Having a green, lush lawn is the dream for many homeowners But weeds can quickly invade and ruin the aesthetic While using chemical weed killers may seem like an easy solution, many popular options like Roundup contain dangerous ingredients that can harm pets. The good news is that there are effective dog safe weed killers for lawns that will target invaders without endangering your furry friends.
Why Do Lawns Get Weeds?
Before exploring dog safe weed killer options it helps to understand why weeds occur in the first place. There are a few key reasons lawns become overrun with these unwanted plants
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Poor soil quality – Weeds thrive in compacted, nutrient deficient soil. Aerating and fertilizing improves turfgrass health, leaving less room for weeds.
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Inadequate mowing – Letting grass grow too tall creates an environment ideal for weeds. Maintain proper heights for your grass type.
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Too much/too little water – Over and under-watering stresses grass. Optimal irrigation keeps lawns vigorous to choke out weeds.
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Thin turf – Bare patches from pet damage, foot traffic, etc. offer a foothold for weeds. Overseeding boosts thickness.
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Poor drainage – Excess moisture enables weeds. Improve drainage through grading, aerating, or amendments.
While weed seeds blow in from other areas too, following best lawn care practices limits opportunities for them to establish.
Potential Risks of Traditional Weed Killers
Traditional synthetic weed killers, while very effective, often contain chemicals linked to health concerns in humans and animals. Two of the most common ingredients are:
Glyphosate
This non-selective herbicide, known by the brand Roundup, kills all plant life. While controversial, some research links it to cancer and kidney/liver damage in mammals. Numerous countries have banned or restricted glyphosate use.
2,4-D
A selective herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds, 2,4-D is thought to have neurological effects in humans and animals at high doses. Studies also suggest 2,4-D may impact reproductive systems and mimic hormones.
In addition to active ingredients, inert compounds in weed killers may also be problematic. Using these products around pets and children is worrisome for many owners.
Choosing a Dog Safe Option
When selecting a dog safe weed killer for lawns, there are two categories:
1. Natural Weed Killers
These use ingredients derived from plants, minerals or other natural sources:
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Vinegar – Highly concentrated horticultural vinegar (over 10%) provides an effective, pet safe alternative to synthetic herbicides. Brands like Natural Armor are popular choices.
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Corn gluten – Prevents seeds from germinating, reducing weed growth. Completely non-toxic for animals. Apply pre-emergent corn gluten products like Preen early spring/fall.
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Salt – Table salt or rock salt inhibits weed growth through soil dessication. Dilute and apply carefully to avoid grass damage.
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Lemon juice/citrus oils – Contains d-limonene which breaks down plant cuticles. Frequently used in combination with vinegar.
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Boiling water – Kills weeds and their roots instantly. Extreme caution is required to avoid scalding. Best for patios, sidewalk cracks and non-lawn areas.
While natural weed killers take more effort and repeated applications, they provide non-toxic lawn care.
2. Selective Herbicides
These target specific weed varieties while leaving desirable grass unharmed:
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2,4-D – Despite some health concerns, very low concentrations are considered pet safe once dried. Kills broadleaf weeds only, so it won’t harm lawns.
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Dicamba – Effective on a wide range of broadleaf weeds. Veterinarian-approved for toxicity when dry. Sold under brand names like Bayer Advanced.
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MCPP – A hormone-type herbicide, MCPP shows very low mammalian toxicity. Safest selective option for pets when applied correctly.
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Pyraflufen – Used for spot treatment of tough broadleaf weeds. Has very low oral toxicity in mammals but little research on pets specifically.
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Triclopyr – Controls woody plants and broadleaf weeds at low doses. While toxic if ingested, minimal risk exists for pets after application.
When using selective herbicides, carefully follow label instructions and restrict pet access until completely dry. Non-selective weed killers like Roundup should be avoided entirely around domestic animals.
