The Beauty of the Pooper Scooper
The best pooper scooper for grass picks up the poop effectively and is easy to handle. It should also be lightweight, easy to clean, and have a design that allows easy storage.
However, not all pet owners have grass lawns, meaning they’ll need pooper scoopers ideal for other surfaces like concrete and wooden floors. This comprehensive review looks at different kinds of pooper scoopers and their best case. Let’s dig in!
Reasons to Invest in a Pooper Scooper
A pooper scooper is a must-have tool for all pet parents. Dog waste is not environmentally friendly, and leaving it lying around is not the best thing to do. Luckily, the pooper scooper will help you avoid all the harm that dog waste can bring.
Here are the reasons you should invest in a pooper scooper:
- It makes cleaning effortless: Owning a pooper scooper makes the cleaning process less strenuous. Consequently, you will clean your yard, kennel, and home frequently.
- It makes cleaning less hazardous: Dog waste contains bacteria and other parasites that would be harmful if you touched it with unprotected hands. Fortunately, a pooper scooper lets you clean dog waste without touching it with bare hands.
- It is more effective: Using other traditional methods might not be effective when cleaning dog waste. However, pooper scoopers are more effective and will allow you to do more quickly.
- They are portable: You can take the pooper scooper with you when taking your furry friend for a walk. As a result, you can easily pick up any waste during the walk and throw it at the appropriate place.
How We Tested Our Picks and Why to Trust Us
We used our expertise and experience in the pet industry to research 20 top-rated pooper scoopers. Then, we used our extensive network of pet parents to test them in a real-world setting.
The participants used the products normally, as our experts observed. They gathered insights and provided feedback based on specific criteria. The features we tested include the following:
- Quality
- Portability
- Ease of use
- Performance
We then used our research findings to categorize our top 15 picks. All the pooper scoopers in our review scored highly in the criteria above.
Why should you trust us? First, we have years of experience in matters of pets and their well-being. We boast a team of experts that objectively check all the products in our reviews.
Finally, our enthusiasm for pet well-being is unmatched. We are devoted to helping pet parents find and use the best products.
Our Favorite Poop Scooper
Our favorite pooper scooper is the Arm & Hammer 71036 Claw Scoop. We liked it because you can use it on multiple surfaces. Its handle has a reasonable height that allows you to pick dog waste without bending, and the collapsible design makes it easy to store. Above all, it is strong, durable, and easy to clean.
Your Pooper Scooper Shopping Guide
Several factors will guide you in selecting the ideal pooper scooper for your needs. Here are critical factors you must consider before purchasing:
Portability
Where do you plan to use your pooper scooper? Will you use it in your backyard or while walking your furry friend? Some poop scoops are bulky and might not be ideal for traveling or going for walks.
On the flip side, others are lightweight, and you can effortlessly clip them on your dog’s leash. Therefore, ensure you decide how you’ll use the pooper scooper before you purchase.
Size
What is the amount of poop you’ll be cleaning? You need a large dog poop scooper if you have many dogs or larger dog breeds.
Also, if you don’t like bending when collecting waste, consider getting a scooper with a long enough handle. The size of the poop scoop is also essential when it comes to storage. Consider getting a tool that is easy to store.
Design
The poop scoop’s design is also a critical factor you must consider. For example, an automatic pooper scooper is ideal for pet parents who prefer something easy to use. Such pooper scoopers come with a spring handle that makes opening and closing the scooper’s jaws effortless.
Furthermore, it is best to go for a product made of an easy-to-clean material. It is also important to go for a poop scoop with a collapsible design that makes it easy to store. Consider a pooer scooper that ensures your bare hands don’t touch the poop.
Also, if you plan to use the pooper scooper during walks, go for a one-handed claw pooper scooper. It is also best to get one that has a plastic bag that covers the claws to help eliminate the mess. Additionally, it should be light enough to hang on your dog’s leash.
Other design issues to consider include:
- Is it manual or battery-operated?: Technological innovations mean you can get an automatic pooper scooper that runs on batteries. However, they might be significantly more expensive than their manual counterparts.
- How are the scooper edges?: Consider a scoop with smooth edges if you plan to use it outdoors. The one with sharp corners is ideal for outdoor use, but if you use it indoors, you risk damaging your floor.
Bin-and-Rake Combo
The bin-and-rake combo is ideal for pet parents looking for a heavy-duty pooper scooper. Therefore, if you need to collect multiple messes, it is best to have a strong, rust-proof rake and bin to make your work easier.
Ensure you go for a rake with strongly pointed prongs that can scoop through grass and work on other surfaces. Additionally, the collection bin should have enough room to carry the load for disposal.
