No one wants their home to have a lingering dog poop smell. That’s why most dog owners prefer their dogs to do their business outside. However, if your yard or patio starts smelling like dog poop, it can be unpleasant and make you hesitant to spend time there. You might also feel embarrassed to have visitors outdoors due to the bad smell.
Luckily, we’ve compiled effective ways to eliminate the dog poop smell outside, making those areas near your house more enjoyable. The good news is that these methods are simple and actually work
How To Get Rid Of Dog Poop Smell In Yard
1. Pick Up the Dog Poop
- Materials needed: Pooper scooper or poop bags
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Effectiveness: Good
The best way to eliminate the smell is to promptly remove the dog poop from your yard using a pooper scooper or poop bags. A rake and shovel can also be used, but they can be messy. Investing in poop bags or a quality scooper is recommended. Consistency is key, so it’s best to clean up shortly after your dog does its business to prevent the smell from building up.
Pros:
- Works great
- Easy to do
Cons:
- Requires consistency
- Costs money
2. Use Fresh Water
- Materials needed: Garden hose
- Difficulty: Easy
- Effectiveness: Good
Another effective method is to use plain water. Before using the garden hose, ensure that all solid waste has been removed. Spending a few minutes using a good amount of water can help eliminate the unpleasant smell. This method is versatile, suitable for both grass and patios. It works best when the odor isn’t too strong, but using it regularly may lead to a higher water bill.
Pros:
- Effective if the smell isn’t overpowering
- Easy to do
- Doesn’t require much money
Cons:
- Takes time
- Can increase water bills
3. Use an Odor Eliminator
- Materials needed: Odor eliminator, garden hose
- Difficulty: Easy
- Effectiveness: Great
This method is ideal for small yards and patios. Purchase a commercial odor eliminator from a local pet or hardware store. Look for a safe product that leaves a fresh, clean scent. The odor eliminator typically comes in a gallon jug with a built-in hose attachment for easy application. Before using, ensure you’ve cleaned up all solid waste. While it’s effective, it may not be suitable for large yards.
Pros:
- Very effective
- Easy to do
Cons:
- Not ideal for large yards or patios
- Takes time
Use Lawn Lime
Materials needed: Outdoor lime powder for lawns
Difficulty: Easy
Effectiveness: Great
Lawn and garden lime is an excellent solution for eliminating dog poop odors. Simply sprinkle lime powder on the areas with dog poop to quickly deodorize them. This method not only works well for poop odors but also neutralizes the smell of urine, addressing both issues at once if your yard has both odors. Your dog may or may not be bothered by the lime smell, but if they are, don’t worry—they’ll likely find a new spot to poop. However, keep in mind that the lime powder dissolves quickly in the rain, so check the weather forecast before using this method.
An added benefit of using lawn lime is that it promotes thick and lush grass growth by removing toxins and infusing the soil with essential nutrients. While effective, it can become costly if you need to purchase lawn lime regularly.
Pros:
- Quickly eliminates odors
- Easy to apply
- Promotes lush grass growth
Cons:
- Can be costly
- Not ideal for rainy weather
Use an All-Purpose Cleaner on Hard Surfaces
Materials needed: All-purpose household cleaner, scrub brush
Difficulty: Medium
Effectiveness: Good
If your dog is pooping on your patio or porch, traditional methods might not be suitable. However, you can use an all-purpose household cleaner to mask the smell of dog poop. Start by cleaning up the poop, then fill a bucket with warm water and add the cleaner. Put on gloves, grab a scrub brush, and get to work.
While it may require some effort, this method is effective in eliminating both poop and urine smells. Depending on the size of your porch or patio, it could take anywhere from an hour to several hours to complete. Be sure to rinse the area well with clean water to ensure your dog’s safety.
Pros:
- Works well on patios and porches
- No special tools required
Cons:
- Requires some physical effort
- Time-consuming process
Can Vinegar Eliminate the Smell of Dog Poop?
Yes, vinegar can effectively get rid of dog poop odor in your yard, and here’s a simple way to do it: Mix one cup of white vinegar with a gallon of warm water. Spritz this solution generously on the dog poop areas and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Afterward, use a garden hose to thoroughly rinse away both the dog poop and the smell. If the odor persists, repeat the process until it’s gone. Good luck.
How to Prevent Dog Poop Smell in Your Yard
If your dog consistently uses the same spot, the smell can accumulate. Here are some practical tips to prevent your yard from smelling like dog poop:
1️⃣ Always clean up after your dog using a compostable bag or shovel to avoid lingering odors.
2️⃣ Sprinkle baking soda over the areas where your dog goes; it acts as a natural deodorizer.
3️⃣ Plant dog-friendly flowers or shrubs around the area to naturally freshen the air and reduce poop smell.
4️⃣ If odors persist, use a natural outdoor dog odor eliminator spray or a pet odor-eliminating candle that won’t harm plants or animals.
How Often Should I Clean Up My Dog’s Poop?
It’s best to clean up your dog’s poop daily or at least every other day. Leaving it for too long can lead to unpleasant odors and attract pests. Regular cleanup not only keeps your backyard fresh but also contributes to a healthier environment. So, make it a routine to scoop that poop and enjoy a clean and pleasant outdoor space.
