Pet Safe Lawn Care: Weed Killers and Fertilizers That Won’t Harm Your Pets
Your lawn is a place to relax, play, and show off those lush green stripes — but if you’ve got pets, you also want to make sure it’s a safe space for them to enjoy. So naturally, you might be wondering:
- Are weed killers safe for dogs?
- What’s the best pet safe lawn fertilizer?
- How long do I need to keep my dog off the grass after applying weed killer?
The good news: you don’t have to choose between a pristine lawn and your pet’s safety. With the right products and a little care during application, you can grow a thick, healthy lawn without putting your pets at risk.
Let’s break down which pet-friendly lawn care products are worth your time and which ones to avoid.
Related: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Weed Killers
Are Weed Killers Safe for Pets?
Some are, but it all depends on the product and how you use it.
Herbicides are designed to disrupt plant growth, and if pets walk through a freshly treated lawn before it dries or is watered in, they can absorb chemicals through their paws or even ingest them. That’s why knowing how long to keep dogs off grass after weed killer is so important.
General rule of thumb:
- Wait until the lawn is dry (for liquid herbicides)
- Or wait 24–48 hours after watering in granular products.
How Long to Keep Pets Off Grass After Weed Killer?
General rule: Wait until the product is fully dry or after watering in, depending on the type.
| Product Type | Safe Re-Entry Time for Pets |
|---|---|
| Liquid Herbicide | Once dry (2–4 hours) |
| Granular Weed Preventers | After watering in and drying (24–48 hours) |
| Organic Weed Sprays | Once dry (1–2 hours) |
| Fertilizer | After watering in (24 hours) |
Always read the product label, and when in doubt, give it a little extra time.
Pet Safe Weed Killer That Won’t Kill Grass
If you’re dealing with dandelions, crabgrass, or spurge and you’ve got pets, here’s the good news: there are pet safe weed killers that won’t harm your lawn. These selective herbicides target common lawn weeds while leaving your turf intact and once they dry, they’re safe for pets too.
1. Tenacity & SedgeHammer® Herbicide Kit (Cool-Season Lawns)
- Best for: Tough weeds like crabgrass, clover, chickweed, and nutsedge
- Why it's great: All-in-one solution for broadleaf and grassy weeds, safe for Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Fescue — and safe for pets once dry.
Note: Tenacity, SedgeHammer®, Hi-Yield Surfactant and Blue Marker Dye are available to buy separately.
2. Celsius & Certainty Herbicide Kit (Warm-Season Lawns)
-
Best for: Stubborn weeds like spurge, kyllinga, dandelions, and sedges
- Why it's great: Professional-grade control, safe for Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine, and safe for pets once dry.
Note: Celsius, Certainty, Hi-Yield Surfactant, and Blue Marker Dye are available to buy separately.
3. Triad Select™ Herbicide
-
Best for: Dandelions, clover, and other common broadleaf weeds
-
Why it's great: Broad-spectrum selective weed killer safe for turfgrass and pets after drying
-
Use tip: Great choice if you’re looking for a pet safe dandelion killer.
Use With Care: Non-Selective Herbicide Option
Mirimichi Green Organic Weed Killer
-
Non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for pets once dry.
-
Non-selective: will kill grass and weeds alike.
-
Best used for spot treatment only (e.g., cracks, mulch beds, isolated weeds)
- Results in 15–30 minutes.
Tip: Always apply this with precision to avoid damaging nearby turf. It’s a great choice for pet owners wanting a natural weed control option in non-lawn areas.
Related: How to Get Rid of Dandelions in Your Lawn for Good
Toxic Plants and Weeds to Watch Out For
Even with the safest lawn care products, certain plants and weeds can be dangerous to pets. Some common garden or lawn species are toxic if chewed or ingested by dogs or cats, causing anything from mild stomach upset to severe poisoning.
Top toxic lawn and garden plants for pets include:
-
Foxglove — Can cause heart problems, vomiting, and collapse.
-
Lily of the Valley — Extremely toxic to cats and dogs.
-
Lantana — Causes vomiting, weakness, and potentially liver failure.
-
Sago Palm — All parts are highly toxic, especially the seeds.
-
Mushrooms — Wild lawn mushrooms can be deadly if ingested.
-
Daffodils and Tulips — Bulbs are especially toxic to dogs.
- Yew, Oleander, and Azalea — All extremely toxic, even in small amounts.
Weeds like buttercup, nightshade, and poison hemlock may also appear in untended lawns and pose a risk. If you’re unsure what’s growing in your yard, consider using a plant ID app or asking your vet for a list of local toxic species.
