The Real Health Risks of Dog Poop in Your Yard

By Doody Pros · Updated October 7, 2026

Dog poop in the yard is more than a smell problem. It can carry bacteria and parasites that affect people and other pets — and some of them outlast the poop itself.

What's in It

• Bacteria: one gram of dog waste contains about 23 million coliform bacteria, according to the University of Washington SMEA. Arlington County, VA notes pet waste carries roughly twice the bacteria per gram of human waste.
• Parasites: roundworms and Giardia are among the organisms that can be present.
• Other pathogens: E. coli and others that can infect people or other dogs.

How Long It Lasts

The University of Washington SMEA reports that roundworms, E. coli and Giardia can survive in your yard for up to four years if waste isn't picked up. That's why "it'll wash away" isn't a plan.

Who's Most at Risk

Young kids who play on the grass, other dogs who sniff and lick, and anyone gardening barehanded. One of our customers put it simply: “My yard's now safer for my grandchildren.”

Why It Matters Beyond Your Fence

In 1991 the U.S. EPA listed pet waste as a nonpoint source pollutant, and storm drains don't go to a treatment plant (University of Washington SMEA). The City of Richland Stormwater Utility identifies the Columbia River, Yakima River and Amon Wasteway as local waterways it works to protect, and lists bacteria from animal waste among street pollutants.

Simple Prevention

1. Remove waste weekly (or more with multiple dogs).
2. Bag it and put it in the trash — not compost or yard-waste bins.
3. Wash hands after yard work.
4. Keep up with your vet's parasite prevention recommendations.

Want it off your list for good? Weekly dog poop pickup starts at $15/week.

This article is general information, not veterinary or medical advice.

Sources

• University of Washington SMEA
• Arlington County, VA
• City of Richland Stormwater Utility

Doody Pros provides weekly dog poop pickup and one-time cleanups in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco and West Richland, WA.