Start with backing and drainage.

Look for permeable backings and published drainage rates so urine flushes through quickly. Combine with a sub-base that doesn’t trap liquids, granite dust or a permeable aggregate layer beats fine sand in pet-heavy gardens. Avoid “sealed bowl” installations; maintain a gentle fall and a clear outlet.

Fibre resilience matters.

Medium pile heights (30–35mm) with dense thatch resist flattening while still looking plush. UV‑stabilised polyethylene blades feel soft on paws; strong thatch fibres support recovery. If your dog loves to dig, a robust edge and hidden fixing help deter lifting.

Odour control is a system, not a single product.

Choose a pet‑friendly infill engineered to reduce ammonia smells and promote aeration. Rinse high‑use areas regularly and apply enzyme cleaners that break down urea crystals safely. In hot spells, increase frequency—warmth accelerates odour.

Safety and compliance.

Ensure the grass is non‑toxic and REACH compliant. If you have children too, consider adding a shockpad under play equipment and confirm fall-height performance. For sensitive paws, lighter colours reflect heat better in direct sun; a quick hose cools surfaces fast on the few really hot UK days.

Cleaning routine:

• Daily/weekly: Remove solids promptly, hose the area, and brush fibres upright.
• Monthly: Enzyme clean high‑traffic spots, check edges and seams, and top up pet-safe infill if required.
• After accidents: Blot, rinse thoroughly, enzyme treat, and allow to dry. Avoid bleach; it can damage fibres and backing.

Common issues and fixes:

• Persistent smells: Increase rinse frequency, refresh infill, and check base permeability; retrofit a drainage channel if needed.
• Matting: Brush against the pile with a stiff nylon brush and consider steam‑free hot water rinse to relax fibres (test first).
• Edge lifting: Upgrade to secure edging, additional pins, or adhesive where appropriate.

Choosing the “best” pet turf means matching your dog and space. We’ll weigh size, activity level, sun exposure, and your cleaning preferences to recommend a specific product and base.