Having a dog doesn’t mean you should give up your dream of a green, family-friendly backyard. But how would you know which artificial turf for dogs is the best one since they all look the same?
Luckily, we can guide you to the right decision. If you want an honest opinion about the most popular artificial turfs on the market, hop in. We have a lot of lawns to cover.
Our Evaluation Criteria
Proper research requires a solid methodology to deliver reliable and on-point results. Here are the top factors we considered.
Durability
The heavier the grass, the denser it is. An average artificial grass for a dog to potty train weighs less than 50 oz. Still, some brands weigh 70 oz per square yard. The high density helps the blades to stand in a fixed upright position no matter the pressure. But even though it looks more natural, a denser surface is tougher to clean.
Drainage
The drainage system enables liquids to reach the base with no urine or smelly odors left behind. Every synthetic turf base is fully permeable, and some have rubber for better drainage. Polypropylene yarn provides excellent leakage but needs a potty pad or a tray to stop the liquid from reaching the floor.
Extra Features
If a turf can’t withstand harsh weather and fire, it isn’t the best fake grass for dogs. Luckily, almost all companies guarantee their products can resist heat, fire, and corrosion. Many require no infill upon installation, and some are even fully recyclable when no longer in use.
Warranty
Most companies guarantee excellent product quality for around five to eight years. And some even back it up with a 10-year satisfaction guarantee. Still, we found a few that don’t offer a warranty at all.
Value for Money
Prices vary depending on the brand, blade’s shape, and quality. The average cost for a decent quality artificial turf ranges between $3 to $5 per square foot. Indoor artificial turf for dogs is usually smaller and cheaper, and some even come in a package of two.
Customers’ Opinion
While companies provide many details about their products, nothing is as helpful and reliable as customers’ reviews. Almost every product had an above four-star rating, and we managed to find some bestsellers, too.
Pet Grow Artificial Realistic & Thick Fake Mat
Artificial grass for dogs made from four shades of grass. The materials are polyethylene and polypropylene yarn. It has a rubber backing with drainage holes. Comes with a 10-year warranty and a 30-day return policy.
Pet Grow is a lifelike artificial turf for dogs with a 10-year colorfastness. The grass height is 1.37” and weighs 70 oz per square. With a high density of 85,000 turfs per square meter, it’s made from four types of blades to look more vibrant.
Its synthetic material is UV-resistant. Also, its rubber backing has drainage holes for quick cleaning and easy drying. Pet Grow comes with a 30-day return policy.
The company has 4.6 stars on Amazon, making it one of the best-rated artificial turf for dogs. Customers say that the grass drains the heaviest rains within an hour and doesn’t attract bugs. It does an excellent job at keeping cool, but it may smell unpleasant when unpacked.
Product Specifics:
- 1.37” high
- 79 oz per square yard
- Rubber backing
- 10 years warranty
- 30-day return policy
Pros:
- 10 years color fastness
- Four blade types
- UV-resistant
- Drainage holes
Cons:
- Feels sticky when walking barefoot
- Unpleasant smell when unpacked
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON
Why we choose this product: It doesn’t get more real than this grass. It’s made from four types of blades to resemble the vitality of natural grass. On top of that, its colorfastness lasts ten years.
SavvyGrow AstroTurf-Rug
Dog-friendly artificial grass with a no-filler formula and non-slip rubber backing. The 1.2” blades come in four shades. It’s also UV, corrosion, and fire-resistant grass with drain holes on the back.
SavvyGrow’s blades will stand strong and upright without patching up, thanks to the advanced formula with no fillers. To make sure the grass is close to the natural one, the company uses four tones of turf.
Its 1.2” blades are easy to maintain, and the rubber backing has drain holes to ensure pet urine runs off. On top of that, it can resist UV, fire, and corrosion.
We read many artificial grass for pets reviews and found that customers say this product is high-quality. The rubber backing seems very strong, and the blades are comfortable on the feet. But some shared that the grass tends to overheat.
