How to Choose Dog Poop Bags

By Petplanet | Published: 2026-10-22

Category: Buying Guides

Learn how to pick the best dog poop bags for your needs. Compare scented vs unscented, eco-friendly options, and find the right balance of cost, strength, and convenience.

Quick answer

Choose dog poop bags based on your priorities: scent control (mint or vanilla), eco-friendly materials, and budget. For daily walks, a mid-range scented bag offers convenience; for eco-conscious buyers, look for recycled content or degradable options.

Scented vs unscented: which masks odors better?

Scented poop bags use a fragrance (like mint or vanilla) to help mask the smell of waste. This can make the chore more pleasant, especially in warm weather or when carrying the bag for a while. Unscented bags avoid adding any perfume, which is better for dogs or owners sensitive to fragrances.

If you walk in areas where other people or dogs are close by, a light scent can be a courtesy. However, no bag completely eliminates odor—scented bags just cover it up temporarily.

Eco-friendly materials: recycled vs degradable

Some poop bags are made with post-consumer recycled plastic, reducing the demand for virgin materials. Others are marketed as 'degradable,' meaning they break down faster under certain conditions. Neither is a perfect solution—degradable bags still require proper disposal and may not degrade in a landfill. Recycled-content bags are a solid choice for reducing waste without compromising strength.

Size and thickness matter for hand protection

Look for bags that are extra long and thick enough to prevent leaks or tears. A bag that is too small or thin can lead to messy accidents. Standard rolls fit most dispensers, but check dimensions if you use a specific holder.

How to choose: decision rules

Do you want scent control?: If yes, choose scented bags like Beco Mint or Good Boy Vanilla. If you or your dog are sensitive to fragrances, go with unscented bags.
Is eco-friendliness a priority?: Look for bags with recycled content (e.g., Beco's 40% post-consumer material) or degradable options (e.g., Good Boy Degradable). Note that degradable bags still need proper disposal.
What is your budget per bag?: Compare cost per bag. Good Boy Poo Bags (150 bags) are very economical at around $0.69, while Beco bags (60 packs) cost more per bag but offer thicker material and recycled content. For heavy use on a budget, the Good Boy 150-pack is a great value. For fewer walks but better material, Beco packs work well.
Do you need built-in handles?: Good Boy bags come with built-in handles for easy tying. Beco bags are roll-style and fit standard dispensers—handles are not built-in but you can tie the bag closed.

Product facts

Beco Mint Scented Poop Bags - 60 pack: Beco Mint Scented Poop Bags are extra long and thick, leak-proof, and made with 40% post-consumer recycled material. The packaging is recycled and recyclable. You get strong hand protection and a fresh mint scent while reducing plastic waste—good for daily walks where odor and eco-friendliness are both priorities.
Beco Mint Scented Poop Bags - 60 pack
Beco Unscented Poop Bags - 60 pack: Beco Unscented Poop Bags are the same size and thickness as the mint version but without fragrance. Also made with 40% post-consumer recycled material. Ideal for scent-sensitive dogs or owners who prefer no added fragrance, without sacrificing strength or eco-friendly materials.
Beco Unscented Poop Bags - 60 pack

Which bag fits you?

Best for

Eco-conscious owners who want strong, leak-proof bags with recycled content and light scent
Budget-focused owners who need a large quantity of vanilla-scented bags with built-in handles

Not ideal for

Owners who avoid all fragrances—choose unscented Beco bags instead
Those who need the absolute lowest price per bag—compare cost per bag across options