The Effects Of Dog Urine On Grass And How To Remedy It

Unfortunately, dog urine and grass do not get along. There is a large amount of nitrogen present in dog urine and while a little bit of nitrogen is good for grass (In fact, it is contained in most fertilizers.) too much nitrogen can burn the grass. What is left behind is a dead patch of blades that only have memories of their former green glory. Now, wouldn't you like to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in your backyard without the unsightly presence of yellow and brown spots all over your lawn? It can become very frustrating when so much time is put into keeping a nice yard and your efforts are overshadowed by your dog's pee spots. So, I have put together a list of remedies that may aid you when you feel that all hope is lost.

Don't Over-Fertilize

Since your grass already gets its daily dose of nitrogen from your dog's urine you probably should look for a fertilizer without nitrogen in it. Just be sure to check that the fertilizer is safe for your dog.


Just Add Water

Your dog's pee will be at its most concentrated first thing in the morning. Also, female dogs tend to have more of an effect on grass since they squat and relieve themselves in one spot. Males more often spray a larger area. In any case you can lessen the harm to your lawn by ensuring your dog drinks plenty of fluids. The more water he gets the less concentrated the nitrogen; the less yellow the grass stain. But, remember, more water inevitably leads to a faster-filling bladder. Make sure your dog is able to take his potty break when it is needed. The longer he holds it in the more concentrated it will become. You could also try following your dog when he goes out for his bladder relief. When he's finished simply pour water over the spot where the urine is or spray the area with a hose. This should help lessen the damage.

Less Protein Equals Less Nitrogen

Dogs with a diet high in protein tend to have more nitrogen in their urine. Your dog needs protein, but you may be feeding him a food with more than the necessary amount thereby making your lawn care even more difficult. A better food will have protein sources like meat that have a better use in your dog's system. Protein sources like corn when broken down will produce more nitrogen. So, when purchasing your food check that the protein content is not too excessive and that the protein is coming from a source that your dog can actually use.

Pick A Spot Already

Even if your dog is drinking gallons of water each day and maintaining a healthy diet there will still be nitrogen in his urine. This will always be the case. So, if you don't have the time nor the desire to follow your dog around with a pitcher of water to pour over every fresh spot you may want to open yourself up to the idea of creating an exclusive potty spot for your dog. If you spend a little time observing your dog's behavior you may find that he already has his favorite spots to pee. So, picking one of these will make it all the easier. Try to choose a spot that is not too large and that is far away from the part of the yard that you like to relax in. Somewhere in a far away corner should do. Once you've found the place, you need to teach your dog that this is the bathroom. This will require taking him out on a leash to the spot for awhile until he gets the hint. Reward him when he pees in his area. You may consider buying a pheromone-treated pee post. For some dogs, particularly males, this works. And yours may be that dog. My dog just chewed the thing up like it was his toy. Regardless of how you approach this, having an exclusive area for your dog to do his business is really a good idea.

Fortify Your Grass And Shrubs

Dogs will always pee, but they will not always pee where you want them to and as I mentioned, some amount of nitrogen will always be present. So, your lawn is always at risk. This risk can be decreased by installing sturdier grasses and plants in your yard. Tall Fescue grasses are just this type of durable variety. They have thick blades and deep roots. Although it may not be the prettiest grass; it will withstand the urine better than most. You can always mix in some Ryegrass for a softer look. You may even want to think about putting a few plants in your dog's potty spot. Some plants actually thrive on nitrogen and may even enjoy having your dog lift his leg in their direction. Some of these such plants are Weigela, Spirea, and Shrub Rose.
(Check out the book Dogscaping: Creating the Perfect Backyard and Garden for You and Your Dog By: Tom Barthel for more detailed information on how exactly to plan and create a backyard designed with your breed and temperament of dog in mind.)

Repairing the damage from dog urine on your grass may prove to be more difficult than you thought. In fact, it may not even be possible, but if you try out these remedies you should see a vast improvement. Who knows? Maybe you could even entertain in your backyard again.