If you’ve ever seen your dog eat poop, you probably felt shocked, grossed out, or confused. You might even wonder if something is wrong with your furry friend. Don’t worry—you’re not the only one asking, “Why do dogs eat poop?”
This strange habit is more common than most people realise. While it’s not fun to talk about, it’s something many dog owners deal with. The good news is, in most cases, there’s a reason for this behavior, and there are ways to stop it. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
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What Is Coprophagia?
Coprophagia is the behavior of eating feces (poop). It is most commonly observed in animals, especially dogs, but can sometimes occur in other animals and even rarely in humans.
Why Does Coprophagia Happen?
There are several reasons why an animal might eat feces:
- Nutritional Deficiency: Sometimes animals eat feces because they are missing certain nutrients or enzymes in their diet.
- Behavioral Reasons: Puppies or young dogs may explore the world with their mouths and eat poop out of curiosity or boredom.
- Attention-Seeking: If a dog learns that eating poop gets a strong reaction from their owner, they might repeat it for attention.
- Cleanliness Instinct: Mother animals often eat their young’s feces to keep the den clean.
- Medical Issues: Certain health problems, like parasites, diabetes, or malabsorption disorders, can cause this behavior.
Is Coprophagia Harmful?
- It can be unpleasant and may pose some health risks because feces can contain bacteria, parasites, or viruses.
- Dogs eating feces from other animals may be exposed to harmful parasites.
- It is usually not a sign of serious illness but should be checked by a vet to rule out medical causes.
How to Stop Coprophagia?
- Ensure a balanced diet with proper nutrients.
- Clean up feces quickly from the environment.
- Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Use deterrents or training techniques to discourage the behavior.
- Consult a veterinarian if it persists, to rule out health problems.
Why Do Dogs Eat Poop? (10 Simple Reasons)
1. It Starts When They’re Puppies
Mother dogs naturally lick their puppies to clean them and often eat their feces to keep the nesting area clean and reduce scent that might attract predators. Puppies, still learning about the world, use their mouths to explore everything, including poop. This early exposure can sometimes lead to the habit continuing if not corrected. While many puppies outgrow it, some dogs keep this behavior into adulthood.
2. They Want Attention
Dogs are very social and crave interaction with their owners. Even negative attention like shouting or chasing can reinforce behavior because your dog learns it gets a reaction from you. So, eating poop can become a way to get noticed, especially if the dog feels ignored otherwise.
3. They’re Missing Nutrients
Dogs may eat poop if their diet lacks essential nutrients, vitamins, or digestive enzymes. Feces can contain undigested nutrients, so this behavior might be the dog’s way of trying to supplement their diet. This is especially common in dogs fed poor-quality food or homemade diets lacking balance.
4. Their Food Isn’t Being Digested Properly
If a dog’s digestive system isn’t breaking down food properly, their feces may still contain partially digested nutrients and an appealing smell or taste to them. Causes can include pancreatic insufficiency, intestinal parasites, or simply eating low-quality or inappropriate food. This can encourage the dog to eat their own or other animals’ feces.
5. They’re Bored
Dogs need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. When they are bored, especially if left alone for long periods, they may develop odd habits like coprophagia. It becomes something to do to pass the time or self-soothe.
6. They’re Feeling Stressed or Anxious
Stress and anxiety can trigger compulsive behaviors in dogs. Changes in the environment, loud noises, separation anxiety, or fear can cause a dog to eat poop as a coping mechanism to relieve stress.
7. They’re Copying Other Dogs
Dogs are social animals and often mimic the behavior of their companions. If one dog in a household eats feces, others may try it too, simply because they see it happening and copy.
8. It’s Just a Natural Instinct
Eating feces can be an instinctual behavior inherited from wild ancestors who were scavengers. In the wild, this could help keep a den area clean, recycle nutrients, or avoid leaving scent traces that predators might follow.
9. They Want to Keep Their Space Clean
In confined spaces like crates or small rooms, dogs might eat their feces to keep their area clean, especially if they’ve been scolded or punished for eliminating in the wrong spot. This behavior is often an attempt to avoid punishment.
10. There Might Be a Health Problem
Sudden onset of coprophagia or a change in the pattern can indicate health issues, including:
- Parasites: Worms or other parasites can cause increased hunger or nutritional deficiency.
- Diabetes: Changes in metabolism and appetite can lead to unusual eating habits.
- Thyroid problems: Affect metabolism and digestion.
- Malabsorption or digestive diseases: Prevent proper nutrient absorption, causing dogs to seek nutrients elsewhere.
If your dog shows other symptoms like weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy along with eating feces, it’s important to see a vet promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
Is Eating Poop Dangerous for Dogs?
Yes, eating poop (coprophagia) can be dangerous for dogs, but the level of risk varies depending on several factors.
Potential Dangers of Eating Poop
- Parasites and Worms
Feces can contain parasite eggs or larvae (like roundworms, hookworms, or whipworms). If your dog eats infected poop, they can become infested with these parasites, which can cause health issues like diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, and poor growth. - Bacterial Infections
Poop can carry harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, or Clostridium. Dogs consuming contaminated feces risk developing infections that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and dehydration. - Viruses
In some cases, feces can carry viruses like parvovirus or distemper, which are very serious and potentially life-threatening for dogs. - Toxins and Chemicals
If the feces come from animals that have ingested toxic substances (like pesticides, medications, or poisons), those toxins can be transferred to your dog when they eat the poop. - Unpleasant Smell and Taste
Beyond health risks, the habit is unpleasant for pet owners and can lead to social embarrassment or discomfort.
