It’s natural for pet owners to worry about the safety of products and materials around their homes, especially when it comes to something that their furry friends might ingest. Grass seeds can be a worry for pet owners, but are grass seeds safe for dogs or other pets?
Fortunately, most grass seeds are non-toxic to animals and safe for use in yards regularly frequented by pets. This article will discuss whether there are any varieties of grass seeds that are toxic to dogs and look at how to keep your pets safe when planting grass seeds.
Are grass seeds safe for dogs?
Grass seeds aren’t considered toxic to dogs. That being said, it’s essential to keep an eye on your pet when they are outside and around any grass seed products you may have used. Some grass seeds have been coated with fertilizers or weed killers to help lawns establish themselves.
Garden chemicals can be toxic to dogs if ingested, so it’s best to keep your pet away from grass seeds and recently reseeded areas. It’s also beneficial for the grass seeds to keep dogs away. Grass seedlings or seeds that are in the process of germinating are delicate and shouldn’t be walked on by humans or animals.
Leaving your lawn undisturbed will allow the grass to grow and become established. If you let your dog on the lawn too soon, you may end up with damaged grass and a patchy lawn.
What to consider when buying grass seeds
When selecting a grass seed product for households with pets, look for varieties labeled as ‘pet safe’ or ‘pet friendly.’ These varieties are specifically designed for pet owners who want a lush lawn but also need to keep their furry friends safe from any potential toxins or irritants.
That said, it’s important to note that some grasses may be more appealing to pets than others. For households with pets, choose grass varieties that are less likely to be nibbled on by animals. Popular pet-safe grass options include rye-based fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
What should I do if my dog has eaten grass seeds
In most cases, dogs won’t suffer any adverse effects after eating grass seeds, however, it’s important to be vigilant and keep an eye on your pet. You can also read the label to check whether any chemicals have been added to the seeds.
If your dog has eaten grass seeds with fertilizers or weed and feed, you should seek veterinary help immediately, even if your dog seems fine. Symptoms of poisoning can come on quickly and be severe.
Some symptoms of toxicity from common garden chemicals include vomiting and diarrhea and, in the worse cases trembling, foaming at the mouth, and intestinal damage.
Conclusion
The next time you’re looking for a grass seed product for your yard, rest assured that it is possible to keep your pet safe while still having a beautiful lawn. Look for pet-friendly varieties to ensure that you and your furry friends can safely enjoy the great outdoors!
If you have any questions about how to regrow grass with dogs, contact a professional landscaper or local nursery for more information. They can help you find the perfect pet-safe grass variety for your yard.