Do I Need To Wipe My Dog After Pooping?

It’s not a glamorous topic. But it is one that needs addressing.

And that is whether or not you should wipe your dogs bum after they have pooped.

Delightful.

Nevertheless its a fair question and one you are going to want to get right, from the outset.

So that’s what I am here to do.

Besides, I remember thinking the very same thing when I first brought my Cockapoo, Bailey, home. 

So today, I am going to be sharing with you what I have learned and been advised to do by professionals in the field. 

Do Dogs Clean Themselves After Pooping?

Dogs do tend to attempt to clean themselves after pooping, typically through various behaviors, including licking and dragging their bottoms along the floor.

Dogs have a remarkable ability to keep themselves clean. 

Their anus contains glands that release a substance that helps lubricate their stools, making it easier for the poop to slide out without leaving much residue. 

Additionally, dogs have natural grooming behaviors that help too.

They may lick themselves or rub their backside on the grass or other surfaces to remove any fecal matter that may have clung to their fur.

When You May Need to Wipe Your Dog After Pooping

While dogs are pretty good at keeping themselves clean, there are times when you may need to step in and lend a hand (or a wipe). 

Here are a few situations when wiping your dog’s bum after pooping might be necessary:

Dogs With Long/Thick Fur

If your dog has long or thick fur around their backside, like my Cockapoo Bailey, poop might get stuck in it.

In such cases, it’s a good idea to wipe your dog after they poop to avoid a smelly mess.

Your Dog Is Suffering With Diarrhea Or Soft Stools

If your dog has diarrhea or unusually soft stools, there’s a higher chance of poop getting smeared around their backside.

To keep your dog clean and comfortable, you should wipe them after they poop.

Dogs That Have Health Issues or Mobility Limitations

Dogs with health issues or mobility limitations might have difficulty grooming themselves.

If your dog falls into this category, you may need to help them keep their rear end clean.

Should I Let Dog Poop Dry Before Cleaning?

You should not let your dog’s poop dry before cleaning it up.

Fresh poop is easier to clean up than dried, crusty poop. 

Plus, the sooner you clean up after your dog, the less chance there is of attracting flies or other pests.

That being said, if you’re dealing with poop that’s already dried, you can use a damp cloth or a pet-specific wet wipe to soften it before cleaning it up. 

This will make the process easier and more effective.

How Do You Clean a Dog’s Bum After Pooping?

Now that we’ve established when you should wipe your dog after pooping, let’s talk about how to do it properly.

Here are some tips to make the process as smooth as possible:

Choose Dog-Safe Bottom Wipes

Use dog-bottom-specific wipes to clean your dog’s bum.

Avoid using regular household or baby wipes, as they may contain chemicals that can irritate your dog’s skin.

Learn more: Best Wipes For Dog Bottom [These Are The Ones To Get!]

Position Your Dog

Find a comfortable position for both you and your dog.

You can either have your dog standing or lying down, depending on their temperament and size.

If your dog is nervous or uncooperative, you may need someone to help you hold them still.

Gently Clean The Area

Start by gently wiping the area around the anus, moving from the base of the tail towards the anus.

Be careful not to press too hard, as this could cause discomfort.

Make sure to use a clean wipe for each pass to avoid spreading fecal matter.

Check For Remaining Debris

Inspect the area to ensure you’ve removed all visible traces of poop.

If necessary, use a comb or brush to gently remove any fecal matter stuck in the fur.

Clean The Surrounding Fur

If there’s any poop on the surrounding fur, use a damp cloth or a clean wipe to remove it.

Be sure to clean the entire area thoroughly to avoid any lingering odors.

Dispose of Used Wipes

Once you’ve finished cleaning your dog’s bum, dispose of the used wipes in a sealed plastic bag or a designated dog poop container.

This will help keep your home and environment clean and odor-free.

Reward Your Dog

Cleaning your dog’s bum can be an uncomfortable experience for them, so it’s essential to reward them afterward with a treat, praise, or some playtime.

This will help reinforce the idea that the process is a positive experience and make it easier for both of you in the future.

Finally 

While dogs are generally good at keeping themselves clean after pooping, there are times when you may need to step in and help them out.

Long or thick fur, diarrhea, and health issues are all factors that could require some extra attention from you. 

Remember, taking care of your dog’s hygiene is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner.

Not only does it keep your dog comfortable, but it also helps maintain a clean and odor-free home for you both to enjoy. 

Related guides you may want to read:

• Should You Wipe A Dogs Bottom?