Dogs Ate Human Poop, What to Do?

Alright, picture this: you turn around for a second, and BAM! Your furry friend is chowing down on something that definitely shouldn’t be on the menu. If that “something” happens to be human poop, don’t freak out just yet! The immediate action is to stop them, but long term, it’s about understanding why and preventing it from happening again. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of this rather unpleasant situation.

Why on Earth Would They Do That?!

Dogs eating poop (scientifically known as coprophagy) is, admittedly, gross. But there are several reasons that explain this behavior. It’s not always a sign of something seriously wrong.

Nutritional Deficiencies (Maybe!): Some researchers believe that dogs might eat poop if they’re lacking certain nutrients. Think of it as a weird kind of self-supplementation. However, this is less common if you’re feeding your dog a high-quality, balanced diet. I personally would check the ingredients in their food if this becomes a habit.

Enzymes: Some believe that dogs are in search of enzymes to help them digest their food.

Instinctual Behavior: For female dogs, especially right after giving birth, eating their puppies’ poop is completely normal. It’s a cleaning behavior, keeping the den tidy and preventing predators from being attracted by the scent. This instinct can sometimes stick around even when they’re not mothers.

Attention-Seeking: Dogs are smart cookies! If they realize that eating poop gets a reaction from you (even a negative one), they might do it again just for the attention.

Anxiety or Stress: Dogs can turn to all sorts of weird behaviors when they’re feeling anxious or stressed. Eating poop could be a coping mechanism. Try to figure out if any changes in the environment have made them feel uneasy.

They Just Like It: Yes, sometimes it’s as simple as that. Some dogs just develop a taste for the stuff. It’s not pretty, but it happens! Think of it like some people love cilantro, and others think it tastes like soap. Dog taste buds are just… different.

The “Uh Oh” Factor: Is It Dangerous?

Okay, so they ate it. Now what? Generally, a small amount of human waste shouldn’t cause a major health crisis for your dog. However, there are risks:

Parasites: Human poop can contain parasites that can infect your dog, such as giardia, roundworms, or hookworms. Parasites will cause diarrhea or vomiting.

Bacteria: Bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella can also be present, leading to gastrointestinal upset. Keep an eye out for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

Medications: If the person whose poop was consumed is taking medication, those medications could be harmful to your dog. Always be extra careful if anyone in your household is on medication.

The best course of action is to monitor your dog closely for any signs of illness. If you notice anything unusual, a quick trip to the vet is always a good idea. They can run tests to check for parasites and recommend the best course of treatment.

Operation: Stop the Poop Eating!

Prevention is key. Here’s how to break this unpleasant habit:

Scoop the Poop (Immediately!): This is the most obvious one, but it’s also the most effective. Don’t give your dog the opportunity to indulge in their weird snack! Clean up after yourself promptly.

Teach the “Leave It” Command: This command is invaluable for all sorts of situations, not just poop-eating. Start by practicing with treats. Hold a treat in your hand and say “Leave it!” If your dog backs away, even for a second, give them the treat from your other hand. Gradually increase the difficulty by placing the treat on the floor.

Dietary Changes (Talk to Your Vet!): If you suspect a nutritional deficiency, talk to your vet about switching to a higher-quality dog food. They might also recommend adding a supplement to their diet.

Address Anxiety: If anxiety is the culprit, try to identify the source of their stress. Provide them with a safe and comfortable space, plenty of exercise, and mental stimulation. A dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can also offer helpful tips.

Taste Deterrents: There are products you can buy that are designed to make poop taste terrible. These are usually sprayed directly onto the poop. If this is happening out in the yard because they have access to other animals’ feces, you can try this.

Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for good behavior! When you see them sniffing poop but then turning away, praise them and give them a treat. This reinforces the idea that not eating poop is a good thing.

Mental Stimulation: A bored dog is more likely to engage in unwanted behaviors. Keep your dog entertained with plenty of toys, puzzle feeders, and interactive games. Regular walks and playtime are also essential.

Related searches:

Dog keeps eating poop even after deworming: This may be a sign that the dog’s eating behavior is due to a behavioral issue rather than a parasite infection. Consult with a veterinary behaviorist.

Dog poop eating home remedy: Pineapple, zucchini, and meat tenderizer are thought to work, but there’s no scientific evidence. Speak with your vet.

Dog ate cat poop dangerous: Yes, it can be dangerous. Cat poop often contains parasites and bacteria that can make your dog sick. Monitor them closely and contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Dealing with a poop-eating dog can be frustrating, but with patience and consistency, you can break the habit. And remember, a little bit of humor can go a long way in dealing with this…unique…challenge! Good luck!