Product Specifics:
- No filler synthetic grass
- 1.2” high
- Non-slip rubber backing
- Drainage holes
Pros:
- UV, fire & corrosion resistant
- Solid waste stays on top
- Four shades of blades
Cons:
- Might overheat
- Some pets might pull out the edges
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON
Why we choose this product: The no-filler formula fixes the blades upright, helping to hold solid waste on top. Plus, it’s eco-friendly and has UV-resistant colors in four natural shades.
SunVilla Realistic Artificial Grass
Fake grass for your dog to run on made from polyethylene fabric and latex backing. The blades are 1 ⅜ “ high and come in four shades. The back is water permeable. Guaranteed to be UV and frost-proof and backed up by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
SunVilla works with top suppliers worldwide and sells safe artificial grass that undergoes rigorous testing. It’s made from a polyethylene fabric and latex backing that doesn’t require any infill to hold the blades together.
Its four-tone blades are 1 ⅜ “ high, and the drainage holes are water permeable. SunVilla is UV and frost-proof and comes with a 10-year warranty and 30-day return policy.
SunVilla pet turf reviews mainly consist of five stars (77%), stating that the grass is easily moldable and of good quality. Also, it might be a better choice for indoors or yards with big shades, as it’s prone to melting and curling up due to sun exposure.
Product Specifics:
- 1 ⅜ “ blades
- Polyethylene fabric
- Latex backing
- Drainage holes
- 10-year warranty
- 30-day return policy
Pros:
- UV & frost proof
- Blades in four shades
- No infill
Cons:
- Might melt on high temperature
- Short blades
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON
Why we choose this product: SunVilla artificial grass works just fine without infill. The four-blade shades resemble the liveliness of natural grass. Plus, it has a 10-year warranty.
Loobani Artificial Turf Pet Grass Mat
A set of two grass pee pads in three sizes. They fit on potty trainer trays, and you can place them anywhere from patios and porches to a room in the house. Also, they’re made from breathable and antimicrobial synthetic grass with gridded backing for water seepage.
Loobani offers a compact set of grass pee pads that are perfect for pet parents who live in apartments or have no yard. The mats come in three sizes, the largest being 18 x 28 inches.
The artificial turf mat for dogs is breathable and antimicrobial with automatic water seepage. Its gridded design allows the urite to run off with ease.
Customers are satisfied with the mat’s tidiness and how easy it is to clean. Many placed a puppy pad underneath to absorb the urine. The blades hold well upon washing, but the edges might unravel in time. One customer noticed that the draining capacity decreased and started to absorb liquid rather than pass it through.
Product Specifics:
- A set of two pads
- Three sizes
- Gridded design
- Fits potty trainer trays
Pros:
- Weather-proof
- Breathable & antimicrobial
- Portable
Cons:
- Edges might unravel
- Might absorb liquid after some time
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON
Why we choose this product: Loobani is a problem-solver for pet parents that don’t have yards. The set of two artificial turf and dog urine mats is portable and weather-proof, with special antimicrobial agents that minimize odors and toxins.
Petmaker Artificial Grass & Portable Training Pad System
Three layers potty pad system with artificial grass on top, detachable grid tray in the middle, and base tray on the bottom. Made from safe and non-toxic materials. It comes in two sizes, and you can buy extra replacement pads.
Petmaker crafted a three-piece potty pad system for pets and pet parents that don’t have a yard. The mat comes in two sizes — 16” x 20” and 20” x 25”, with blades long 1.20” to 1.25”.
The artificial turf box for dogs is always dry due to the detachable grid tray that allows the liquid to flow and continue to the bottom base tray. It’s a breeze to clean, requiring only a rinse and wash with soap and water.
We recommend this product for dogs that don’t chew on things, as the layers aren’t fixed to stay in one place. Customers share that even puppies could pull off the grass and expose all the mess.
Product Specifics:
- Three parts
- 16” x 20” or 20” x 25”
- 1.20” or 1.25” blades
- Synthetic grass & plastic trays
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Non-toxic materials
- Portable
Cons:
- Not secured to stay in one place
- Smells unpleasant if not washed instantly
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON
Why we choose this product: This artificial turf pad for dogs is a number one bestseller in dog training protection trays. It’s a portable potty solution for pet homes with no yards. Plus, it’s effortless to clean.