You will also find a bin that can rotate more appealing. This design ensures that you keep what you have collected.
Durability
Everyone loves to get value for their money. In this regard, ensure the pooper scooper you buy is a long-term investment. The durability of a product depends on the material the manufacturer used to make it.
For example, cheap plastic will only serve you for a short time, while hard plastic and aluminum are sturdier. Therefore, go for a product that will give you value for money.
Our Pooper Scooper Reviews
- Arm & Hammer 71036 Claw Scoop – Best overall
- Pawler Dog Pooper Scooper – Best rake scooper
- Four Paws Wee-Wee Pooper Scoopers – Best budget rake scooper
- ActiveDogs Best Ever Dog Poop Scooper – Best heavy duty
- Petmate Arm & Hammer Swivel Bin & Rake Pooper Scooper – Best for large quantity waste
- GoGo Stik Totally Clean Pooper Scooper and Dootie Rake Set – Best versatile
- Nature's Miracle Non-Stick Advanced Jaw Scoop – Best non-stick scoop
- MOICO Pooper Scooper – Best for large dogs
- HealthPro Dispoz-A-Scoops for Dogs – Best sanitary
- DogBuddy Pooper Scooper – Best portable
- PPOGOO Breakable Pooper Scooper – Best easy to use
- Dogit Jawz Dog Waste Scooper – Best budget
- Bodhi Dog Complete Poo Pack Pink + Biodegradable Pooper Scooper – Best complete cleaning kit
- Spotty Wood Handle Pooper Scooper – Best outdoor
- CO-Z Pet Pooper Scooper – Best ergonomic
Our Picks Under the Microscope
Arm & Hammer 71036 Claw Scoop – Best Overall
Amazon’s Choice in Pooper Scoopers by Arm & Hammer
Arm & Hammer claw scoop is the best overall pooper scooper because it has many helpful features. The claw scoop’s length is 27 inches (68.58 centimeters), so you don’t have to bend or stoop to use it.
Additionally, its flat bottom remains upright when you are not using it, and it’s gentle on grass and strong enough for hard surfaces. You can operate it with one hand making cleaning quick and effortless. The manufacturer uses heavy-duty, durable plastic making it durable.
Brand: Arm & Hammer
Material: Heavy-duty plastic
Color/s: Black/penny
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 27 x 6 x 6.8 inches (68.58 x 15.24 x 17.27 centimeters)
Weight: 13.44 ounces (381.02 grams)
Capacity: Small and medium dog poop
Special feature: It is collapsible for easy storage
What we liked:
- Allows easy picking without bending
- Its design is collapsible for easy storage and transportation
- It works perfectly on different surfaces
- It will enable one-handed pick-up
What we didn’t like:
- You need to assemble it to use
- It is bulky
Pawler Dog Pooper Scooper – Best Rake Scooper
This fantastic dog pooper scooper by Pawler eliminates the need to bend or kneel when scooping poop. It comes with a long and comfortable handle making it effortless to use.
Additionally, it includes a larger tray that allows users to pick up more poop before they head back to the trash can. You can also use the pooper scooper on multiple surfaces, including small rocks, dirt, gravel, and grass. Above all, it is rust-proof, durable, and easy to clean.
Brand: Pawler
Material: Metal and aluminum
Color/s: Black and red
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 37.8 x 9 x 9.5 inches (96.01 x 22.86 x 24.13 centimeters)
Weight: 2.31 pounds (1.05 kilograms)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It is a 2-in-1 rake and tray
What we liked:
- Its handle is comfortable
- It is durable
- It is rust-proof
- It works well on different surfaces
What we didn’t like:
- You use two hands to operate it
- You must assemble it
Four Paws Wee-Wee Pooper Scoopers – Best Budget Rake Scooper
Four Paws has been offering top-rated pet products for over three decades. This poop scoop makes cleaning quick and sanitary. Furthermore, you can use it on multiple surfaces, including grassy and sandy surfaces.
It is also durable and rust-resistant and has a comfortable rubber grip that makes it effortless to handle. Additionally, it is effortless to clean.
Brand: Four Paws
Materials: Rubber handle and wire rake
Color/s: Black and silver
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 5 x 6.13 x 29.5 inches (12.7 x 15.57 x 74.93 centimeters)
Weight: 15.68 ounces (444.52 grams)
Capacity: Small dog poop
Special feature: Includes a rubber handle for comfort
What we liked:
- It is lightweight
- It can handle larger poops
- It comes with a rubber grip on the handle
- It is easy to clean and store
What we didn’t like:
- It is not effective on concrete
- Smaller size poops can slip through the rake’s tines
ActiveDogs Best Ever Dog Poop Scooper – Best Heavy Duty
If you are looking for a heavy-duty metal pooper scooper, this scooper by ActiveDogs is the ideal choice. It comes with an upgraded hinge system that uses a robust bolt system that ensures it does break.
