If you’re a dog owner, chances are you’ve watched your furry friend go through a theatrical routine when it’s time to do their business. There’s the sniffing, the circling, the staring – and of course, the infamous post-poop kick.

It’s this last move that causes the most frustration, especially if your backyard is starting to look more like a patchy paddock than a pristine lawn. Thankfully, there’s a solution – high-tech dog grass that’s designed to handle this type of destructive behaviour and save your lawn. Now that you know how to fix it – why does your dog even do it?

Let’s break down the three most common parts of your dog’s bathroom ritual and unpack the reasons behind them. As odd as these habits may seem, each step has a deep-rooted link to canine instincts and communication.

1.    The Lawn Destroyer Moment

The most obvious part of the post-poop dance is the leg-kicking frenzy. You’ve likely seen your dog kick their back legs into the grass like they’re trying to scratch an itch in mid-air. In many cases, large clumps of grass go flying, and muddy patches begin to form with repeated performances. Though it might look like they’re trying to cover up their business, this behaviour is actually about scent and territory.

That’s because dogs have scent glands in their paws, so when they kick up the ground, they spread their unique smell across a wider area. They’re essentially leaving a smelly calling card, but it’s also a visual marker, creating a little scene that other dogs will spot. While it can be annoying (especially if your lawn looks like it’s been hit by a mini excavator), it’s completely normal canine behaviour.

2.    The Strange Bathroom Stare

If you’ve ever locked eyes with your dog mid-poop, you’re not alone. Many dogs will stare at their owners during the act, which can feel awkward. The reason behind it is actually quite sweet – dogs feel vulnerable when going to the toilet and look to their humans for reassurance and protection. In the wild, this moment is risky, as predators can strike when animals are distracted, so your dog is counting on you to watch their back, quite literally.

3.    The Circle Dance Before the Deed

Before your dog even squats, you might notice them walking in circles, sometimes for what feels like ages. This little pre-poop ritual is usually about finding the ideal spot as dogs are guided by scent, and they’re trying to locate a comfortable, safe place that’s also informative to other dogs. Like humans avoiding less-than-pleasant public restrooms, dogs are simply picky about where they go. There’s also some evidence that dogs prefer to align themselves with the Earth’s magnetic field, which could explain the circling!

Keep the Behaviour, Save Your Lawn

These habits might be inconvenient, but they’re rooted in your dog’s natural instincts, so it’s not something you need to give your dog training to correct. That said, you don’t have to sacrifice your lawn because there are pet-friendly options that look just like real grass while standing up to digging, kicking, and frequent use. These surfaces offer durability, drainage, and comfort, without the mess or patchiness. With the right setup, you can keep your yard looking great and give your dog the freedom to be themselves.