4 Tips For Helping Your Dog Adjust To Artificial Turf
Posted on: 19 January 2016
One of the most important considerations to take into account when deciding whether or not to install artificial turf on your property is how your dog will react to it since this grass substitute can be a pretty big change for a family member that lives within inches of the ground. Here are four tips to help your dog adjust to artificial turf.
Hydrate Frequently in the Summer
If there's one thing that will change when you get an artificial turf yard, it's the temperature. An artificial turf surface has been shown to be up to 30 degrees warmer than natural grass during the dog days of summer. What this means for your dog is that he or she will heat up quickly, so limit outside playtime during the hottest part of the year and be sure to have water readily available for your pup.
Choose a Material with Low Odor Retention
If your dog has a tendency to "go" on your property rather than while on walks, you might think that the lifestyle change that comes with artificial turf will be massive. However, all you need is a product that has low odor retention. Types of artificial turf with low odor retention include polyester, which also doesn't absorb moisture and will last a long time. If you're still worried about the smell from your dog doing his or her business, know that a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water with a subsequent hose down will take care of most odors.
Opt for the Best Drainage Possible
Another important consideration when buying an artificial turf yard is drainage, which can make a big difference when you have a pet. The backing for your turf is what's key here, and you should look for keywords like "highly porous" and "free flow" when mulling over your options for turf backing. Good drainage will make your dog's playtime more comfortable and will keep your yard from developing the unenviable smells discussed in the previous section.
Train Your Dog Quickly
There are a couple of important training tips as well for when your new yard gets installed. First off, make sure that your dog knows not to dig in the fill of your yard since the plastic pile can damage his or her delicate nose. Digging is another activity that's a no-no on artificial turf. An optional training objective is some mild potty training if you're still worried about your yard smelling of urine and feces.
For further assistance, contact a local outlet, such as Alpine Rock and Block.
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