How to get a dog to stop pooping in the same spot?

Finding a familiar pile on your front lawn or even inside near the door can be frustrating, especially if you’ve been trying to train your pup to go elsewhere. Dogs rely on scent to choose their bathroom spots, so that old area likely has lingering smells they’re drawn to—even if you think you’ve cleaned it up. Skipping a thorough cleaning with an enzyme-based cleaner (not just regular soap) lets those scents stick around, making your dog think it’s still an acceptable spot. Start here before trying anything else; removing the scent is half the battle.

Once the old spot is fresh, guide your dog to a new area you want them to use—maybe a corner of the backyard or a nearby community dog park. Take them there first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bed—times when they’re most likely to need to go. Bring a few treats and praise them like crazy when they go in the right place; positive reinforcement sticks better than scolding. If they start heading toward the old spot, gently redirect them—don’t yank their leash or raise your voice, as that can make them anxious about going at all.

Local rules matter here too—many neighborhoods have ordinances about dog waste, requiring you to pick it up immediately and restricting where dogs can relieve themselves (like near playgrounds or public gardens). Ignoring these can lead to fines, and it’s also a courtesy to your neighbors. When choosing a new spot for your dog, make sure it’s compliant—away from public areas where waste could be a hazard. Keeping a small bag dispenser on your leash makes it easy to follow these rules, too.

Sometimes, dogs keep going back to the same spot because of anxiety or routine, not just scent. If you’ve recently moved or changed their schedule, they might cling to familiar habits to feel secure. Try adding a small, comfortable mat near their new bathroom spot—something with a texture they like—to make it feel safe. For puppies, consistency is key; sticking to the same times and routes helps them learn faster. If you’re gone during the day, a dog walker can help keep the routine going, so your pup doesn’t revert to old spots out of desperation.

With patience and the right steps, you can help your dog break the habit of pooping in the same unwanted spot. It might take a week or two for them to fully adjust, but every time they use the new area, it gets easier. Remember to stay consistent with cleaning, guiding, and praising—your dog wants to make you happy, they just need to learn what you expect. Following local rules along the way not only keeps you out of trouble but also helps keep your community clean and friendly for everyone, including other dogs and their owners.