If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably wondered: how often should I really be cleaning up after my dog? It’s not the most glamorous topic, but keeping your yard clean is important for your family, your pets, and your lawn.

The Short Answer

You should pick up dog poop at least once a week—but daily is ideal if you have the time.

Here’s why frequency matters:

Health Risks of Leaving Dog Waste

Dog poop isn’t just unpleasant—it can be dangerous. Pet waste contains bacteria and parasites that can affect both humans and other animals, including:

E. coli
Salmonella
Roundworms
Hookworms
Giardia

These can survive in your soil for years if waste isn’t removed. Children playing in the yard and other pets are especially at risk.

Your Lawn Will Thank You

Contrary to popular belief, dog poop is NOT good fertilizer. It’s actually too acidic and high in nitrogen, which can:

Kill grass and leave brown spots
Attract pests and flies
Create unpleasant odors, especially in summer

The longer waste sits, the more damage it does to your lawn.

How Many Dogs Do You Have?

The more dogs, the more frequently you need to clean:

1 dog: Weekly minimum, twice weekly recommended
2-3 dogs: Twice weekly minimum
4+ dogs: Every few days or daily

Weather Matters Too

In warmer months (spring and summer), waste breaks down faster and bacteria multiply quickly. You’ll want to clean more often. In winter, waste may freeze and accumulate—making spring cleanup a big job.

The Easiest Solution? Hire a Professional

Let’s be honest—scooping poop isn’t anyone’s favorite chore. That’s where professional pet waste removal comes in.

At Magner Doggie Duty, we offer weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly service plans for homeowners in Crystal Lake, Algonquin, Cary, Huntley, Lake in the Hills, and Barrington. We handle the dirty work so you can actually enjoy your yard.

No contracts. No hassle. Just a clean yard.

Ready to reclaim your weekends? Get a free quote today and see how affordable professional pet waste removal can be.