Pro Tip: Regular mowing, weeding, and monitoring for unfamiliar plants can help keep your yard safer for curious pets.
Pet Safe Lawn Fertilizer Options
Certain lawn fertilizers aren’t safe for your dogs or pets. Generally, any lawn fertilizers that are mineral and chemical-based are dangerous for your four-legged friends. Dogs, in particular, are especially vulnerable as it’s easy to ingest fertilizer granules or expose their coat to liquid fertilizer residue.
Many lawn fertilizers contain potassium chloride, also known as “potash” fertilizers. Potassium is one of the key macronutrients your grass needs, increasing turf resilience to pest and weed invasion. Potassium fosters plant health, improving drought and disease resistance and allowing your grass to withstand extreme temperature changes.
Potassium’s ability to strengthen your lawn’s tolerance to temperature changes makes it an essential addition to your spring and fall fertilization applications. But, in high concentrations, it can be dangerous if your pet eats the raw granules.
Always water in granular fertilizers and keep pets off the lawn until it's completely dry to prevent accidental ingestion. Most fertilizers become safe once allowed to dry. But to keep things ultra-safe, go for pet safe lawn fertilizers that are organic or low-toxicity.
1. Golf Course Lawn (20-2-3) Liquid Fertilizer with Kelp and Fulvic Acid
- Fast green up using 20% nitrogen, just 3% potash.
- Safe for all grass types.
- Foliar spray does not need to be watered in, but allow it to dry before allowing pets onto the lawn.
2. Release 901C™ Biostimulant
- Organic carbon-based fertilizer with 9% nitrogen and 1% potash.
- Safe for all grass types.
- Safe for pets once dry.
3. Mirimichi Green 4‑4‑4 Premium Organic Fertilizer
- Season-long feeding for both cool-season and warm-season lawns, 4% potash.
- It’s recommended that pets are not present during the application, but as soon as you’re finished and the solution has dried, they can re-enter the area.
Which Other Lawn Products Aren’t Safe for Pets?
In addition to fertilizers and herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides can pose a risk to your pets — especially if the product hasn’t dried or been watered in properly. Dogs and cats are most likely to be exposed by licking their paws after walking on recently treated turf or ingesting granules directly.
Why Lawn Health Matters
The best defense against weeds and pests is a thick, healthy lawn. When your turf is dense and well-fed, it naturally resists invaders — reducing your reliance on chemical treatments. That’s why early-season lawn care in spring is so important for setting up a low-maintenance, pet-friendly yard.
Related: How to Kill Weeds Naturally
Looking for a Pet Safe Fungicide or Pesticide?
You don’t have to choose between effective pest control and pet safety — here are two excellent lawn products that strike the right balance:
Caravan-G from Syngenta
- Combines broad-spectrum fungicide and insecticide in one granular product
- Targets turf diseases and pests like chinch bugs and armyworms
- Safe for pets once watered in and dried (usually after 24 hours).
Mirimichi Green Non-Toxic Pest Control
- Plant-based, citrus-scented spray that repels and kills pests
- Effective against mosquito larvae, ants, whiteflies, spiders, and more
- 80%+ kill rate within 24 hours, tested to WHO standards
- Safe for pets and people immediately after drying — no harsh residues
- Offers up to 4 weeks of residual protection.
Related: Discover some of the most effective fungicides to use on your lawn.
Tips for Safe Herbicide and Insecticide Use Around Pets
To use weed killers safe for dogs and other animals, follow these best practices:
-
Always follow the label for correct dilution and application rates.
-
For granular herbicides, water them in after application and let the lawn fully dry before allowing pets back on it (usually 24–48 hours).
-
For liquid herbicides, wait at least until the product has dried completely, which typically takes 2–6 hours, depending on the weather.
- Clean up any spilled granules or puddled herbicide to avoid accidental ingestion.
The same rules apply to insecticides and fungicides. Your lawn is not safe for pets until the treated area is dry.
Signs of Poisoning in Pets
Watch for these symptoms after exposure to weed killers or fertilizers:
-
Drooling or pawing at the mouth
-
Vomiting or diarrhea
-
Weakness or trembling
-
Seizures or collapse
- Unusual behavior or restlessness.
Even if symptoms seem mild, it's better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.
What to Do If Your Pet Ingests a Lawn Care Product
Even with the safest intentions, accidents can happen. If your dog or cat ingests any weed killer, lawn fertilizer, or pesticide, quick action is key to preventing serious health issues.
Step-by-Step: What to Do Immediately
1. Stay calm and remove your pet from the area.
Take them indoors or away from the treated lawn or product container.
