As pet parents, we know that picking up poop from our dogs isn’t the most glamorous task, but it’s one of the most important for protecting the health and well-being of both our pets and our families.
Beyond unpleasant odors or an untidy yard, allowing dog waste to accumulate can expose people and animals to harmful bacteria, parasites, and environmental contaminants. In fact, one gram of dog poop can contain about 23 million bacteria, including harmful strains like E. coli. No matter the size of your yard or how strong the odor control spray is, regular cleanup plays a critical role in maintaining a safe, enjoyable space.
Pet Butler makes waste management easy. Here’s the full scoop on how often dog poop should be picked up.
How Often Should You Scoop Dog Poop?
The short answer: at least once a day. Daily poop scooping is the gold standard for keeping your yard safe, odor-free, and healthy. Although, when it comes to scooping poop, you have multiple options depending on your living situation, number of dogs, or personal need:
Every Day
This is ideal for multi-dog households or active pups spending a lot of time outside. Daily scooping prevents odor buildup, minimizes health risks, and keeps the lawn looking fresh.
At Minimum: Weekly
For most households, a weekly schedule strikes the right balance. Weekly pickups help maintain a fresh and functional yard without the daily hassle.
Twice-Weekly for Larger or Busier Yards
If you have multiple dogs or your pup goes frequently, a twice-weekly service makes the most sense for you. Pet Butler explicitly offers this option to prevent waste build-up and maintain yard hygiene.
Bi-Weekly or Monthly
These plans can work for those with limited outdoor time or single-dog households, but they come with a tradeoff. Even if the poop doesn’t smell, pathogens and parasites may still linger in the soil and risk health issues.
One-Time or Special Event Scoop
Planning a backyard party, barbeque, or family gathering? Consider scheduling a one-time clean-up. We offer this service for pre-holiday maintenance.
Don’t worry if you’re struggling to find time to scoop your dog’s poop—hire a professional like Pet Butler.
Why Is It Important to Pick Up Dog Poop Regularly?
Picking up dog poop regularly protects your yard, your family, your pets, and the environment. Leaving it behind isn’t harmless—it can cause damage and create health risks.
Does Dog Poop Harm the Environment?
Yes, dog poop is considered a pollutant, not a natural fertilizer. If left behind, it can wash into storm drains, contaminating rivers, lakes, and oceans with bacteria, parasites, and excessive nutrients. In fact, the EPA classifies pet waste as a pathogen source akin to oil spills and toxic chemicals. Studies have found that pet waste can account for 20–30% of bacterial contamination in urban waterways when it enters stormwater systems.
Does Dog Poop Damage Grass and Lawns?
Yes, unlike cow manure, which is rich in nutrients, dog poop is acidic and high in nitrogen. This combination can burn grass, leaving unwanted brown patches and dead spots in only a few days.
Can Dog Poop Spread Disease or Parasites?
Yes, dog poop can harbor harmful organisms. According to the CDC, dogs of any age can sometimes carry harmful germs that cause diseases such as roundworm, hookworm, Giardia, Salmonella, and E. coli. These pathogens threaten not only your dog, but also your outdoor living spaces. Even small amounts of dog waste can be dangerous. A single gram of poop can contain tens of millions of bacteria that can linger in soil.
Does Leaving Dog Poop in the Yard Attract Pests and Odors?
Yes, leftover waste often attracts flies, mosquitoes, rodents, and creates odors that invade your outdoor living spaces.
How Pet Butler Helps
For families with inconsistent yard cleanup that want to reduce health risks without handling the waste themselves, a professional service like Pet Butler ensures dog waste is removed safely, consistently, and responsibly. The Pet Butler team disposes of dog waste in a timely and environmentally safe manner.
Pet Butler offers flexible service plans:
- Weekly – Most popular for consistent yard care
- Twice weekly – Ideal for multi-dog homes
- Bi-weekly or monthly – Budget-friendly, but less ideal for health
- One-time – Perfect for parties or seasonal prep
With no long-term contracts, customizable schedules, and even odor eliminator add-ons, Pet Butler makes it easy to keep your yard clean.
How Much Does Dog Waste Removal Service Cost?
The cost depends on your location, yard size, and visit frequency. Pet Butler offers competitive scoop service prices, flexible scheduling, and a service guarantee.
In Summary
Cleaning your yard isn’t optional—it’s essential. Regular poop pickup:
- Safeguards your children, pets, and neighbors
- Keeps your lawn green and vibrant
- Prevents pests and odors
- Protects the environment
Bottom line: daily scooping is best, weekly is the minimum. But let’s be honest—life gets busy. That’s where Pet Butler comes in. With professional, reliable service, you’ll never worry about odors, pests, or health risks again. Your yard stays clean, your pets stay safe, and you reclaim your time.
So don’t suffer through a chore you hate. Call 1-800-PET-BUTER (1-800-738-2885) today to schedule your first cleanup and enjoy a cleaner, healthier yard without the hassle!
