Why Do Dogs Eat Poo?

A Look at Coprophagia and How to Manage It Positively

Dog owners often find themselves puzzled and disgusted when their beloved dogs indulge in eating poo. This behaviour, known as coprophagia, is quite common in dogs, and while it might seem unappealing to us, it has various explanations rooted in history, biology, and behaviour. In this blog post, we will explore why dogs eat poo, where the behaviour comes from, and most importantly, how to manage it using positive reinforcement techniques.

The History of Coprophagia in Dogs

The History of Coprophagia in Dogs

Historically, dogs evolved as scavengers, consuming anything that provided sustenance, including waste. In the wild, eating faeces could prevent the spread of parasites by keeping their living areas clean. Mother dogs instinctively lick their puppies to encourage elimination and consume their waste to maintain hygiene in the den. This natural behaviour, while useful in certain contexts, can become undesirable when it persists into adulthood.

Certain breeds have a genetic predisposition to scavenging behaviours. Working dogs and those bred for survival in harsh conditions have a stronger inclination to eat whatever is available, including feces. Additionally consuming waste in the wild can prevent attracting predators, a behaviour that has been observed in wolves and other wild canines.

Dogs are no longer living the wild, so why do they still indulge in this behaviour?

There are several reasons why dogs engage in coprophagia:

  1. Nutritional Deficiencies – If a dog is lacking essential nutrients, enzymes, or probiotics, they may seek to replenish these by eating feces. This is particularly common in dogs fed poor-quality diets or those with gastrointestinal issues.
  2. Instinctual Behaviour – Puppies commonly explore the world with their mouths, and for some, eating poo is a phase that they outgrow.
  3. Attention-Seeking – If a dog has received a reaction from their owner after eating poo (even a negative one), they may repeat the behaviour to gain attention. Dogs thrive on interaction, and any form of attention—even scolding—can reinforce the habit.
  4. Hunger or Restricted Diets – Dogs that are underfed or on highly restricted diets may look for additional food sources. This is particularly common in rescue dogs or those that have experienced food scarcity in the past.
  5. Boredom or Stress – A lack of mental stimulation or stress from confinement, anxiety, or environmental changes can lead dogs to develop this habit. Dogs left alone for lengthy periods without enrichment may engage in coprophagia as a coping mechanism.
  6. Learned Behaviour – Dogs in multi-dog households may mimic each other, especially if they see another dog eating poo. Puppies often observe and copy adult dogs, which can reinforce the habit.
  7. Medical Conditions – Some health issues, such as malabsorption disorders, diabetes, thyroid imbalances, or parasites, can contribute to coprophagia. In some cases, medications that alter digestion or appetite can also trigger this behaviour.

How to manage and prevent

How to Manage and Prevent Coprophagia Positively

Since punishment-based training increases stress and worsens the issue, it is important to use positive reinforcement and management strategies to address this behaviour.

1. Ensure a Balanced Diet

Feeding your dog a high-quality, well-balanced diet with the right nutrients can prevent nutritional deficiencies that may lead to coprophagia. Consulting a vet for dietary adjustments and adding digestive enzymes, probiotics, or additional fibre can help improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

2. Keep the Environment Clean

Regularly cleaning up after your dog reduces opportunities for them to eat their own or other animals’ feces. Supervision during walks and in the garden can prevent access. In multi-dog households, prompt waste removal is especially important to prevent reinforcement of the behaviour.

3. Teach a Solid “Leave It” Cue

Training your dog to respond to “leave ” using our positive methods can be incredibly helpful.

4. Provide Enrichment and Mental Stimulation

Dogs need both physical exercise and mental engagement. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, scent work, and training sessions can help prevent boredom and reduce stress. Enrichment activities, such as hide-and-seek games or agility training, can redirect their focus to more appropriate behaviours.

5. Reward Alternative Behaviours

If your dog approaches feces, redirect their attention with a toy, treat, or cue such as “come” or “look at me.” Reward them generously for making the right choice. Using high-value treats (such as cheese or chicken) can make the alternative behaviour more rewarding than eating poo.

6. Address Any Underlying Medical Issues

If coprophagia develops suddenly or persists despite training and management, consult your vet to rule out any medical causes. Routine check-ups and faecal tests can help identify potential gastrointestinal problems or deficiencies that may contribute to the behaviour.

7. Use Taste Deterrents if Necessary

Some owners find success with natural taste deterrents that make feces unappealing to dogs. Products containing pumpkin, pineapple, or specially formulated supplements can be added to the diet to alter the taste of stools. However, it is important to pair deterrents with training to ensure long-term behavioural changes.

8. Increase Feeding Frequency

For some dogs, eating stools is linked to hunger or food insecurity. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help reduce their drive to seek alternative food sources. Adding extra fibre or protein to meals can also promote satiety and curb the behaviour.

Final Thoughts

While coprophagia can be frustrating, it is important to remember that it is a natural behaviour that requires patience and understanding. By addressing potential causes and reinforcing alternative behaviours through positive training methods, you can successfully manage and reduce your dog’s interest in eating poo. Remember, every dog is different, so finding the right approach for your dog may take time and consistency.