Question
I would like to know if there is any thing I can do to stop my lawn from dying every time my dog pees on it. I have brown spots all over my lawn. I heard there was something that can be added to the food to help reduce the acid in the urine. I live outside boston in Norton MA.,o2766.
                      thank you  

Answer
There is a lot of controversy on this issue and a lot of recommendations for changed diets, such as tomato juice, etc but it has been our experience from talking to dog owners that despite good intentions these diets are not really that effective in the end.

I would be very concerned about trying new diets without the consultation and supervision of a vet, and subsequently I can NOT recommend change of diets.

I have attached a link to an article on the subject.

Short of watering the spots immediately when they are formed with plenty of water, there is not much you can do.

The problem is that the urine's salt contents burn the roots and kills the grass. once you notice the spots it is too late. If you see the dog going on the lawn, you can immediately flush with plenty of water and repeat daily for a few days. This will in most circumstances help somewhat. However, a better option is to train the dog to go in a designated spot.

Sorry for not having better news for you, but these are the facts.

Kenneth

article 1:
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/plantanswers/turf/dog_lawn_problems.html

article 1_updated:
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/extension/newsletters/hortupdate/jun02/art2ju...