Dogs kick the ground after pooping to tidy up and mark their territory. They have glands in their feet that secrete pheromones, and a couple of backward scrapes of the paws release those chemicals thus “claming” the spot.
These pheromones from dogs’ feet last longer than the scent of urine or feces, making them more effective as a communication tool.
The behaviour dates back thousands of years, when dogs lived in the wild and were responsible for fending off prey. In the presence of other dogs, the action was used as a protection method.
Your pup isn’t attempting to ruin the lawn, but simply letting other dogs know they’re in charge.
But it’s not always a warning to “back-off” — this form of communication also allows canines to alert other dogs that there isn’t a present threat in the area. If another dog comes near, they’ll immediately know that another animal of the same species is close by. When surrounded by other dogs during visits to the dog park, it’s normal for this action to go into overdrive.
It’s also important to take note of when it becomes an aggressive behaviour or a sign of anxiety. If your dog has begun kicking at grass more frequently, consider anything that might be contributing to their behaviour. It could be a new puppy in your home, a new neighbourhood dog in the area, or your dog feeling anxious about something else that has changed recently.