We all know the frustration of keeping our yards looking nice, only to be harassed by random scorch marks or freshly dug holes dotting the landscape. Many of us resign ourselves to the fact that we can have a nice yard or we can have dogs, but we can’t have both. Having the yard we want may take some extra effort or modifications, but it can be a nice place that you and your dog share and enjoy.
A major pet peeve of most homeowners with dogs is dead grass. Brown or yellow spots on your lawn are caused by the high concentration of nitrogen in a dog’s urine and the pH of the urine. To minimize the effects of urine on the grass, flush the areas where your dog likes to squat with water daily. If the grass is completely dead, you can dig it out and plant grass seed or sod.
Dogs can be trained to relieve themselves in designated areas, away from the grass. Offering a space that is mulched with natural wood can be an attractive compromise. When your dog uses the bathroom there, simply offer lots of praise to encourage the behavior to continue. The time it takes will depend on your consistency with training. Used in conjunction with deterrents like vinegar, citrus, coffee grounds and cayenne, you may see great success.
Another thing to consider instead of fighting the brown spots is a “less grass” approach. You can get creative and incorporate pebbles and stepping stones, ornamental grasses, hearty ground cover and mulched areas that look tidy and won’t display the urine damage that grass does. The result will be less stress for you and more freedom for your dog.
Digging is another top complaint of dog parents. Finding holes in your freshly planted garden can be maddening, but keep in mind that dogs don’t dig to upset you. It’s not personal. Many canines are natural diggers and see it as their job. Others dig out of boredom, anxiety and pent up energy. Just like dogs that destroy things indoors, dogs that don’t get regular exercise and mental stimulation are more likely to dig and destroy your yard. Offering playtime, walks, chews and puzzle toys can help alleviate the problem.
Also, if there is space in your yard, you can provide a digging spot, like a child’s sandbox. Hide toys in the box and praise your pup when he finds them. This will encourage him to use his digging area and leave the rest of the yard alone.
Having dogs forces us to compromise and modify our lives. Instead of getting stuck in the mindset that your yard must look perfect, it may be easier to allow your dog to joyfully do dog things, within reason. However you proceed with caring for your lawn and your dog, refrain from using weed killers, pest control chemicals, toxic plants and treated mulch and fertilizers anywhere your dog has access. There are natural, non-toxic alternatives that provide the same results without harm to pets, humans or the planet.