MTBRO Professional Outdoor Grass Mat
Artificial turf for dogs to pee on with a natural look and drainage holes. You can use it as a grass mat for a potty tray or potty pad. Gentle on paws and resistant to harsh weather. Comes in three sizes.
If you’re looking for pet-friendly artificial grass for your potty tray, MTBRO might be the right fit. Its mats come in three sizes, the largest being 15 sq ft. You can use it without a potty tray, as long as you place it onto a potty pad.
The grass looks natural, and you can easily adjust it to fit any space. Its material is soft on paws, UV, and corrosion-resistant. Also, the rubber backing has drainage holes for easier and quicker liquid flow.
Customers say it’s an excellent solution for keeping the apartment turf clean. Even though it’s better than ruining your carpets, this product tends to hold a urine odor. We recommend airing out the fake grass for dogs after washing.
Product Specifics:
- Three sizes
- Rubber backing
- Drainage holes
- UV & corrosion resistant
- Eco-friendly & pet-safe
Pros:
- Soft on paws
- Multicolor blades
- Easy to cut
Cons:
- Might hold a urine odor
- Must be used with a tray or potty pad
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON
Why we choose this product: MTBRO offers decent size grass mats even for the biggest breeds. The multi-shade grass looks natural and resists incredibly hot or freezing temperatures.
Golden Moon Turf Tile Interlocking Mat
Six pieces of turf tiles made from 100% new materials. It’s recyclable and environmentally friendly. Features a drainage system, flame-proof surface, and a lifespan of over five years.
Golden Moon offers an interlocking turf tile system made from 100% new, safe, environmentally friendly, and recyclable materials. It consists of six 1 x 1-inch grass tiles with 1.5 inches long blades.
The base has two layers of polypropylene fabric and a drainage system. This fake grass for pets follows the principle of bionics and has passed the SGS flammability test. It looks and feels natural and has a lifespan of five to six years.
Customers are satisfied with the blade color variation and their durability after twelve months of heavy exposure to sun and snow. Still, some wished for a slip-resistant backing, and others said that the assembly was time-consuming and difficult.
Product Specifics:
- 1 x 1 x 1.5 inch grass tiles
- 100% new materials
- Two layers of polypropylene fabric
- Drainage system
- Flame-proof
- Made in the US
Pros:
- Pet-safe & environmentally friendly
- Recyclable
- Five to six years lifespan
Cons:
- Requires assembling
- Slippery
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON
Why we choose this product: It’s among the best artificial grass for dogs options, as it doesn’t require any tools, knowledge, or experience to assemble it. It’s made from 100% new materials that endure over five years.
Pet Zen Garden Artificial Grass Patch
Four-toned synthetic grass mat with 1.7” blades. It’s weather-resistant and stops urine from degrading. It weighs around 70 oz, and it’s backed up by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Pet Zen Garden is a toxin-free fake grass for dogs or outdoor decor. It’s famous for weighing 50% more than its competitors, around 70 oz. The four-toned blades are about 1.7” long and can stand strong and upright without fillers.
This yard turf for dogs is made from UV-resistant polyethylene and polypropylene yarn to withstand harsh weather and dog pee. The backing has drainage holes, and it’s made from rubber to keep the grass in place.
Pet Zen Garden is backed up by a 100% satisfaction guarantee and has a 4.2 rating on Amazon. Customers appreciate how affordable the turf is, but some wanted better drainage holes. Even though the thickness makes this grass easy to maintain, some wished it was longer and denser.
Product Specifics:
- 1.7” blades
- 70 oz per square yard
- Polyethylene and polypropylene yarn
- Rubber back
- Drainage holes
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
Pros:
- Doesn’t fade or fall out
- Weather-resistant
- Heavy but soft
Cons:
- Not dense enough
- Needs more drainage holes
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON
Why we choose this product: A cheap artificial turf for dogs with high-end results, Pet Zen Garden is extra-heavy, toxin-free, and with weather-resistant yarns. Plus, it’s backed up by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
The Buyer’s Guide to Artificial Turf for Dogs
We have plenty of tips for you, so let’s check them out.
