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Not all doggie poo bags are created equal — and if you have ever had one tear at exactly the wrong moment on a cold January morning, you already know that. There are a few things worth looking for when choosing a bag you can actually count on, day after day, walk after walk.
Strength
A good bag starts with strength. It needs to be thick enough to handle the job without breaking, but not so rigid that it is difficult to open with gloved hands. Flimsy bags false economies — you end up using two just to feel safe, which defeats the purpose entirely. Look for bags described as “extra thick” or “leak-proof” — these are the ones that earn your trust after the first few walks.
The Canadian Winter Test
This one matters more than most bag reviews mention. Cold temperatures make thin plastic brittle and nearly impossible to open cleanly — especially when you are wearing gloves and a dog is pulling on the leash. A bag that performs perfectly in August can split, stick together, or refuse to open in February. If you are buying bags for a Canadian winter, look specifically for ones with a wide, easy-open design and a thickness that stays flexible in the cold. This is not a small thing.
Size
Size matters too. A bag that is too small leaves you in an awkward situation mid-walk, while one that is generous in size gives you confidence and room to work quickly. Most standard bags measure around 9 x 13 inches — that is generally a good size for most dogs. If you have a larger breed, look for bags that specifically mention “large dog” sizing.
Tie Handles
Tie handles are a genuine bonus — they make sealing the bag quick and clean, which is exactly what you want when you are standing outside in the rain or cold. Without handles, you are relying on a simple knot that can be fiddly with gloved hands. Once you have used bags with easy-tie handles, it is hard to go back.
Scented or Unscented?
This comes down to personal preference, but scented bags are more popular than you might expect. A light lavender scent, for example, does not overpower — it simply takes the edge off an unpleasant task, which is especially welcome on warm days or longer walks. Unscented bags are a perfectly fine choice too, particularly for dog owners who are sensitive to fragrance. Both work equally well; the scent is purely about making the experience a little more bearable.
Roll or Box?
Bags on rolls require a dispenser — a small holder that clips to your leash or belt loop. Many dog owners love the convenience of always having a dispenser ready. Others prefer the box format: a compact box that sits at home, and before each walk you simply pull out two or three bags and slip them into your pocket while they are flat and empty. No dispenser, no hardware — just a few bags ready to go. Neither format is better than the other; it is entirely a matter of how you prefer to walk.
Environmentally Friendly
For those who care about their environmental footprint, bags made with recycled plastic are a meaningful step up from conventional options. Certified compostable bags exist too, though they require access to a proper composting facility to break down correctly — which most Canadian municipalities do not yet provide for pet waste. Recycled-content bags are a practical middle ground: still plastic, but made from material that would otherwise have gone to landfill.
My Pick: Earth Rated
One of my personal picks is Earth Rated — a Canadian company that ticks every box on this list. Their bags are extra thick, easy to open even in cold weather, and made with 65% certified post-consumer recycled plastic. They come in lavender scented and unscented versions, in both the Grab & Go box format and on refill rolls for dispenser users. They have never let me down on any walk, in any weather.
Buy Earth Rated Lavender Bags — Grab & Go Box (120 bags) on Amazon.ca →
Buy Earth Rated Lavender Bags — Refill Rolls (270 bags) on Amazon.ca →
More from DoggiePooBags.com
What Makes a Good Doggie Poo Bag? · Choosing Bags That Work in Canada · The Bag I Use on Every Walk · Bagging Isn’t Enough · No Bin in Sight? · Why the Right Bag Matters · Why This Site Exists
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