The handles have molded rubber for easy grip. Additionally, the scoop is flat, enabling it to work on concrete surfaces. Its manufacturer is based in the USA and is famous for providing quality products.
Brand: ActiveDogs
Material: Aluminum and rubber
Color/s: Black and silver
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 38 x 8 x 8 inches (96.52 x 20.32 x 20.32 centimeters)
Weight: 3 pounds (1.36 kilograms)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It comes with a solid bolt-style system that ensures the poop scoop lasts long
What we liked:
- The scoop surface is rust-proof
- It is durable
- It opens wide enough to handle multiple sizes
- It also has long handles with comfy grips
What we didn’t like:
- It is relatively expensive
- The screws can loosen
Petmate Arm & Hammer Swivel Bin & Rake Pooper Scooper – Best for Large Quantity Waste
This no-touch dog poop scoop is excellent for multiple surfaces and animals. The package includes a bin and rake and two additional heavy-duty waste bags with activated baking soda to control odor. Its large capacity allows you to use it while cleaning the dog kennel, dog run, and chicken coops.
Additionally, it comes with an adjustable handle that allows you to work without bending. The waste bags keep your bin clean and can contain large amounts of pet waste. It is also less messy.
Brand: Arm & Hammer
Material: Plastic
Color/s: Black/penny
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 9 x 7 x 32 inches (22.86 x 17.78 x 81.28 centimeters)
Weight: 1.5 pounds (0.68 kilograms)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It comes with two additional heavy-duty handle tie waste bags for odor control
What we liked:
- It is perfect for multiple dogs
- It can collect plenty of waste
- It is easy to clean
- It is affordable
What we didn’t like:
- It is not durable
- The handle can unscrew and rotate
GoGo Stik Totally Clean Pooper Scooper and Dootie Rake Set – Best Versatile
This GoGO Stik long-handled poop scoop is a versatile scoop that you can use on multiple surfaces. It will save your back because you don’t need to bend over to use it. The rake and scooper are strong, and the adjustable aluminum handles are lightweight and comfortable.
The GoGO Stik ST and Dootie Rake work together to offer clean and swift scooping on different surfaces.
You can place a bag over the ST scooper and the Dootie rake-shovel to keep your hands and rake free of the dog mess.
Brand: GoGo Stik
Material: Aluminum, silicone, ABS, and HDPE
Color/s: Black and green
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 36 x 5.5 x 4 inches (91.44 x 13.97 x 10.16 centimeters)
Weight: 1.4 pounds (0.64 kilograms)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It comes with ten dootie bags
What we liked:
- It is highly portable
- It comes with ten plastic waste bags
- You don’t have to wash the pooper scooper
- It includes a telescoping handle
What we didn’t like:
- The handle length is too short for tall users
- Does work well on all surfaces
Nature's Miracle Non-Stick Advanced Jaw Scoop – Best Non-Stick Scoop
Amazon’s Choice in Pooper Scoopers by Nature’s Miracle
This poop scoop by Nature’s Miracle is an excellent tool if you want to clean everyday messes fast. It comes with spring-to-action handles, allowing you to pick up dog messes effortlessly. Additionally, it comes with a non-stick surface making it easy to clean.
Its one-handed design reduces squatting and bending during cleaning. Furthermore, its simple and collapsible design makes it easy to store. The poop scooper also works effectively on multiple surfaces.
Brand: Nature’s Miracle
Material: Plastic and aluminum
Color/s: Red and black
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 6.69 x 6.69 x 14.63 inches (16.99 x 16.99 x 37.16 centimeters)
Weight: 1.65 pounds (0.75 kilograms)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It has a unique non-stick advanced jaw scoop
What we liked:
- It comes with a rubber grip
- Its non-stick surface is easy to clean
- It uses an odor-blocking technology
- It has a rubber grip for effortless handling
What we didn’t like:
- It is not durable
- The non-stick might not be helpful
MOICO Pooper Scooper – Best for Large Dogs
If you own multiple large dogs, you need the MOICO Pooper Scooper. It has extra large sizes that allow you to collect more dog waste saving you the time of having to go back and forth.
