Poop-eating, known as coprophagia, is a fairly common but unpleasant behavior in dogs. While sometimes it can be a normal instinct or part of nursing, it may also point to underlying health or behavioral concerns. Knowing why dogs eat poop can help you determine the right approach to stop it.
Normal Reasons Why Dogs Eat Poop
1. They’re Nursing
Mother dogs often eat their puppies’ poop to keep the den clean and reduce odors that might attract predators.
2. It’s Instinctual
Wolves, the ancestors of dogs, were known to eat poop to prevent the spread of intestinal parasites in the den. Some dogs may still carry this instinct.
3. It Tastes Good
Dogs sometimes eat the poop of other animals, such as cats or horses, because it contains undigested nutrients. While it may appeal to them, it can expose your dog to harmful bacteria or parasites.
Abnormal Reasons Why Dogs Eat Poop
4. They Want Attention
Some dogs learn that eating poop gets a big reaction from their owners, whether it’s shouting or chasing. For attention-seeking pups, negative responses may unintentionally reinforce the behavior.
5. They’re Not Feeling Well
A sudden onset of poop-eating may signal health issues such as:
- Intestinal parasites
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Gastrointestinal disease
- Liver or brain conditions
If your dog also shows weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, a vet visit is necessary.
6. They Have Anxiety
Dogs may engage in poop-eating as a coping mechanism when stressed, anxious, or confined. Separation anxiety, lack of enrichment, or fear of being left alone can all contribute.
7. They’re Scared of Punishment
Dogs who were scolded harshly during potty training may eat their poop to “hide the evidence.” This is why positive reinforcement is recommended over punishment.
How To Stop a Dog From Eating Poop
Limit Their Access
- Use pet gates or closed doors to keep dogs out of litter box areas.
- Place litter boxes on elevated surfaces accessible only to cats.
- Clean up your dog’s poop immediately after they go outside.
Use Positive Reinforcement
- Reward your puppy with a treat immediately after they poop outside.
- Clean up the stool while they’re distracted with the treat.
- Avoid scolding, as punishment can make the behavior worse.
Crate Training for Puppies
Crates can help prevent accidents and discourage poop-eating. Choose a crate that is appropriately sized—big enough for comfort but not so large that your puppy uses one side as a bathroom.
Dogs may eat poop for normal instinctual reasons, but if it becomes frequent or is accompanied by other health changes, consult your veterinarian. With patience, management, and positive reinforcement, most dogs can overcome this unpleasant habit.
FAQs
Is it normal for dogs to eat poop?
Yes, in some cases. Nursing mothers eat their puppies’ poop to keep the den clean, and some dogs inherit the instinct from wolves. However, if an adult dog suddenly starts eating poop, it may signal a medical or behavioral issue.
Is eating poop dangerous for dogs?
It can be. Eating poop from other animals may expose your dog to harmful bacteria, parasites, or toxins. Even their own stool can cause illness if underlying health problems are present. Always discourage the behavior and consult your vet if it persists.
Do dogs eat poop because they’re hungry?
Sometimes. Dogs with nutritional deficiencies, intestinal parasites, or gastrointestinal diseases may eat poop as a response to feeling unwell or lacking nutrients. A veterinary exam can help determine the cause.
Can anxiety cause my dog to eat poop?
Yes. Dogs with separation anxiety, confinement stress, or lack of stimulation may eat poop as a coping mechanism. Providing enrichment, exercise, and reassurance can help reduce anxiety-driven coprophagia.
Will punishment stop my dog from eating poop?
No. In fact, punishment may make things worse, as some dogs start eating poop to “hide” it from their owners. Instead, use positive reinforcement—praise and reward your dog immediately after proper potty behavior.
