What Do You Do With Dog Poop Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Hiking with your dog can be a great way to explore the outdoors, but it also comes with the responsibility of managing their waste. As any backpacker knows, it’s important to pack out everything you bring in, including dog poop. When out on the trail, what do you do with dog poop?

The first step is to bring enough bags to pick up after your pup. Many outdoor stores sell biodegradable bags specifically designed for waste disposal, such as PoopBags or DoggieDoo Bags.

These bags are made from plant-based materials that will quickly break down in the environment. If these aren’t available, Ziploc or other plastic bags will work in a pinch.

Once you have the necessary supplies, it’s time to scoop up your pup’s poop and properly dispose of it. In most areas, burying pet waste is not allowed because of potential contamination and pollution of water sources. The best option is to pack it out and dispose of it in a designated trash receptacle at home or near your car.

Some parks may have special disposal sites for pet waste that are clearly marked with signs. If there’s no designated spot, look for an area away from trails and water where you can leave the bagged waste without impacting other hikers or wildlife.

In conclusion, when backpacking with your dog, bringing along enough biodegradable bags and packing out all pet waste is essential. Don’t bury pet waste as this can contaminate water sources and impact other hikers and wildlife. Look for a designated disposal site or an area away from trails and water where you can safely leave the bagged waste without impacting anyone else’s experience on the trail.