Is your dog snacking on its own poop, or that of other animals? You’re not alone. Poop eating is a common behaviour in dogs. But why do they do it, and more importantly, how can you get them to stop? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this behaviour and share what you can try to stop it.
Reasons for Poop eating
Poop eating, also known as coprophagia, is a behaviour that can have natural causes as well as being a learned behaviour. Natural causes are when it’s their natural behaviour/instinct. For example, mother dogs eat their puppies’ waste to keep their nesting area clean. Research also suggests that dogs may instinctively eat poop to maintain a clean living space, even if no puppies are involved. Puppies often also eat their poop due to instinctual behaviour, as they mimic their mum keeping them and their den clean.
Taste, Smell, and Exploring
For some dogs, poop eating is simply a matter of taste. They are attracted to the smell and texture, particularly when it comes from other species. For example, many dogs find cat poop especially tempting. Pups may develop a taste for poop when they explore the world around them, which usually is by taking things in their mouth.
Behavioural Reasons for Poop Eating
For some dogs, coprophagia is a learned behavior. Dogs that feel neglected or bored may show this behaviour, especially when it gets a big reaction from their owner as they may see it as a game or a way to get attention. In other cases dogs may eat poop due to anxiety, fear, or stress, and it is used as a displacement/coping behavior. The eating of poop is for example seen in dogs that:
- Have separation anxiety and are left alone (for long periods)
- Dogs that are confined in small spaces
- Are bored and/or lack mental stimulation
- Are afraid of punishment after having an accident
Health-Related Causes of Poop Eating
Sometimes, the eating of poop can be linked to underlying health issues. Digestive problems, liver disease, or even neurological conditions may trigger poop eating. Internal parasites irritate the GI tract, which can also result in the behaviour. Additionally, nutrient deficiencies, such as when fed an unbalanced diet or when underfed, can lead dogs to seek extra nutrients in poop. If your dog is eating poop, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian. A health check can rule out medical causes.
How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop
If your dog has suddenly started eating poop, a vet visit should be your first step. They can rule out any medical issues that could be contributing to the behaviour. Once health concerns are ruled out, it’s important to take preventive measures to stop poop eating before it becomes a habit and addressing any underlying causes.
Preventing Access to Poop
- Other animals’ poop: Keep litter boxes out of reach, and use a muzzle in combination with leash control during walks to prevent access to poop.
- Their own poop: Take your dog outside on a consistent schedule and praise them after they poop(when potty training). As you know they will try to eat poop, be vigilant they can’t take it either by having them on a leash, using a muzzle, or a combination of both. Either take them back inside, or distract them by throwing a treat or toy, while you clean up their waste.
You can teach your dog a “leave it” cue, followed by a “come” using positive reinforcement. The key is to reward the behaviour you want to see and then use a high-value treat that your dog only gets in these situations. This makes the choice of not eating the poop much more rewarding, and the chances of them making the choice you want to see bigger.
Supplements & Diet
Ensure that you feed your dog a nutritious well balanced diet of good quality in the right quantities. Dog food high in protein and fibre may help remedy the situation.
Address any deficiencies by adding supplements as required. If your dog already got into the habit of eating poop, there are coprophagic supplements that change the smell and taste of poop, making it less appealing. Additionally, probiotics may help improve gut health, potentially reducing the urge to eat poop.
Addressing Anxiety, Stress, Fear & Boredom
If your dog eats poop due to anxiety or boredom, these underlying issues need to be resolved:
- Separation anxiety: Train your dog gradually to feel more comfortable when left alone and/or adjust how they are confined. This will take time, and the poop eating will need to be prevented while training. Pet sitters and/or day care can help with this.
- Boredom: Increase mental and physical stimulation through play, training, and enrichment activities like puzzle toys or interactive games.
- Fear: Never punish your dog for potty accidents.
- Engage in positive behaviours
Why you should not punish your dog for eating poop
Punishing your dog for eating poop can lead to fear and distrust, making the problem worse rather than solving it. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and reward the behaviour you want to see while preventing access to poop.
Breaking an established habit takes time, so patience and consistency are key.
Conclusion
To stop your dog from eating poop, consistent management and restricted access are key. If medical reasons are ruled out, the first step is to prevent opportunities for the behavior to occur. Additionally, underlying reasons such as stress, anxiety, or deficiencies should be addressed. You can teach your dog a “leave it” cue, followed by a “come” using positive reinforcement. The key is to reward the behaviour you want to see and then use a high-value treat that your dog only gets in these situations. This makes the choice of leaving the poop much more rewarding, and the chances of them making the choice you want to see (not eating the poop) bigger.
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