Why does my dog do that?
Why does my dog kick dirt or grass with its back legs after peeing or pooping?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Ground scratching after toileting, kicking the back legs vigorously across grass or dirt, combines visual and scent marking, since scent glands in the paws add an extra layer of information to a mark that can also be seen from a distance. It is more common in confident, territorially inclined dogs, particularly unneutered males.
Two forms of marking at once
Beyond the urine or feces itself, scratching the ground disturbs visible grass or soil, creating a mark other dogs can spot visually from further away than they could smell it, while paw pad scent glands simultaneously add another chemical signature to the area, effectively doubling down on the message being left behind.
Who does it most
A study published in the journal Behavioural Processes found ground scratching after toileting was significantly more common in male dogs and appeared to increase near the presence of other male dogs' scent marks, supporting the idea that it functions largely as a territorial and social signal.
A normal, harmless habit
This behavior is entirely normal and needs no management beyond basic garden or yard courtesy, such as avoiding areas where it might disturb a neighbor's lawn.
Key takeaways
- Ground scratching adds both a visual and a scent based mark to the area.
- Paw pad scent glands contribute an extra chemical signature during the kick.
- Research links the behavior more strongly to male dogs and territorial marking.
- This is a normal, harmless instinct that needs no correction.