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Dog-Friendly Decking: Odor Control for Puppy Potty Areas

Don’t Let the Puppy Use the Deck as a Toilet

A homeowner with drainage problems plans to deck the backyard and asks what surface prevents odor when a German Shepherd puppy eliminates on it. Kathy’s advice: train the dog to go on the ground, not the deck.

Better Solutions

Designate a ground spot with cedar mulch to absorb odors and ease cleanup.
Decking is for people—dogs should relieve themselves on permeable ground.
If deck potty is unavoidable, consider synthetic turf with drainage and enzymatic cleaners, but expect high maintenance.

Long-Term View

The puppy will grow; you won’t want a dog pooping on your living space. Invest in training and a proper yard potty area now.

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