The pooper scooper also has extra long handles that you can adjust to avoid bending. It works perfectly on multiple surfaces. Additionally, it is lightweight, strong, and easy to clean. You will also enjoy a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 24-month product assurance.
Brand: MOICO
Material: Aluminum and plastic
Color/s: Black and silver
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 38.5 x 10.23 x 9.25 inches (97.79 x 25.98 x 23.50 centimeters)
Weight: 3.2 pounds (1.45 kilograms)
Capacity: Large, medium, and large dog poop
Special feature: The pooper scooper is extra large, and the rake has 11 teeth instead of nine
What we liked:
- It comes with an extra-long ergonomic handle
- Its design is lightweight and strong
- It has a bigger size for bigger scoops
- It is easy to clean and store
What we didn’t like:
- It is challenging to assemble
HealthPro Dispoz-A-Scoops for Dogs – Best Sanitary
Amazon’s Choice in Pooper Scoopers by Dispoz-A-Scoop
If you want to keep your hands away from your furry friend’s poop, this is your best dog poop scoop. Simply hold the cardboard handle, scoop, and push down to seal.
Additionally, the manufacturer uses recycled cardboard and low-carbon wire that quickly self-destructs.
You will also love the self-sealing closure that makes it easy to use.
Brand: HealthPro
Material: Cardboard
Color/s: Brown
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 12 x 7.5 x 9 inches (30.48 x 19.05 x 22.86 centimeters)
Weight: 4.41 pounds (2.00 kilograms)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It comes with a cardboard handle for scooping poop
What we liked:
- Comes with a cardboard handle that ensures you don’t touch dog poop
- It prevents bacteria from passing to your hand
- Comes with 96 bags appropriate for dogs of all sizes
- The bags are biodegradable
What we didn’t like:
- You have to bend over to scoop
- Not durable
DogBuddy Pooper Scooper – Best Portable
If you are looking for a pooper scooper with a bag to use when on the move, the DogBuddy pooper scooper is an ideal option. This scoop can conveniently hook onto your furry friend’s leash. It also includes a built-in bag dispenser that keeps your hands clean.
You can extend the scooper’s backside to allow you to pick different dog waste sizes. This feature makes it ideal for larger dog breeds. Additionally, you can use it with one hand, and it is easy to use.
Brand: DogBuddy
Material: High-quality ABS and TPE, and PLA plastic for the waste bags
Color/s: Kiwi, mist, pink, and taupe
Unit count: Medium and large
Item dimensions: 5.3 x 3.6 x 4.1 inches (13.46 x 9.14 x 10.41 centimeters)
Weight: 7.04 ounces (199.58 grams)
Capacity: Medium and large dog poop
Special feature: It comes with an integrated waste bag compartment
What we liked:
- You can hook it onto your leash
- Comes with a hands-free design
- It has storage for standard-size rolls of baggies
- It is portable
What we didn’t like:
- It is not very effective
- You must bend down to pick up
PPOGOO Breakable Pooper Scooper – Best Easy to Use
Amazon’s Choice in Pooper Scoopers by PPOGOO
Some pet parents prefer easy-to-use, store, and clean tools. If that is you, the PPOGOO Breakable Pooper Scooper will appeal to you. Its manufacturer uses an easy-to-use, one-step design that makes it easy to use and store.
Also, PPOGOO uses lightweight, strong, and durable material, making the scooper effortless to clean. The strongly serrated prongs enable the tool to pick waste from multiple surfaces. Finally, its manufacturer offers free replacement within a year.
Brand: PPOGOO
Material: High-quality ABS
Color/s: Blue
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 11.89 x 6.73 x 6.22 inches (30.20 x 17.09 x 15.80 centimeters)
Weight: 14.07 ounces (398.88 grams)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It has an easy-pull handle and two stainless springs for easy scooping
What we liked:
- It is lightweight yet strong and durable
- The scoop is easy to use
- It is easy to clean thanks to the non-stick design
- Its design is foldable, making it portable
What we didn’t like:
- The handle can be too short for taller pet parents
- The spacing between the scoop’s teeth leaves some poop behind
Dogit Jawz Dog Waste Scooper – Best Budget
If your budget is tight and you need a practical dog pooper scooper that is convenient to use, this is it. This device makes your dog poop pick-up effortless thanks to its jagged prongs, perfect for picking waste from different surfaces.
Furthermore, it is lightweight, making it ideal for dog walks or when traveling. Pet parents looking for a long-handled poop scoop will love this scooper.
