The Ultimate Poop Bag Showdown: Which Bags Can Handle the Real Mess?
Let’s be honest - every dog parent has faced that moment of truth: standing in a park, mittened hand reaching for a poop bag, praying it won’t split under pressure. Because when it comes to your dog’s daily… deposits, you’re not just cleaning up - you’re engaging in a full-blown test of product engineering.
Luckily, Canada’s dog parents have two all-star contenders vying for the title of best poop bag brand in the Great White North: Earth Rated and Bags on Board.
Both are eco-conscious, strong, and widely available, but which one really handles the real mess - from Great Dane-sized challenges to frozen February walks?
Let’s dig in (pun fully intended).
Why Picking the Right Poop Bag Actually Matters
It might seem trivial - it’s “just a bag,” right? Wrong. If you’ve ever had a mid-walk bag blowout, you already know this isn’t a corner worth cutting.
Here’s what separates premium poop bags from their bargain-bin cousins:
- Strength: Cheap bags tear easily, especially when frozen or stretched.
- Leak-Proofing: Because “warm surprise on your hand” isn’t a selling feature.
- Eco-Responsibility: Many cities are phasing out thin plastics, so eco-friendly bags are the future.
- Ease of Use: Cold hands, thick gloves, dark nights — you need bags that open easily and fit dispensers perfectly.
Canadian winter reality check: In -20°C weather, low-quality bags can get brittle and snap. That’s why choosing brands like Earth Rated and Bags on Board (designed for real-world use) isn’t just smart - it’s survival.
Meet the Contenders: Earth Rated vs. Bags on Board
Earth Rated: Canada’s Eco Hero
If poop bags had a PR team, Earth Rated would be running the campaign. Born in Montreal, they’ve set the standard for eco-friendly, compostable, and downright delightful waste bags that make cleanup… well, less gross.
Why pet parents love them:
- Compostable option: Certified ASTM D6400 and BPI-approved.
- Ultra-strong and thick: Never flimsy, even for big dogs.
- Light lavender scent or unscented: Because “ Eau de Labrador” isn’t for everyone.
- Available with or without handles: For easy tying on the go.
- Earth-conscious packaging: 100% recyclable.
- Large handle bags available in unscented and lavender.
Bags on Board: The Tried-and-True Classic
When it comes to consistency, Bags on Board delivers — literally. Known for extra-long rolls, no-leak reliability, and budget-friendly bulk packs, these bags are the go-to for multi-dog households and heavy lifters (aka Great Dane parents).
Why dog parents swear by them:
- Thick, heavy-duty plastic: Strong enough to handle large messes.
- Affordable bulk packs: Perfect for households with more than one “pooper.”
- Universal fit: Works with all standard leash dispensers.
- Odor-control options: Because politeness starts on the sidewalk.
- Sustainable poop bag option available
The Showdown: Which Brand Performs Better?
Let’s get technical. Here’s how these two heavyweights stack up in the Great Canadian Cleanup Championship:
| Feature | Earth Rated | Bags on Board |
| Leak Protection | ✅ Extra-thick, tear-resistant | ✅ Leak-proof seal |
| Scent Options | Lavender or Unscented | Odor control or Unscented |
| Eco-Friendly Options | 🌿 Compostable certified | ♻️ Recyclable packaging |
| Bag Size | Standard & XL | Standard & Jumbo |
| Handle Design | With or without handles |
Standard roll
|
| Winter Durability | 💪 Excellent in cold temps |
👍 Good, slight stiffening below -15°C
|
| Price Range | Premium | Mid-range |
| Best For | Eco-conscious, style-savvy owners |
Big dogs, multi-pet families
|
Winner: It’s a Tie - Depends on Your Priorities!
- Choose Earth Rated if you want sustainability and aesthetics.
- Choose Bags on Board if you want bulk strength and value.
- Or, be a true Canadian and keep both on rotation - because no one likes running out mid-walk.
Best Poop Bags for Every Type of Canadian Dog Parent
| Type of Dog Parent | Best Match | Why It Works |
| Eco Warrior | Earth Rated Compostable Bags | Plastic-free, guilt-free cleanup. |
| Winter Walker | Bags on Board Extra-Thick Rolls | Tough in cold weather, easy to open with gloves. |
| Apartment Dweller | Earth Rated Lavender Scented | Mask odours before trash day. |
| Multi-Dog Household | Bags on Board Bulk Refill Pack | 315+ bags per box — cost-efficient. |
| Frequent Adventurer | Earth Rated Handled Bags |
Tie them to your pack or leash with ease.
|
Where to Buy the Best Dog Poop Bags in Canada
If you’re tired of paying U.S. shipping fees, dealing with exchange rates, or waiting three weeks for your order to clear customs - we’ve got good news.
At Brindle Pet Supplies, you can shop Earth Rated and Bags on Board poop bags directly from our Canadian warehouse.
- No import duties
- Fast local shipping (Canada Post or UPS)
- Free delivery over $89
- Verified stock from official distributors
- Friendly Canadian customer service
Because when nature calls, you shouldn’t have to wait for your poop bags to cross the border.
Poop Bag FAQs (Canada Edition)
Are Earth Rated poop bags compostable?
Yes! Earth Rated’s green compostable line meets ASTM D6400 and BPI certification standards, making them safe for municipal composting programs that accept pet waste (check your city’s regulations).
Are Bags on Board poop bags environmentally friendly?
While not compostable, Bags on Board uses recyclable packaging and thick, minimal-waste rolls — a solid step toward sustainability.
Do poop bags actually break down in landfills?
Most plastic bags (even some labeled “biodegradable”) won’t break down in traditional landfills due to lack of oxygen. Compostable options like Earth Rated are better for sustainability if properly disposed of.
What size poop bag do I need for my dog?
Small dogs: Standard Earth Rated rolls work great. Large breeds (Labs, Shepherds, Danes): Opt for XL Bags on Board or Earth Rated Handle Bags for extra capacity.
Do poop bags tear in cold weather?
Cheaper brands? Yes. Earth Rated and Bags on Board? Not likely. Both are engineered to withstand freezing temperatures (and the occasional snowshoe hike).
What’s the best place to buy poop bags in bulk in Canada?
Brindle Pet Supplies offers both Earth Rated and Bags on Board in multi-roll, bulk packs with fast Canadian shipping and no import fees.
Can I use these poop bags in composting bins at home?
Only Earth Rated Compostable Bags are suitable for organic waste systems — but not for backyard composting of pet waste. Always follow your local guidelines.
Why do some poop bags have handles?
Handles make it easier to tie up waste securely and carry it home without leaks or odour — particularly helpful during long walks or hikes.
Are scented poop bags safe for dogs?
Yes! Earth Rated’s lavender scent is non-toxic and pet-safe, designed to neutralize odours without harsh chemicals.
Can I recycle used poop bags?
Unfortunately, no. Once used, poop bags must go in the trash. Compostable bags can only go in compost programs that accept pet waste.
Final Verdict: Which Poop Bags Reign Supreme?
When it comes to poop bags, both Earth Rated and Bags on Board pass the ultimate test - keeping your hands clean and conscience clear.
Choose Earth Rated if you want eco-friendly, compostable, and Canadian-made quality. Choose Bags on Board if you’re all about strength, practicality, and budget-friendly bulk options.
Or do what most Brindle Pets customers do: keep both on rotation, so you’re ready for any mess, any season, anywhere. Shop both brands now at brindlepets.ca - your trusted Canadian source for pet cleanup essentials, shipped fast and fresh across Canada.