Can You Use Mulch in a Dog Run?
Dog run not looking too hot? Maybe you’re looking for a way to simplify its maintenance. Are you tired of your dog tracking mulch into your house after playtime?
It might be time to explore the question, can you use mulch in a dog run.
Adding mulch to your outdoor dog run offers a ton of benefits to make your life easier while giving your pup a clean, comfortable, safe place to play.
Mulch can take a weedy patch of dirt and turn it into a good-looking, landscaped area that also helps control odors, mud, and dirt.
This is an easy and affordable project that can easily be tackled in a weekend.
Benefits of Mulching Your Dog Run
Aside from the natural health benefits of giving your dog more time outdoors, adding a 2-4 inch layer of mulch to your dog run can provide these benefits:
Aesthetic Appeal
Mulch can completely change the way you’re dog run looks. It doesn’t have to be an eyesore.
Something that I’ve started to do is mulching beyond the perimeter of the run. Within this space, you’re free to plant flowers and shrubs. Barrier plants might be a good option as well.
Mulch comes in a variety of textures and shades. My recommendation is an undyed wood chip mulch. If you process it yourself, you get the added comfort knowing how it’s been sourced.
Keeping Your Dog Run Clean
If you’re tired of cleaning your dog’s muddy paws and fur, mulch can help keep your run clean.
Mulch can prevent this hassle by creating a clean surface that won’t stick to your dog’s fur and paws and hitchhike inside.
Mulch doesn’t allow urine to soak deeply into the soil, which prevents dead, yellow patches from forming on any grass or plants growing in or around the run.
I recommend creating a special ” potty area” within the space. You can use a different type of mulch here, ideally a finer shredded mulch.
Having an area like this will drastically cut down on the amount of mulch you’ll be replenishing and you’ll be surprised how quickly your pup will get used to doing business in this zone.
Consider adding plants to the run to freshen up the area. Barrier plants can also provide some privacy.
Is Mulch Safe For Dog’s Paws?
If you’re wondering if mulch is safe for your dog’s paws, the answer is yes. Mulch provides a natural, spongy layer of cushioning that is easy on your pup’s paws and legs.
Dirt can quickly become compacted, creating an uncomfortable surface for your dog to walk, play, and lay on.
I use a larger wood chip mulch like cedar for the main play area because this takes a little longer to break down.
A recent favorite choice has been rubber mulch. I still use wood chip often, but rubber is starting to become a preference. If you’re wondering rubber mulch is dog safe.
This soft footing is especially beneficial for older dogs or ones that are prone to joint issues such as Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Mulch provides a safe, padded play space that your dog will love!
Mulch For Controlling Odor in Your Dog Run
Plain dirt does nothing to contain smells, and outdoor dog kennels can quickly start to smell of urine and waste.
Urine can seep deep into the soil and become a stubborn smell to remove. Mulch helps to absorb liquid and trap smells before they spread widely.
While some odor is expected, mulch, particularly wood mulch will keep the area noticeably fresher. Especially if you’re replenishing annually.
Using rubber mulch for dog potty areas is a true life hack. You can spray it down with a hose to wash away any unpleasantries over and over again.
Choosing the Right Mulch for a Dog Run
Now that you know the many benefits of using mulch in your dog run, it’s time to pick the right type. Here are some of the safest, most popular options to consider.
Rubber Mulch
When considering the ideal surface for a dog run, rubber mulch emerges as a standout option.
Praised for its durability and safety, rubber mulch is crafted from recycled tires, making it an eco-friendly choice for pet owners. Its soft texture is gentle on dog paws, reducing the risk of injuries during playful romps.
Additionally, rubber mulch does not retain moisture or harbor bacteria and pests, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment for your furry friend.
Unlike organic options, it doesn’t break down easily or require frequent replacement, making it a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution.
Moreover, the variety of colors available allows you to customize the look of your dog run, blending seamlessly with your outdoor aesthetic.
Considering these benefits, rubber mulch can be an excellent choice for creating a safe and enjoyable dog run that withstands the test of time and play.
Wood Chip Mulch
Wood chip is my number one pick for a number of applications around my home. Use in my dog run is no exception.
Cedar mulch is my favorite choice here. There is the major benefit of cedar being a natural pest repellant. This is particularly useful for it’s ability to keep fleas and ticks at bay.
Wood chips are affordable are an affordable and sustainable option. It’s readily available at pretty much all home improvement and garden centers.
You can easily make your own with most home wood chippers. You’d be surprised at how affordable they’re getting.
Soft wood chips break down a little quicker, as well as shredded mulch. I prefer larger ” chunk” hardwood. It lasts longer and has been easier to maintain.
Pine Bark Mulch
Pine bark mulch is an attractive choice. It comes in natural rich, reddish-brown colors and chunky textures that can also add some visual interest.
Pine bark mulch is also pretty soft and cushiony for pup paws. It’s a natural material that dogs love to dig and play in.
Rock Mulch
Rock mulch offers completely different benefits. It’s durability is infinite, but it lacks in comfort significantly.
I use it in an entirely different way. Rock mulch is a champion for a fenced dog run.
Pea Gravel is my preferred type of rock mulch to use in my outdoor dog kennel.
You’ll never need to replace it, and if you’ve got a digger like a Terrier, this can keep them safe and contained.
Be sure to use larger rounded rocks rather than sharp chipped gravel. You can find some nice river rock options that can add a lot to the look of your run.
What is the best landscaping material to use for a dog run?
Rubber mulch takes the crown, it’s durability, and safety are unbeatable.
Wood chip is a close second. Cost, safety, and ease of application will always make this my first choice.
Other Ways to Improve your Dog Run
If you want a little extra privacy, are looking to improve your dogs comfort even more, shrubs and hedges are the next step to having the best dog run on the block. Check out our article about Privacy Shrubs for your Dog Run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much mulch do I need?
Measure your dog run’s square footage and multiply by 2-4 inches to calculate cubic feet. One cubic foot of mulch covers 12 square feet of area at a 2-inch depth. Add about 10% more for waste during application. Bulk deliveries are the most affordable option.
Is mulch safe for dogs?
Organic mulches like wood chip and pine bark are completely safe for your dog. Both cedar mulch and cocoa bean mulch are toxic to dogs. Rubber mulch may have chemical and lead concerns.
Can I use dyed mulch?
Avoid dyed mulch. Not for the reason you’d think. The dye used is generally safe. The wood sourced and dyed can often come from questionable places such as construction sites. This wood is often treated with chemicals.
How Often should I replenish the mulch?
Once yearly is almost always sufficient. The cost to maintain is drastically reduced as you may only need to replenish the top 1-2 inches.
Does mulch get muddy when wet?
Mulch provides decent traction and drainage. As long as you’ve got at least 2 inches of mulch, it will not cause mud from the dirt below.
Is installation difficult?
Not at all! Mulching a dog run can be done entirely on your own. A wheel barrow helps. All you need to do is rake it evenly across the run. This is one of the easiest projects you can do.
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