Why Does My Dog Eat Poop & How to Stop It? 💩

Okay, let’s cut to the chase: doggy poop-eating is gross, we can all agree on that! The short answer on how to fix it? It’s a multi-pronged approach, not a magic wand, involving diet tweaks, environmental management, training strategies and sometimes, just plain patience. It’s like unraveling a mystery, but totally doable. Stick with me, let’s dive deep!

“Why, Oh Why, the Poo-ch Eating?”

Seriously, why do they do it? It’s not like they’re craving a gourmet meal, right? One of the main drivers is something called coprophagia, a fancy word for poop-eating. There are several reasons behind this strange behavior. For starters, it could be a nutritional deficiency. If their food isn’t giving them all the vitamins and minerals they need, their instincts might tell them to scavenge… and sadly, that sometimes means their own waste. They might be trying to get some undigested nutrients that passed through. Another culprit is something called malabsorption, where their digestive system isn’t efficiently soaking up all the good stuff from their food. This can result in more nutrients in the poop, making it, um, tempting to eat again.

Then we have boredom or anxiety. Yep, just like us humans, dogs can resort to weird behaviors when they’re feeling cooped up or stressed. A pup left alone for long periods might find this a curious “activity.” Plus, puppies are notorious for putting everything in their mouths—it’s how they explore! This puppy exploration phase can lead to some, ahem, unfortunate discoveries. And sometimes, it can just become a habit! If they’ve done it once or twice and you haven’t redirected the behavior, they may think, “Well, this is just a thing we do now.” Lastly, consider the environment, if there’s a lot of poop lying around, or if they’re in a kenneling situation, eating poo can become a behavior that spreads. It’s a complex mix, not just one reason usually!

“Poo-Prevention 101: The Nitty-Gritty”

So, now that we understand why they might do it, what are the steps to make it stop? First, let’s talk about diet. Quality food is non-negotiable. Consider switching to a higher quality dog food. One that’s packed with all the good stuff—the right balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals—can make a huge difference. Look for a formula that’s easily digestible, and maybe even one with probiotics to help their gut health. Some owners also find that adding a little fiber to their dog’s meals helps too, like steamed pumpkin or beet pulp.

Next up, keeping things clean is crucial. Be a diligent poo-patroller. Don’t let that poop linger in the backyard. Pick it up immediately after your pup does their business. The less opportunity they have to snack on it, the better. Think of it like cleaning up after a toddler – the mess is tempting, if you let it sit there! This includes also cleaning up any messes that might happen inside the house. We’ve all been there, the unexpected midnight accident, clean it up right away! Make sure the area is completely disinfected so there’s no smell that might tempt them.

Training, oh the joy! “Leave it” should be their new mantra! Practice this command daily, using high-value treats as rewards. Start with small, non-tempting objects and then gradually work your way up to real-world scenarios, like on walks. When you see them sniffing around or even looking at poop, immediately say “leave it,” and guide their attention elsewhere. You could also use a quick “drop it” command when they’ve picked up something unwanted. Consistency is key, and this command is a lifesaver for all kinds of situations, not just poop-eating. You can also try using the “redirection” method. If you catch them about to go for it, use a firm “no,” followed by an alternate activity like playing with a toy or doing a simple trick. This redirects their attention and creates a positive association, moving away from the unwanted activity.

“When to Call in the Pros”

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, they just won’t quit the poop-eating habit, and that’s okay! When all else fails, it’s worth talking to your vet. They can rule out any underlying medical issues that might be contributing, like nutrient deficiencies or digestive problems. They might even suggest adding certain supplements to their diet that can help. For instance, some people have had luck with adding something called “meat tenderizer” to their dog’s food, which makes the poo taste less appealing. Always consult with your vet before adding anything new to your dog’s diet, though.

If the problem is primarily behavioral, a certified dog trainer or behaviorist can be invaluable. They can help you develop a tailored training plan based on your dog’s specific needs and temperament. They’ve seen it all, and can offer new insights that you might not have thought of. Don’t be embarrassed! This is a fairly common problem. It’s best to reach out for help sooner rather than later, before the habit becomes too deeply ingrained.

Finally, be patient! It’s a process that can take time, and there may be setbacks, so don’t get discouraged. It will involve a lot of consistency and plenty of positive reinforcement. Your fur-baby doesn’t do it to annoy you, it’s just something they’ve unfortunately picked up. With a bit of perseverance, you can tackle this poop-eating problem and get back to enjoying those puppy snuggles, poop-free!