The Best Ways to Get Rid of Dog Poop (2026)

We’ve seen it all, every hack, every “genius” solution, every Pinterest disaster. Here’s our definitive ranking of dog poop removal methods, from “Please, No” to “Actually Perfect.”

7. Ignoring It

TIER: ABSOLUTE DISASTER

Some people genuinely believe it will “just break down.” It won’t, at least not before your neighbors call the health department. Dog waste can take up to a year to decompose, and in that time it’s releasing bacteria, attracting flies, and making your yard unusable. Don’t.

6. The Shovel-and-Fling Method

TIER: BAD IDEA

Flinging it “somewhere else” (into bushes, over the fence, into the void) just moves the problem. You’re still dealing with the same waste, plus now you’re probably annoying your neighbors.

5. Burying It

TIER: MEH

In theory, you dig a hole, deposit the waste, cover it up. In practice, you need to dig deep enough (at least 12 inches), away from gardens and water sources. Most people don’t do it right, and then they’re just creating underground poop landmines.

4. Enzymatic Digesters

TIER: OKAY, IF YOU COMMIT

These in-ground systems (like the Doggie Dooley) use enzymes and water to break down waste. They work… eventually. But they require consistent maintenance, don’t work well in cold weather, and have limited capacity. Good for small dogs, questionable for big ones.

3. Bagging and Trashing

TIER: GOOD, THE RELIABLE STANDBY

The classic approach: walk around with bags, pick it up, throw it away. It works! But it requires you to actually do it consistently. If you have multiple dogs or a large yard, this becomes a significant time investment.

2. Quality Pooper Scooper Tool

TIER: GREAT, THE UPGRADE

Invest in a good long-handled scooper with a rake or jaw mechanism. It’s faster than bags alone, easier on your back, and makes the whole process less… intimate. Still requires you to do it regularly, but at least it’s efficient.

1. Professional Poop Scooping Service

TIER: LIFE-CHANGING

Yes, we’re biased. But hear us out: for the cost of a few fancy coffees per week, you never have to think about dog poop again. It’s consistent, it’s thorough, and it frees up your time for things you actually enjoy. Plus, your yard stays clean even when life gets busy, no matter where you are in our service area.

Best for: Everyone who values their time and sanity.