Dealing with dogs destroying your lawn

7 Minute(s) read

Choosing the right grass type is critical when creating a lawn that can handle your furry friend’s antics. Sir Walter Buffalo and Eureka Kikuyu Grass are two top choices for dog-friendly lawns. Both are durable, drought-tolerant, and self-repairing, making them perfect for areas where dogs frequently run and play.

Sir Walter Buffalo grass is known for its soft texture and shade tolerance, which makes it great for homes with varied light conditions. It recovers quickly from wear and is gentle on paws, making it a favourite among dog owners. On the other hand, Kikuyu is a robust warm-season grass with rapid growth, ideal for high-traffic areas where dogs dig or run. Its thick coverage minimises the appearance of digging holes and helps protect the lawn from further damage.

The benefits of these rigid grass varieties go beyond durability. Their drought tolerance means they can thrive with less water, a significant advantage for Australian climates. Additionally, their self-repairing nature ensures your lawn remains lush even after repeated use by active pets.

For dog owners wondering how to grow grass where dogs run, investing in resilient grass types is the first step toward a lasting lawn. Combine that with proper care and training techniques, and you’ll have a space that keeps your lawn and dog happy.

How can you successfully grow grass in high-traffic dog areas?

Looking to grow grass in your yard but scared your dog might ruin all the hard work? We recommend looking into the following to ensure your lawn continues to thrive: 

Preparation 

Creating a lush, durable lawn in high-traffic dog areas requires thoughtful preparation and consistent care. Start by focusing on soil preparation. Adding turf underlay creates a strong base that supports the grass, improves drainage, and boosts durability against dog digging and wear. For best results, use premium turf like Sir Walter Buffalo or Kikuyu, which are well-suited for Australian conditions and high traffic.

Watering 

Watering schedules are critical for establishing grass. During the initial weeks, water deeply and frequently to encourage root growth. Once the grass is established, reduce watering frequency to promote resilience. Fertilise every 6–8 weeks with a balanced fertiliser to keep the grass healthy and vibrant. Overseeding bare spots ensures your lawn stays thick and visually appealing.

Management 

To manage wear and tear, adopt a rotational strategy. Block off sections temporarily to allow parts of the lawn to rest and recover. Simple barriers like chicken wire can protect newly seeded areas while giving your dog room to play elsewhere.

Dog training 

Encouraging good habits in your dog also helps maintain the lawn. Obedience training, regular exercise, and mental stimulation prevent boredom-related digging. A tired dog is less likely to damage the grass, reducing the impact of long periods of activity.

With a durable grass variety and bit of lawn care, you can enjoy a lush lawn that can withstand even the most active dog.

How can you stop dog urine from burning and damaging grass?

Dog urine can wreak havoc on your lawn, causing unsightly yellow patches and dead grass. The culprit? High nitrogen levels in dog urine can overload your lawn and burn the grass. Fortunately, there are practical solutions to protect your yard and maintain its lush appearance.

Encourage hydration and a balanced diet

One of the easiest ways to reduce the impact of dog urine is by encouraging your dog to drink more water. Increased hydration dilutes the nitrogen concentration in their urine, making it less harmful to your grass. Adding water-rich foods to their diet can also help.

Apply neutralising agents

For immediate relief, spray water on the affected areas after your dog urinates. This dilutes the nitrogen before it can damage the grass. Lawn-friendly neutralising products that counteract urine damage can help your grass recover quickly.

Choose resistant grass types and spot treat

Opt for resilient grasses like Sir Walter Buffalo or Kikuyu, which are better equipped to handle the stress caused by dog urine. For areas already damaged, spot treat with new turf or overseed with a compatible grass variety. Lilydale Instant Lawn offers premium turf options that are perfect for pet-friendly lawns.

By combining these methods, you can minimise damage and enjoy a beautiful, dog-friendly lawn. With a bit of care and the right tools, your grass can thrive even with a four-legged friend around.

What are some effective ways to keep dogs from digging in the lawn?

Dealing with dog digging can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can protect your lawn and keep your furry friend entertained. Here are some practical tips to curb this behaviour while keeping your pup happy.

Behavioral training techniques

Training is a significant first step in preventing dogs from digging. Use positive reinforcement to reward your dog when it avoids digging or plays in approved areas. Enrol your pup in obedience classes to reinforce good behaviour, and always address digging habits early. Dogs learn best with consistent guidance.

Deterrents and barriers

Sometimes, physical solutions are necessary. Install chicken wire or use natural barriers like rocks and plants to discourage digging in vulnerable areas. Motion-activated sprinklers can also be fun to surprise and deter dogs from digging holes in your lawn. If certain spots like the fence line attract your dog, consider reinforcing these areas with durable turf options like Sir Walter Buffalo, which can handle wear and tear.

Engage and distract

Dogs often dig out of boredom. Providing toys, puzzles, and treats can keep them entertained. Create a designated digging zone filled with sand where they can bury safe items. Regular walks and daily exercise also prevent excess energy that leads to yard destruction.

With these tips, your lawn can stay pristine while your dog stays happy. For resilient turf that withstands pets, explore Lilydale Instant Lawn’s premium options, tailored for pet-friendly homes.

Keep your lawn and dogs happy with help from Lilydale 

Balancing a beautiful lawn with playful pups involves choosing suitable grass types and committing to proactive care. Durable options like Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo are perfect for high-traffic areas, thanks to their self-repairing abilities and lush appearance. Combined with simple strategies like spot treatments and training, you can create a lawn that looks fantastic and holds up against your dogs' daily activities.

At Lilydale Instant Lawn, we’re passionate about helping you achieve a lawn that meets the needs of your entire family—dogs included. As experts in premium turf options, we offer solutions like Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo and other robust varieties designed to handle Australian conditions. Every order comes with a free starter kit packed with fertiliser, gardening gloves, and valuable tips to ensure your lawn gets the best start possible.

What sets Lilydale apart is our dedication to your success. Our team is here to provide expert advice, ensuring you have the knowledge and support to tackle challenges like digging, urine damage, or high-traffic wear. Plus, with our 10-year warranty, you can trust that your investment is backed by quality and care.