7 Best Dog Safe Weed Killer Products
Here are some excellent dog safe weed killer options to eradicate lawn weeds safely:
1. Dr. Kirchner Natural Weed Killer
- Main active ingredient: salt
- Also contains vinegar, soap and water
- Non-selective organic formula
2. Preen Extended Control Weed Preventer
- Active ingredient is corn gluten meal
- Pre-emergent stops seeds from sprouting
- Lasts up to 4 months
3. Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns
- Selectively targets broadleaf weeds
- Dicamba and MCPP formulation
- Treats entire lawn or spot spray
4. Scotts EcoSense Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer
- Uses citric acid and iron HEDTA
- Targets tough weeds like chickweed and clover
- Pet safe once dried
5. Bayer Advanced All-in-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer
- Selective 2,4-D, dicamba and quinclorac formula
- Controls 200+ weeds including crabgrass
- Low toxicity for mammals
6. Green Gobbler Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
- Concentrated horticultural vinegar
- Non-selective herbicide
- Also available as pet safe concentrate to dilute
7. Bonide Weed Beater Ultra
- Selectively eliminates broadleaf weeds
- Contains 2,4-D, MCPP, dicamba
- Dual-action liquid concentrate
When possible, opt for prevention like corn gluten pre-emergents over chemical weed killers. But for severe infestations, targeted spot sprays with a selective herbicide can provide control while keeping your pet safe. Always think “spot spray, not broadcast” when using weed killers with dogs around.
Lawn Care Tips for Preventing Weeds
While dog safe weed killers can immediately eliminate unwanted plants, the best defense is a healthy, thriving lawn. Here are some tips to reduce conditions favoring weed growth:
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Test soil pH and adjust to match your turfgrass type. Most do best at slightly acidic pH levels.
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Aerate compacted areas in spring or fall to improve air and water infiltration.
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Overseed bare patches to thicken up turfgrass coverage.
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Sharpen mower blades regularly for clean cuts that heal faster.
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Leave grass clippings as a natural fertilizer unless they clump excessively.
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Water infrequently but deeply, providing about 1″ of water weekly avoiding runoff.
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Apply organic, slow release fertilizer when grass begins growing in spring.
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Accept some weeds will invade. Hand pull carefully or use spot sprays instead of dousing entire lawn.
Your lawn will never be completely weed-free. But mindful maintenance and monitoring minimizes pest plant encroachment so your lawn stays lush and pet safe.
When to Call A Lawn Care Professional
While safe DIY weed control is possible, lawn care services have advantages:
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Advanced equipment, allowing more precise application of weed killers.
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Expertise choosing the most effective herbicides for your specific weed types.
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Knowledge of safety, techniques, timing to enhance results while protecting pets.
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Ability to reseed, aerate, adjust soil, and comprehensively improve lawn health.
Consider hiring a lawn pro if:
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You lack the time for proper lawn maintenance.
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DIY efforts failed to control aggressive weeds.
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You want to renovate or revive an existing lawn.
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Seeking customized guidance on best turfgrass and practices for your climate.
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Have dogs with access to the entire yard, limiting your ability to isolate treated areas.
While an investment, professional weed control saves time, minimizes risk, and leads to a consistently healthy, pet safe lawn.
When weeds infest, resist the temptation to douse the entire lawn in harsh herbicides. With judicious maintenance and targeted application of dog safe weed killers for lawns, you can eliminate invaders without endangering your furry companions. Keep your lawn lush and pets protected with informed, selective weed control practices.
Natural Elements Weed Killer
BUY HERE , $19.99 (quart)-$69.99 (2.5 gallon) from Natural Elements BUY HERE , $27.99 (gallon) from Amazon
Natural Elements Weed Killer (4.2 star review rating) is a powerful, yet natural herbicide derived from commercial-strength vinegar. It’s strong enough to kill the most annoying weeds, like clover, crabgrass, thistle and broadleaf in 24hrs or less, but it’s gentle and safe enough for your pets and kids to play in the yard once it’s dried.
Ingredients: sodium chloride (salt), water, commercial vinegar, sodium lauryl sulphate (soap)
| Why We Like It: |
| Pet-Safe (wait a few hours for it to dry) Safe for groundwater, bees, and wildlife Ready to use, no mixing required All natural, non-toxic ingredients 100% biodegradable Free of glyphosate Made in the USA |
- Kills grass if directly applied to lawns
Natural Armor All-Natural Weed and Grass Killer
Natural Armor Weed and Grass Killer (4 star review rating) is made with only natural ingredients, and absolutely no poisonous chemicals, making it safe for use around pets. With that being said, the directions do mention to avoid contact with skin while applying, so you’re going to want to make sure this is dry before allowing your pets in the treated area for potty breaks or playtime.
