Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?
Dog owners can be overly focused on their pup’s bowel movements (the frequency, volume, appearance, smell, etc.), and for good reason. As a sort of litmus test for overall health, normal-looking and smelling poops at predictable intervals have the potential to set dog owners at ease. What truly throws dog owners into a worried frenzy, however, is when a dog eats poop (their own or excrement left behind by other animals). With a combination of patience, time, and consistent training, this common canine behavior doesn’t last forever.
Yep, It’s Gross
Many animals, like rabbits, coyotes, guinea pigs, wolves, and dung beetles, eat their own feces. This is done as a way to ingest nutrients, supplement their diet, and add vitamins and proteins missing from their food. In contrast, dogs often eat poop as the result of behavioral issues or illness.
Eating poop, or “coprophagia,” is normal in dogs, and can be caused by any of the following:
- Anxiety or fear of punishment
- Location of “toilet” is too close to food/water
- Attention-seeking
- Age (puppies modeling their nursing mother learn to eat poop)
- Environmental space issues (overcrowding)
- Nutritional deficiency
Poop eating may have a single root or a combination of factors from the above list that establishes and perpetuates this behavior. The good news is that once reasons are recognized, real change can begin.
Why This Matters
Aside from the significant “gross factor” of eating poop, dogs that do this are at increased risk of the associated symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Gastroenteritis
- Diarrhea
- Diminished appetite
- Lethargy
Please call us at (540) 832-1751 if you know or suspect your dog eats poop. We can address any of the above symptoms, and help reduce problematic behavior from repeating. If we find that your dog has a nutritional deficiency leading them to seek out poop, we can help you find the right supplements to get them back on track.
Coprophagia In Dogs
Training is essential for your dog’s safety and happiness, and teaching them not to eat poop is no exception. The command “leave it” can help dogs understand that they must leave poop alone. This should be done in conjunction with the following tips:
- Clean up poop immediately. If they start to go towards it, give them the “leave it” command and a reward (either treat or clicker, or both). Discard poop in secure containers.
- Distract them from poop by providing them with high-value toys, games, or treats.
- Keep up a daily routine that includes the above. Consistency is key to success.
- Move litter boxes or other enclosures to places that your dog cannot access them.
- Never scold or punish your dog for eating poop, as this will cement the idea that poop eating gets a reaction from you.
There are many different treats or supplements designed to deter dogs from eating their poop. It can take time (and money) to find which products work the best for your dog.
We know that coprophagia in dogs can be exasperating to work through. If you have questions or concerns about your dog’s behavior, environment, or nutritional needs, our staff at Crossroads Animal Hospital is always here for you.