Is Artificial Grass Safe for Dogs? What Pet Owners Should Know

If you’re a dog owner considering artificial grass, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions we get at TigerTurf is: “Is synthetic turf suitable for pets?”

The short answer is yes—but there are a few key things to know if you’re installing it with dogs in mind. From comfort to cleanliness and durability, here’s what you need to consider before you commit.

1. Is Artificial Grass Pet-Friendly?

Yes—when designed and installed properly, synthetic turf is perfectly safe for dogs. In fact, many dog owners prefer it for its durability, cleanliness, and ease of maintenance.

TigerTurf’s pet-friendly products are:

• Made with non-toxic materials

• Designed to handle wear and tear from active pets

• Permeable, allowing for effective drainage of urine and water

• Easy to clean and maintain

2. Will It Withstand Digging and Rough Play?

That depends on the quality of the turf and how it’s installed.

Our pet-safe turf products are built for strength. They feature:

• Durable yarns that resist wear

• Reinforced backings to hold fibres in place

• Professional base preparation that prevents dogs from getting underneath

While no turf is completely dig-proof, a proper installation will make it very difficult for most dogs to cause damage.

3. What About Urine and Smells?

This is one of the biggest concerns—and for good reason.

Quality synthetic turf like ours is:

• Permeable – liquids drain through quickly into the base layer

• Easy to clean – hosing off regularly keeps it fresh

• Low odour – especially when installed with an appropriate base (e.g. crushed rock) that allows air to circulate and moisture to drain

For high-use areas, occasional deodorising or rinsing with a pet-safe solution can help keep smells at bay.

4. Is It Comfortable for Paws?

Absolutely. In fact, many dogs enjoy lounging on artificial turf just as much as they would on natural grass.

Our pet-friendly ranges offer:

• A soft, natural feel underfoot

• No muddy patches or prickly weeds

• A consistently clean and dry surface year-round

Some turf types even feature cooling technology that reduces heat build-up in direct sunlight.

5. What Are the Maintenance Requirements?

While artificial grass is low maintenance, it’s not zero maintenance, especially with pets.

Here’s how to keep it in great shape:

• Remove solid waste promptly

• Hose down high-use areas regularly to flush out urine

• Brush the turf occasionally to keep blades upright and fresh

With basic care, your turf will stay clean, green, and safe for years.

6. Bonus: No More Muddy Paws Indoors

Let’s be honest—one of the best perks of switching to synthetic grass is saying goodbye to dirty footprints after a rainy day. For pet owners, that’s a game-changer.

Final Thoughts

Artificial grass is a fantastic option for dog owners looking for a safe, clean, and attractive lawn year-round. With the right product and a quality artificial grass installation, you’ll have a pet-friendly surface that holds up to digging, play, and bathroom breaks—without sacrificing the look and feel of natural turf.

Want to create a dog-friendly lawn?

Explore our Pet Solutions or get in touch to speak with a TigerTurf expert about the best turf system for your pets.