The signs are unmistakable.
Running back and forth.
Sniffing.
Turning in circles.
Sniffing again.
Then suddenly your dog decides, “This is the perfect spot!”
I call it Henry’s poopy dance.
It’s kind of funny. But when it’s 100 degrees or you’re knee-deep in snow, the cuteness factor isn’t as strong.
The poopy dance is one of those odd behaviors that can be funny or annoying, but it’s completely normal.
No, there’s no thought like “I’ll teach her for breaking my cookies into fourths.” It’s an instinct inherited from his ancestors.
Dogs Read the Ground Like a Newspaper
Your dog is reading the area with their nose.
They’re detecting every dog, person, and wildlife that crossed each spot. Your buddy’s nose can detect if the visitor was healthy, stressed, male, female, or even a predator.
They gather all that information before deciding where the perfect potty spot is today.
They’re Looking for the “Right” Spot
Henry has proven that dogs can be extremely picky in finding the perfect spot for pooping.
Some days it may be soft grass.
Other days, it may be a rocky patch.
Some dogs also prefer privacy and may avoid noisy areas like busy streets or sidewalks.
If a spot doesn’t fit their criteria, they simply keep searching.
They’re Leaving a Message Behind
While your dog is reading the messages left by other dogs and wildlife, they also want to leave their own message.
When your dog finds the perfect spot, they “post” their scent and message for other pups and critters to read.
It’s kind of like posting an update on social media.
I’ll often notice that Henry finds his spot on top of a bobcat paw print. I always think he’s saying, “This is my yard. Move along, Bob.” (I hope they don’t realize he’s a small and very friendly cockapoo).
Either way, it’s a stinky message I’d rather not read.
They May Be Checking for Safety
Your dog may have a box of toys, 12 bags of treats, and beds to suit royalty, but the instinct to find the perfect poop spot still exists.
Your dog’s wolf ancestors knew they were vulnerable while pooping. They take care in selecting the perfect spot so they are safe.
Henry often finds the perfect spot up against a bush. That means he’s protected from the front and I have his back side. It’s kind of smart and endearing.
But if your dog picks up a scent, sees another dog, lizard, or person, they may start the search process all over.
Mobility May Also Play A Role In The Perfect Spot
If your dog is suffering from mobility issues, then your pup may also search for a spot that seems more comfortable.
Some dogs may even choose softer ground or a slight slope if it’s more comfortable on sore joints.
If your dog’s poop behavior suddenly changes, they are straining, crying, or can’t poop, then call your veterinarian.
Sometimes They’re Lining Up With the Earth’s Magnetic Field
The search for the perfect spot can also be a bit weirder.
One interesting study found that dogs often preferred to poop facing north or south when Earth’s magnetic field is calm.
Currently, it’s not known exactly why dogs do this, but it is a fascinating behavior.
The Bottom Line on the Poopy Dance
The answer to “why does my dog take so long to find a spot to poop?” isn’t to annoy you.
They’re following their ancestors.
They’re looking for a safe spot.
They’re sniffing and reading the messages left in the area.
Of course, your dog is most likely leaving a message for other dogs and animals.
Also, it’s possible your buddy is looking for the best spot with a north-south squat potential.
Henry’s poopy dance makes me laugh most days (although if it’s 10 below or 60 MPH winds, it’s not as funny).
But at least I know Henry is doing a lot of analysis in picking the perfect spot. Heck, he may say finding the right spot is rocket science.
Fun Dog Fact: A dog's sense of smell is estimated to be 10,000 to 100,000 times more powerful than ours. Giving your pup time to sniff during walks isn't wasting time. It’s one of the best (and most affordable) forms of mental enrichment they can get.
