Why do dogs eat poop? 7 Top Reasons and Solutions

As a Canine Nutritionist, one of the strangest and most concerning behaviours pet owners report is their dog eating poop, known as coprophagia. While it's certainly unpleasant, it can be more common than you'd think. This behaviour often has underlying causes, from dietary issues to behavioural concerns.

Let’s explore the top reasons why dogs eat their own (or other animals') stools and what you can do to address it.

1. Nutritional Deficiencies

Reason: Nutritional imbalances, particularly a lack of digestive enzymes or essential nutrients, can lead dogs to seek out faeces to supplement their diets. This is more common in dogs fed low-quality or unbalanced food as they aren’t getting what they require from their diet. Whilst not always the primary reason, it’s definitely one to look into addressing.

Solutions:

• Improve their diet: Switch to high-quality, well-balanced commercial dog food to provide all necessary vitamins and minerals for their life stage.

• Add supplements: Consider digestive enzyme supplements or probiotics (consult a vet first). If your dog is eating a balanced diet but still exhibiting this behaviour, supplements like Vitamin B Complex can sometimes curb the habit.

• Consult your vet: A blood panel may identify deficiencies or underlying medical conditions and guide dietary changes.

2. Hunger or Caloric Restriction

Reason: Dogs on restricted diets or those not getting enough food may eat poop simply because they are hungry.

Solutions:

• Assess portion sizes: Ensure your dog is getting enough calories for their size, breed and activity level. Specific weight-loss food will ensure they are receiving enough nutrients while carefully losing weight.

• Offer more frequent meals: Split meals into smaller, more frequent portions throughout the day.

• Use low-calorie treats: Provide healthy snacks if your dog is on a restricted diet.

3. Boredom or Anxiety

Reason: Dogs left alone for long periods or lacking physical/mental exercise may eat poop out of boredom or stress. This can be common in high-energy breeds or dogs with separation anxiety.

Solutions:

• Exercise and mental stimulation: Provide plenty of exercise, playtime and engaging mental challenges. Puzzle toys, longer walks and social interaction can all help to reduce boredom.

• Address anxiety: Consider behavioural training, calming aids or consult a vet for dogs experiencing anxiety.

4. Mimicking Other Dogs

Reason: Puppies often learn behaviours by copying others. If they see another dog eating poop, they may mimic this action.

Solutions:

• Supervise and correct behaviour: Monitor your dogs (especially puppies) during outdoor time. Use commands to redirect their attention when approaching stools.

• Keep the environment clean: Regularly clean up after all dogs to minimise exposure and temptation.

5. Instinctual Behaviour in Nursing Mothers

Reason: Mother dogs naturally eat their puppies’ stools to keep the den clean and free from scent that could attract predators. This behaviour can sometimes continue after weaning.

Solutions:

• Gradually reduce the behaviour: Once they are no longer reliant on the mother, clean up puppies’ stools quickly.

• Create a clean environment: Keep the area tidy to discourage this behaviour.

6. Parasites or Medical Conditions

Reason: Parasites or gastrointestinal issues can affect nutrient absorption, leading to coprophagia. Conditions like malabsorption syndromes, diabetes, or thyroid disease can also play a role.

Solutions:

• Visit the vet: If your dog’s poop-eating habit has come on suddenly, or is paired with symptoms like weight loss/diarrhea/vomiting, a full examination and tests may be needed.

• Treat underlying issues: Your vet can prescribe necessary treatments such as dewormers, medication for gastrointestinal problems or treatment for any underlying health conditions.

7. Taste Preference or Curiosity

Reason: Some dogs may simply enjoy the taste of faeces, particularly cat faeces or stool from other animals that contains undigested food particles.

Solutions:

• Control access: Use baby gates or covered litter boxes to limit access to cat poop.

• Monitor during walks: Keep your dog close and prevent them from eating faeces.

Conclusion

While coprophagia is certainly an unsavoury behaviour, understanding its reasons can help you tackle the issue effectively. Whether it's a dietary imbalance, boredom, or simple curiosity, you can take steps to curb this habit. Always consult your vet if you're concerned about your dog’s health or if the behaviour persists despite trying these solutions.

With patience and the right approach, most cases of stool-eating can be managed successfully. Early intervention is key—by addressing the underlying cause and being proactive, you can help your dog stop this unwanted behaviour and ensure they remain healthy and happy!