Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?
Of all the unsavory subjects to talk about, poop takes the cake! But when it comes to our pets, it’s worth paying attention to their bodily functions, particularly if you have a dog who consumes those bodily functions—whether it’s theirs or something left behind by another animal.
At The Gentle Vet, we know this behavior can be concerning, and we’re here to help you get to the bottom of it. Keep reading to learn more about what we call coprophagia in dogs, and how to curb this consumption of stool.
Sometimes Coprophagia in Dogs Has “Normal” Roots
As distasteful as it sounds, many species eat feces for perfectly logical reasons, including the appropriately named dung beetle, wolves, and rabbits. Here are some “normal” reasons why your dog is drawn to droppings:
- It’s an instinct inherited from their wolf brethren. Wolves eat fresh stool to keep their dens free from intestinal parasites.
- They’re being maternal. Nursing female dogs eat puppy poop to keep their area clean.
- Because it’s on the menu. For some dogs, the stool of other species just tastes good!
“Abnormal” Causes of Coprophagia in Dogs
Sometimes when dogs eat poop, they’re trying to tell you that something else is wrong. Here are some not so normal reasons why dogs eat poop:
- They’re attention hounds. Let’s be honest, it’s hard to ignore a dog eating poop. This is likely behavior carried over from puppyhood, when they innocently explored a piece of poop and elicited a reaction from their human companion.
- They aren’t feeling well. Coprophagia in dogs can be triggered by diseases in the intestinal tract, liver, or brain. If you have an adult dog that suddenly develops this behavior in conjunction with other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, please contact your veterinarian right away.
- They feel anxious. Separation anxiety, fear of confinement, and lack of proper enrichment can cause coprophagia in dogs
- They’re afraid of being punished. Dogs punished for having accidents in the house can learn to eat their own poop to hide the evidence.
- They’re malnourished. Dogs fed a poor quality diet may eat poop as a way of consuming more nutrients.
Curbing Coprophagia in Dogs
Your dog’s desire to eat poop can stem from a single cause or a combination of factors. The good news is this behavior can be curbed. The first step is to schedule a veterinary exam. Your dog’s doctor can rule out medical reasons and help pinpoint the cause.
Here are some steps you can take now to discourage your dog’s behavior:
- Clean up after your pets immediately and dispose of poop in secure containers.
- Provide your pets with a safe, enriching environment.
- Feed your dog a high quality, nutrient-rich diet. We are happy to make recommendations.
- If you have cats, keep litter boxes out of reach of your dog.
- Don’t punish your dog for eating poop.
- Train your dog using the phrase, “leave it,” and reward your dog’s good behavior with a tasty treat!
We understand that coprophagia in dogs can be concerning. Don’t hesitate to contact us for help at (330) 665-5915.