As frustrating as they might be, weeds are inevitable in almost any garden, even if you use the best dandelion killer. You need to acknowledge, accept, and counter them, and efficient pet-friendly weed killers are your best option.
If you have a pet, the chemicals in most weed-killer products will affect the environment and your furry friend. This is especially true for dogs, who are more inclined to rub and roll themselves in plants. That is why pet-safe weed killers are necessary.
We read hundreds of testimonials to bring you the five best homemade pet-friendly weed killers. You can use any of these weed killer recipes with confidence:
1. Salt
Aside from its countless kitchen uses, salt can also be a potent agent against unwanted vegetation. And the best part: It’s a 100% pet-safe weed killer. As for how exactly it works, the salt will enter the soil quickly, making it entirely inhospitable for weeds and plants.
Thus, you should only use it in areas where you don’t want anything else to grow. Some great examples include the cracks in your pathway, sidewalk, driveway, or below any decking areas. Salt can easily be sprinkled wherever you need it to work, but water it into that area.
You can also create a powerful, homemade, pet-friendly weed killer by mixing it with a soap-vinegar solution, increasing its potency.
2. Vinegar
Speaking of vinegar, here is another highly efficient pantry staple that can also make a fantastic pet-safe weed killer. Its active component is acetic acid, which draws moisture from the plants and kills them.
Like any other weed killer, it can’t be selective in its range of action. This means it will kill all plants in its path — discrete use is highly advisable.
To ensure longer-lasting results, consider combining white vinegar with a landscaping tarp for weeds. A tarp is a physical barrier that prevents sunlight from reaching the soil and stops weed growth. This method protects your yard and keeps it safe for your dog to roam freely.
Also, vinegar may take several consecutive applications before getting the job done. You can always mix it with dish soap for a more potent, homemade, pet-friendly weed killer. This will make the vinegar stick to the plant’s leaves longer.
3. Sugar
Like salt, sugar can efficiently make the soil conditions unfavorable so plants can’t grow and develop.
This pet-safe weed killer also attracts pests, like ants, due to its advanced level of sweetness.
You can create an efficient, homemade, pet-friendly weed killer by mixing it with chili pepper powder to prevent this.
Sprinkle this mixture at will over those pesky weeds, but ensure it doesn’t contact the rest of your plants.
4. Cornmeal
Although it might surprise you, cornmeal is another practical pantry staple in the war against unwanted weeds.
Unlike the other household items, cornmeal is a pre-emergent pet-safe weed killer. This means it will not affect mature plants, but it will stop seeds from germinating.
As a bonus, it can also help kill ants. Ants will try to feed on it without being able to digest it, thus starving to death.
Sprinkle corn gluten meal around plants to keep weeds from growing and create a weed-free yard.
5. Boiling water
No weed killer can be more pet-friendly than pure water. There’s absolutely nothing about it that could affect your furry friend.
When boiled, it also acts as a powerful weed control agent. To do this, pour hot, boiling water onto the unwanted plant.
You can always add salt or vinegar for an even more powerful, homemade, pet-friendly weed killer. Still, be careful not to splash it onto other surrounding plants.
Keep your dog safe
When using natural weed killers, keep pet safety in mind.
Here are some safety tips and precautions to consider:
Read ingredients carefully: Ensure that all ingredients are pet-safe. Keep your dog away from substances that are toxic to animals, such as salt or essential oils that may cause harm if ingested or absorbed through the skin.
Apply when pets are inside: When using homemade weed killers, keep pets indoors until the solution has dried completely. This reduces the risk of them coming into contact with the mixture.
Choose a safe time for application: Apply homemade weed killers when pets are least likely to be outside, such as early in the morning or late in the evening.
Test a small area first: Before applying the weed killer broadly, test a small patch of the lawn or garden. Monitor your pets for any adverse reactions and ensure they are not interested in the area.
Dilute solutions properly: If the recipe calls for potent ingredients (like vinegar), dilute it to reduce the risk of irritation to pets’ skin and paws.
Clean up after use: After application, thoroughly clean any tools, spray bottles, or containers used. Store the leftover solution in a secure place away from pets.
Observe your pets: After using any homemade weed killer, watch your pets for any unusual behavior or symptoms, such as drooling, vomiting, or lethargy. If you notice any signs of distress, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Provide a safe space: Distract or confine pets to a safe area while the solution is drying. Having a comfortable spot with toys and water can help keep them occupied and away from treated areas.
Consult your vet: If unsure about any ingredients or their potential effects on your pets, consult your veterinarian before proceeding with homemade solutions.
Final thoughts on pet-friendly weed killers
One last thing you should probably know is that using an organic weed killer is not the most natural option. It will take considerably more time and effort than using traditional weed killers, which are chemical-based products.
Still, using a natural alternative will be the healthiest solution in the long run.
We’re not just talking about dog-safe weed killers but also about your health and your family. And since these organic weed control options won’t have any environmental impact, the conclusion is simple: green is better.
Elizabeth Barletta is particularly attracted to dogs. From a tender age, she has owned different breeds and decided to write about adorable creatures at Top-Mom.com. Over the years, she has advised pet owners about various issues, from preserving their pets’ health to training them.
Protect your furry friend with our optimal dog health guide 🐾