Keeping your lawn in good shape not only increases your property value but can also be satisfying in its own right. Question is – what is the best pet-friendly weed killer?
Weeds represent a major foe in the fight for a good-looking lawn. So, most homeowners end up walking to their local big-box retailer to purchase a powder or spray designed to kill weeds.
However, some of these weed killers may not be friendly for your pet. The well-being of your pet should be a top priority, which means choosing a pet-friendly weed killer. But, finding a pet-friendly product is not an easy task and needs more research than you’re used to.
But we’ve made it easier for you. This guide covers everything you need to know about pet-friendly weed killers. Additionally, we’ve selected the 5 most effective pet-friendly weed killers that have the least dire consequences for your pet.
| Weed Killer | Price |
|---|---|
| 30% Pure Vinegar | View |
| Green Gobbler Vinegar | View |
| Natural Armor Weed and Grass Killer | View |
| Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed & Grass Killer | View |
| Preen 24-63782 Vegetable Garden Weed Preventer | View |
Best Pet-Safe Weed Killer Reviews
It can be difficult to find a weed killer that is pet-friendly. If your dog or cat likes to run in your backyard, you may need to use products that are specifically designed for killing weeds without harming pets.
There are many different types of pet-friendly herbicides, but not all products work well in all situations. The best herbicide for your situation will depend on the size of your area that needs to be killed, the type of weeds growing in your area, and the amount of sunlight they receive.
The following are some of the best pet-safe weed killers you can buy;
30% Pure Vinegar
Being a homeowner is no easy achievement; neither is managing a home an easy task. It requires frequent cleaning, maintenance, and weeding. Here is a product to make it easy for you. The 30% Pure Vinegar is a reliable and powerful all-natural liquid formula.
This weed killer comes with natural ingredients derived from corns making it safe for pets, kids, and the environment. The solution is concentrated and is more effective than regular vinegar. However, before using it, ensure you dilute it to a mild solution.
The pet-safe weed killer can be used in a wide range of chores, including deodorizing car seats, cushions, cleaning carpet stains, and other house appliances. Take charge of your garden with this strong weed killer and take out weeds and grasses in no time!
Features
- 9 pounds of weight
- 30% vinegar
Pros
- Contains no dyes or chemicals
- Multi-purpose product
- 6 times stronger than regular vinegar
- Powerful and effective
Cons
- Expensive
- It’s strong enough to burn your skin
Green Gobbler Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
The Green Gobbler Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer is a fast-acting weed killer with no chemicals commonly found in herbicides. This weed killer is a cord-derived 20% vinegar-based solution that is more powerful than ordinary table vinegar. Apart from being safe for people and pets, it’s more effective than other chemical weed killers.
With this product, you can expect weeds to die in a few hours, which may take weeks to do the same when using other products. It’s a ready-to-use weed killer that’s easy to use. However, you should keep your pets away while spraying and release them once it’s dry.
You should be extremely careful to avoid spraying wanted plants and grass since vinegar is non-selective and can kill them as well.
Features
- 1 gallon
- 20% acetic acid
Pros
- Fast and efficient
- Perfect for commercial, industrial, and agricultural use
- Money-back guarantee
Cons
- Only good for already grown weeds
- It’s non-selective
Natural Armor Weed and Grass Killer All-Natural Concentrated Formula
Are you looking for a natural weed killer that has a good track record of eliminating weeds? Look no further! The Natural Armor Weed and Grass Killer All-Natural Concentrated Formula helps eliminate over 250 different grass and weed species. This weed killer is suitable for use in gravel, fence lines, beds, and driveway areas.
However, this is a non-selective product, so you must be keen not to spray your wanted plants. It comes ready to use and is equipped with a trigger sprayer. So you can use it immediately after purchase. This animal-friendly weed killer kills weeds in a few hours, and your garden is completely safe for your pets.
Features
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Lemon juice
- Citric oil
- Clove oil
- 128 OZ gallon
Pros
- Contains no glyphosate
- Easy to use
- Money-guarantee
- Kills over 250 types of grass and weeds
Cons
- It’s non-selective
Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed & Grass Killer
This weed killer is among the best products to keep your gardens and lawns weed-free. The Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed & Grass Killer maintains your garden and lawns by killing weeds within a short period. With this spray, your flowers, shrubs, and trees are safe since they only affect the weeds you spray.
This pet-friendly weed killer is made from food-grade commercial vinegar, ocean water, and a dash of soap, making it an effective natural weed killer. What’s more, this product doesn’t need any safety gear since it’s safe for the environment, people, and pets.