Natural Armor is a concentrated formula that works on over 250 types of pesky weeds or grasses with visible results in 24hrs. While it’s not always 100% effective, it is the price we must pay for products that do not include harmful chemicals to our furry pets.
Ingredients: Sodium Chloride (salt), Citric Acid, Clove Oil, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (soap), Water, Vinegar, Glycerine, Lemon Juice
| Why We Like It: |
| Pet-Safe (wait until area is dry) All natural, non-toxic Free of glyphosate Does not affect ground water Ready to use, no mixing required Safe near wild birds, fish, mammals Biodegradable Manufactured in the USA with all USA sourced ingredients |
- New weed will grow back
✅Top 5 Best Pet Safe Weed Killer for Your Yard in 2023
FAQ
What is the safest weed killer to use around dogs?
Boiling water is certainly a pet safe weed killer and it will instantly kill any plant it comes in contact with by literally cooking the plant in the ground.
Does vinegar, Epsom salt, and Dawn dish soap really kill weeds?
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How it works (or doesn’t):
- Vinegar: Contains acetic acid, which can dehydrate and kill the top growth of weeds, but it’s a contact herbicide, meaning it doesn’t affect the roots.
- Epsom salt: Is a fertilizer, not a weed killer, and can even provide nutrients that might help weeds grow.
- Dawn dish soap: Acts as a surfactant, helping the vinegar and salt solution adhere to the weed leaves, but it doesn’t kill the weeds themselves.
- Vinegar: Contains acetic acid, which can dehydrate and kill the top growth of weeds, but it’s a contact herbicide, meaning it doesn’t affect the roots.
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Why it’s not effective:
- Top growth only: The mixture primarily dries out the top growth, but many weeds have extensive root systems that can regrow from the roots.
- Ineffective for perennial weeds: Perennial weeds, with their extensive root systems, are likely to regrow after being treated with this mixture.
- Not a long-term solution: The weeds will likely come back, requiring repeated applications, which can be time-consuming and potentially ineffective.
- Top growth only: The mixture primarily dries out the top growth, but many weeds have extensive root systems that can regrow from the roots.
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Alternatives:
- For effective weed control: Consider using herbicides specifically designed for weed control, or explore other methods like manual removal or mulching.
- Be cautious with household products: Always do your research and be mindful of the potential impact on your soil and surrounding environment when using household products for weed control.
- For effective weed control: Consider using herbicides specifically designed for weed control, or explore other methods like manual removal or mulching.
What is the best thing to kill weeds but not grass?
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Selective Herbicides:These herbicides work by exploiting differences in plant biology, disrupting processes specific to broadleaf weeds, like hormone imbalances or photosynthesis, while leaving grass (a narrow-leaved plant) unaffected.
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Common Examples:
- 2,4-D: Targets broadleaf weeds while sparing grasses.
- Dicamba: Effective against a range of broadleaf weeds.
- 2,4-D: Targets broadleaf weeds while sparing grasses.
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Application:
- Apply the herbicide according to the product label instructions, ensuring proper timing and coverage.
- Consider spot-treating individual weeds or applying a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weed seeds from germinating.
- Apply the herbicide according to the product label instructions, ensuring proper timing and coverage.
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Other Considerations:
- Organic Options: While some organic herbicides exist, they may not be as effective as synthetic herbicides and can sometimes harm grass.
- Manual Removal: For small infestations, you can also try pulling weeds by hand, being careful to remove the entire root system.
- Proper Watering: Water your grass deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth, which can help it outcompete weeds.
- Organic Options: While some organic herbicides exist, they may not be as effective as synthetic herbicides and can sometimes harm grass.
Does vinegar kill weeds as good as Roundup?
Politics and everything else aside, Roundup works better than vinegar. If you’re opposed to the use of Roundup or you want to use vinegar for other reasons, you can certainly do it, but just be aware that you’re going to have to keep using it and keep using it and keep using it.