Many people consider installing artificial grass a long-term investment. According to IBIS World (1), there are 1,801 artificial grass installation businesses in the US in 2023. However, artificial grass and dogs are topics you will love to delve into in a home with pets before investing in turf grass.
You can use concrete, cement, or blacktops for your backyard. However, cement pavements can get hot during summer, and your dog won’t love walking around. You may also want to retire your mower, as maintaining natural grass is expensive.
Herein, we discuss how to create a dog-friendly artificial grass environment, maintain artificial turf for dogs, and keep artificial grass cool. Continue reading to learn more about artificial turf and dogs.
Is Artificial Grass Too Hot for Dogs?
Is artificial grass too hot for dogs, or does artificial grass get hot? The short answer is NO! Synthetic grass cannot get too hot to harm your dog.
Artificial lawns use special products that are developed for landscaping. Unlike artificial sports fields, artificial grass doesn’t have black crumb rubber infills. On the other hand, quality artificial grass uses polyester tire cord backing.
Turf grass mimics real grass in almost every aspect. While artificial grass can get hotter than natural grass, a few tweaks will reduce temperatures to normal.
How To Keep Artificial Grass Cool for Dogs Before Installation
A slight mistake in choosing the suitable turf for your dog may result in considerable damage. Choosing the wrong material or poorly installing turf will not work as efficiently as professionally installed artificial grass.
In scorching areas, the choices below will help you choose a product that is cool for your dog:
- Less dense products: allow air circulation. In return, heat dissipates quickly.
- Temperature-controlled fibers: Some products are heat resistant. You may see a “cool yarn” tag on them or something similar.
- Lighter-coloured grass and fibers: dark shades absorb heat readily and retain it. Use lighter-coloured threads as they will stay cooler.
- Installation under a shade: By installing turf under a shade, your dog can play on artificial grass even under the hottest sun, as they will have a roof over their head.
- Heat-reducing infills: Choose specialized infills to help keep your turf cool and your dog’s paws comfortable.
A combination of lighter-colored artificial grass, strategic location, heat-reducing infills, and less dense products before installation will lower lawn temperatures under the rare summer sun.
How To Keep Artificial Grass Cool in Summer After Installation
Unlike natural grass, artificial grass is often made from synthetic materials that can readily absorb and trap heat. The temperature of artificial grass can rise significantly, especially on hot, sunny days. It’s important to be aware of this potential temperature increase and take proactive measures to mitigate the risks.
If you have already installed the best artificial grass for dogs, the following tips will help reduce grass temperatures:
- Create a Shade or Plant Trees
- Using a retractable awning, cast a shade on artificial grass
- Block direct sunlight by covering artificial grass with shade cloths
- Plant or buy trees that will provide shade to your grass and dog
- Cool down hot artificial grass with water from a sprinkler or a garden hose
- Add sand infill to your fake lawn. Sand weighs your grass down and dissipates heat to protect artificial fibers.
In addition to these cooling measures, regularly remove any debris or organic matter from your artificial grass. Leaves, twigs, and dog poop on artificial grass can hold moisture and increase the likelihood of heat retention.
By promptly cleaning up any messes and regularly raking or brushing the grass, you can help maintain a dry and comfortable surface for your dog to play on.
Artificial Grass for Dogs: 13 FAQS
Below are 13 other frequently asked questions about artificial turf for dogs we receive from our audience.
How Do You Maintain Artificial Turf for Dogs?
- Hose down your lawn every week to eliminate urine smell and any other odor.
- Increasing air flow and circulation by use of a blower.
- Scoop up dog waste and dispose of the feces in a dustbin.
- Use temperature control systems to cool down your artificial grass.
- Install a shade to protect your artificial dog turf from harsh weather conditions.
- Trim your dog’s nails regularly to prevent it from tearing the turf while playing around.
- Use a pressure hose to water down urine and keep the grass clean.
Is Artificial Pet Turf Actually Safe?
Yes, high-quality artificial grass is safe for dogs. Manufacturers usually test their products and attach certificates for us to confirm. It’s also difficult for your dog to rip off quality artificial turf.
Since dogs cannot dig through fake grass, pet owners and dog boardings prefer artificial grass to natural grass.
Does Dog Pee Ruin Fake Grass?
No, but it may smell. Unlike natural grass, artificial turf may not wither or die when your dog pees on it. To deal with the smell, regularly hose down the area.
Is Artificial Turf Suitable for Dogs?
Yes, and it does more good than harm; your dog will have a resting place during the hot summer, and you don’t have to worry about replacing it, as turf doesn’t dry up or wither.
Can Dogs Ruin Artificial Grass?
If you install low-quality artificial turf, your dog will rip it into pieces. On the other hand, quality fake grass will withstand your dog’s activities, such as running, jumping, and even occasional digging.
Only a persistent dog can destroy and tear through the turf’s thatch, infills, and the 2-3 layers of polyester backing.
Does Artificial Grass Have Chemicals That Will Harm My Dogs?
Manufacturers only use pet-friendly products in making artificial grass. Also, unlike natural grass, your artificial pet turf does not need fertilizers and herbicides, as weeds do not grow there. No harmful chemicals in your lawn means your turf is free from them.
Is Artificial Turf Resilient and Long-Lasting?
Artificial turf has a life span of 20 years or more. Fake grass is also made to withstand daily pressure and your dog’s roughshod. Unlike natural grass, you don’t have to groom your turf and mow it frequently. Hence, your pet turf will be vibrant and fluffy for years.
Can Fleas and Ticks Live in Artificial Grass?
While dealing with ticks and fleas is difficult, artificial grass doesn’t provide a conducive environment for these pests. Artificial grass guarantees 100% removal of parasites because there is no soil to facilitate nesting and debris accumulation.
For a pest-free artificial lawn, clean your dog kennel and artificial grass frequently.
Does Dog Pee Ruin Fake Grass?
No, as fake grass does not wither or dry, dog pee will not kill it by taking a leak on your turf. However, water down the spot to deal with the urine smell or create a designated area for your dog to urinate.
How Cost-Friendly Is Artificial Grass?
The upfront cost of installing artificial grass is high. However, it is worth it in the long run as it will save your water bills, maintenance costs, and weed control budget in the long run.
What Can I Put Under Artificial Grass for My Dogs?
Add several layers of sand or any other infill under artificial grass to keep it cool. Most dog owners prefer spending more on silica granules than using crumb rubber infills to pumper their dogs and keep the artificial grass cool.
Verdict: Is Artificial Grass Too Hot for Dogs
Does artificial grass burn dogs paws? Artificial grass is not too hot for dog paws and will not cause considerable damage to your furry friend’s paws or skin. However, beyond heat-related concerns, ensure your artificial grass is safe and non-toxic for your dog.
At Pet Grail, our top priority is the well-being of your dog. Look for products that are specifically labeled as pet-friendly and have been thoroughly tested. The hassle may be breathtaking, but it’s worth it!
- https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/artificial-grass-turf-installation-united-states/
