Why dog run odors happen on artificial turf
Urine breaks down into ammonia and other compounds. Without the right infill and drainage, ammonia lingers at the surface where heat and bacteria amplify the smell. The fix is simple. Use an infill that captures ammonia and a system that discourages bacterial growth and holds grade for fast drainage.
Top infill options for odor control
Zeolite infill
- What it does: Natural clinoptilolite zeolite uses cation exchange to adsorb ammonium from pet urine. That helps lock in odor before it reaches your nose.
- Best use: Surface or top layer where urine first contacts the turf.
- Benefits: Strong ammonia adsorption, pet safe, lighter weight, helps keep blades upright.
- Application: Typically 1.5 to 3.0 lb per square foot based on pile height and dog traffic.
- Care: Rinse to move urine through the base. Sun and airflow help release bound odors over time. Enzyme cleaners speed breakdown of residues.
Antimicrobial coated sand
- What it does: Rounded silica sand with an antimicrobial coating inhibits odor causing bacteria on the infill surface.
- Best use: As a ballast layer for stability with added hygiene benefits.
- Benefits: Heavier for turf stability, consistent grading, helps reduce bacterial amplification of odor.
- Application: Typically 1.5 to 3.0 lb per square foot depending on pile height and traffic.
- Care: Routine rinsing maintains performance. Does not adsorb ammonia, so pairing with zeolite is recommended when odor is the top priority.
The winning play: combine for control and stability
Use zeolite where urine hits first, backed by antimicrobial coated sand for ballast. This two layer approach controls ammonia and keeps your surface graded and game ready.
- Layering example: Top 1.5 to 2.0 lb per square foot zeolite as the top pass, plus 1.5 to 2.0 lb per square foot antimicrobial coated sand underneath.
- Mixing example: Blend roughly 50 to 60 percent zeolite with 40 to 50 percent antimicrobial sand to hit both targets with one broadcast.
How to choose for your situation
- 1 to 2 dogs, good sun and drainage: Zeolite only at 1.5 to 2.0 lb per square foot is usually enough.
- Multiple dogs or kennel use: Zeolite 2.0 to 3.0 lb per square foot plus antimicrobial sand 1.5 to 2.0 lb per square foot for stability and hygiene.
- Shaded or humid areas: Favor the combo. Reduced sunlight slows natural odor dissipation, so antimicrobial help matters.
- High pile turf or heavy play: Increase total infill within the ranges so fibers stay supported and urine reaches the base quickly.
- Budget minded: Start with zeolite, then add antimicrobial coated sand later if odor pressure stays high.
Application guide
- Prep: Make sure turf is dry and clean. Groom fibers upright with a stiff broom or power brush.
- Broadcast: Spread infill evenly in light passes. Work the material down with a broom between passes.
- Settle depth: Aim to fill to about two thirds of the fiber height. Keep blades free at the top for a natural look.
- Measure: Weigh a bag before you start and track how many bags you use. Confirm pounds per square foot are within your target range.
- Safety: Wear eye protection and a dust mask when handling dry infill. Keep pets off the surface until dust settles and you finish rinsing.
Maintenance that keeps odors in check
- Weekly: Hose rinse to move urine into the base and refresh zeolite.
- Monthly: Deep flush each zone for 10 to 15 minutes to clear salts and residues.
- Enzyme cleaner: Apply per label after heavy use or when you notice odor. Enzymes break down urea and uric acid crystals that rinsing alone can miss.
- Top ups: Add 0.5 to 1.0 lb per square foot of zeolite as needed, usually once per year on high traffic runs.
- Solid waste: Remove promptly and spot clean to prevent buildup.
What to avoid
- Plain silica sand as the only infill when odor control is the goal.
- Rubber crumb for dog runs. It holds heat and does not help with odor.
- Organic infills in kennels or heavy moisture zones where they can stay wet.
- Cover up sprays as a substitute for proper infill and rinsing.
Specs and coverage planning
- Typical totals: 2.0 to 4.0 lb per square foot across all infills, adjusted for pile height and traffic.
- Example for 300 square feet, multi dog use: 600 to 900 lb total infill. Split roughly 360 to 540 lb zeolite and 240 to 360 lb antimicrobial sand.
- Drainage first: A compacted, permeable base with 1 to 2 percent slope and perforated turf backing makes every pound of infill work harder.
FusionTurf pro tip
Keep the odor fight at the surface with zeolite, and keep the field tight with antimicrobial coated sand. Build in drainage, rinse with intent, and your dog run stays fresh without the drama.
