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Why does my puppy prefer to poop and pee on the sidewalk on walks?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 14 days old | 15 lbs

Why does my puppy poop and pee on the sidewalk when I take him on walks?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 15th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like either a preference or a timing thing.

Preference- Some dogs prefer sidewalks or roads and will wait until you get to that kind of surface to do their business.

Timing- you’d be surprised at how predictable a dog’s potty schedule can be. When I lived in an apartment, my dog would go potty exactly 8 minutes into our walk- regardless of where we were. So if you’d prefer he go on the grass, try changing up your walk pattern so that you’re on the grass at his usual “time”.

Best of luck to you and Cooper!
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