Every dog poops. And every day, pet parents go through the task of cleaning up and disposing of feces. But do you know how to dispose of dog poop properly? Whether you scoop it with a shovel or pick it up with a poop bag, there are a few things that pet parents need to know about the daily ritual.
Flushing dog poop down the toilet – without a bag, only the waste – is perhaps the best disposal method, says the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the National Resources Defense Council. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria and nutrients to wash into storm drains, and eventually into local waterbodies.
But cat feces should never be flushed, as it may contain Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can infect people and animals. Municipal water treatment systems do not always kill this parasite.
Leaving dog poop behind is good for the soil. Reality: In order for feces from a carnivorous animal to be used as an effective fertilizer, it has to be fully composted with other materials such as egg shells and grass clippings and allowed to break down over time.
Americas 78.2 million dogs collectively deposit 10 million tons of waste per year, according to waste clean-up service, Doody Calls. That’s enough to fill some 268,000 tractor trailers.
Dog waste cannot harm your health. Reality: Dog feces can carry a host of disease and worms — including heartworms, whipworms, hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, parvovirus, giardia, salmonella, and even E. coli. This is why it’s imperative to clean it up after Fido does his duty.
If not flushing (again only bagless dog poop, never cat waste), it’s best to use a biodegradable bag and place in the garbage.
Ever stood in your backyard, plastic bag in hand, wondering if there’s a better way to dispose of your dog’s daily deposits? Maybe you’ve considered just flushing it down the toilet? I mean, it seems logical – human waste goes there, so why not your pup’s poop?
Well, before you start parading your pooch’s presents to the porcelain throne, let’s dig into whether dog poop can actually clog your toilets, what experts say about flushing it, and what alternatives might be better for your plumbing and the planet.
The Big Question: Can You Flush Dog Poop Down the Toilet?
Here’s where things get interesting – experts seem divided on this issue!
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency and the National Resources Defense Council, flushing dog waste (without bags) down the toilet is actually recommended in some cases. They suggest it’s more environmentally friendly than leaving it on the ground where bacteria can contaminate local water sources.
BUT – and this is a big but – plumbing professionals like those at Mr Rooter Plumbing strongly advise against this practice, warning that it can cause serious plumbing problems
So who’s right? Let’s look at the facts.
Why Dog Poop Might Clog Your Toilet
Your dog’s digestive system is different from yours, and that means their waste is different too. Here’s why dog poop is more likely to cause clogs:
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Density issues: Dog waste is typically more dense than human waste. It contains elements like hair, grass, dirt, rawhide, and other materials dogs ingest that don’t break down easily in water.
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Composition differences: Dog poop often has a different consistency that doesn’t dissolve well in water, making it more likely to stick to pipes.
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Quantity matters: If you have a large dog or multiple dogs, the volume of waste can be substantial, increasing clog risks.
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Diet factors: Dogs fed processed foods may produce waste containing harmful bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, and campylobacter, which can be problematic for water systems.
One plumbing expert from Mr. Rooter explains: “Unlike human waste, which is designed to be flushed away smoothly, pet waste contains elements that can create blockages in the plumbing system.”
The Potential Consequences of Flushing Dog Poop
If you decide to ignore the warnings and flush anyway, here’s what might happen:
Immediate Plumbing Problems
- Clogged toilets requiring plunging or professional help
- Blocked pipes deeper in your plumbing system
- Potential backups in other drains in your home
Long-Term Issues
- Accumulated buildup in pipes leading to recurring clogs
- Damage to your plumbing system, including cracked pipes
- Costly repairs that could have been avoided
Environmental Impact
- Overwhelming sewage treatment plants not designed to handle pet waste
- Potential contamination of waterways if treatment plants can’t properly process the waste
- Bacterial and parasite transmission to water systems
What About Small Dogs vs. Large Dogs?
You might be thinking, “But my dog is tiny! Surely their little poops won’t cause problems?”
Size does matter somewhat – a Chihuahua’s contribution is obviously smaller than a Great Dane’s – but the fundamental issues with composition remain the same. Even small amounts over time can build up and create problems in your pipes.
But Wait… Some Sources Say It’s OK?
Yes, this is where the confusion comes in. Some environmental agencies actually recommend toilet disposal of dog waste as preferable to throwing it in the trash, where it ends up in landfills.
