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Dealing with a dog that eats poo can be both baffling and frustrating. Many dog owners face this unpleasant issue, known as coprophagia, and often feel embarrassed or concerned for their dog's health. You're not alone in wondering why your furry friend engages in this behaviour. Understanding the reasons behind it and learning how to stop it is essential for maintaining your dog's health and your peace of mind. In this blog, you'll learn the common causes of this behaviour.
Dogs may eat poo to get your attention, especially if they feel neglected. If they notice you reacting strongly, even if it's negative, they might continue the behaviour to keep getting that attention.
If your dog is not eating enough or getting enough nutrition, or the periods between your dog's meal times are too long, you may find that your dog will eat poo.
Boredom is another common reason. If dogs are left alone for long periods without toys or interaction, they might resort to eating poo to pass the time.
In some cases, eating poo becomes a habit, especially if dogs have done it in the past without any consequences or have seen other dogs doing it.
Anxiety such as separation anxiety and stress can trigger coprophagia. Dogs might eat poo as a way to comfort themselves when they are feeling anxious or stressed.
Dogs that are often isolated, especially in confined spaces like a dog crate for long periods of time, might eat poo out of loneliness or frustration. Creating a safe place for your dog in your home is important.
Some dogs eat poo due to instinctual behaviours inherited from their ancestors. In the wild, dogs may have eaten faeces to hide their presence from predators. Additionally, mother dogs eat poo for several weeks after their puppies are born. Mother dogs to this for hygienic purposes.
Certain medical conditions, such as malabsorption syndromes, thyroid disease, or diabetes, can cause dogs to eat poo. It’s essential to rule out these issues with your veterinarian.
Yes, eating poo can be quite dangerous for dogs. This behaviour exposes them to harmful bacteria and parasites such as Giardia, E. coli, and other pathogens that can lead to serious infections and gastrointestinal issues. These health risks can result in symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and more severe health complications. If you notice your dog frequently engaging in this behaviour, it's important to consult your vet immediately. They can help rule out underlying health problems and recommend preventive measures to protect your dog's well-being.
A study on canine coprophagic behaviour found that 42.8% of adult dogs engage in this behaviour, meaning nearly half of the dogs in the study ate poo. Whilst this behaviour is common, it's not considered normal or healthy. Coprophagia is especially prevalent among puppies, but it should be discouraged and addressed to prevent potential health risks and behavioural issues. Understanding that you are not alone in facing this issue can help you take the necessary steps to correct it and ensure your dog's well-being.
Keeping a close eye on your dog, especially during walks and playtime, is crucial. Immediate intervention can prevent them from eating poo. If you catch your dog in the act, calmly redirect them away from the poo and reward them with a training treat for following your commands. Consistent supervision helps reinforce good behaviour and prevents bad habits from forming.
Training your dog to respond to commands like 'leave it' can be highly effective in stopping unwanted behaviours, including eating poo. Start by practising this command with treats and gradually progress to using it in real-life situations. Reward your dog with praise and treats when they obey, reinforce positive behaviour and ensuring they understand that 'leave it' means to ignore the object of interest.
Strong recall training ensures your dog comes back to you when called, which can help you intervene before they eat poo. Practice recall commands in various settings, starting in a controlled environment and gradually introducing more distractions. If you're struggling to capture your dog's attention, try using a high-value rewarding treat such as a Dried Sprat to re-capture and keep your dog's attention.
Maintain a clean garden by promptly picking up your dog's stool. This reduces the opportunity for them to eat it and helps keep the environment sanitary. Establish a routine for cleaning up after your dog, ensuring there are no stools left unattended. This simple step can significantly decrease the chances of your dog developing the habit of eating poo.
Engage your dog with toys, puzzles, and interactive games to prevent boredom and keep their mind occupied. Mental stimulation is essential for preventing behaviours driven by boredom. Rotate toys regularly and introduce new activities to keep your dog interested and mentally challenged
Ensure your dog’s diet is well-balanced and that they are fed at regular times to avoid hunger-driven coprophagia. A nutritious diet and consistent feeding schedule can help prevent your dog from seeking out poo as a food source. Discuss your dog’s nutritional needs with your vet and make any necessary adjustments to their diet and feeding routine.
Adding pineapple to your dog's diet can make their poo taste unpleasant to them, reducing the likelihood they'll eat it. Pineapple contains an enzyme that alters the taste and smell of poo, making it less appealing to dogs. Consult your vet before making any dietary changes to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your dog.
Distracting your dog with toys or treats when they approach poo can effectively redirect their attention away from it. Keep a variety of toys and high-value dog treats on hand during walks and playtime. When you notice your dog showing interest in poo, use a toy or treat to divert their focus, rewarding them for engaging with the distraction instead.
Cat poo can be particularly tempting for dogs due to its high protein content. Keep litter boxes out of reach, use covered litter boxes, or place them in areas that your dog cannot access. Additionally, train your dog to respond to commands like 'leave it' and provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them occupied.
If your dog continues to eat poo, despite your best efforts to stop it, or if they show signs of illness, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian. Persistent coprophagia can indicate underlying health issues such as nutritional deficiencies, gastrointestinal problems, or parasites that require professional attention. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough examination, conduct necessary tests, and provide tailored advice or treatment to address the root cause of the behaviour. Early intervention can help prevent potential health risks and ensure your dog’s well-being.
Sudden changes in behaviour, such as an older dog starting to eat poo, can be a sign of health issues like cognitive dysfunction or dietary deficiencies. Consult your vet to rule out medical problems.
Certain supplements and additives, like pineapple, pumpkin, or specially designed deterrents, can make your dog’s poo less appealing. Consult your vet for recommendations tailored to your dog’s needs.
Clean your dog's mouth by brushing their teeth with dog-safe toothpaste and offering dog dental chews or toys. You can also use dog mouthwash designed to neutralise odours and kill bacteria.