Your dog just did his business, then suddenly starts kicking up grass and dirt like a tiny tornado. Why do dogs kick after they poop?
It looks ridiculous, but it’s actually a smart move. This behavior is called scent marking, and it’s completely normal.
It’s Not About Covering It Up
You may think your dog is channeling a cat and trying to cover up his poop.
Actually, your dog is doing the opposite of cats.
When your dog kicks near his poop, he’s calling attention to his deposit. It’s a way to put a bullseye on the poop, rather than hide it like cats.
It’s not a behavior of cleaning up or hiding. It’s actually a bold announcement.
Your Dog Is Leaving a Scent Message
Dogs use the scent glands in their paws when they kick the ground after pooping. It helps to spread the scent.
That means your dog is leaving a message every time they kick.
- I was here
- This is what I did
- I may be passing by, but you need to know about me
It’s kind of your dog’s version of tagging a spot like a graffiti artist does with spray paint. But your dog is using scent instead.
Kicking After Pooping Is Often a Confidence Thing
It’s perfectly normal if your dog doesn’t kick after pooping. My dog, Henry, only does it occasionally.
It can be a sign of a confident dog, especially if they smell another dog or a wildlife scent. The bigger and more enthusiastic the kick, the bigger the statement.
When my dog Henry does kick after pooping and trots away looking pleased, it’s not him being silly. It’s him having nailed the message for the area dogs or coyotes.
Dogs Kicking Poop Can Also Be a Social Signal
Poop kicking can also be a way to communicate. It can tell other dogs who was here or even who lives in the area.
When another dog, coyote, or mountain lion passes by, they will get Henry’s scent. It can tell them:
- This area’s been claimed
- Another dog passed through
- The confidence level of the dog is high
Your dog’s dramatic post-poop performance is more of a public announcement to the neighborhood.
Should You Stop Your Dog From Kicking After They Poop?
It’s a normal dog behavior. There’s generally no reason to stop the performative action unless your pup is:
- Destroying your yard
- Covering you with dirt
If this is the case, then a subtle and gentle leash guide, or “let it go” command, will stop the inappropriate kicking.
The Bottom Line on Why Dogs Kick After They Poop
Dogs frantically kicking at their poop looks ridiculous. Heck, I always laugh at Henry. But it’s really a combination of instinct, communication, and confidence. Basically, your dog being a dog.
It’s a pretty bold behavior, and one I’m glad humans have adopted.
Fun Dog Fact: Dogs have scent glands in their paws, not just their rear! This means every scratch, step, and kick is your dog leaving behind a scented signature for other pups (or even wildlife) to read as they pass by.
What’s Next:
- Why Dogs Sniff Each Other’s Butts (Surprise It’s Brilliant)
- Why Dogs Roll In Gross Smells (and It’s Not What You Think)
- Why Dogs Howl at the Moon — The Surprising Truth Behind the Sound
