# Tarragona dog DNA testing and sanitation program

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/tarragona-dog-dna-testing-and-sanitation-program
> Updated: 2026-10-18T08:06:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

The city of Tarragona has implemented a program to identify pet owners who fail to clean up after their dogs by analyzing DNA from excrement found on public streets. The initiative relies on a municipal genetic census to match samples with registered animals.

Initially, the project involved collecting epithelial cells using sterile materials to be compared against a census of over 2,000 dogs, covering roughly 17% to 20% of the city’s canine population. 

As the program progressed, the genetic census grew to approximately 2,500 animals, representing about 25% of the city’s dogs. Enforcement involves teams from the Guàrdia Urbana de Tarragona and the company ADN Canino. If a DNA match is confirmed through laboratory processes like capillary electrophoresis, owners face a 100 euro fine. In instances where no match is found, the data is utilized to generate heat maps to identify high-frequency waste areas and study local patterns.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-18: Tarragona uses dog DNA testing to fine pet owners

Tarragona is using DNA analysis of dog excrement to identify owners who fail to clean up after pets, with violators facing 100 euro fines.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tarragona-uses-dog-dna-testing-to-fine-pet-owners

### 2026-09-29: Tarragona begins collecting dog excrement for genetic testing

Tarragona has launched a program to collect dog excrement samples for genetic testing to identify and fine owners who do not clean up after their pets in public spaces.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tarragona-begins-collecting-dog-excrement-for-genetic-testing

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Cite as: Tarragona dog DNA testing and sanitation program. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/tarragona-dog-dna-testing-and-sanitation-program