Their reasoning:
- Sewage treatment plants are designed to handle fecal matter
- It keeps the waste out of landfills
- It prevents bacteria from contaminating groundwater via runoff
However, these recommendations often come with caveats that many pet owners miss, like:
- NEVER flush dog poop bags (even ones labeled “flushable”)
- Only flush if your home is connected to a municipal sewer system (not a septic tank)
- Don’t flush if your dog has recently been dewormed or on medication
The Plumber’s Perspective
As someone who’s seen their fair share of clogged pipes, most plumbers will tell you it’s just not worth the risk. The potential savings in plastic bags doesn’t outweigh the cost of a plumbing emergency.
One plumbing professional notes: “Flushing pet waste, even in small amounts over time, can lead to costly repairs. It can cause cracked pipes and other plumbing issues, resulting in the need for professional intervention.”
What About Septic Systems?
If your home uses a septic system rather than municipal sewers, flushing dog waste is an even worse idea. Septic systems rely on a delicate balance of bacteria to break down waste, and the bacteria and parasites in dog poop can disrupt this balance.
Additionally, the extra volume can cause your septic tank to fill faster, requiring more frequent pumping and maintenance.
So What Should You Do With Dog Poop?
If flushing isn’t recommended, what are your options? Here are some better alternatives:
1. Bag and Trash It
The most common method is simply bagging the waste and throwing it in your regular trash. Use biodegradable bags to reduce environmental impact.
2. Outdoor Dog Waste Bins
Specially designed outdoor waste bins contain odors and keep the poop separate from your regular trash. These usually have tight seals to lock in smells until collection day.
3. In-Ground Septic Systems (for dog waste only)
You can purchase or DIY a mini septic system specifically for dog waste. These systems are buried in your yard and use enzymes to break down the waste naturally.
4. Composting (with cautions)
Dog waste can be composted, but this requires specific knowledge and equipment. The resulting compost should NEVER be used on edible plants due to potential parasites and pathogens.
5. Commercial Services
In some areas, you can hire “pooper scooper” services that will regularly clean your yard and dispose of the waste properly.
The Safest Way to Flush (If You Must)
If after all these warnings you still decide flushing is your preferred method, here’s how to do it with minimal risk:
- Only flush the poop itself – never bags or wipes used to pick it up
- Flush immediately after your dog has pooped (fresh is better than dried)
- Make sure you have plenty of water pressure
- Flush twice to ensure everything goes down
- Be vigilant for any signs of slowing drains or backups
- Consider having your pipes professionally cleaned more regularly
But honestly, we still don’t recommend it. The potential problems outweigh the convenience.
Environmental Considerations
Beyond the practical plumbing concerns, there’s the environmental impact to consider:
- Landfill waste: Dog poop in plastic bags in landfills creates methane gas as it decomposes
- Water treatment: Municipal systems may not be designed to remove all parasites and pathogens found in dog waste
- Watershed contamination: Improperly disposed dog waste can leach into groundwater
The environmental question doesn’t have a perfect answer – each disposal method has pros and cons. The best approach is to choose the method that balances convenience, plumbing safety, and environmental impact for your specific situation.
Final Thoughts: To Flush or Not to Flush?
After examining the evidence, here’s my take:
While some environmental agencies suggest flushing dog poop might be acceptable under certain conditions, the consensus among plumbing professionals is that it’s risky business for your pipes. The potential for clogs and damage makes it a gamble that could cost you much more than the convenience is worth.
Instead, stick with bagging and trashing, or invest in one of the alternative disposal methods mentioned above. Your plumbing system (and plumber) will thank you!
Remember, just because something CAN be flushed doesn’t mean it SHOULD be. And when it comes to your furry friend’s contributions, the toilet probably isn’t their best destination.
Have you ever had a plumbing disaster from flushing something you shouldn’t? Or found a creative solution for pet waste disposal? We’d love to hear your stories in the comments!
Disclaimer: This article is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with a professional plumber if you have concerns about your specific plumbing system.
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Can I Flush Dog Poop Down The Toilet?
FAQ
Is it okay to flush dog poop in the toilet?
Does dog poop break down in water?
Does Dog Poop Disappear When it Rains? While it may look like a pile of dog poop dissolves after a few rains, it doesn’t actually go away. In reality, it breaks down into a million microscopic piles and washes away only to end up somewhere else.
Can I put dog poo down the drain?
Flushing dog poop down the toilet – without a bag, only the waste – is perhaps the best disposal method, says the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the …May 6, 2014
Can you flush dog poop down the toilet reddit?
In my city it is advised AGAINST throwing pet waste down the toilet because their facilities do not factor pet waste into the treatment that is used. With this in mind, our pet waste is accepted in the organics bin, so I scoop my cats box daily and put it into a green bin approved doggy bag and I toss it in.