Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Do Dogs Poop Facing North? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

boxer dog pooping at the park

Canines sometimes act strangely and seemingly without purpose, and you might have even heard a few facts or myths that made you question your understanding of them. For example, do dogs poop in line with the Earth’s magnetic field? The mere suggestion seems outlandish without a clear reason why it would benefit them. While we can tell you that, surprisingly, studies have found that canines prefer to defecate on a north-south axis, there’s a lot more to it. More research is needed to understand this behavior in better detail. Let’s see what the science says.

divider dog faces oct 2024

Do Dogs Poop Facing North?

Believe it or not, studies have found that, after watching 70 dogs defecate over 2 years (roughly 1,900 defecations and 5,600 urinations), dogs prefer to poop on the north-south axis while the magnetic field is under calm conditions. However, when the magnetic field is unstable, this behavior doesn’t occur. Some theorize that this might be why your dog sometimes can’t settle on a place to go potty.

hungarian vizsla dog poops in the green grass
Image Credit: SasaStock, Shutterstock

Why Do Dogs Do This?

It’s still unclear as to why dogs align themselves this way. We don’t yet know whether they are doing it consciously (perhaps the magnetic field can be sensed by dogs), or whether they simply feel more or less comfortable when facing a specific direction. The study discussed above hypothesized that they might do this to orientate themselves in order to know where they are and where they are going.

Why Is This Important?

According to the researchers of the study, this is one of the first times that a predictable and measurable behavior has been recorded in reaction to the Earth’s magnetic field in mammals. This could mean that other scientists might need to “revise their former experiments and observations and consider the phenomenon in their current and future experiment.”

Magnetic Field and How It Affects Animals

The planet’s magnetic field provides all types of animals with information, most of which is used for navigation. Birds are the classic example, but research shows that this ability isn’t confined to birds.

One study observed north-south orientation in domestic cattle and Roe and Red Deer. The scientists noted that this orientation occurred while these animals were resting or grazing. They ruled out light and wind conditions as mitigating factors. They deducted the influence of the magnetic field as a real-life example of Occam’s razor, where the simplest explanation is probably true.

Another study by the same group determined that this alignment in cattle and deer was more significant in resting bovines than standing bovines. The animal’s position may provide additional clues about the purpose of this orientation. Evidence also exists in the canine world. Researchers observed magnetic alignment may improve the hunting success of red foxes when mousing or hunting for rodents. The scientists didn’t identify any confounders swaying the results.

Research with hunting dogs (domesticated breeds that have been bred to hunt) provides additional information about the purpose of directional or, specifically, north-south orientation. The scientists observed that when the dogs were navigating their way back to the place they started, they would first do a short run along the north-south geometric axis before embarking on their homeward journey.  They concluded this run may help orient the hounds to use their homing abilities.

So far, we know that canines join coyotes, grey wolves, cattle, roe deer, red deer, red foxes, and hunting dogs when it comes to magnetoreception, which refers to an organism that detects the Earth’s magnetic field.

dog pooping in the meadow
Image Credit: Dora Zett, Shutterstock

divider dog faces oct 2024

Final Thoughts

Dogs are creatures of habit. They likely prefer a set schedule of meals, walks, and play. They may also practice magnetic alignment, even if its purpose is uncertain. Canines have retained many behaviors that may not seem necessary in today’s world, and perhaps assuming a north-south position offers some benefits that science has yet to uncover.


Featured Image Credit: Daniel Megias, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Are Dogs Social Animals? Vet-Verified Canine Socialization Science & Facts

Dogs are social animals that thrive in the company of other dogs as well as humans. They are known for their loyalty and...

Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale in Texas: 2025 Breeders List

It’s hard not to fall in love with a Labrador Retriever. They are some of the sweetest dogs you’ll ever meet. Fortunately, you...

Reactive Dog Training: 7 Vet-Approved Tips to Help Your Dog Relax

Reactivity is one trait that can make life significantly challenging for dogs and their owners. Daily walks must stay limited to low-stress areas,...

How to Clean a Dog Bite: 7 Simple Steps (Vet Approved)

Every year, approximately 4 million Americans are bitten by dogs. Of those, 800,000 need medical treatment for their wounds.1 Any dog, no matter...

More related

300+ Human Names for Dogs: Familiar Ideas for New Companions

One of the first tasks when we bring a new dog home is to name them. Their name will be with them for...

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin? Vet-Approved Nutrition & Health Facts

This delicious orange vegetable is non-toxic to dogs, but is it healthy for them to eat? The answer is yes! Pumpkins are enjoyed...

Is a Samoyed Good for a First-time Dog Owner? What You Need to Know!

The Samoyed is a gorgeous breed. They have great personalities, are brave and loyal, and their coat is the envy of many a...

Can Dogs Eat Ice Cream? Vet-Verified Health & Safety Guide

Ice cream is a yummy treat many people enjoy, especially during the hot summer months. For dog owners, it’s common to see their...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Saffron Rice? Vet-Verified Facts & Safety Guide

Saffron rice is a tasty and savory dish, and dogs may be tempted to eat it. Many dogs enjoy the taste of rice and may see no problem with eating saffron rice. However, the issue with saffron rice is that...

Can Dogs Eat Saffron Rice

Can Dogs Eat Pizza? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Pizza is undoubtedly a staple in the US, with more than 6,000 slices consumed in a person’s lifetime. That’s a lot of pizza! Since pizza is such an American favorite, dog owners know that pizza is a coveted food item...

Can Dogs Eat_Pizza

5 Benefits of Sweet Potatoes for Dogs: Vet-Reviewed Facts & Considerations

Sweet potatoes are superfoods chock full of many health benefits for humans. They’re loaded with vitamins and minerals and are generally considered a healthier choice than regular potatoes. Since they’re so beneficial for humans, you might wonder if sweet potatoes...

dog smelling the homemade cooked sweet potato on plate

10 Best Non-GMO Dog Foods in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

There are so many different types of dog foods on the market. From “grain-free” to “holistic” to “human-grade,” how do you choose the best one for your canine pal? Many marketing terms are used on dog food labels nowadays, and...

Gizmo white fluffy dog with Ollie dog food box

How Often Should Puppies Eat? Vet-Approved Guide & Scheduling

Raising puppies is not for the faint of heart. It’s a tough gig, not unlike raising a newborn baby, but it is extremely gratifying, rewarding, and a whole lot of fun. One of the most important parts of successfully caring...

puppies eating from bowls together

Can Dogs Eat Pork? Vet-Approved Nutrition Facts & FAQ

There is always a time for pork, whether it’s crispy bacon to accompany your waffles, pork sausages for lunch, or a pork roast with all the trimmings for a special occasion. There are many opportunities where pork can get your...

Can Dogs Eat Pork

10 Best Raw Dog Foods in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Raw food diets come with several benefits for your furry friend. Your dog won’t receive all of the benefits of a raw food diet if you don’t select the best food type available. To make the process at least a...

australian shepherd dog eating, steel bowl

Bil-Jac Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary Bil-Jac makes several varieties of wet and dry dog food, treats, and supplements. The company promotes its food as super premium dog food that provides the best taste and nutrition. Its main selling point is the use of...

Dogster_Bil-Jac Dog Food Review