Best artificial grass types for homes with dogs: what to look for
We’ve lost count of how many times dog owners come to us saying, “We love the idea of artificial grass, but will it survive our dog?” It’s a fair question. Dogs dig, scratch, run zoomies like their life depends on it, and of course, they need a spot to do their business. Not all artificial grass can handle that.
Over the years, we’ve seen what works and what fails miserably. So, if you’re thinking about giving your pup a pet-friendly patch of green, let’s talk about what really matters when choosing the best artificial grass for dogs.
But here’s the catch… It’s not just about rolling out some turf and calling it a day. The difference between a lawn that lasts and one that lifts, smells or gets patchy often comes down to the installation. So here are five things we always focus on when we’re creating a low-maintenance, pet-friendly lawn that’s built to last.
Why your choice of turf matters when you have dogs
Imagine this: it’s the middle of summer, your backyard is copping the full Aussie sun, and your dog steps out onto turf that feels like a frying pan. Or picture heavy rain with puddles forming, because the grass can’t drain quickly enough, leaving you with a swampy, smelly mess.
We’ve seen these issues firsthand at jobs where homeowners were misled by “cheap and cheerful” grass that simply wasn’t made for pets. That’s why getting the right type of artificial grass is more than just picking what looks good on a sample board.
The key features of dog-friendly artificial grass
1. Strong, durable yarns that can take a beating
Dogs are rough. From tearing around the yard to sneaky digging missions, they’ll put your grass to the test. You’ll want turf made from tough polyethylene or polypropylene fibres, designed to handle high foot (or paw) traffic without flattening or wearing out.
We always say: if the grass can’t handle a labrador’s energy, it’s not dog-friendly.
2. A short to medium pile height
While lush, long-pile grass looks beautiful, it’s not always practical for pets. Long blades trap odours and make cleaning up after your dog harder. A pile height of around 25-35mm strikes the perfect balance – soft enough for lounging, but not so long that it becomes a chore to keep clean.
3. Efficient drainage is a must
One of the biggest complaints we hear is about lingering smells after dogs relieve themselves on artificial turf. The solution? A high-quality drainage system. Look for turf with perforations that allow water (and other liquids) to drain through quickly. We install bases with proper sub-surface drainage to make sure nothing gets trapped underneath, keeping your yard fresh and dry.
4. Non-toxic and safe materials
This should go without saying, but not all artificial grass products are created equal. Cheap imports can contain nasties like heavy metals. Every product we use is certified lead-free and safe for pets and kids. Peace of mind is priceless.
5. UV resistance to handle the Aussie sun
Australia’s sun is brutal. Without UV protection, artificial grass fades, becomes brittle, and heats up dangerously. We only use turf with strong UV stabilisers, so your lawn stays cooler and keeps its colour year after year.
Our go-to artificial grass options for dog owners
We’ve trialled and tested dozens of products over the years. For families with dogs, we recommend ranges that tick all the boxes above, with added features like odour-neutralising infills and antimicrobial backing. These little details make a huge difference in how your yard smells and feels.
When we install artificial grass for dog owners, we always tailor the base preparation to suit pets. That means a solid yet permeable crushed rock base, geofabric to prevent weeds, and sometimes even a layer of deodorising sand depending on the property’s needs.
Common mistakes to avoid when buying artificial grass for dogs
Here’s where many people go wrong:
- Choosing turf based on price, not quality
- Ignoring drainage capacity
- Overlooking pile height practicality
- Thinking all artificial grass is “pet friendly” by default
We’ve been called in to fix botched jobs where these mistakes were made, costing homeowners more in the long run. It’s always worth getting it right the first time.
Final thoughts: it’s about matching grass to your lifestyle (and your dog)
At the end of the day, the best artificial grass for dogs is the one that suits both your lifestyle and your pet’s personality. High-energy dogs? Go for heavy-duty turf. Smaller, chilled-out pets? You might prioritise softness and aesthetics.
We’re not here to push whatever product is on sale that week. Our job is to guide you to the right solution for your home, your pets, and your peace of mind.
If you’d like to see samples or have a chat about your backyard, we’re always happy to help.