Why Dogs Eat Poop: Causes, Health Risks & How to Stop It

As loving dog owners, we often find our pets doing adorable, quirky things. But some behaviors can be downright baffling — and even disturbing. One of the most unpleasant ones? Watching your dog eat poop. Whether it's their own stool or another animal’s, this habit, known as coprophagia, is more common than you might think. But why does it happen, and more importantly, how can you stop it?

Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?

Before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to understand that coprophagia in dogs can have several causes, ranging from medical issues to behavioral quirks.

1. Medical Reasons

Sometimes, poop eating is a sign of an underlying health problem. Common medical causes include:

• Nutrient deficiencies: Dogs who aren't getting enough nutrients (especially Vitamin B, digestive enzymes, or minerals) may try to get them from feces.
• Malabsorption disorders: Conditions like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) can prevent dogs from properly digesting food, making their stool still contain undigested nutrients.
• Parasites: Intestinal worms can lead to hunger and nutrient loss, prompting a dog to scavenge.
• Diabetes or thyroid disease: These can increase hunger to unusual levels.

If your dog suddenly starts eating poop, it’s wise to consult your veterinarian to rule out medical causes.

2. Behavioral Reasons

Dogs are naturally curious, and that curiosity extends to their sense of smell and taste — including feces. Behavioral reasons may include:

• Puppy exploration: It’s not uncommon for puppies to explore their environment, including feces. Many outgrow this with proper training.
• Attention-seeking: If a dog learns that eating poop gets a big reaction from you, they may continue doing it just for the attention.
• Imitation: Some puppies mimic their mother, who naturally cleans her pups by eating their waste.
• Boredom or stress: Dogs left alone for long periods or kept in cramped spaces might engage in unusual behaviors out of anxiety or boredom.
• Cleanliness: Some dogs eat poop to “clean up” their environment, especially if they’ve been punished for pooping indoors in the past.

3. Environmental Factors

Environmental contributors can also play a role:

• Access to feces: Dogs who live in environments where feces aren't picked up regularly may be more likely to eat it.
• Feeding schedules: Irregular or inadequate feeding may prompt a dog to seek alternative food sources — even if it's stool.

How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop

Stopping this behavior often requires a mix of health checks, environmental management, and training. Here’s a step-by-step plan:

1. Visit Your Veterinarian

First, rule out any medical condition that might be causing your dog to seek out feces. Your vet may suggest bloodwork, fecal tests, or dietary changes.

2. Improve Your Dog’s Diet

Ensure your dog is eating high-quality, well-balanced food with all essential nutrients. Some owners find that switching to a food rich in digestible protein and adding digestive enzymes or probiotics helps.

3. Clean Up Promptly

Remove feces from your yard and your dog's living space immediately. The less access they have, the less likely they are to eat it.

4. Train with Commands

Teach the “Leave it” or “No” command using positive reinforcement. Reward your dog for ignoring poop or walking away from it.

5. Use Taste Deterrents

There are commercial products (like For-Bid, CoproBan, or pineapple juice in food) that make poop taste unpleasant to the dog. These can sometimes deter the behavior if used consistently.

6. Increase Mental and Physical Stimulation

Dogs that are tired and mentally engaged are less likely to indulge in bad habits. Provide plenty of exercise, playtime, and puzzle toys.

7. Avoid Punishment

Never punish your dog after the fact. They won’t connect the behavior with the punishment, and it may lead to fear or even more poop-eating out of anxiety.

8. Crate Train or Supervise

When you're not able to supervise your dog, especially during potty breaks, use a crate or leashed walk to monitor their behavior and redirect as needed.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried multiple strategies and your dog’s poop-eating persists, it might be time to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. Persistent coprophagia may indicate deeper behavioral issues that require specialized attention.

Final Thoughts

Though gross and frustrating, poop eating is a behavior many dogs engage in — and many owners have successfully corrected. Start by identifying the root cause, rule out health concerns, and be consistent with training and supervision. With patience and the right approach, your dog can kick the habit, and you’ll both enjoy a happier, healthier life together.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for medical concerns.