If you’re searching for whether dog poop is bad for your grass, the short answer is yes—leaving it in your yard can damage your lawn, contaminate your soil, and create long-term health risks for people and pets.
Dog owners in Erie, Colorado often assume pet waste breaks down naturally or helps fertilize the yard, but that’s not the case. In this guide, we’ll explain why dog poop can be harmful to your lawn, what’s really inside it, and how often you should remove it to protect your outdoor space.
Why Dog Poop Is Harmful to Your Lawn
It’s Not Fertilizer — It’s Acidic and Toxic
Dog poop is often mistaken for a natural fertilizer like cow manure, but the two are not the same. Dog waste contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which can actually burn grass and kill healthy patches of lawn.
When pet waste is left on the ground, it releases ammonia and harmful acids into the soil. This causes:
-
Brown or yellow dead spots in your grass
-
Soil imbalances that hinder grass regrowth
-
Pooled or soggy areas from waste buildup
In a well-kept yard, regular pet waste removal is essential to prevent these effects.
Bacteria and Pathogens in Dog Waste
Each gram of dog feces can carry millions of harmful organisms. These include:
-
E. coli
-
Giardia
-
Salmonella
-
Roundworms and hookworms
-
Parvovirus
These pathogens don’t just stay in the waste—they can leach into your soil or be carried into local water systems during rain or snowmelt.
For families with children or other pets, leaving dog waste in the yard increases the risk of accidental exposure to harmful bacteria.
How Erie’s Climate Makes It Worse
In Erie, Colorado, we experience seasonal swings from hot summers to snowy, frozen winters. These conditions make dog waste even more problematic.
Spring and Summer
-
Heat speeds up bacterial growth and creates odor
-
Fly and pest populations increase around waste
Fall and Winter
-
Waste freezes and blends into snow
-
Melted runoff can spread bacteria across lawns and into storm drains
Many Erie homeowners are surprised by how quickly waste builds up over the winter, creating large springtime messes.
How Often Should You Remove Dog Waste?
The best schedule depends on the number of dogs you have and your lawn usage.
General Guidelines:
-
One dog: remove waste at least once per week
-
Two or more dogs: remove waste twice per week or more
-
High-traffic lawns (kids, guests, events): increase frequency
Neglecting this schedule allows waste to pile up, affecting grass health, attracting pests, and creating foul odors.
Why Professional Pooper Scooper Services Help
Many Erie homeowners find that weekly cleanups are difficult to keep up with—especially during colder months or busy seasons.
At Erie Pooper Scoopers, we provide professional pet waste removal on a weekly or twice-weekly basis. We help you:
-
Maintain a healthy, safe lawn year-round
-
Avoid lawn damage from excess nitrogen
-
Prevent unpleasant odors and health risks
-
Save time and avoid a task no one enjoys
Our Service Includes:
-
Eco-conscious disposal methods
-
First visit billed only after service
-
Flat monthly pricing with no long-term contracts
Take the Next Step Toward a Cleaner Yard
If you’re ready to stop dog waste from damaging your lawn, we’re here to help. Erie Pooper Scoopers offers reliable, affordable service that keeps your yard clean and your family safe.
Use our online quote form or contact us today to schedule your first visit.