Brand: Dogit
Material: Strong plastic
Color/s: Black
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 6 x 5.3 x 25 inches (15.24 x 13.46 x 63.5 centimeters)
Weight: 13.5 ounces (382.72 grams)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It comes with a spring pooper scooper design for effortless waste collection
What we liked:
- Enables you to operate with one hand
- Comes with a comfortable grip with padding
- It offers the best value
- The claw can clean multiple surfaces
What we didn’t like:
- It is too short for taller users
- The plastic parts are not durable
Bodhi Dog Complete Poo Pack Pink + Biodegradable Pooper Scooper – Best Complete Cleaning Kit
This complete cleaning kit includes everything you need to keep your lawns clean. For example, it consists of a pooper scooper in your preferred color, a dog waste bag, and rolls of bags.
Its design is strategic, offering comfortable finger slots and a hang hole. Additionally, the top quality bag design makes the bags easy to fit and leakproof.
Brand: Bodhi Dog
Material: Plastic
Color/s: Black, pink
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 12.56 x 6.3 x 22 inches (31.90 x 16.00 x 55.88 centimeters)
Weight: 1.46 pounds (0.66 kilograms)
Capacity: Small, medium, and large dog poop
Special feature: It comes with a bag dispenser and rolls of bags
What we liked:
- It comes with bags and a bag handler
- It has an ergonomic handle
- It is easy to store
- Works perfectly on different surfaces
What we didn’t like:
- It has bag-ripping and falling-off issues
- You have to order replacement bags from the manufacturer
Spotty Wood Handle Pooper Scooper – Best Outdoor
This metal pooper scooper by Spotty is excellent for pet parents looking for the perfect tool to clean outdoors and kennel. Its long handles ensure you don’t have to bend when cleaning your furry friend’s waste.
Furthermore, the tray and rake snap together quickly, making storage effortless and convenient. The poop scoop is lightweight, so it is easy to use daily.
Brand: Spotty
Material: Metal
Color/s: Wood
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 36.75 x 8 x 6.5 inches (93.35 x 20.32 x 16.51 centimeters)
Weight: 1.45 pounds (0.66 kilograms)
Capacity: Medium and small dog poop
Special feature: It uses the tray with rake design
What we liked:
- It is easy to store
- It comes with soft thermoplastic grips
- It has a reasonable length for effortless use
- It is lightweight and rust-resistant
What we didn’t like:
- Handles come with poor-quality wood handles
- Its collection tray is relatively small
CO-Z Pet Pooper Scooper – Best Ergonomic
Cleaning your pup’s waste does not have to be a strenuous activity. This pooper scooper by Co-Z ensures you are comfortable as you pick up your dog’s poop. The dog poop picker upper side design uses a spring mechanism that makes opening and closing the jaw clamp effortless.
It is also easy to clean because of the non-stick clamp and is lightweight for portability. The design is foldable, making the pooper scooper convenient to store.
Brand: Co-Z
Material: Non-stick ABS
Color/s: Blue, black
Unit count: Pack of 1
Item dimensions: 23.6 x 5.3 x 5.5 inches (59.94 x 13.46 x 13.97 centimeters)
Weight: 1.17 pounds (0.53 kilograms)
Capacity: Large, medium, and small dog poop
Special feature: It includes an ergonomic handle and waste bag dispenser
What we liked:
- It is lightweight and portable
- It comes with a bag holder and replacement bags
- The scooper has a foldable and compact design
- It is comfortable to use
What we didn’t like:
- Operating the pooper scooper’s prongs is strenuous because of the tight springs
- It’s short and hence requires bending
Some Reader Questions Answered
How do I Clean a Poop Scoop?
The nature of the pooper scooper’s job means it will get dirty. The cleaning process is different because the poop scoopers have different designs.
For example, some scoopers have a bag in the middle that prevents them from directly contacting waste. Others do a lot of dirty work.
The best way to clean a scooper that directly touches dog poop is by squirting them off with a hose. After that, let them dry or use an old towel to dry them off if they are metallic to prevent them from rusting.
Do Pooper Scoopers Work in Grass?
Not all pooper scoopers work on grass. If you need one that will be effective on your yard, get one with rake-like edges. Such edges enable the tool to reach down between the grass blades to collect the waste.
However, those with a flat edge are not effective on grass. Also, the grass type matters. Runner-type grasses usually are more problematic because the rake traps the runners.
One Last Thing to Remember
Every pet parent should have a pooper scooper. However, you should get one based on your unique needs. Use the information this guide shares to help you get the best dog pooper scooper for your yard.
Nonetheless, the Arm & Hammer 71036 Claw Scoop is the best overall scooper. Getting it will give you value for your money. Are you tired of a piled-up yard? Get your dog poop scoop today to keep your yard clean.