2. Check the label of the product used.
Look for active ingredients, safety warnings, and first aid instructions. Some herbicides and fertilizers include emergency guidance for pet exposures.
3. Don’t induce vomiting unless told to.
Unless a veterinarian instructs you, don’t try to make your pet vomit — it may do more harm than good.
4. Call your vet or a poison control center.
Provide as much information as possible, including:
-
Product name and active ingredients
-
Approximate amount ingested
-
Time of exposure
- Your pet’s breed, weight, and symptoms.
Helpful Contacts
-
Your local veterinarian (Have their emergency number saved)
-
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 1‑888‑426‑4435
- Pet Poison Helpline: 1‑855‑764‑7661.
(Note: These services may charge a consultation fee.)
FAQs: Pet Safe Lawn Care
Q: Can I use weed and feed products if I have pets?
A: It depends on the product. Many traditional weed and feed formulations contain chemicals that can be harmful to pets if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Always check labels carefully and keep pets off the lawn until it has been watered in and dried — usually 24 to 48 hours. For a safer approach, apply weed killers and fertilizers separately using pet safe options.
Q: Is lawn lime or soil conditioner harmful to pets?
A: Most lime products (like pelletized dolomitic lime) are safe once watered in and dry. However, powdered lime can cause skin or respiratory irritation. Always follow label instructions and keep pets off the lawn until dry.
Q: Are natural lawn care products always safe for pets?
A: Not necessarily. Some organic or natural products may still contain ingredients that irritate a pet’s skin or stomach — like feather meal, bone meal, or fish emulsion. Always supervise your pets during and after application and choose products specifically labeled as pet safe.
Q: Can I let my cat or rabbit graze on the lawn after fertilizing?
A: Only if you’ve used a pet safe fertilizer and the product has been watered in and allowed to dry fully. Small animals like rabbits may be more sensitive to residues than dogs, so waiting a full 48 hours is a safer bet.
Q: Are lawn care products safe for puppies or senior dogs?
A: Puppies and senior dogs can be more sensitive to chemicals due to their developing or weakened immune systems. Always err on the side of caution — use pet safe products and keep them off treated areas for longer than the minimum re-entry period (e.g., 48 hours).
Q: Can I use lawn care products if I have outdoor cats?
A: Yes, but be especially cautious. Outdoor cats may roll in the grass or lick their paws afterward. Use pet safe weed killers and fertilizers, and keep cats off the lawn until the product has dried completely or been watered in and allowed to dry (usually 24–48 hours).
Q: How do I know if a weed killer is “pet safe”?
A: Look for labels that say "safe for pets once dry" or "non-toxic." Also, check if the product is selective (targets weeds only) and does not contain glyphosate if used on your lawn. When in doubt, choose products tested and marketed as safe for use around animals.
Q: What’s the safest way to store lawn care products if I have pets?
A: Keep all fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides in a sealed container or cabinet — ideally off the ground. Avoid storing anything in sheds where pets can enter unsupervised. Even spilled granules or residue on bottles can cause problems.
Q: What should I do if it rains right after applying lawn care products?
A: If rain occurs before a product has had time to dry or be watered in as directed, it may reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of runoff. Keep pets off the lawn until it dries again. If you’re unsure, reapply the product according to the label's guidance.
Q: Can I compost lawn clippings from treated grass if I have pets?
A: Only compost clippings if the product label specifically allows it. Some herbicides remain active in grass clippings and can pose a risk to pets or plants. When using selective herbicides, bag the first few mowings and dispose of them separately.
Paws and Reflect: A Pet-Friendly Lawn Starts Here
You don’t have to choose between a lush, healthy lawn and a safe space for your pets. With a few smart choices — like using pet safe weed killers, organic fertilizers, and following label directions — you can grow a lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood and safe for paws, whiskers, and wet noses.
Keep in mind: the key to a pet-friendly lawn is consistency. Water it right, feed it well, mow at the correct height, and use targeted treatments only when needed. Whether your dog loves to roll, zoom, or nap in the grass, you’ll know they’re doing it safely.
Looking for the best pet safe lawn products? We’ve got you (and your four-legged crew) covered. Make a start on your golf course lawn today and shop our range of high-quality and effective lawn-care products.
Ron Henry
Ron Henry is the founder of Golf Course Lawn, which is dedicated to helping homeowners achieve golf course-quality lawns. He holds a certificate in Sports Turfgrass Management from the University of Georgia. With expert knowledge in turf care, fertilization, and weed control, he shares practical tips and product recommendations to create lush, healthy lawns.