When Is It Less Risky?
- If a dog eats their own feces and is healthy, regularly dewormed, and on a good diet, the risks are generally lower.
- Eating feces from other dogs or animals, especially outdoors, increases the chance of exposure to parasites and disease.
What to Do to Protect Your Dog
- Keep your dog’s environment clean: Pick up feces promptly.
- Maintain regular vet visits: Ensure vaccinations and deworming are up to date.
- Provide a balanced diet: Proper nutrition reduces the likelihood they’ll seek nutrients elsewhere.
- Train and supervise: Discourage the behavior through commands and distractions.
When to See a Vet
If your dog frequently eats poop and develops symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, or shows signs of illness, it’s important to get a veterinary checkup. They may need tests or treatments for infections, parasites, or other underlying causes.
How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop (Easy Tips)
1. Check with Your Vet
Before starting any training or behavioral fixes, get a veterinary checkup. Your vet will:
- Rule out medical issues such as parasites, digestive problems, or nutritional deficiencies.
- Test for worms or infections that might cause your dog to seek nutrients in feces.
- Suggest appropriate treatment if any health problems are found.
2. Feed High-Quality Food
A nutritious, balanced diet can reduce your dog’s urge to eat feces by meeting all their dietary needs.
- Choose dog food rich in high-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
- Avoid low-quality or filler-heavy food that might leave your dog hungry or nutritionally unfulfilled.
- Consider supplements like digestive enzymes if your vet recommends them, to improve nutrient absorption.
3. Clean Up Right Away
The simplest and most effective prevention is to remove access to feces:
- Immediately pick up your dog’s poop during walks or in the yard.
- At home, clean the yard or play area frequently.
- For households with cats, place litter boxes in areas your dog cannot reach or use covered litter boxes.
4. Use Taste Deterrents
Several products are designed to make feces taste unpleasant to dogs. These are usually added to their food and pass through to the stool.
- Popular options include For-Bid, CoproBan, and NaturVet Coprophagia Deterrent.
- Always use products recommended by your vet to ensure safety.
- Effectiveness varies by dog, so patience and consistency are key.
5. Teach “Leave It” or “No”
Training your dog to respond to commands is powerful.
- Use the command “leave it” to tell your dog to ignore poop or other forbidden items.
- Start training in low-distraction environments with treats and praise.
- Gradually increase difficulty by practicing outdoors or near areas with feces.
- Reward your dog immediately when they obey with treats, affection, or play.
- Consistent positive reinforcement helps your dog associate ignoring poop with good outcomes.
6. Keep Your Dog Busy
Boredom is a major cause of coprophagia, so keeping your dog mentally and physically active helps:
- Provide daily exercise like walks, runs, or playtime.
- Use puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or obedience training sessions to stimulate their mind.
- Rotate toys regularly to keep their interest high.
- Schedule regular interaction times to prevent loneliness or anxiety.
7. Manage Stress and Anxiety
If stress triggers poop-eating, help your dog feel calm and safe:
- Create a quiet, comfortable space where your dog can relax.
- Use calming aids such as pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps, after consulting your vet.
- Avoid harsh punishments, which can increase anxiety and worsen behavior.
- Consider professional behaviorists if anxiety is severe.
8. Avoid Punishment for Eating Poop
Punishing your dog for eating poop may increase stress and attention-seeking behavior.
- Instead, focus on redirecting their attention and rewarding good behavior.
- Use positive reinforcement methods for better, longer-lasting results.
9. Supervise and Interrupt
Keep an eye on your dog, especially outdoors:
- Interrupt and redirect their attention if they try to eat poop.
- Use a leash during walks so you can control their access.
- Carry treats or toys to distract them quickly.
10. Consider Professional Help
If coprophagia persists despite your efforts:
They can develop a personalized plan and help address underlying behavioral issues.
Consult a certified dog trainer or animal behaviorist.
FAQs: Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?
Q1: Is it normal for puppies to eat poop?
Yes, it’s common in puppies. Most stop on their own as they grow up.
Q2: Can eating poop make my dog sick?
Yes, especially if the poop comes from another animal. It can carry parasites or bacteria.
Q3: Do supplements really work?
Some dogs respond well to taste deterrents. Results vary, so talk to your vet before trying any.
Q4: Is my dog bored? Is that why they eat poop?
It’s possible. Try giving your dog more attention, exercise, and toys.
Q5: Should I punish my dog for eating poop?
No. Punishment can cause fear and make things worse. Positive training works better.
Conclusion: Be Patient and Positive
It might be gross, but poop-eating is a common issue—and one that many dogs grow out of with the right help. Try not to punish your dog or yell. This can make the problem worse.
Instead, stay calm, be consistent, and use simple tips like cleaning up poop quickly, feeding good food, and offering plenty of playtime. With a little patience, you’ll likely see your dog leave the poop behind—for good.