If you have dogs, you know the struggle; a freshly sodded lawn can quickly turn into a battlefield of brown spots, bare patches, and muddy trails. The good news? Not all sod is created equal, and some varieties are far more pet-friendly than others.
At Sunshine Sod, we help Florida homeowners find durable, safe, and low-maintenance sod options that can handle paws, play, and the occasional “accident.” Here’s how to choose the best grass for a home with pets.
What Makes Sod Pet-Friendly?
When selecting sod for homes with dogs or active kids, look for these features:
- Durability: Can it bounce back from foot traffic and digging?
- Density: A thick lawn resists wear and keeps mud at bay
- Salt and urine resistance: Some grasses tolerate pet waste better than others
- Low maintenance: Because let’s face it—pets already keep you busy
Now let’s dig into the top sod types for Florida pet owners.
1. St. Augustine Grass (Floratam)
St. Augustine Floratam is one of Florida’s most popular turf types, and it holds up surprisingly well to dogs.
Why It Works:
- Thick blades and fast-growing
- Great recovery from foot traffic
- Good salt tolerance (for coastal properties)
- Stays lush with minimal effort
Keep in Mind:
- Needs regular mowing
- Not ideal for deep shade
Best for: Medium to large yards, coastal homes, sunny areas
2. Empire Zoysia
Zoysia grass is known for its dense, carpet-like feel and outstanding durability. If your dog runs the same route every day, this is the sod that’ll hold up.
Why It Works:
- Very wear-tolerant
- Grows low and slow = less mowing
- Soft texture that’s paw-friendly
- Tolerates some shade and drought
Keep in Mind:
- Needs good drainage
- May go dormant in winter (light brown color)
Best for: Active dogs, high-traffic backyards, premium landscapes
3. Argentine Bahia
Bahia grass is Florida’s low-maintenance workhorse. It’s not the prettiest, but it’s tough and resilient—perfect for play zones and larger yards.
Why It Works:
- Very drought-resistant
- Handles heavy traffic
- Low fertilizer and watering needs
- Deep roots = strong durability
Keep in Mind:
- Coarser texture
- Seed heads can appear without frequent mowing
Best for: Large yards, rural properties, no-fuss pet owners
What About Dog Urine?
One of the most common lawn complaints from pet owners is urine burn, characterized by yellow or brown spots caused by the high nitrogen and salt content in dog urine.
Tips to prevent urine damage:
- Water heavily after your dog urinates in the same spot
- Train dogs to use a designated area
- Feed your dog a vet-approved diet (not lawn supplements)
- Rinse trouble spots once a day during dry spells
Zoysia and Bahia tend to handle urine better than finer-bladed grasses like Seville St. Augustine.
Other Tips for Pet-Proofing Your Florida Lawn
- Choose a sod with thick roots—it helps prevent digging
- Add hardscape or mulch areas in heavy-traffic spots
- Aerate your lawn annually to reduce compaction
- Reseed or patch early in spring or fall when recovery is fastest
A Lawn That Works for You and Your Pets
The right sod can keep your yard looking sharp while giving your four-legged friend space to run, roll, and relax. Whether your dog is a gentle napper or a backyard explorer, we’ll match you with a grass that fits.
At Sunshine Sod, we carry Florida-grown sod that’s built for heat, humidity, and paws. Our team can help you pick the right type, schedule delivery, and even offer installation guidance if needed.
Have questions about which sod fits your pets and your property? Request a quote or give us a call, we’re here to help you create a lawn everyone loves (even the ones who bark at the mailman).
