Pet survivable lawn - Ask Extension
We have been struggling for years trying to get grass to grow with our two 60 lb dogs. We have tried everything we can think of for the pee and high ...
Knowledgebase
Pet survivable lawn #827743
Asked April 29, 2023, 7:34 PM EDT
We have been struggling for years trying to get grass to grow with our two 60 lb dogs. We have tried everything we can think of for the pee and high traffic areas, including seeding with micro clover mixed and Fescue turf, sodding with Kentucky Blue grass. Every time by the end of Summer half of it is dead. We can’t afford artificial turf. Can you please recommend something that might give us a chance?
Washington County Minnesota
Expert Response
We don't know of any living ground cover that will survive in pet high traffic areas. It's probably best to dedicate those spaces to pet activity and cover them with wood chips or other non-toxic mulch.
Some experts say that turf-type tall fescue grasses tolerate pet traffic better than fine fescues and bluegrass. Consider sowing some and see how it performs. However, pets will have to be excluded from the test area until the grass is well established--preferably for at least one growing season.
Following are links to reliable information about ways to create landscapes that serve people as well as pets:
https://www.johnson.k-state.edu/docs/lawn-and-garden/in-house-publications/garden-design/Dog%20Friendly%20Gardening.pdf
https://arapahoe.extension.colostate.edu/2021/05/01/the-dog-friendly-yard-and-gardens/
