is crabgrass preventer safe for dogs

Is Crabgrass Preventer Safe For Dogs?

As a dog owner, keeping your lawn healthy and weed-free is important. But you also want to make sure any lawn care products you use are safe for your furry friend. Crabgrass can quickly take over a lawn, leaving unsightly bare patches. Crabgrass preventer helps stop this weed before it starts. But is it safe to use if you have dogs who play and lounge on the grass?

What Is Crabgrass Preventer?

Crabgrass preventer, also called pre-emergent herbicide, is a weed control product designed to stop crabgrass and other annual weeds from sprouting. It contains synthetic chemicals that inhibit the growth and development of newly germinated weed seeds. When applied early in spring before crabgrass emerges, it provides season-long control.

The active ingredients in crabgrass preventers vary by brand but often include

• Pendimethalin
• Prodiamine
• Dithiopyr
• Oryzalin

These ingredients work by disrupting cell growth in weed seedlings’ roots and shoots. Without the ability to establish a root system, the weeds die off. Crabgrass preventer is typically applied as a liquid spray or granular spread over the entire lawn area. The chemicals remain active in the soil for 2-4 months before breaking down.

Are Crabgrass Preventers Harmful To Dogs?

Most veterinarians and lawn experts agree that modern crabgrass preventer chemicals pose little risk to dogs when the products are used as directed. The active ingredients are present in low concentrations and are not highly toxic to canines.

However, it is still smart to exercise caution when applying any lawn chemical, even if the package states it is “safe for pets.” The potential exists for irritation or illness if a dog ingests or absorbs enough of the chemicals. According to veterinarian Dr. Kara, signs of a reaction can include:

• Pawing at the mouth
• Drooling
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dilated pupils
• Seizures

Small dogs tend to be more vulnerable than larger breeds. Puppies and senior dogs also have increased sensitivity. To minimize risks, always follow the label directions carefully and take steps to limit your dog’s exposure.

Tips For Using Crabgrass Preventer With Dogs

When using crabgrass preventer, keep these tips in mind to protect your dog:

• Read the label thoroughly and never exceed the recommended amount. More is not better.

• Choose pet-safe application times when your dog can stay indoors. Avoid treating the lawn if your dog is outside.

• Prevent access to treated areas until the product dries completely, usually within 24-48 hours.

• For granular products, dilute with sand for safer spreading. Never let dogs in the area during application.

• Lightly water after applying to dilute any residual chemicals left on the grass blades.

• Pick up dog toys and bowls from the lawn before application so they don’t become contaminated.

• Keep dogs off treated grass as long as possible, ideally until after the first mowing.

• Use barriers if needed to keep dogs away from application areas.

• Bathe dogs who get into a recently treated area immediately.

• Seek veterinary help if you suspect your dog ingested crabgrass preventer.

By following label precautions and limiting exposure, the small risk to dogs is minimized. But many vets recommend avoiding use around puppies and elderly or ill dogs when possible.

Natural Alternatives To Crabgrass Preventer

If you want to steer clear of synthetic chemicals entirely, several natural options can suppress crabgrass:

• Corn gluten meal – Made from corn, it inhibits root development. Must be applied pre-emergence.

• Vinegar – High concentrations (20%+) provide some crabgrass control but require multiple applications.

• Soil solarization – Covering soil with plastic “bakes” and kills seeds in hot months.

• Preventive mowing – Keeping turf taller deprives crabgrass of light.

• Improved drainage – Crabgrass thrives in moist soil. Aerating and amending soil to drain faster helps.

• Overseeding – Thickening turf in fall with grass varieties leaves little room for crabgrass.

These organic approaches take more effort but are completely safe for dogs. An integrated program works best for effective, dog-friendly crabgrass management.

The Bottom Line

When used as directed, most crabgrass prevention products pose low risk to canine health. But it’s always smart to minimize exposure. Natural alternatives also give dog owners chemical-free options.

With wise product selection, careful application, and common sense precautions, you can keep your lawn crabgrass-free without endangering your beloved pup. Your dog gets to roam in a lush, beautiful yard, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing his space is safe.