Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?

Dogs engaging in poop-eating, scientifically known as coprophagia, is a common yet puzzling behaviour for many pet owners. While this habit may seem unpleasant, it’s essential to understand the various reasons behind it. Dogs may consume poop for both normal and abnormal reasons.

It is typical for dogs to eat the faeces of other species; however, the behaviour becomes concerning when they eat their own or that of other dogs. Addressing this behaviour often involves using positive reinforcement and redirection to guide them towards more acceptable actions.

Why Dogs Eat Poop

Common Reasons Why Dogs Consume Poop

Sometimes dogs eat poop for reasons that make sense in their world. Here are some cases where this behaviour is normal:

Mother Dogs Cleaning Up

Nursing mother dogs often eat their puppies’ poop to keep the den clean. This is a natural behaviour to maintain hygiene.

Inherited Behavior from Wolves

Dogs might eat poop due to instincts passed down from wolves. Wolves eat fresh poop to shield their dens from parasites. Dogs could be copying this behaviour, especially with poop that is less than two days old, as it is less likely to harbour harmful parasites.

Poop of Other Animals Tastes Good

Dogs sometimes find the poop of other animals, like horses or cats, appealing because it contains certain nutrients. However, this can also expose them to harmful bacteria, so it’s best to discourage this practice.

Unusual Reasons Why Dogs Consume Poop

Consuming their own poop or that of other dogs is unusual and can be a sign of something wrong. Here are some potential reasons:

Seeking Attention

Some dogs eat poop to get their owners’ attention. As puppies, they might grab poop to instigate a reaction, leading to a chase. This can make eating poop a habit for attention.

Health Issues

If a dog starts eating poop out of the blue, it might not be feeling well. It’s important to get the dog checked by a vet if this behaviour starts suddenly, along with other symptoms like weight loss or vomiting.

Anxiety Symptoms

Anxiety could cause dogs to eat poop. An anxious dog might eat its own poop if confined or stressed, and this could stem from general anxiety, separation anxiety, or boredom when left alone.

Fear of Punishment

Dogs punished for accidents might eat their poop to hide the evidence, fearing their owners’ response. Positive reinforcement is a better method for training, as it avoids this issue.

Health Risks Associated with Coprophagia

Eating poop, also known as coprophagia, can expose dogs to many health risks. These risks can affect their digestive system, overall health, and even their behaviour.

Parasites

Dogs that eat poop might ingest worms like hookworms, roundworms, or whipworms. These parasites can cause serious health issues, including weight loss and diarrhoea.

Bacteria and Viruses

Stool can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. These bacteria can lead to infections, which might require antibiotic treatment.

Nutritional Deficiencies

If a dog constantly eats faeces, it might be due to a lack of essential nutrients. This behaviour can further deplete their health as the consumed stool often lacks proper nutrition.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Ingesting poop can lead to stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhoea. It can also disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the dog’s gut.

Toxin Exposure


Stools, especially those from wild animals, can contain toxins or chemicals, posing additional health threats.

Table of Common Health Risks

Health IssuePotential Impact
ParasitesWeight loss, diarrhoea
Bacteria and VirusesInfections requiring antibiotics
Nutritional DeficienciesFurther depletion of essential nutrients
Gastrointestinal ProblemsVomiting, stomach upset, diarrhoea
Toxin ExposureRisk of ingesting harmful chemicals

Owners should monitor their dogs closely to prevent this habit and consult a vet if it persists.

Analysing Dog Behavior

Different behaviours can explain why dogs eat poop. Understanding these behaviours helps us address the problem effectively.

Puppy Exploration

Puppies explore the world through their mouths, similar to human infants. This includes tasting objects to understand them.

Coprophagia, or the act of eating faeces, can be part of this exploration phase. Puppies often grow out of this behaviour as they mature.

Pet owners should supervise young dogs closely and keep their environment clean to help prevent this habit from forming.

Attention-Seeking Behaviour

Some dogs eat poop to get their owner’s attention. Even negative attention might encourage the dog to repeat the action.

Dogs learn quickly that this behaviour gets a reaction. To counteract this, it’s important to ignore the behaviour and reinforce positive actions.

Training sessions with rewards can help divert the dog’s focus to more appropriate behaviours.

Isolation and Confinement

Dogs left alone for long periods or confined in small spaces might eat poop out of boredom or stress. This behaviour can serve as a coping mechanism.

Providing dogs with sufficient mental and physical stimulation can reduce the tendency to engage in coprophagia.

Regular walks, interactive toys, and social interaction play crucial roles in preventing this behaviour. Adjusting their environment can make a significant difference in their overall well-being.

Psychological Aspects of Coprophagia

Coprophagia, or stool eating, in dogs can be linked to several psychological conditions. These behaviours often stem from stress, anxiety, boredom, or learned behaviour from other dogs.

Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common triggers. Dogs may experience these feelings due to changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home or the arrival of a new pet. Anxiety can lead them to engage in unusual behaviours, including eating poop.

Dogs in stressful situations may find comfort in coprophagia. Understanding the causes of their stress can help reduce this behaviour. Calm environments and structured routines can make a significant difference.

Boredom and Play

Boredom is another major factor. Dogs left alone for long periods or without enough physical activity may eat poop out of sheer boredom. This behaviour can be more common in intelligent breeds that require regular mental stimulation.

Providing toys, engaging activities, and regular exercise can combat boredom. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and daily walks help keep their minds active. Mental stimulation reduces the likelihood of developing this behaviour.

Imitation and Learned Behavior

Dogs often learn by imitating others. If a puppy grows up around other dogs that eat poop, they may mimic this behaviour. It’s a natural learning process for them. Puppies are especially impressionable and may pick up this habit early on.

