooper will work to remove solid waste from pet turf.
Unfortunately, as any dog owner knows, not all dog poop is solid.
If your dog is suffering from a bout of diarrhea, cleanup will be a bit more involved.
With natural grass, you can usually pick up this type of dog poop by simply pulling up the blades of grass underneath the poop.
With pet turf, your best bet will be to remove as much of the waste as you can with a doggy bag or some paper towels.
Once the bulk of the waste has been removed, use a garden hose to rinse the turf fibers of any residual dog poop.
8. Where Can Pet-Friendly Turf Be Installed?
Pet-friendly artificial turf for commercial facilities and residential applications should be designed and constructed to provide a safe, non-toxic, clean, and comfortable environment for dogs.
One of the biggest advantages of synthetic grass is its versatility.
In other words, dog-friendly turf can be installed almost anywhere you want a natural look and durable surface for dogs.
Below are the most common places where we’ve installed pet-friendly synthetic turf.
- Residential Properties
- Dog Parks & Dog Runs
- Dog Kennels & Shelters
- Veterinarians & Pet Care Facilities
- Apartment Complexes
Additional Resources:
- Dog-Friendly Backyard: The Best Landscape Designs for Dogs
- Dog Run Ideas: The Definitive Guide To Pet-Friendly Backyard Dog Potty Areas
9. Does Pet-Friendly Turf Get Hot?
Yes, like any surface exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, pet-friendly turf gets hot when sitting in the sun.
That said, pet turf doesn’t trap and radiate heat like brick, rock, or pavement.
Unlike natural grass, which has water running through it, synthetic turf doesn’t have the same mechanism for regulating its temperature.
If you are concerned about your dogs’ paws getting too hot, we recommend making sure there’s a shaded area for them to retreat to.
A quick rinse with a hose will dramatically lower the temperature of your turf.
Additionally, T°Cool Infill helps lower surface temperatures through a process of evaporative cooling.
The infill traps moisture and then slowly releases it, helping to cool your turf.
10. How Do You Clean & Maintain Artificial Pet Turf?
Pet turf is a lot easier to maintain than natural grass, although we’re not going to go into too much detail in this post.
Not all artificial grass is created equal.
Choosing the right pet-friendly solution is key to saving time and effort.
Pet-friendly synthetic turf is specifically designed for dogs to help cut down on maintenance and make life easier for pet parents and facility owners.
Regularly removing solid waste and rinsing with water while using a bacterial enzyme can wash away and control any residual odors.
So, let your furry friend enjoy their time outdoors on a grass-like surface that is easy to maintain, and looks great all year round.
Additional Resources:
- Dog Run Cleaning & Maintenance: A Complete Pet Turf Cleaning Guide
- Pet Turf Odor Removal Guide: How To Remove Dog Urine Smell From Artificial Grass
11. How Long Does Turf Last for Pets?
With over a decade of experience perfecting our installation techniques, our artificial grass is built to last between 10-25 years.
But, keep in mind that there are several factors that determine the longevity of your synthetic turf.
Foot traffic, yarn type, and pile height are fundamental considerations that can have a significant effect.
Don’t worry though, we’re here to help you choose the right turf that best suits your needs.
With our guidance and outstanding synthetic turf quality, you can maximize the lifespan of your artificial grass backyard!
12. Can Dogs Dig Holes in Synthetic Grass?
Pet-friendly synthetic turf is designed to withstand repetitive use and as much abuse as your dog can dish out.
That’s why it’s an ideal choice for pet owners – digging is virtually impossible on synthetic grass, making it very difficult for dogs to damage.
And the best part – no more muddy paw prints constantly being tracked into your house!
13. Does Pet Turf Get Muddy?
In short, no, pet turf does not get muddy like a natural grass lawn does.
Artificial grass is designed to allow rainwater to drain through the backing of the turf.
Once through the turf’s backing water and dog urine pass through several inches of compacted sub-base and into the earth below.
This means you no longer have to deal with muddy paw prints being tracked through your house.
14. How Much Does Pet Turf Cost?
When it comes to pricing artificial grass projects, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it all depends on the specifics of your project.
To determine the total cost of your artificial grass installation, a few aspects must be considered!
Outlined below are some factors that could influence the pricing of your project:
- Size, shape, and dimensions of your yard since installation cost increases with the square footage
- The amount of material required for the project (for example, infill and turf)
- The complexity of the design you have in mind
- The specific type of artificial grass products you’re interested in
- The amount of effort necessary for the installation process, such as removing old turf, excavating dirt or debris, etc.
Here’s a tip to avoid shady contractors.
Beware of those who will quote a fixed price for the project, regardless of the work required.
A quality installation should be tailored to your specific needs, so make sure to get an appropriate quote from a reputable and trustworthy turf company!
Additional Resources:
15. Does Pet-Friendly Synthetic Turf Smell Bad?
Artificial grass is odorless, but when it comes to dog urine, it’s a different story.
Our furry friends often use the same spots over and over again, leading to unpleasant build-ups of odor.
