Dogs enjoy a snack in between meals, and you may find your pet chewing on grass or other items in your garden. To avoid this, you may use a dog repellent solution. However, even the most powerful repellent may not keep the dog away and he may still have a bite from your garden. For this reason you need to make sure the repellents you use on your plants are safe for your dog. There are a few products that can be highly toxic.
Water Sprinklers
Water sprinklers can be used to keep the dog away from the grass. Most dogs don't like to be sprayed with water. The sprinklers can be automatic and will detect whenever the dog is close to the grass, triggering the system. Get a system that can be adapted and sprinkle variable amounts of water. Some dogs will not be scared off by just a few drops of water, so the sprinklers can release more to keep them at a considerable distance. The main disadvantage of these sprinklers is that they may activate in the presence of people.
If the water sprinklers sound too complicated or too expensive, you can get a water hose and use it whenever you see your dog is chewing on your grass or plants. This method requires that you watch your garden all the time until the dog is trained.
Chicken Wire
Chicken wire is an efficient repellent that should be used before you start adding chemicals your grass or other plants. After the wire is installed, plant your garden. The chicken wire will keep the dog away from the seeds and then the grass, and will not hurt the dog, should he get closer.
Commercial Dog Repellents
You may find a few commercial dog repellents. Make sure the label mentions the product is safe for use in dogs and doesn't contain toxins or other chemicals that can cause poisoning. Organic products are usually safe for dogs.
Natural Repellents
There are natural repellents such as bitter apple spray or vinegar which can be applied on your lawn and will keep the dog away. These solutions should be applied at least three times per week to be effective. There are several plants that can embellish your garden and are not well liked by canines. Lavender and coleus canina have a unique smell and taste dogs don't like. You can place these at the margins of the lawn or garden, which will guard the rest of the area.
Warning
There are a few other products that are known to keep dogs off the lawn. Moth balls, ammonia, cayenne pepper flakes or electric wire fences can be dangerous for dogs.
Instead of using these products, you can use safe repellents or simply create a section that is for the dog. The dog will be delighted to have a space of his own and will be less likely to cause damage in other areas of the lawn or garden.