Dear Seasoned Spade,
I adore my dog, but my yard looks like it’s been hit by a meteor shower—each crater surrounded by a sad, brown halo. Is there any hope for my lawn, or should I just embrace the lunar landscape?
Sincerely,
Lawn Gone in Denver, CO
It’s Not the Moon, It’s Your Lawn
Oh, dear Lawn Gone, you’re not alone. Many dog owners have looked at their patchy grass and wondered if they should just give up and turn the whole thing into a rock garden. Dog urine spots are as common as neighborhood dogs barking at squirrels, and just as frustrating. The good news? This isn’t a lost cause. The bad news? You’re going to have to roll up your sleeves (and maybe leash your pup).
How to Turn Things Around (Literally)
Now, let’s fix those spots before the neighbors start asking if you’ve been hosting alien landings.
First, grab a hose. No, not to aim at your dog—though I get the temptation—but to dilute the urine spots as soon as they happen. The faster you flush the area, the less damage it’ll do.
Next, rake up the dead grass. Think of it as clearing the battlefield. You can’t win this war if the injured soldiers (aka the grass blades) are still lying there.
Once the area is clear, sprinkle in some grass seed. Use a mix that matches your existing lawn—no one wants a Frankenstein yard with mismatched patches. Cover the seed lightly with soil, pat it down, and water it like you’re trying to win the “Most Dedicated Gardener” award.
And let’s talk about prevention. If your dog always uses the same spot, train them to go in a designated area. A gravel or mulch section is easier to maintain, and your grass will thank you.
Finally, don’t fall for the myth that feeding your dog supplements to “neutralize” their urine will magically fix everything. Most of these products don’t work, and they could harm your pup. Your lawn might be important, but not at the cost of your best friend’s health.
Keep Calm and Reseed On
Lawn Gone, this isn’t the end of your yard—it’s just a bump (or several) in the road. Grass is surprisingly resilient, much like your patience for this whole ordeal. With some consistent effort, your lawn will bounce back, and you’ll once again have the lush, green oasis of your dreams.
And remember, those brown spots? They’re just a sign that you love your dog more than your grass. Not a bad trade, if you ask me.
Seasonedly yours,
The Seasoned Spade