Features
- 1 gallon
- Sodium chloride
- Water
- Vinegar
- Soap
Pros
- Easy to use
- No glyphosate
- No hormone-disrupting chemicals
- Highly effective
Cons
- Some of the spray nozzles and containers may leak a bit
Preen 24-63782 Vegetable Garden Weed Preventer
The Preen 24-63782 is a pre-emergent weed killer that’s supposed to be applied on the ground to prevent weeds from growing. This makes it a great product to use in early spring to prevent weed infestation in flower beds, vegetable gardens, and lawns. However, this weed preventer does not deal with an existing weed problem.
This dog friendly weed killer is made from corn gluten meal that contains high levels of protein. With this product, you can prevent weed growth for 4 to 6 weeks. However, it should not be used in newly seeded gardens.
Features
- Corn gluten meal
- 25 lbs
Pros
- Completely natural
- It’s child and pet friendly
- Can be used up to the day of harvest
Cons
- Doesn’t eliminate existing weeds
Benefits of Using Pet-Friendly Weed Killer
Weeds are among the top detractors of a valuable and beautiful lawn. Managing your lawn means enjoying the perks of a healthier and cleaner space that’s well organized and neat. Here are some benefits of a pet-friendly weed killer.
- Pet-safe products are biodegradable and sustainable, meaning they are safe for the environment. Their organic and natural makeup means they are the best options to use without harming the environment or your garden.
- These products are more effective and do not compromise the health of your pets. Most products work in 24 hours, and your pets can still play around without any irritation on their bodies.
- Some products work well when tackling weed growth for the long haul. Continuous use withers the weeds from the roots, which eradicates continuous growth. After a few use, you’ll find your lawn weed-free.
How to Use Weed Killer in a Pet-Friendly Way
Keep Your Pets Away From the Area you’re Treating
Pet-friendly weed killers may be safe, but you need to be keen when applying them. Vinegar-based products can cause irritation to the skin and burn the eyes. You should keep your pets indoors while dealing with the weeds.
Follow Instructions
Always follow the given instructions the way they are supposed to be. All weed killers come with the manufacturer’s precise steps to follow to ensure safety. Ensure you stick to them.
Avoid Windy Days
It’s best if you avoid windy days when applying your weed killer. Firstly, this product can drift to the wanted plants you don’t want to treat. Additionally, it can also get into your pets if they are not at a safe distance.
FAQs
Are Pet-friendly Weed Killers 100% Natural?
Most of them are prepared using eco-friendly and natural products. Some may contain chemicals and artificial essence in small quantities that do not harm your pets.
Can I Use Pet-friendly Weed Killers in Vegetable and Flower Gardening?
Yes, they are ideal for both flower and vegetable gardening.
Can I Get a Selective Weed Killer that’s Pet-Friendly?
Unfortunately, the only pet-friendly weed killers are also going to kill your grass and flowers. Instead, you need to hand-pull weeds to keep your pets safe and prevent weeds. You can also opt for a weed preventer to stop weeds from forming.
Pet-Safe Weed Killer Buying Guide
There are several products out there, and choosing a pet-friendly one can be challenging. Here are some important aspects you need to be keen on before buying a weed killer, which is safe and friendly around your pets.
Effective Rate
This is a crucial factor to consider when buying a weed killer. You should check the product to determine how effectively it will work. Ensure you are aware of the types of weeds you’re acting upon.
Ingredients and Formulation
It’s advisable to check the ingredients of the weed killer before making a purchase. Ensure that the ingredients and their percentage in the product are safe for your pets. To make your buying journey easier, we’ve listed some of the best pet-friendly weed killers that are both organic and biodegradable.
Prevention vs. Killer
Are you looking for a weed-killer or weed preventer? If you have a problem with weed growth, you need a weed killer, while those setting up a lawn need a weed-preventer to prevent weed growth. However, anyone can opt for a weed-preventer or weed killer. Ensure you know the difference between the two to avoid purchasing the wrong product.
Waterproof
No one wants a weed killer that gets drained easily in rivers and lakes in rainy seasons. If you opt for a cheap product, chances are that it can be washed away easily. Therefore, ensure your favorite product is completely waterproof.
Usage Instructions
If you’re a working person and don’t have enough time to spend on your lawn daily, you should go for a weed killer that comes with clear usage instructions.
The severity of the Problem
Weed killers should be the last option when dealing with a severe case of weeds that won’t stop growing. Such situations require intensive treatment to eliminate weeds overtime and stop further growth. If you have an overgrowth, you need more weed killers to eliminate weed growth and reduce growth.
Conclusion
Ideally, no product is 100% efficient in weed elimination. It depends on several factors like how well it works, the severity of the problem, and other similar factors.
However, to get the best pet friendly weed killer to suit your needs, our handy buying guide will help you make an informed decision.
Additionally, we have listed the best pet-friendly weed killers of all time.
Happy shopping!
