Question
We had our back yard landscaped last summer.  Around grass in the center are low hills with large rocks and trees--I wanted it to look like the mountains and it does.  

The problem is that the ground is covered with a shredded mulch to give it a natural look. Unfortunately, our shaggy dog turns out to be a "mulch magnet".  The mulch stick to her fur and is all over our house.

Can you suggest something else that we could use for mulch that wouldn't stick to her?  I rather not use a rock mulch everywhere because it would be so hot.

Thank you for your help!

Answer
Hello Becky,

This is a new question for me :-)

I also have a shaggy dog, an 8 month old golden retriever. He digs up the mulch - nevermind it sticking to him! lol.

Anyway, I understand your dilemma. Certainly, shredded pine bark mulch stick to fur and not only gets it in the house, but, also, spreads it in areas you don't want mulch.

I would suggest pine straw - the non mulch kind. It shouldn't stick to fur since it is generally long and smooth. It may also help with the mountain look you are trying to create.

If you have the time, money, and patience you could plant ground cover instead of mulch. Liriope or Lilyturf has worked very well in my garden. They withstand being tromped on by the dogs and kids, but, they don't like being peed on.

I hope this helps. Have a great day.

Namaste,
Kathy