Among your dog’s basic needs, going to the bathroom is one of the most essential.
And when your dog does their business in the yard, cleaning up after them is crucial to their wellbeing and yours.
Written by Becca Choi, a passionate dog person and proud plant mom living in sunny Los Angeles.
Her first ever pet was a lovable Husky-Shepard mix named Marley, but her favorite breed will always be dachshunds!
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So, what’s the best way to clean up after your dog? Well, you need to dispose of their waste on a regular basis.
And the best way to do that is to get a dog waste station. But before you buy, learn how to choose a dog waste station for home use with this simple guide that will tell you everything you need to know—and more!
Identify your pet waste station needs.
There are a few types of pet waste stations out there, so your first step in choosing the right dog waste station for home use is to decide what style works the best for you.
Complete Pet Waste Stations
The most basic dog waste station is the kind you might see in a public park.
These pet waste stations usually include a garbage bin, a bag dispenser, and a posted sign.
For home use, these work great for front yards where passersby might leave unwanted waste.
But, if you want something simple for a private backyard, this might feel like overkill.
Pet Waste Receptacles
The most common and traditional method of disposing of pet waste is to send it to the landfill. But before trash day, you need somewhere to hold that waste.
If you’ve ever used your household trash can or an open bin to hold dog waste, then you know it’s a mistake.
Although it will do the job, it can seriously stink, especially in hot weather.
Instead, opt for an outdoor pet waste receptacle with a lid. Many come with a foot pedal, and you should always use a bin liner.
Septic Tank Style Pet Waste Bins
Sending your dog’s poop to the landfill may be more convenient for you, but it poses a hazard to the people who take care of that waste and the planet.
That’s why some pet owners prefer to use septic-tank style pet waste containers. By the way, Doggiedooley has an excellent post on how do these work.
Some of these systems require you to dig a hole, while others operate well on the surface of your yard.
No matter which style you get, both require enzymes and water to help break down your dogs’ waste safely.
Test your knowledge! How many dog waste facts from this list do you know?
Look for these key qualities in a pet waste station
Of course, no matter which style of waste station you need, any pet great waste receptacle should:
- be well-designed to meet your specific needs
- be made of high-quality materials
- have a nice appearance
- include add-ons that you might need (like a bag dispenser or pooper scooper)
Whether you need a full pet waste station, a garbage bin, or a bag dispenser, this list of the best pet dog waste stations & containers can help guide you to a solution that works for you.
Photo by: Petra.