How to Find the Best Artificial Turf for Dogs
Finding the best artificial turf depends on four essential factors. Here’s what you should consider:
Place of Installment
Start your search by deciding on the installment place. For bigger spaces, you want something that will stand solid to the ground. Luckily, many products have a non-slip rubber surface. Indoor spaces require smaller grass mats with a sound drainage system. While many mats need a potty pad underneath, some came with removable trays.
Size and Customization
With pets and kids constantly running on the grass, the average fake grass for dogs for outdoor spaces should resist all kinds of pressure.
And if you’re looking for an outdoor pet turf, you’ll probably need a bigger size. For customization, look for products that are easy to cut and install.
Artificial Turf vs. Synthetic Grass Mat
Grass mats are usually indoors, portable, and not difficult to maintain. Aim for artificial grass that will keep the odors away, like mats with an antimicrobial and breathable base.
Resistance
The best artificial turf for dogs to go potty training is UV, fire, and corrosion-resistant. Also, some products can keep liquids from degrading on the surface. Meanwhile, others boast strong blades that are impossible to rip off.
Fake Grass for Dogs — What Is It & How It Works?
Artificial turf is a grass-like surface made from synthetic fiber blades. It resembles the natural look and feel of real grass. The blades are long, thick, and in multiple shades of green.
The fake turf can serve as a lively landscape for your backyard or an indoor mat for potty training. Its surface is breathable and antimicrobial with automatic water seepage. The base is usually rubbery and provides an excellent draining system.
Why Do I Need an Artificial Turf for My Yard and Dogs?
Artificial turf may not be necessary for people without pets, but it’s a must for dogs. Let’s see why:
- Saves time & money: Natural grass is quite expensive to grow and maintain throughout the year. In contrast, artificial grass doesn’t need any watering, mowing, or fertilizing.
- Usable all year: Artificial grass is made from highly durable blades and UV, fire, and corrosion-resistant surface, so it’ll keep your backyard green and beautiful in every season.
- Low maintenance: Artificial turf is a breeze to clean. It features an automatic water seepage base and a rubbery draining system. All it needs is some soap, water, and a sprinkle of odor removal.
- Prevents digging: Artificial grass for dogs doesn’t need any soil to stay green, and your dog won’t dig holes and make a whole mess out of it. Plus, it’ll spare you the muddy bath time.
- Saves water: Natural grass requires constant watering, especially on hot days. The moisture might attract bugs, too. Luckily, artificial grass doesn’t need any water to keep its lively appearance.
- Portable: Artificial grass mats are an excellent solution for some indoor greenery. They can even fit into indestructible dog crate pads, providing a soft surface where dogs can rest and relieve their basic needs.
At a Glance — Artificial Turf for Dogs Reviews
WMG Premium Artificial Grass: Best overall
PET GROW Artificial Realistic & Thick Fake Mat: Best drainage system
SavvyGrow AstroTurf-Rug: Best rubber-backing
SunVilla Realistic Artificial Grass: Best no-filler artificial grass
Loobani Artificial Turf Pet Grass Mat: Best replacement grass mats
Petmaker Artificial Grass & Portable Training Pad System: Best three-layer system
MTB Professional Outdoor Grass Mat: Best grass mat for large breeds
Golden Moon Turf Tile Interlocking Mat: Best no-tool installation
Pet Zen Garden Artificial Grass Patch: Best heavy-weight grass
Common Mistakes When Buying an Artificial Turf for Dogs
Let’s see the most common shopping slips for artificial grass among customers.
Price: Cheap sounds fantastic, but it’s often not functional. Low-cost grass tends to fade, flatten, and fall apart. So you’ll have to replace it with a new one and spend even more money than expected.
Poor drainage: A proper water seepage and a draining system base allow the liquid to funnel away from the surface properly. Many people underestimate the importance of a sound draining system and end up with a pet turf installation that collects water rather than sinking it.
Uneven surface: Grass doesn’t look so good without proper ground leveling. If that’s poorly executed, the space looks visually imperfect, and it’s filled with bumps, holes, and unsecured edges.
Selection based on samples: Samples offer excellent help when it comes to features, but they aren’t always truthful. The blades tend to appear in better shape, width, and quality to lure you into buying the product.
