Why Does My Dog Eat Poop? A Vet's Guide to Coprophagia

It's a moment that makes nearly every dog owner cringe. You look over to see your furball eating something they definitely shouldn't be. 

It's a question our veterinary team often hears: Why does my dog eat poop? 

This behaviour, coprophagia, is more common than you might think. Yet, it can leave you worried and confused.

While it's often a behavioural quirk, it can point to an underlying health issue. Let's examine the poop-eating behaviour of dogs and when to visit your vet.

What is Coprophagia in Dogs?

Coprophagia is the clinical term for the act of eating feces. It can involve a dog eating its own stool, the stool of other dogs, or that of other animals like cats or wildlife.

It's a deeply instinctual behaviour with roots in canine history.

While the behaviour itself is unsettling, it is not always a sign of a serious problem. However, because it can be linked to medical conditions, it's a habit that should never be ignored.

Should You Be Worried If Your Dog Eats Poop?

The answer depends on the cause. 

There are perfectly normal reasons dogs eat feces; however, coprophagia can also be a sign of a medical or behavioural issue. So, while you shouldn't panic, it is a behaviour worth paying attention to.

Why a Mother Dog Eats Her Puppies' Poop

It is completely normal and instinctual for a mother dog to eat the feces of her young puppies. She does this to keep the den clean and protect her litter from predators that might be attracted by the scent. This behaviour typically stops once the puppies are weaned.

For a young, curious puppy, eating poop might just be a phase of exploring the world with their mouth.

The Risks of Eating Other Animals' Feces

While eating its own stool has risks, eating the feces of other animals can be more dangerous. The droppings of other animals can contain parasites, bacteria like Salmonella, or toxins harmful to dogs. 

Ingesting feces containing foreign material or from an unknown animal could require prompt emergency care.

Why Do Dogs Eat Poop? Medical & Behavioural Causes

The reasons for coprophagia are varied. They can generally be grouped into two main categories: medical and behavioural.

Medical Reasons Your Dog Eats Feces

An underlying health problem can sometimes trigger this behaviour. A thorough veterinary exam is essential to rule out these possibilities.

• Nutrient Deficiencies. A diet lacking essential nutrients, vitamins, or minerals can lead a dog to seek them from other sources. 
• Malabsorption. Conditions like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) prevent a dog from properly digesting food and absorbing nutrients, causing them to feel constantly hungry.
• Enzyme Deficiencies. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes that help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. If a dog's pancreas isn't producing enough, they may seek out stool as a source of these enzymes.
• Parasites. Intestinal worms and other parasites can rob your dog of essential nutrients, leading to coprophagia as a way to compensate. 
• Conditions Causing Increased Appetite. Certain illnesses, such as diabetes, Cushing's disease, or thyroid problems, can dramatically increase a dog's appetite and lead them to ingest non-food items.

Behavioural Reasons for Coprophagia

If a medical cause is ruled out, the behaviour is likely rooted in instinct or environment.

• Boredom. A mentally or physically under-stimulated dog will find ways to entertain itself. For some, eating poop becomes a way to pass the time.
• Stress and Anxiety. Coprophagia can be a self-soothing behaviour for anxious or stressed dogs. Changes in the home environment, a lack of routine, or separation anxiety can all be triggers.
• Attention-Seeking. If you react strongly every time your dog eats stool, they may learn that this is a guaranteed way to get your attention, even if it's negative.
• Learned Behaviour. A dog might learn this behaviour from another dog, particularly in a multi-pet household.

When to See a Vet for Coprophagia

While not always a crisis, certain signs indicate that a veterinary visit is necessary. 

If the habit starts suddenly, especially in an adult dog, it's important to rule out medical issues quickly.

Book an appointment if the coprophagia occurs along with other symptoms like: 

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lethargy or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• A sudden change in appetite or thirst
• Blood in the stool

Persistent stool eating is also a good topic to discuss with your vet during your dog's regular checkup. 

Diagnosis and Treatment for Poop-Eating Behaviour

To determine the cause, our veterinarians will perform a thorough physical examination and discuss your dog's history, diet, and environment. 

Diagnostic tests, such as a fecal analysis to check for parasites or blood work to identify underlying diseases, are often recommended.

Treatment will target the root cause. It might involve dietary changes, enzyme supplements, or medication. 

Our team is equipped to provide comprehensive care. In complex cases stemming from internal blockages or other physical problems, it could include dog surgery. 

For behavioural issues, a combination of training, environmental enrichment, and sometimes anxiety medication may be needed. 

Home Remedies to Prevent Your Dog from Eating Poop

Important to Note

Don't scold or punish your dog harshly if you catch them in the act. 

Punishment can create more anxiety, potentially making the behaviour worse. It might also encourage your dog to eat the feces more quickly or secretly to avoid being scolded. 

Instead, focus on calm redirection and managing the environment.

What You Can Do

1. Clean Up Immediately. The most effective method is to prevent access. Keep your yard clean and supervise your dog on walks.
2. Improve Their Diet. Ensure your dog is eating high-quality, easily digestible food. Ask your vet for recommendations tailored to your dog's age, breed, and health status.
3. Teach the "Leave It" Command. A strong "leave it" command is invaluable. It prevents your dog from eating things they find on the ground.
4. Provide Enrichment. Reduce boredom with puzzle toys, regular exercise, and training sessions to keep your dog's mind and body active. A busy dog is less likely to develop unwanted habits.
5. Use Taste-Aversion Products. Several over-the-counter powders and chews can be added to your dog's food to make their stool taste unpleasant.

Understanding this behaviour is fundamental to managing it. While it can be frustrating for owners, remember that your dog is not doing it to be "bad." 

There is always a reason, and with patience and professional support, it can be addressed. Regular checkups can help identify and manage the underlying causes before they become serious.

Whether it's a simple habit or a sign of something more, we're here to help. Let's work together to put your mind at ease and get your dog the care they need.

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Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. For any health concerns regarding your pet, please schedule an appointment with our veterinary team.

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