Are you worried about your dog destroying your grass, and causing irreversible damage to your lawn?

If so, you may already have been researching the best covering to protect your garden from digging, urine stains and unsightly muddy patches. Unfortunately, this can be a common problem if you have a dog or two. But aside from finding them a new home, what’s the solution?

As an experienced landscaper, I’ve come across many homeowners struggling with the same issue. The good news is, there’s potentially a very reliable and cost-effective solution that can give you the best of both worlds; a luscious, green garden, and a happy dog!

Why artificial grass is the best solution to protect your garden

Hang on, did you say artificial grass? Actually, yes. I’ve been installing artificial grass in customers’ homes for over eight years now, and in my opinion, it’s the best solution to all of the issues above. And even better? It means you can still enjoy a nice, green lawn – and your dog can, too!

If you’ve been looking for fixes for your damaged garden, you may have considered:

• Patio or concrete slabs
• Decking
• Stone chips
• A new natural lawn

Covering your garden with patio, decking, or stone chips will stop your lawn from getting muddy, but you may find it less aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable to use.

If you love the look and feel of grass, you always have the option of investing in a new natural lawn. However, there’s always the risk of the same issues simply happening again, at great expense!

That’s why artificial grass is potentially a great solution. Because it drains away rainfall effectively, and is quick to dry, it won’t get muddy. It won’t stain with urine, and your dog won’t try to dig it up – plus, it’s extremely durable, so your dog can’t eat it.

TIP: I’ve actually written a blog post called ‘Why Artificial Grass is Completely Pet-Friendly’, so you can find out more about why I think this is the best solution for anyone with dogs. My customers have even found their dogs seem to love the soft, springy feel of it!

A durable solution your dog can’t destroy

Good quality artificial grass is truly made to withstand a lot of wear, and can last around 15 – 20 years – even with unruly pets!

We previously had a customer who expressed his concerns as to whether artificial grass would be the answer to his garden problems. He was worried his pet would still try and destroy his lawn after investing a lot of money into an artificial grass solution.

We explained that in our experience, it had solved so many of our customers’ garden issues when it came to pets. And after telling him how good quality artificial grass is extremely durable and strength-tested to exceed British standards – ensuring the blades of grass cannot be pulled out of the weave – he definitely felt it was the way forward.

We also showed him some other examples of artificial lawns we had installed for customers with the same problem. Now, he’s got a lovely new lawn, and all the family are benefitting!

Advice from an experienced installer

It’s wise to remember that although most good quality artificial grass should be safe for your dog, some brands may be manufactured differently than others. The way it’s installed can also have an impact on how friendly it’s going to be for your pet.

That’s why I always recommend you choose a reputable installation company who can provide you with a good guarantee. Our Easigrass guarantee covers UV stability (no fading) and tensile strength (to ensure it can withstand heavy footfall). Unfortunately this won’t cover damage caused by pets.

Also, check with your chosen installer the installation process they’ll be using, and whether or not they’ll include a fully porous sub-base to ensure your grass will drain properly. When it comes to the quality of grass, ask to see samples. It should have a high stitch rate, and the distance between the rows of stitches should be close together. This helps ensure the blades of grass can’t come away from the weave.

Finally, ask to see previous examples of your chosen installer’s work (either online or in-person). Reading customer reviews and testimonials from customers who have dogs can also be reassuring, and help set your mind at ease.

Conclusion

When looking for the best covering to protect your garden from your dog, artificial grass can potentially be your best bet. This is because it’s extremely durable and pet-friendly, whilst helping to eliminate all of the common problems you’d have with a natural lawn – giving you the best of both worlds.

Just remember to choose a reputable installer who can offer you a good guarantee, and will fit your artificial grass to a high standard. And if you’re not happy with the samples they provide, look elsewhere!

Got a question about installing pet-friendly artificial grass? Just pop it in the comments – I’ll try to be as helpful as I can!