Mastering Dog Poop Etiquette: A Classy Guide to Cleaning Up

The Importance of Dog Poop Etiquette

It’s hard to look dignified when “scooping the poop.”

Your dog likely eliminates outside, whether it’s in your yard, on the sidewalk, on the beach or anywhere else you take him for a walk. And dignified or not, cleaning up after your dog is a necessity. In most cases, other people also use the space that your dog thinks of as his own personal bathroom.

Although you may not feel entirely elegant when cleaning up your dog’s business, know that other people will thank you for being classy — and noble.

Don’t Ignore Dog Poop Etiquette

The first thing to remember is that you actually have to scoop the poop. It’s tempting to pretend that your dog didn’t just make a fecal deposit on the sidewalk, but it’s not very classy. Imagine how you would feel if you were innocently walking down the sidewalk and then suddenly…squelch…poo on your shoe.

• Key Points:
  • People notice when dogs are eliminating.
  • Leaving waste behind offends your neighbors.
  • Always scoop the poop to maintain cleanliness and respect.

For more tips on how to scoop the poop and avoid offending your neighbors.

Using Gloves for Dog Poop Etiquette

Single-use gloves are a great solution for protecting your hands while scooping dog poop. They’re inexpensive and available almost anywhere.

• Benefits:
  • Protects your hands.
  • Convenient for dog walkers and pet sitters.

Using gloves makes the process cleaner and more hygienic, ensuring you can handle the task efficiently.

For more insights on being a responsible dog walker.

Using Waste Bags for Dog Poop Etiquette

Dog waste bags are essential for maintaining cleanliness. You can buy them online or in pet stores. Some are more durable, ideal for larger dogs.

• How to Use Waste Bags:
  1. Pull the bag over your hand like a glove.
  2. Pick up the poop with your “gloved” hand.
  3. Grab the open end of the bag with your other hand and pull it inside out.
  4. Knot the bag and dispose of it in the trash.

If you run out, plastic grocery bags can work in a pinch but aren’t usually biodegradable.

Efficient Dog Poop Scooping Tools

For yard or small area cleanups, a dog poop scooper is a great investment. These tools typically resemble dustpans with a rake-like tool for sweeping the poop into the scooper.

• Benefits of Dog Poop Scoopers:
  • Ideal for short distances.
  • Efficient for backyard use.

However, they can be cumbersome to carry during walks, making them less practical for on-the-go cleanups.

For more on effective dog waste management, explore various scooping tools.

Service Dog Handlers and Dog Poop Etiquette

Service dog handlers are generally not exempt from cleaning up after their dogs. According to ServiceDogCentral.org, blind individuals are capable of performing this task just like sighted people.

• Steps to Take if Disabled:
  • Call town hall to explain your situation.
  • Ask if you are exempt from the law.
  • Being proactive helps avoid fines.

Maintaining good dog poop etiquette makes us classy and considerate neighbors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

References

• Huffington Post: It’s Been a Really Great Year for Poop Bags
• The Housebreaking Bible: What to Do With Poo — The Art and Science of Dog Poop Disposal