Buying guide for best artificial grass mats
Have you ever thought about owning a dog but decided that it just wasn't a practical option? Maybe you work long hours, or you live in an urban area with no yard where the parks are few and far between. In either of those instances, an artificial grass mat might be all that's keeping you and your new best friend from sharing a rewarding life together.
An artificial grass mat is a rectangular patch of synthetic grass that comes in a variety of sizes and typically sits in a tray that collects your pet's urine. To be right for you, your artificial grass mat needs to be large enough to provide adequate room for your dog to do what needs to be done.
You can learn more about artificial grass mats by reading through this guide. However, if you're ready to get started on potty training now and know exactly what you need, consider one of the highly rated options we've spotlighted.
Two primary considerations
When deciding which artificial grass mat would best suit your needs, there are two primary elements you need to consider: whether you plan to use it indoors or outdoors and what size your dog needs.
Indoor vs. outdoor artificial grass mats
It's rare to find an artificial grass mat that isn't designated for both indoor and outdoor use. However, it's important to look a little more closely at the item to be sure it really has what you need. The best outdoor artificial grass mats are specifically designed to resist UV rays and extreme temperatures. These mats hold up well in all types of weather conditions.
In order for an artificial grass mat to be of use indoors, it needs to have a tray that captures the dog's urine and drains it somehow, often through a drainage grate. Without a way to drain the tray, the urine would just exit the drainage holes and saturate the floor of your home.
Size
Dogs need space to do their business. A standard-size artificial grass mat is roughly two feet long by 15 or 20 inches wide. This would be ideal for a smaller breed. If you have a medium or large breed, however, you are going to need something bigger.
Other features
Three-layer system: Although it is not necessary if you are using your artificial grass mat in the yard, the best indoor mats have three layers: a grass pad, a draining grate, and a leakproof containing tray. An artificial grass mat with three layers will not only be more effective, it will also be easier to clean and maintain.
Non-toxic: It may seem like a no-brainer, but before purchasing, check to make sure the artificial grass mat of your choice is non-toxic. That means lead-free, BPA-free, and non-carcinogenic.
Look and feel: High-end artificial grass mats use synthetic materials with multiple colors and a texture and lushness that more closely resembles real grass.
Durability: Even some of the expensive artificial grass mats do not feature the most durable designs. Be sure the one that you are considering wouldn’t be easily pawed apart in just one or two uses.
Odor control: Some artificial grass mats feature antimicrobial odor control. If the one you are considering doesn't have this, you could purchase an odor-eliminating spray that effectively does the same thing.
Easy to cut: If your new artificial grass mat needs to be a specific size, make sure you can easily trim it down to the measurements you require.
"If you have a larger dog, you may need to purchase two or three artificial grass mats so your pet has ample room to do his business."
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Artificial grass mat prices
Artificial grass mats can be categorized into three general price ranges. On the lower end, from about $14 to $24, the mats have a rubber backing and feature drainage holes. Alone, these artificial grass mats are designed for outdoor use, as there is nothing that can collect or absorb the urine.
In the $25 to $35 price range, you will find mat/tray combinations. These two items work in conjunction with a third middle drainage layer to provide a designated place that can serve as your pet's litter box. Mid-range artificial grass mats like these can be used inside or outside, depending on your needs.
As you move beyond the $35 mark, you will find artificial grass mats that are larger, have disposable elements, and include features like a collection container that make cleanup easier.
For your safety
Before purchasing an artificial grass mat, make sure that your landlord or management company allows this product and that there are no usage restrictions.
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Training tips
An artificial grass mat can be a great convenience, but only if your dog uses it. Following are a few tips to keep in mind when training.
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The most important part of training is patience. There will be accidents, and at some point, it may feel like an impossible task. Allow patience to prevail.
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Potty training your pup takes dedication and commitment. You must learn your dog's tells, know when he needs to go, and be there to guide or correct him as needed.
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Your dog will learn best with fewer distractions. Kids, other animals, relatives, friends, strangers, or a chaotic home life can all make learning more challenging for your pet.
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Pick one spot. Your dog will learn best if the situation remains the same. Moving the artificial grass mat from room to room will not facilitate training.
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Put a leash on your dog, and guide him over to the artificial mat every 30 minutes. Once there, wait. If nothing happens, repeat this activity about 30 minutes later.
- Once your dog gets it right, reward him. Whether you use love or treats is up to you — just make sure he receives ample praise.
FAQ
Q. Where should I place my artificial grass mat?
A. If you will be using your artificial grass mat indoors, place it in a location where lack of accuracy, which will happen in the early stages of training, will not ruin the floor or surrounding area. For instance, never use your artificial grass mat on a carpeted area. If the mat will be on a porch or balcony, be sure your dog will have privacy. If you place it in a highly trafficked area, your pet may be too busy barking at strangers and other distractions to focus on the required task.
Q. How should I clean my artificial grass mat?
A. Any and all solid waste should be removed and discarded immediately. The artificial grass should be separated from the tray and cleaned a minimum of three times per week, although daily cleaning is highly recommended. The urine can be dumped into the toilet, and the grass and tray can be washed in warm, soapy water. Allow the base and artificial grass to dry before reassembling.
Q. What are the advantages of using an artificial grass mat over a real grass mat?
A. Even though real grass might be easier to clean in some instances, the main reason you might find it better to use an artificial grass mat is replacement costs. Real grass mats need to be replaced much more frequently — once every week or two in warm weather and even more often in the winter months. Artificial grass mats, on the other hand, may last as long as two months. The cost of purchasing new real grass mats several times a month could quickly become a financial nuisance.