Not adding a weed barrier: People often forget to install a barrier, resulting in weed peeking through the grass and destroying the whole appearance. Plus, you’ll spend extra time maintaining it.
Pet Turf Installation
Installing an artificial pet turf can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. We’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Remove any materials such as weeds, sod, or rocks. Also, cap any sprinklers you won’t use and tamp the area to avoid low spots.
Step 2: Install the aggregate base material. It’s a special mixture of gravel and sand that allows for proper drainage. Wet the existing base to settle and create a solid base by compacting the area.
Step 3: Apply a pet outdoor odor eliminator directly on top of the base. It’ll help neutralize the ammonia present in the artificial turf grass for dogs.
Step 4: Install the drainage membrane to provide aeration. It has holes at its base for water and fluids to flow through the turf and into the drainage system.
Step 5: Lay down the turf and cut off any excess parts. Install nails along the turf edge to prevent movement. Then, separate the grass to avoid pulling down the blades along with the nail.
Step 6: Hide the edges against any hardscape or border by using a Wunderbar. It’ll give it a good clean look.
Step 7: Use a power brush so the fake grass for dogs can stand up tall and straight. Once finished, apply a second coat of artificial turf deodorizer.
Step 8: Apply infill and spread it evenly throughout the turf. Powerbrush the turf once more to set the infill and odor neutralizer into the grass. Remove any excess debris and enjoy the view.
Do You Need Infill for Artificial Turf?
The short answer is yes. You should brush artificial infill into the blade fibers. That will help the blades to stand straight and easily return to position after pressure. Also, the infill protects the synthetic grass backing from UV exposure. Outdoor turf for dogs will last longer and look better with it. Plus, it won’t get warm as much because the infill lowers the surface area receiving sun exposure.
What Type of Infill Is Best for Artificial Turf?
You can choose between four infill types for artificial turf. We also have recommendations on the best products.
- Rubber — It makes the grass softer, more natural, and it’s commonly used on sports fields. The downside is the high heat absorbance, especially if you live in a hot place. Plus, it doesn’t kill bacteria.
- Sand — BioFill Pet Deodorizer on Amazon is a granular infill made from rounded quartz. It kills bacteria and cools down the synthetic turf for dogs. Also, the formula is pet-friendly, organic, and it removes decay-causing moisture.
- Silica — Infills like the Envirofill Green Silica Sand on Amazon are among the most popular choices. It secures and raises the grass in an upward position, providing a pleasant feeling upon walking. But if you use it on its own, it won’t eliminate pet odors.
- ZeoFill — The Zeofill infill on Amazon is a natural volcano ash base that deals with pet odors and reduces solar heat. But don’t wash it continuously upon installation, as it absorbs the urine better when dry.
Final Thoughts: Artificial Turf for Dogs Pros and Cons + Our Top Pick
Having a green space adds so much to the fun that you might feel tempted to get a swimming pool for dogs, too. And when it comes to ground cover, few things are as low maintenance as artificial turf.
Even though you might miss the smell of natural grass, the softness and appearance of WMG Premium Artificial Grass will outweigh your nostalgia. The grass’s heaviness makes it highly sturdy and durable. Also, the blades are longer than its competitors and add to the natural look. It withstands wear, tear, dog pee, and most importantly, harsh weather. Customers like this artificial turf for dogs because of its strong blades, lively appearance, and excellent drainage system.
FAQ
Is artificial turf good for dogs?
Artificial turf is made from materials that are safe and non-toxic to pets and humans. Also, many brands provide turfs resistant to harsh weather and fire. The grass is soft on paws and comfortable to play and lay on. Plus, it has a porous backing and antimicrobial properties so that dogs can urinate on it.
How to clean artificial turf for dogs?
The cleaning is super low-maintenance. Many products require only rinse washing with water and soap, but it depends on how often your dog urinates on the grass. We recommend using an odor and stain remover to eliminate existing bacteria, bad smells, and possible stains.
What is the best artificial turf for dogs?
Our top choice for artificial turf is WMG Premium Artificial Grass. It looks luxurious and natural, and the blades are sturdy yet soft on paws. Also, the draining system is instant and with strong permeability. It’s an artificial turf for dogs that is non-toxic, flame retardant, and UV-resistant.
