How to Properly Dispose of Dog Poop at Home

You recycle, you compost your food scraps, you use reusable bags—but what about Fido’s “contributions”? Let’s talk about how to handle dog poop in a way that’s actually environmentally responsible.

The Myth of “It’s Natural Fertilizer”

Let’s address this right away: dog poop is NOT good fertilizer. Unlike cow or horse manure, dog waste contains harmful bacteria, parasites, and pathogens that can:

• Contaminate groundwater
• Kill grass and plants (too much nitrogen and phosphorus)
• Spread diseases to humans and other animals
• Pollute local waterways when it rains

In fact, the EPA classifies dog waste in the same category as oil and toxic chemicals when it comes to water pollution. Yikes.

The Best Disposal Methods

1. Regular Trash (The Practical Choice)

For most people, bagging it and putting it in the trash is the most practical option. In Washington, this is perfectly acceptable. To make it greener:

• Use biodegradable or compostable poop bags
• Double-bag if needed to prevent leaks and odors (or consider a deodorizing service for persistent yard smells)
• Never flush poop bags—they’ll clog pipes

2. Dog Waste Composting (The Advanced Method)

You CAN compost dog poop, but it requires a separate composting system with specific conditions:

• Must reach 165°F to kill pathogens
• Should never be used on food gardens
• Requires careful management

Honestly, this is more work than most people want to take on.

3. Flushing (Sometimes OK)

Some areas allow you to flush dog waste (without the bag!) down the toilet. The sewage treatment process can handle the pathogens. Check with your local water authority first.

4. Professional Pickup (The Easy Button)

Let’s be real: the most eco-friendly choice is often the one you’ll actually do consistently. If dealing with poop is keeping you from properly disposing of it, a service like ours ensures it’s handled correctly every time. Check if we’re in your area.

What NOT to Do

• Don’t leave it on the ground—it doesn’t “break down naturally” fast enough (we tested every dissolver on the market to prove it)
• Don’t bury it—unless you’re in a very rural area with specific conditions
• Don’t put it in yard waste or regular compost—municipal composting doesn’t get hot enough