Homework: Keeping dogs and lawns happy; Zelienople garden talk

Published: Friday, April 4, 2014, 7:32p.m. Updated 2 hours ago

Tips to keep a healthy lawn with dogs

If you want a dog and a lush lawn, you're not out of luck.

Dog urine can damage grass, but highly rated experts in lawn care, landscaping and dog training tell Angie's List that there are several ways your pet and your property can coexist pee-cefully.

The cheapest and easiest way to reduce doggie damage is to hose down and dilute urine right after the dog relieves itself. Then, commit to re-seeding damaged areas of grass as needed.

A top dog trainer says his grass is better able to withstand the effects of multiple dogs when he maintains a 4-inch height and applies organic fertilizer.

Another option, if your dog uses a specific area of the yard, is to cover the grass with pea gravel or artificial turf.

Many dogs can be trained to urinate and defecate in a designated spot. It may take four to six weeks of effort. Flag off a sizeable portion of lawn to create a large target zone to start. Leash your pet and take it to that area every time it has to go. Always clean up after the dog. Over time, as the pet responds, gradually shrink the flagged-off area to your preferred size.

Free home show

Nearly 100 exhibitors will take part in the Butler County Home Show from April 11 to 13 at the Family Sports Center on Route 68 in Connoquenessing.

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Homework: Keeping dogs and lawns happy; Zelienople garden talk