Lawns and Dogs: How to Stop Your Pet Damaging the Grass

I get asked this a lot by clients around Cheltenham – how to keep a lovely lawn when you’ve got a dog. Pet damage is one of the most common lawn issues I see.

Why does dog urine damage lawns?

Dog urine contains high levels of nitrogen. In small doses, nitrogen feeds grass, but concentrated patches act like fertiliser burn, leaving unsightly yellow or brown spots with a dark green ring around them.

How to reduce lawn damage from dog urine

1. Encourage your dog to drink more water. More dilute urine is less damaging. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water.

2. Rinse the area. If practical, pour water over the area immediately after your dog wees to dilute the nitrogen concentration.

3. Train them to use a specific area. This can protect the rest of your lawn from repeat damage.

4. Feed your lawn regularly. A well-fed lawn is healthier and more resilient to occasional damage.

Repairing dog urine patches

If your lawn already has brown or yellow patches:

• Rake out dead grass and loosen the soil surface.

• Lightly sprinkle a suitable grass seed mix (ryegrass-based is ideal).

• Cover lightly with soil or compost and keep moist until germination.

Over time, regular feeding with Johnson Lawn Care Direct Spring Surge Pro or Summer

Boost Pro, depending on the season, will strengthen your lawn and help it recover faster.

Need help repairing dog-damaged lawns?

If your lawn has suffered from dog damage, I’m happy to advise on the best repair approach or carry out overseeding and feeding treatments as part of your lawn care routine.

Struggling with dog patches on your lawn? Message me if you’d like a hand restoring your lawn to its best this summer.

Happy Gardening