How to Grow Dog Grass

Dogs like grass. They roll on it, dig holes and eat it. Grass is good for dogs and satisfies a natural urge. Many dogs do not have access to healthy grass. Wherever you live, you can grow a small patch of fresh grass for your pooch.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Grass
• Soil
• Sun
• Water

1. Raw seed. Many pet stores carry small packets of grass seed. The packets are usually a mixture of rye, barley and wheat seeds and can be planted in a small pot filled with potting soil or can be planted outdoors in a sunny location. Plant a handful of seeds as this grass grows in dense clumps. Cover the seeds lightly with soil. If they are in a pot, be sure it is in a well-lighted location. Keep the seeds damp until they sprout. After sprouting the grass needs to be in sunlight. Water the grass enough to prevent wilting. When it is a few inches tall, your pet can nibble the grass.

2. 
    
   Pet grass kit

   Seed kit. Pet stores and plant nurseries carry pet grass kits. These self-contained kits have a container, soil mixture and seed. The container is usually a plastic tray or a bag. Each kit has its own directions so read the package carefully for planter preparation. The seeds will usually sprout in 3 to 5 days. Keep them moist and water daily or when the soil mix is dry. After the seeds sprout, put the container near a sunny window. Water just enough to keep the soil moist. The dog can nibble the grass when it is a few inches tall. The grass will grow several inches tall and can be trimmed. Add the clippings to your dog’s food.

3. 
    
   Grass Cafe

   Grass plant. Many stores offer a 4-inch container of growing grass ready for dog grazing. The grass is usually 3 to 4 inches tall. Take it home and water it as needed to keep the grass from wilting. If the grass turns light green, it probably needs more light. Move it closer to a window.

4. 
    

   Transplant. Some dogs do not like to eat house grass. They prefer outdoor grass. For these dogs, transplant the growing grass plant directly into the outdoor soil. Dig a small hole where the grass will get regular water. The hole should be deeper and wider than the grass container. Put planting soil or potting soil in the hole and soak it with water. Turn the grass container upside down and gently pull out the entire clump including the roots. Place it in the middle of the hole with the roots resting on the wet soil. Do not break the grass clump apart. Pack soil around it and water thoroughly. Water regularly.

5. 
    

   Seed heads. When outdoor grass matures, cut the seed heads off as they form. Wheat and oat seeds can get into dogs’ ears and cause painful injuries and infections. When the grass gets tall and tough, pull out the clump and plant a fresh container of young grass.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not spray dog grass with insecticides or other chemicals. Use an organic pet-safe or non-toxic product if insects are a problem.