How to Use a Pooper Scooper: The Complete Guide

As a proud dog parent, you know that picking up poop is just part of the routine when taking your pup for a walk. But let’s be honest – no one wants to get up close and personal with a steaming pile of dog doo. That’s where a trusty pooper scooper comes in handy!

We’ve all been there – awkwardly trying to pick up dog poop with a flimsy grocery bag, scattering it everywhere and getting some on your hands. Talk about a crappy situation! But with the right scooper, you can efficiently and hygienically tackle those landmines your dog leaves behind.

In this post, we’ll walk through the proper step-by-step technique for seamlessly scooping up your dog’s poop using a specifically designed pooper scooper. You’ll learn how to choose the right scooper for the job, get the scooping motion down pat, and dispose of the waste without making a mess.

With the right know-how, scooping poop can actually be a pretty clean and hassle-free process. We’ll share tips and tricks to make it as painless as possible. No more POO-fumbling around! Just quick and easy cleanups so you and your dog can enjoy your time together and keep the neighborhood clean.

Let’s get scooping!

Choosing the Right Pooper Scooper

There are a few different types of pooper scoopers to choose from:

Spade scoopers – These have a wide, triangular scoop at the end and are ideal for yards or grassy areas.
Rake scoopers – These have thin, elongated tines to help grab poop. Great for use on concrete or dirt surfaces.
Grabber scoopers – These use a lever system to control scoop claws that pick up waste. Useful for those with mobility issues.

Consider factors like your dog’s size, surface you’ll use it on, and your height and grip strength to select the right scooper. Look for durable metal and comfort grip handles.

How to Scoop Poop in 4 Easy Steps

Scooping your dog’s poop is a breeze if you follow these simple steps:

1. Open Scoop

First, locate the poop pile and approach from behind it. Then, use one hand to pull open the scooper so the inside of the cup or rake is exposed and ready.

2. Lower Scoop Around Poop

Lower the open scooper and center it around the poop pile, getting as close to the ground as you can. Try to scoop a few inches under and around it.

3. Close Scoop to Secure Poop

Gently squeeze the scooper handles to close the cup or tines around the poop, trapping it securely inside. Apply just enough pressure to lift.

4. Carry to Disposal

Lift the scooper straight up with the poop inside. Carry it carefully to a garbage can or other disposal spot before opening and depositing the waste.

Be sure to get all of the poop in one scoop for cleanest pickup. Then just remember to wash the scooper afterwards!

Tips for Effortless Scooping

Follow these tips and tricks to get the easiest, most sanitary scoop every time:

Spring for a scooper with a rake or claw design to penetrate and grab all poop.
For grass or soil, use an edge to slice under poop mounds for complete pickup.
On concrete, use short sweeps to sweep poop completely into scooper.
If poop is loose, sprinkle some dirt or kitty litter to absorb some moisture first.
Attach a plastic bag holder to scooper so you can dispose of waste immediately.
Keep a bag handy to wipe off any remnants from the scooper.
Rinse scooper in soapy water after each use to keep clean and prevent bacteria growth.

Troubleshooting Pooper Scooper Problems

If you encounter any issues, try these troubleshooting tips:

Scooper keeps missing poop – Make sure to fully open scoop and lower all the way down around poop before closing.

Poop sticks to scooper – Try spraying scooper lightly with cooking oil or nonstick spray first.

Poop spills out – Hold scooper vertically and don’t overfill it. Take only small amounts per scoop.

Soft poop difficult to scoop – Use a rake scooper or sprinkle some absorbent material on it first.

Scooper slips – Wear gloves and grip handle tightly, or opt for a scooper with comfort grip.

Pooper Scooper FAQs

Let’s answer some common pooper scooper questions:

Are pooper scoopers only for dog poop?

Pooper scoopers can be used to clean up after other animals too like cats, rabbits, or horses. Just match scooper size to animal.

How do I clean a pooper scooper?

Rinse in hot, soapy water after each use. Disinfect weekly with diluted bleach or a scooper cleaner solution.

Where can I buy a pooper scooper?

Pooper scoopers are sold at pet stores, hardware stores, online retailers like Amazon, and specialty poop scooper sites.

How much does a pooper scooper cost?

Basic pooper scoopers range from $10 – $30. Heavy duty, extra large, or premium scoopers with bonus features can cost $30 – $75.

Let’s Scoop Those Poops!

And there you have the complete guide to effortlessly cleaning up your dog’s business using a specially designed pooper scooper. With the right scooper, technique, and regular cleaning, dealing with dog poop doesn’t have to be a smelly, messy chore. Just scoop, toss, and have a happy walk with your pooch!