Start by Finding Where The Smell Is Coming From

Before cleaning the entire garden, identify where the smell is strongest. Your dog may regularly use a particular corner, fence, pathway or area close to the back door rather than the middle of the lawn.

Finding the source will make it easier to choose the right cleaning method and avoid using unnecessary products across the rest of the garden.

Remove Dog Waste as Soon as Possible

Removing dog waste promptly prevents it from being walked into the surrounding surface and reduces the opportunity for smells to develop. Remember to check borders, behind sheds and other areas where waste may be harder to spot.

Outdoor waste bins can also become a source of smells, particularly during warm weather, so they should be emptied and cleaned regularly.

How to Stop Natural Grass Smelling of Dog Urine

If your dog regularly uses the same part of a natural lawn, rinsing the area can help dilute urine and prevent it from becoming concentrated. Solid waste should also be removed before it becomes hidden in longer grass.

Natural lawns that are heavily used may become worn, muddy or waterlogged, which can make them harder to keep clean throughout the year.

It’s common for natural grass to become yellowed or have a burnt out appearance after prolonged dog use, due to the concentrated nitrogen and urea present in urine.

How to Remove Dog Urine Smells from Patios and Paving

Patios and paving are easy to rinse, but smells can remain where urine collects in joints, cracks or poorly drained areas. Remove any solid waste first, rinse the surface and use a cleaner that is suitable for both pets and the paving material.

Natural stone slabs such as sandstone are often more porous than porcelain so you may like to avoid this type of paving as over time the chemicals in urine could erode the surface of the tile.

If smells repeatedly return in the same place, check whether water is pooling rather than draining away or confirm the type of paving stone laid in the garden.

How to Stop Artificial Grass Smelling When You Have Dogs?

Artificial grass should not be treated as a completely maintenance-free surface. Dog waste still needs to be removed, while regular toilet areas should be rinsed and cleaned when required.

Leaves, loose hair and debris should also be cleared because they can collect within the pile and make the surface more difficult to clean effectively.

Why Drainage Matters in a Dog-Friendly Garden

Good drainage helps rainwater, cleaning water and dog urine move away from the surface. This is particularly important in small gardens or areas used by several dogs.

Pooch Plus uses a super-flow mesh backing that allows liquids to drain across the full product rather than relying only on individual drainage holes. Regular cleaning is still needed, but effective drainage can make the garden easier to maintain.

Keeping the Garden Fresh During Hot Weather

Smells can become more noticeable during warm, dry periods because there is less rain to rinse garden surfaces naturally. Frequently used toilet areas may therefore need more regular attention.

Outdoor waste bins, bedding and toys should also be checked because the lawn itself may not always be the source of the smell.