Proper training and supervision are crucial. Preventing this behaviour early can stop it from becoming a long-term habit. Training methods like positive reinforcement can teach dogs that poop is not food.

Stopping Your Dog from Eating Poop

Managing Dogs That Like Eating Cat Faeces

Dogs often find cat poop to be an irresistible snack, but there are ways to curb this behaviour. Pet gates or doors can block dogs from areas where litter boxes are kept, allowing the cat access while barring the dog.

Putting the litter box on a high table can also keep it out of the dog’s reach, while still available for the cat. Some people find coprophagic supplements helpful; these change the taste of the poop to make it less appealing to dogs.

Preventing Puppies from Starting This Habit

For puppies, strict control over their environment is key. Regular house training schedules help a lot. When the puppy finishes defecating, reward them with a tasty treat while you swiftly clean up the stool. This eliminates any chance for the puppy to access the faeces and positively reinforces their potty training.

Helping Anxious or Crated Dogs

Anxiety or confinement can lead to dogs eating their poop. Adjusting their environment can help. Dogs might need larger spaces, quieter areas, or more interactive toys. For dogs that can’t be left alone, consider doggy daycare or taking them to work. Consultation with a veterinary behaviourist or certified animal behaviourist can also provide additional strategies.

Managing Adult Dogs That Have Learned the Habit

For adult dogs that have learned to eat poop, avoiding punishment is crucial. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement. This might involve treating the dog immediately after they defecate and preventing access to the poop. Consistent positive reinforcement encourages alternative behaviours, reducing the likelihood of the dog eating poop.

Refocusing Your Dog’s Attention

For dogs that are quick to eat their poop, supervision is key. Go outside with your dog and reward them with treats right after they finish. This keeps their attention on you while you pick up the stool. If your dog ignores you and tries to eat their poop, use a leash to lead them away immediately. Teaching commands like “leave it” and “come” can also be helpful, using positive reinforcement and high-value treats.

Utilising Dog Training Tools

Certain tools can aid in breaking this habit. Use a leash to keep the dog close and direct them away from stool. Clicker training can reinforce commands like “leave it.” Always have a treat pouch with tasty rewards to reinforce good behaviour. Poop bags should be handy to clean up stool immediately, removing any temptation.

Reducing the Appeal of Poop

For dogs that eat their own poop because they find it tasty, dog chews designed to make the poop taste unpleasant can be effective. Probiotics might also help reduce this behaviour. Combining these with distractions like toys or training tools can offer a comprehensive approach to breaking the habit.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

Pet owners should recognize when it is necessary to seek professional advice for their dog’s behaviour, especially if their dog is eating poop. Specific signs can indicate health issues, persistent coprophagia, or changes in eating habits, which all warrant a visit to the vet.

Signs of Underlying Health Issues

Look out for signs like weight loss, diarrhoea, or vomiting. These may indicate health problems such as digestive disorders, parasites, or infections. Bite marks and bruises around the mouth can also be a red flag. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s best to consult a veterinarian promptly.

Persistent Coprophagia

If a dog continues eating poop despite training efforts, it’s time to seek veterinary help. Persistent behaviour can point to nutritional deficiencies or underlying medical conditions. A vet can perform tests to identify reasons behind this habit and recommend treatments or dietary adjustments.

Changes in Eating Habits

Sudden changes in a dog’s appetite or eating habits can be cause for concern. Eating poop may be a sign they are not absorbing nutrients properly or have an underlying health condition. Monitor their food intake and consult a vet if any unusual changes are noticed.

Treatment Options for Coprophagia

Dogs who eat poop, a behaviour known as coprophagia, might need treatment options such as medications, supplements, or alternative therapies.

Medications

Veterinarians may prescribe medications to help stop this behaviour. Anti-parasitic drugs can be given if worms or parasites are causing the problem. Enzyme supplements may help improve digestion, making the dog feel less inclined to eat poop for nutrients.

Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed if stress or anxiety is the root cause. These medications should always be used under a vet’s supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Supplements

Certain supplements can help reduce coprophagia. Digestive enzymes aid in breaking down food properly, reducing the need for the dog to seek out other sources of nutrients.

Probiotics improve gut health, which may decrease the dog’s desire to eat poop. Flavour deterrents like commercially available products can make poop taste unpleasant, discouraging the behaviour. It’s important to consult with a vet before starting any supplement regimen.

Alternative Therapies

Behavioural training is a key strategy in treating coprophagia. Positive reinforcement can teach the dog to avoid poop. Activities like increased exercise and mental stimulation can reduce boredom, which may be one reason dogs eat poop.

Diet changes might also be effective. Switching to a more nutritious diet or one with higher fibre can make a difference. Environmental management to keep the dog’s living area clean can also deter the behaviour. Therapy and training should be consistent and patience is necessary for these methods to work.

Impact of Coprophagia on Human-Canine Bond

Dog owners often find coprophagia (eating poop) disgusting. It can make them feel embarrassed or even ashamed.

Trust Issues

This behaviour might cause problems in the trust between a dog and its owner. Owners may worry about their dog’s health or cleanliness.

Hygiene Concerns

People may feel concerned about hygiene. Owners may avoid close contact, like petting or cuddling, fearing germs.

Social Embarrassment

When dogs eat poop during walks or in public places, it can lead to social embarrassment. Others might judge the owner’s ability to care for their pet.

Training and Behavior

Trying to stop this behaviour can increase frustration. Owners might spend more time training, which could lead to a strained relationship.

Health Risks

While most dogs stay healthy despite this habit, there can be health risks. Owners may worry about parasites or infections being passed to humans, further impacting the bond.

Building a strong, trusting relationship between a dog and its owner requires understanding behaviours and managing reactions positively.