How can I keep my dog's pee from killing my plants? ASK THE HORT AGENT
Question How can I keep my dog’s pee from killing my plants?
Answer Dog urine is typically a problem on turf, but it can also be a problem on shrubs. It may even be a problem on small trees if you own a male Great Dane or Irish Wolfhound. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Dane
Some folks think the pH of dog urine is the problem. The pH of dog urine falls between 6 and 8. While this may be too high for some plants, it is not extreme enough to explain the doggie damage. Most unqualified “experts” recommend a change in your dog’s diet to address urine pH. The addition of tomato juice, baking soda and various other liquids can change the pH of urine. However, they may also make your dog more susceptible to urinary tract infections and other problems. These types of additions should be done under strict veterinary supervision. While multitudes of home remedies can be found to change the pH of the actual dead spots of grass, they are not necessary either.
The real problem with dog pee is nitrogen. Urine is made of urea, which is a concentrated form of nitrogen. When animals metabolize protein, their bodies produce excess nitrogen. This nitrogen is eliminated through urine and feces. Urine contains the most concentrated and soluble form of nitrogen.
It is true that most plants require a lot of nitrogen. However, too much of a good thing can be bad. “Fertilizer burn” is caused by too much nitrogen. Nitrogen salts literally draw moisture from plants when fertilizer levels are too high. Excessive water loss can cause plants to wilt and possibly die. Dog pee causes a fertilizer burn scenario.
Solution? Keep your dog hydrated. This reduces the concentration of nitrogen (clear pee versus really yellow pee). Check with your vet about reducing the protein content of your dog food. More is not always better. Excess protein will be eliminated as a more “toxic” pee. It may also be making your dog fat.
Lastly, as the hippies used to say, “The solution to pollution is dilution.” Follow your dog around with a water hose or watering can. If you own an indoor pooch, then you know when they are going outside. Keep in mind the morning pee is going to be more concentrated than any other.
For more info on dog urine, visit http://csuturf.colostate.edu/pdffiles/Master%20Gardener/dog_urine_damage_infosheet_2009.pdf If you don’t have internet access, then call me at (910) 893-7533 or email me at gpierce@harnett.org
Here is a great mixture to use on your lawn during the summer to renew dead spots. Follow my instructions carefully. First, sprinkle 1 tbs baking soda on the spot. Pour 2 cups of sugar on the spot. Sprinkle 2 tbs baking powder. Crack two eggs on the spot. Add 1 tsp vanilla and 2 cups flour. Water the ingredients. In one month, the spot will be green again, and beside the spot will be 6 cupcakes.
Gary L. Pierce
Horticulture Extension Agent
Harnett County | 
