Behavior Science 101: Nudges That Boost Bag Use and Proper Disposal

Let’s be honest, most dog owners in your community want to do the right thing. But even in well-managed neighborhoods throughout Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, or Atlanta, we still see the same issue: pet waste left behind or bags tossed where they shouldn’t be.

At CoPS on Doody, we know this isn’t always about rule-breaking or bad intentions. It’s often about friction. Behavior science has shown us that when something is just a little inconvenient or unclear, people are more likely to skip it. The good news? You can flip that dynamic with a few simple “nudges.”

Here’s how communities across Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and the Atlanta metro area are using psychology, not policing, to keep common areas cleaner and residents happier.

What’s a Nudge?

A “nudge” is a small design choice or environmental cue that gently guides people toward better behavior without demanding or shaming. Its not a rule. Its a reminder. And when done right, nudges can make a big difference.

In the context of pet waste, a nudge helps more residents:

• Grab a bag before the walk

• Use the provided bags instead of leaving waste behind

• Toss used bags in the right bin (not in landscaping or recycling bins!)

5 Nudges That Actually Work

1. Visible, Accessible Bag Dispensers

People are far more likely to use a bag when its within easy reach. Place stations in natural walk paths near entrances, sidewalks, and dog-friendly areas, not tucked away in a corner.

In high-foot-traffic areas like Leesburg, Bethesda, or Bowie, we’ve found that simply relocating

a pet waste station 10–15 feet closer to a sidewalk can boost bag usage significantly.

2. Bright Signage with Friendly Messaging

Ditch the angry red text. Replace it with clear, friendly language like:

“Help keep our pawsome community clean—please pick up after your pet!”

A playful tone reduces defensiveness and taps into community pride. Even better? Add a cute dog icon or a simple photo of a clean lawn—it works.

3. Reinforce the “Social Norm”

People tend to follow what they believe others are doing. Use signs or newsletters to highlight community compliance:

• “95% of residents pick up after their pets, thank you!”

• “Last month, our team collected 2,300 bags, everyone helped.”

Positive reinforcement beats shame every time.

4. Pet Waste Station Placement Matters

It’s not enough to have a station, it has to be nearby. When the nearest can is 50 feet away, many people won’t make the walk. That’s when bags get tossed in bushes, landscaping beds, or worse.

At CoPS on Doody, we help communities in Northern Virginia and Metro Atlanta plan station layouts that actually work. Including placement of pet waste stations where they’ll be used, not just where they’re convenient for installers.

5. Maintenance Consistency Sends a Message

When stations are always full of bags and cans are emptied regularly, it sends a subtle but powerful signal: “This community cares.” And people tend to match the behavior they see modeled.

That’s why our service routes across the DC metro, Atlanta, and surrounding areas are built around reliability and visibility. Every visit reinforces the norm that picking up after your dog is just part of how things are done here.

Behavior Change Starts with Design

You don’t need more rules to get better results, you just need better structure. When stations are placed thoughtfully, stocked consistently, and supported with the right visual cues, people respond.

At CoPS on Doody, we help communities combine practical service with a nudge-based approach. The result? Cleaner sidewalks, fewer complaints, and a better experience for everyone (dogs included).

Want help redesigning your station layout or improving compliance in high-traffic areas?

Our team works with HOAs, apartment communities, and local governments across

Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Atlanta to create smart, user-friendly solutions that actually work.

Let’s nudge your community toward a cleaner, happier future.