Some high-quality pet turf products come equipped with antimicrobial additives that are infused into the turf during the manufacturing process.
Antimicrobial protection helps to combat odor buildup but is far from 100% effective.
For extra peace of mind, we recommend using a solution of equal parts water and vinegar to spray Fido’s favorite bathroom spots.
This homemade solution will effectively neutralize any lingering smells.
So go ahead, and let your dog enjoy the perfect lawn while keeping your nose happy!
16. What is Artificial Grass for Dogs Made Of?
Artificial dog grass is made primarily of polypropylene or nylon and some may have polyethylene thatch fibers.
These materials are completely safe for pets and are non-toxic and lead-free.
- Polypropylene: Most common material because of its durability and cost-effectiveness
- Nylon: More commonly found in putting green turf because of its abrasiveness and rigidity. It’s the most durable material but also the most expensive.
- Polyethylene: Least durable material that’s often used for the thatch fibers
To learn more about how artificial grass is made and its history, check out: About Artificial Grass.
17. Can Fleas & Ticks Live in Artificial Grass?
Artificial turf is a great choice for pet owners wanting to keep their furry friends safe and healthy.
Because it’s made from a non-organic material, fleas, ticks, and other pests have a harder time surviving in the grass.
While it’s not a surefire way to guarantee a 100% pest-free lawn, you can rest easy knowing that pests will be mostly eliminated.
Plus, since there’s no dirt to provide a nesting area, you’ll have fewer worries overall.
However, it’s still vital to keep an eye out for any accumulation of leaves or debris that might create a good breeding environment for these pests.
Don’t forget to clean your synthetic yard regularly for maximum pest prevention!
18. What Goes Under Fake Grass for Dogs?
A pet turf system installed by an experienced and reputable turf installer will consist of several components.
These components are usually installed in layers on top of each other to make up one complete system.
- Sub-Base: this is a layer of compacted stone that acts as the foundation for artificial grass and keeps it stable. This layer is also highly permeable to allow water and dog urine to pass through the sub-base and into the earth below.
- Weed Membrane: this is a fabric layer that’s laid on top of the sub-base to prevent weeds from growing through your pet turf. This fabric can absorb dog urine over time and cause a buildup of odors, so it may be worth skipping this and potentially dealing with the occasional weed or two.
- Artificial Turf: this is the most visible part of the pet turf system and is laid on top of the sub-base, stretched tight, and secured with landscaping nails around the edges. Seams are secured with an adhesive and nails or staples.
- Infill: Infill comes in many forms, but its primary purpose is as a ballast to help weigh down the turf and keep it in place. It also helps to give the turf a lush, soft, natural feel by providing a cushion and keeping turf fibers upright.
To learn more about installing artificial grass for dogs, check out our overview of the installation process.
19. What is the Best Artificial Grass for Dogs?
The answer to this question is very subjective and different features of turf products will be better suited to different climates and environments.
Instead of saying “This is the best artificial grass for dogs, because we say so,” we would rather empower you with the knowledge and information necessary to make an informed decision for yourself.
Understanding the different components and features of pet-friendly turf products will enable you to make the best decision for you and your pup.
Below are some of the features you should look for when considering pet turf products:
- Short pile height of around 1” to make solid waste removal easier
- Fully permeable backing designed for edge-to-edge drainage so dog urine and water drain efficiently
- Antimicrobial protection for help combat odor-causing bacteria
- UV-Resistant fibers that will prevent fading and premature product degradation
- Warranty that reflects the quality and durability of the product (10+ years)
Additional Resources:
- The Best Artificial Grass for Dogs & Pets: A Complete Buyer’s Guide
- Fake Grass for Dogs: The Ultimate Pet Turf Buyer’s Guide
- How To Choose An Artificial Turf Installer For Your Home or Business: Tips & Advice
20. Where Can I Learn More About Pet Turf?
The Ideal Turf blog and website is packed with helpful content and articles about pet turf and artificial grass in general.
There are a lot of specifics to understand about artificial grass.
The first step to creating a pet-friendly artificial grass lawn or designated pet area is to learn about the features and options available.
Learn about:
- Drainage
- Infill Options
- Antimicrobial Turf
- Installation Process
- Financing
- 10 Most Common Artificial Grass Myths & Misconceptions
- 11 Most Common Problems With Artificial Grass & How To Solve Them
Wrapping Up Our List of Pet Turf FAQs
Pet turf has a lot of benefits for both you and your pup.
Artificial grass is soft, easy to maintain, doesn’t need water or fertilizers like natural grass does, and is much more affordable than real turf.
Because of the many advantages this type of grass offers pets, it’s easy to see why pet turfs are becoming more popular among pet owners.
Pet-friendly artificial turf also comes in a variety of colors and textures, so there is something suitable for every home.
It can even be used for puppy areas, kennels, patios, and other outdoor areas.
We hope that our answers to the most common pet turf FAQs have been informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to know more about our range of pet-friendly turf products, then please give us a call or feel free to contact us.
Our team here at Ideal Turf would be delighted to help you pick out the perfect ground cover for your dog.
